Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon held a dialogue with Muslim vendors operating on sidewalks in Alabang.

Biazon said the vendors operate in the Alabang viaduct, Alabang junction, Montillano Street, Petron gas station, and Liana’s, all located in Alabang.

He recently ordered the Muntinlupa Traffic Management Bureau and cooperatives to conduct an inspection of sidewalks of the Alabang viaduct area and Alabang public market.

“Dahil nandito ang transportation hubs, I see Alabang Viaduct as the gateway of Muntinlupa. At bilang gateway, gusto natin na kapag nadaanan ito ng mga tao, ang unang impression nila: maayos, malinis, at disiplinado ang Muntinlupa (Because the transportation hubs are here, I see Alabang Viaduct as the gateway of Muntinlupa. And as a gateway, what we want is when people pass through it, their first impression is: Muntinlupa is neat, clean, and disciplined).”

He said what the city government wants is for the sidewalks to be walkable and the goods, trash and obstruction do not hinder pedestrians.

On the other hand, Biazon said he recognizes that sidewalks offer income opportunities for some of the residents.

He said the meeting resulted in coming up with a common ground that once the vendors’ designated spaces and operating hours are determined, they should follow it.

“Above all, i-maintain ang kalinisan (Above all, maintain cleanliness),” said Biazon.