One year after the assumption into office by President Duterte, the traffic situation in Metro Manila has worsened. The Duterte influence is not felt in the metropolis.
I am particularly concerned with the area where our schools are located, that is, from Commonwealth Avenue to Quirino Highway to Maligaya area, Novaliches in Quezon City.
The area abounds with illegal sidewalk vendors, illegally parked vehicles and public utility vehicles that load and unload passengers even in the middle of the street.
Task Force Commonwealth, which announces through its billboards that complaints may be brought to their attention, is sleeping on its job.
At Sampaguita Street, Maligaya Park, Pasong Putik, Quezon City near Saint Francis Xavier School, the “talipapa” has encroached on the street such that it is almost a one-way street. The situation is a constant hazard to students and pedestrians and the cause of regular vehicular accidents in the area.
The illegal activities in the area I mentioned could be caused by graft and corruption. I mean it is possible that law enforcers in the area, especially the barangay officials, close their eyes to the illegal activities in the area in consideration of sums of money.
The Duterte effect should be felt in the area I mentioned if the present administration really means business in pursuing the advocacy of change. As of now, I can say that change has not come yet.
- CARINA DACANAY,
administrator/principal,
Good Shepherd
Cathedral School,
Omega corner Rado Streets,
Fairview Park, Quezon City