THE Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) in Mangaldan has stepped up its crackdown on ambulant vendors who continue to sell along Franieza Street despite repeated warnings.

POSO chief Gerardo Ydia said vendors have long been required to operate within the public market’s designated wet section to prevent congestion, foul odors, and blockages to pedestrian and vehicle flow.

POSO records show that five to 10 vendors are repeatedly apprehended. Penalties include a P500 fine for the first offense and P1,115 for the second offense, along with confiscation of goods. Despite this, Ydia said some vendors remain defiant.

To ensure consistent enforcement, POSO has adjusted its monitoring hours to 6–10 a.m. and from 6 p.m. onward. Ydia stressed that the intensified operations aim to maintain order and safety for both vendors and shoppers in the Mangaldan Public Market. (Ahikam Pasion)