Osmeña threatens to close down firm over alleged inconvenience

A private company based in Mabolo, Cebu City will be made to explain why it should not be closed down for the alleged inconvenience it has caused the public.

In his post on his Facebook account, Mayor Tomas Osmeña said he has been receiving complaints that the trucks of Vic Enterprises have produced “unbearable dust and mud”.

“The roads are being destroyed by their heavy equipment, and their drivers have no respect for traffic laws. Despite being warned, they have chosen to not do anything. That they only decide to take the matter seriously now that they’re threatened with closure is not my problem,” the mayor said.

Vic Enterprises is located in M. J. Cuenco Avenue corner F. Gochan Street, Mabolo, Cebu City.

City Attorney Joseph Bernaldez said the mayor has received an actual written complaint against the company.

“Akong pagsabot, daghan na kaayo og nadawat nga text messages and through Facebook. The mayor is just showing nga he is just a human being and becomes exasperated and dismayed by hearing all the complaints against Vic Enterprises,” Bernaldez said.

“So many people have complained about worsening traffic and air pollution kay kaning Vic Enterprises is a construction supply business so part sa ilang gipang-supply is semento,” he added.

Aside from the dust and mud, vehicle traffic in the area also reportedly gets affected once the company's trucks enter its premises.

Motorists reportedly wait for long periods of time as the hauler trucks and cargo vehicles maneuver their way in and out of the company's compound.

Yesterday, the company's owner, Vicente Ong, and his officials met with Osmeña and told the mayor they are putting measures in place to mitigate the supposed damages.

Bernaldez and Mabolo Barangay Captain Reynaldo Ompoc were also present in the meeting.

The company did not issue a statement to the press.

Despite the company's assurance, its officials would still be made to explain the situation in writing.

Bernaldez said the City Legal Office has been directed to prepare for a show-cause notice - which is part of due process - against Vic Enterprises.

Bernaldez said the notice, which will be served within the week, will allow the company to explain why the city government should not close it down.

The city is now waiting for the result of the investigation being conducted by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office on the aspect of pollution and by the City Treasurer's Office on reports the company's warehouses are allegedly unregistered.