• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Ambulant vendors around the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) are set to transfer to a nearby permanent site by next month, following the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the city government and IJG Realty and Development Corporation.
Bacolod City Administrator, Atty. Mark Steven Mayo, said Aug. 18 that vendors will be relocated behind a private property near the BCGC, also owned by the Gonzaga family, who originally donated the land where the government center stands.
Mayo said the construction of the new vending site is underway, with turnover targeted end of September or early October, just ahead of the MassKara Festival.
“There is no expense on the part of the city. Our MOA with them is anchored on the ultimate obligation in the Deed of Donation that there should be no commercial activities around the BCGC,” he added.
Per the agreement, IJG “shall develop the Mercado ni Angela, a privately funded, park-like community market designed to provide a safe, organized, and dignified venue for qualified ambulant vendors to conduct their livelihood activities”.
This is in order to assist the city in complying with the terms and conditions of the Deed of Donation, particularly the prohibition against commercial activity within the donated property (where the BCGC stands), while promoting public safety, sanitation, livelihood opportunities, and orderly economic activity,” the MOA states.
The city shall provide and maintain adequate street lighting on roads, sidewalks, and public areas surrounding and leading to Mercado ni Angela, including the adjacent esplanade, to ensure the safety, security, and convenience of the general public; as well as maintain adequate law enforcement and security measures to preserve peace and order and ensure public safety.
Adequate garbage receptacles shall also be provided by the city, per the MOA, as well as ensure the daily collection, removal, and proper disposal of garbage and waste generated within and around Mercado ni Angela.
Under the agreement, vendors will pay a daily rental fee of at least P100 for a six-square-meter stall.
The market site can cater to at least 100 vendors. A lease agreement will also be prepared.
Included in the list of recognized vendor groups are the Bacolod Alliance of Small Entrepreneurs, Bacolod Dry Goods Association, BCGC Unity Vendors, Micro Bacolod Vendors Organization, and the Blind Massage Organization. | TMD
