Manila Police cracks down on portable pools, obstructions blocking streets

The Manila Police District (MPD) on Wednesday said it conducted a clearing operation against obstructions on the streets that included inflatable and tarpaulin swimming pools.

Based on a report, the Raxabago Police Station conducted an ordinance implementation and clearing operation on Monday along Capulong Street from Mel Lopez Boulevard to Velasquez Street.

Authorities disassembled a tarpaulin pool and tent that were occupying a portion of the road.

A total of 27 persons were arrested during the operation. Of these, 24 were cited for using streets for private purposes, including installing pools and other obstructions.

Two individuals were also flagged for being shirtless in public, while one violator was cited for smoking in a public place.

All the violators were brought to the station’s investigation section for documentation and the filing of appropriate charges. They were later released to family members.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced Monday that it will carry out a stricter implementation of the ban on alcohol and gambling in public areas and other measures, citing public safety.

At a press briefing, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the program will initially be piloted in Metro Manila before expanding to other major urban centers nationwide. —RF, GMA News