Archival: City gov't not anti-poor

Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival belied claims that his administration is anti-poor, insisting that recent enforcement against sidewalk vendors should not be mistaken as hostility toward small-time traders.

- Caecent No-ot Magsumbol/BRP

The mayor’s statement followed public uproar over the apprehension of a bottled water vendor by the Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification, and Enhancement (PROBE) team.

The incident prompted the City Legal Office to order PROBE chief Rune Maquiling to submit a report within 24 hours, a move Archival said would clarify what transpired and determine accountability.

Archival stressed that discipline and respect for sacred spaces remain the city’s priority including during the Sinulog festivities.