Baguio vendor clearing op draws flak

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June 23, 2026 | 12:00am

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A viral video showing a young ambulant vendor being shoved into a truck by personnel of the city’s public order and safety division (POSD) has triggered criticisms online, with netizens condemning what they described as “heavy-handed enforcement.”

The footage, posted on a community social media page, showed the vendor being held by the collar while his merchandise was scattered on the pavement.

The incident sparked public outrage, with residents questioning the conduct of enforcers and calling for a more humane approach to dealing with street vendors.

Darryl Kim Longid, POSD chief, said the vendor was a repeat offender who had been defying authorities in the central business district despite prior warnings.

He said the goods were accidentally scattered after both the enforcer and the fleeing vendor lost their balance during a physical encounter.

Longid maintained that strict enforcement of the city’s anti-peddling ordinance is necessary to protect legitimate businesses that pay taxes, permits and rental fees, as he argued that unregistered vendors enjoy an unfair economic advantage.

However, netizens countered that the controversy is less about illegal vending and more about the manner of enforcement.

They urged the city government to ensure that POSD officers are properly trained to handle tense situations without excessive force, stressing that laws can be enforced without compromising human dignity, especially when minors are involved.