DILG to LGUs: Clear roads in 60 days or face probe

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has given local government units, especially in Metro Manila, 60 days to clear their roads or else their chief executives will face investigation and possible suspension.

DILG Undersecretary Epimaco Densing explained on Thursday that this is the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Clearing up roads include removing illegal structures and vehicles, as well as activities such as illegal vending.

“Gusto natin within 60 days ito magawa. ‘Pag hindi nila nagawa within 60 days, magkakaroon tayo ng investigation,” Densing told reporters at the sidelines of the Metro Manila Council.

“Once we see that there is gross negligence of duty or dereliction of duty, we can recommend a suspension of the mayor, and the President, without second thought, will sign our recommendation of suspension,” he added.

Densing said that a memorandum circular (MC), which will cover the whole country, is currently being drafted and is expected to come out by next week. The 60-day period will start once the MC is finalized, he added.

“Magiging mahigpit po kami dito sa DILG,” the DILG Undersecretary said.

Densing said the DILG is requesting mayors to provide them a list of road networks and an audit of all roads with obstructions.

“Hihingi kami sa kanila ng plano kung paano iimplement ‘yung pagbabalkas ng illegal structures para malinis ‘yung kalsada,” he said. /je