More traders claim being 'visited' by PASG
SEVERAL other businessmen came out saying they have been subjected to the same "visit" by the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG).
This, following the publication of the visit made by PASG to the Felcris Supermarket along Sales Street.
However, the businessmen were unanimous in saying they felt that it was more of a threat and harassment rather than the inspection of smuggled goods.
Requesting for anonymity for fear of reprisal from authorities, businessmen who owns an appliance center, shopping arcades, and retail outlets, alleged that it seems they have been singled out by the anti-smuggling group.
One thing in common with the group is their close affiliation with Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.
Friday noon, several text messages made rounds that a raid was being conducted by PASG, headed by no less than PASG Southern Mindanao chief Eduardo Matillano, on the sales outlet of Felcris Supermarket.
This was quickly denied by a PASG official saying they were just "monitoring" reports of alleged smuggling activities by these establishments.
Sun.Star Davao tried getting Matillano's side on the issue last Friday but he did not reply to text inquiries.
"This is just a normal monitoring and conduct of regular inspection," PASG city director Colonel Dodong Obsiama told reporters after their visit at Felcris-Sales. "We do this to monitor, and nothing irregular has been found with the supermarket."
Due to the large coverage of the retail business establishments in the city, Obsiama said monitoring is being done at random.
However, when asked if when the last conduct of "inspection" was conducted, Obsiama simpy reiterated that the inspection was at random.
Felcris Supermarket is part of the Felcris Group owned by the Yap family, known supporters of the Duterte administration.
Other businesses under the group include the posh Chimes Specialty Store, the Central Warehouse Club, and Central Convenience Outlets.