Barangay exec, Pasang Masda chief argue over clearing ops in Manila jeepney terminal

A barangay chairperson and the president of a transport group engaged in a heated argument following a clearing operation in a jeepney terminal in Sta. Cruz, Manila, a Balitanghali report on Tuesday said.

GMA News' Mark Salazar reported that members of the Manila Traffic Parking Bureau (MTPB) conducted a clearing operation along Severino Reyes St. after receiving complaints from Barangay 220 residents in Sta. Cruz, Manila.

But Pasang Masda president Obet Martinez tried to stop operation, claiming that his group has a verbal agreement with Manila City Hall to allow a terminal in the area, even noting that only four jeepneys are allowed to queue up.

While Martinez was negotiating with the MTPB personnel, the unidentified female Barangay 220 chairperson insisted that the clearing operations should continue. 

This led to a heated argument, in which the barangay chieftain said she only wanted the traffic in the area to be in order. On the other hand, Martinez said the welfare of drivers and passengers should be prioritized.

In the end, both parties have agreed to allow only three jeepneys to queue in the terminal for it to avoid blocking the gate of some houses in the area. — Marlly Rome Bondoc/RSJ, GMA News