NEWS: Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada Reportedly Ordered Citywide Clearing Operations Near U-Belt

When in Manila, you will find most of the major establishments in the Philippines. In fact, most of the prestigious universities and colleges are found in Manila and called it the “U-belt or University Belt.

U-Belt is a subdistrict in Manila where a cluster of colleges and universities like University of the East (UE), Far Eastern University (FEU), University of Santo Thomas (UST), to name a few, are located. Therefore, U-Belt is one of the busiest areas in Manila.

FEU

Photo credit: feu.edu.ph

Essentially, since the majority of schools’ opening is on Monday, the Manila Mayor has ordered a timely request to the men and women of Manila Police District: conduct a citywide clearing operation to keep the U-Belt free from the illegal vendors, vagrants, lawless elements, and traffic-causing obstructions, Manila Times reports.

According to the news report, the MPD Director Rolando Nana immediately dispatched police officers in the area. Nana also reassured the students, parents, faculty members, as well as, motorists, that the place will be safe and convenient for them.

The report further stated that the following areas are included in the clearing operation:

  • public and private elementary and high schools
  • review centers located in Santa Cruz, particularly the western end of España Boulevard
  • Sampaloc
  • Quiapo
  • Santa Cruz

Furthermore, part of the “Oplan Balik-Ligtas Eskuwela” is the constant operations against illegal establishments, where students could watch lewd shows, illegal terminals of jeepneys, AUVs, and tricycles.

As stated in the article, Senior Supt. Marcelino Pedrozo, the deputy director for operations of MPD, has appointed 100 policemen backed by barangay watchmen and city hall personnel, to conduct the citywide clearing operation.

Hopefully, the initiative will be implemented effectively and efficiently.

Do you think it will help lessen crimes in the area?