Advisers

Antonio A. Dawagan, PhD, RCrim

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Vendor encroachment has become a visible urban concern in many highly populated areas of the Philippines, particularly in Quezon City, where commercial activities frequently overlap with public roadways. In Barangay Commonwealth, the presence of street vendors occupying sidewalks and portions of the roadway has raised concerns regarding traffic congestion, road safety, sanitation, and urban order. While street vending contributes to local livelihood and economic activity, the uncontrolled expansion of vending spaces may reduce road capacity, obstruct pedestrian pathways, and create hazards for motorists and commuters. A structured survey questionnaire was developed and administered to one hundred (100) respondents selected through purposive sampling. Participants were chosen based on their first-hand exposure to vendor encroachment within Barangay Commonwealth. The respondents were divided into eight groups: twenty (20) motorcyclists, twenty (20) vendors, five (5) barangay officials, ten (10) representatives from the Traffic and Transport Management Department (TTMD), ten (10) representatives from the Market Development and Administration Department (MDAD), ten (10) members of Task Force Discipline assigned in the area, fifteen (15) pedestrians including residents who regularly pass through the barangay, and ten (10) customers who shop within the locality. The study also showed an increased risk of road accidents, particularly for motorcyclists and pedestrians who must maneuver around obstructions. In terms of safety and sanitation, respondents expressed concerns regarding improper waste disposal and inadequate food handling practices, which may pose public health risks. Economically, while vending activities provide income opportunities for vendors, some respondents noted negative effects on surrounding businesses and potential impacts on property values due to congestion and disorder. Based on the findings, the study recommends the implementation of enhanced traffic control measures, the designation of regulated and strategically planned vending zones, improved urban planning initiatives, and community awareness programs focused on road safety and sanitation. Additionally, the development of alternative livelihood programs may help reduce dependency on informal roadside vending.

Keywords

road safety, traffic congestion, street vending, vendor encroachment, urban management, Barangay Commonwealth