Manila truck ban eases on Benguet veggie deliveries

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — Benguet vegetable deliveries in Metro Manila is no longer hampered by the truck ban imposed in the nation’s capital city.

For this, Gov. Nestor Fongwan extended Wednesaday his thanks to Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada.

While Fongwan said he has yet to receive the formal approval of Estrada on his request for the exemption of vegetable delivery trucks from the truck ban in Manila, traders reported hassle-free deliveries in the city, particularly in Divisoria Market.

“The traders have reported smooth travel. They can reach their destination without problems and are able to bring their goods to Divisoria on time,” Fongwan said.

The governor earlier sought Estrada’s consideration in behalf of vegetable dealers, whose perishable goods were greatly affected by the truck ban that took effect in February.

Traders claimed to have lost millions due to the ban because of the delay in the arrival of their goods that caused deterioration and damage to the vegetables.

Up to 20 tons of assorted vegetables can be contained in each ten-wheeler that reaches Divisoria.

“The exemption given will help Benguet a lot, vegetables being its primary source of livelihood,” Fongwan said.