The Department of the Interior and Local Government vowed a crack down on unscrupulous individuals extorting money from trucker groups.
Sec. Benjamin Abalos, Jr. made this assurance following a meeting with the Confederation of Truckers Association of the Philippines (CTAP) and other concerned government agencies in Camp Crame.
The meeting came as the group complained their members were still made to pay pass-through fees, despite President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s order for local government units to suspend their collection under Executive Order (EO) 41.
“The police will crack down on these extortionists. It’s unfortunate if this EO would be in vain because of the acts of some people, its purpose is defeated,” Abalos said.
Philippine National Police Chief, Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr., meanwhile, said the force would intensify its visibility to catch these individuals.
“I am taking this opportunity to make an announcement and stern warning. Whether these culprits are cops or local government employees, let’s stop with these illegal things because we will not be lenient once we catch you,” Acorda said.
Abalos, meanwhile, clarified the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), as well as Manila and Quezon City, are not implementing any truck ban.
He added they set a one-month timeline for the implementation of these measures.
MMDA Chair Romando Artes, meanwhile, said they would talk to LGUs to iron out issues regarding the matter as some cities ban the entry of trucks on roads within their jurisdiction due to various reasons. – PNA
