The city government through the Office of the City Social Welfare and Development Officer (OCSWDO) provided assistance to the 65 ambulant vendors from the Visayas who were apprehended for illegal peddling during the Panagbenga parade last Feb. 25 for them to safely go back home.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the OCSWDO headed by Liza Bulayungan saw to it that the 65 vendors from Cebu and Bacolod got home safely to their families.
The city also made sure they had a clear understanding of their violations and were given guidance on how they can legally ply their trade in the city in the future.
Bulayungan said the vendors were endorsed by the Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) after they were apprehended for violation of Section 143 of the city’s Tax Ordinance, which prohibits itinerant vendors.
The POSD beforehand oriented them on the city’s tax ordinance and were informed of their option to organize themselves and properly secure the necessary permit so they can sell their merchandise in the city in the future.
Of the 65, there were 30 who needed assistance to get back home thus coordination was made with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Cordillera for the provision of transportation assistance to cover their bus ticket in going to Manila.
Parallel coordination activities were also made with the Cebu local government for the provision of assistance to the 12 residents for their transportation from Manila to Cebu City; with the Bacolod LGU through their Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situation for the transportation of 18 individuals from Manila to Bacolod City; and with the CSWDO of Manila for provision of necessary assistance to the clients while waiting for their sea fare tickets. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
April 19, 2024
