Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — It’s the second day of the deployment of Highway Patrol Group (HPG) forces, whose main goal is to manage the horrendous traffic at various chokepoints on EDSA.
As early as 3 a.m. Tuesday (September 8), about 10 HPG personnel cleared the sidewalks of Balintawak market as vegetable and meat vendors were ordered to vacate the two outermost lanes there.
All vendors heeded to the call, giving leeway for public and private vehicles passing by the area.
Some are concerned, though, with losing income as their products will not be sold that much if they’re inside the market.
The HPG, however, said the vendors must sacrifice for the greater good.
More HPG aspirants to be trained
Meanwhile, Police chief Dir. Gen. Ricardo Marquez inspected how his men are doing their job.
In his assessment, Marquez said the presence of HPG forces made the traffic smooth flowing at Balintawak during rush hour this morning.
That may be good news to commuters, but some elderly consumers complained, saying they now have to walk longer to get a taxi.
Another challenge, Marquez admitted, is how he will maintain the energy and consistency of his men as days pass by.
He added that they will recruit and train more HPG aspirants in the coming weeks.
Over the weekend, they will also conduct a review and evaluation of the implementation of the program.
Marquez also assured the public they will punish HPG personnel who will abuse their authority.
“If you cross the line, ibig sabihin ayaw mo nang magpulis, gusto mo nang maging kriminal… e ‘di dun ka, huhulihin ka namin and we will put you in jail,” said Marquez.
