Friday, February 29, 2008 Council to unify anti-vending measure By Rimaliza Opiña
THERE maybe several ordinances and resolutions, restricting the use of passageways for vending, but putting a stop to it remains a cat-and-mouse game between peddlers and the government.
In its aim of clearing passageways, the Baguio City council is eyeing the passage of an ordinance consolidating all resolutions and ordinances regarding vending as well as illegal parking.
But unlike recent clearing operations where notices are sent to affected vendors, the proposal this time would impose confiscation of goods that are obstructing passageways, without notice.
Any damages incurred will not be charged to government and the right to dispose the confiscated goods will be lodged solely to government, the proposal stated.
Items or activities that bar passageways include vehicles for sale, garbage, basketball court, animal pens or cages, soda cases, liquor and beverages, picnics, recyclable materials, house or stall extensions, picket fences, and signboards.
Confiscated food and usable items will be turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Upon turnover, the CSWDO will have the prerogative to distribute items to relief operations, charity, nutrition program, and the city jail.
Organizations, which want to be end users of the confiscated items, will be required to submit a letter of intent and a certificate of accreditation by the City Council.
Misrepresentation on the part of the requesting organization will be penalized.
Under the proposal, misrepresentation will be stripped of accreditation and will be penalized P3,000.
Misuse of goods, on the other hand, will be penalized at P5,000 and imprisoned for not more than five days in addition to administrative and criminal charges.
Private individuals, commercial establishments and peddlers are likewise punishable.
The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), City Environment and Parks Management Office (Cepmo), City Engineers Office (CEO), City Buildings and Architecture Office (Cbao) and Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) are tasked to implement the ordinance, once approved.
