From Regulation to Empowerment: The Real Role of Government

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the heart of Manila, amid the organized chaos of Quiapo, a familiar debate resurfaces every election season. The candidates for mayor argue over a seemingly simple issue: the street vendors of Carriedo. Their solutions? Regulation. Eviction. Fines. A crackdown on those who dare to make a living without the blessing of bureaucracy.

Sagabal sa kalye. Walang permit. Di nagbabayad ng tax. Maraming basura. Magulo.

The response is always the same: remove them. But what if we asked a different question? Instead of "Paano natin sila aalisin?", why not ask "Paano natin sila iaangat?"

Regulation vs. Development: The Government’s Misguided Focus

For decades, the Philippine government—both national and local—has built its foundation on regulation over development. The instinct is always control rather than empowerment, restriction rather than transformation.

It’s not just in Quiapo. Look at the transport sector, where the government phases out traditional jeepneys without giving drivers a real, accessible way to transition. Look at agriculture, where farmers are bound by red tape instead of receiving support to modernize. Even small businesses face endless paperwork, fees, and restrictions before they can legally operate.

This is governance based on fear. Fear of disorder, fear of change, fear of progress. But true leadership is not about eliminating chaos—it’s about turning it into opportunity.

The Quiapo Case: A Missed Opportunity for Progress

Quiapo, with its maze of stalls and street vendors, is not just a marketplace—it’s a cultural and economic ecosystem. Yet, instead of harnessing its potential, the government sees it as a problem. Instead of uplifting vendors, they punish them.

Imagine if the local government shifted its approach from removal to reform.

Education & Training – The LGU could provide vendors with training in basic business operations, finance, and marketing. Teach them how to manage inventory, handle customers, and increase profits. Instead of treating them as nuisances, treat them as budding entrepreneurs.

Structured Spaces – Instead of evicting vendors, build designated hawker centers modeled after Singapore’s successful system. These centers could be well-maintained, regulated, and strategically located to balance commerce with urban order.

Tourism Integration – Quiapo’s market culture is a potential tourist attraction. The government could brand it as a must-visit food and shopping district, driving local and international visitors while ensuring cleanliness and order.

By doing this, the city doesn’t just “solve” the vendor issue—it creates employment, economic growth, and community pride. Instead of relying on fines and enforcement, they cultivate self-sufficiency and sustainability.

Regulation Controls. Development Empowers.

Governance should not be about making people’s lives harder—it should be about making them better.

To regulate is to rule. To develop is to serve.

And true service is what the Philippines needs now.

Instead of imposing penalties, offer pathways to progress. Instead of pushing people away, pull them up. If there is space for restriction, there is even more space for growth.

A progressive government does not just regulate—it empowers.

Huwag nyo akong pilitin. Malapit na akong tumakbo.

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