The 60-day deadline to clear roads of any form of obstruction does not only cover Metro Manila thoroughfares, according to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The STAR reported that DILG spokesman Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said Interior Secretary Eduardo Año’s directive to rid public roads of obstructions in 60 days also applies to other cities outside Metro Manila.
“No local government is exempted from the directive. We are just giving extra attention to Metro Manila because the problem of road obstructions is most acute in the National Capital Region,” Malaya said in a statement.
During his fourth State of the National Address, President Duterte ordered local government units to “reclaim public roads” that are being annexed by individuals and establishments through parking and other purposes.
Provincial mayors who will fail to follow DILG’s mandate within the period will be recommended for suspension as well.
“We want to send a strong message that we in the DILG mean business and we will make sure that everyone complies with the President’s directive,” he said. – With Emmanuel Tupas/STAR