Police to clear Metro Manila streets of beggars for Christmas

MANILA, Philippines — The police will clear Metro Manila streets of beggars during the holidays.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Guillermo Eleazar said he has received reports that a large number of Aetas and Badjaos roam the streets begging for alms.

“These beggars contribute to the worsening traffic situation in Metro Manila,” Eleazar said in an interview.

“There are also reports that they destroy the side mirrors of vehicles whose occupants don’t hand them alms,” Eleazar added.

He said they are coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to either take into custody the beggars or help them return to their provinces.

The NCRPO chief said they, too, would seek the help of barangay officials who know the areas well.

According to Eleazar, beggars frequent the streets in Manila and Quezon City.

He clarified that his order is not a crackdown on the poor, noting they are just implementing Presidential Decree 1563 or the Anti-Mendicancy Law.

The police official said they want to protect beggars, especially the minors, from the hazards of living in the streets.

“It’s dangerous for them, like when they impede the flow of traffic,” said Eleazar. “We are not harassing but helping them.” – Emmanuel Tupas