In the latest episode of their feud, Taguig City government has accused Makati City of playing “the victim” and described the criminal cases it filed against Mayor Laarni Cayetano and other personnel over the closure of Makati Park and Garden as a publicity stunt.
“The case is a publicity stunt made up by Makati. That is why before the case was filed with the fiscal’s office, a copy was given to the media and the alleged complainants had their pictures taken,” the Taguig City government said in a statement released Friday.
It further accused Makati of using its poor employees who were put in danger because of the lies in their sworn statements. Taguig officials stated they will answer the case when they receive an official copy of the complaint.
Taguig City also said it was Makati City which first started closing public facilities, citing its decision to close the fire stations, health centers, and daycares in areas under EMBO (enlisted men’s barrios) in January.
Based on the complaints filed by Makati employees, they were harassed and detained against their will by Taguig employees in incidents that happened on March 1, 2, and 3 within the area of the Makati Park and Garden.
Earlier, Makati tagged Taguig City as “a bully”, saying it showed its true colors in twisting the law and using force to claim what isn’t theirs. The Taguig City government reiterated its position that all public facilities in EMBO barangays should be allowed to be used by residents.
Taguig City asserted its right to regulate the operation of the Makati Park and Garden as the facility was under its jurisdiction via a Supreme Court decision.
The city government said that all government agencies are not exempted from regulations. While they are exempted from paying regulatory fees, they are required to get permits.
Interior secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. said earlier he is hoping that the Taguig and Makati incident regarding the park would be settled.
“I hope to engage in discussions with the mayors to clarify the issues and further shed light on their respective positions on the matter,” Abalos said. He already instructed officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure peace and order in the area.
Abalos believes both mayors have good intentions with the best interest of their constituencies in mind. “In any case, regardless of this dispute, our overriding goal is that public services shall remain unhampered,” he said.
The local government of Taguig ordered the closure of Makati Park and Garden on March 3, claiming it was operating without permits.