To keep or not to keep? Debate on night market heats up

BAGUIO City Councilor Leandro Yangot, who chairs the committee on market trade commerce and agriculture, gathered vendors recently for a consultation on the fate of the night market.

Two petitions for the closure of the daily night market have been received by the city from concerned sectors that cited the inconvenience caused by the night market.

City Health Officer Rowena Galpo reported continuous violations of the Sanitation Code by food vendors despite warnings and prohibitions.

Violations found show cooking is still ongoing, food is displayed without proper storage; food handlers not wearing gloves, hair protection; absence of personal protective equipment; vendors still using plastic’s lack garbage containers, no washing facilities, no cooking facilities, inadequate lighting and waste water thrown at plant boxes at the Igorot Park.

During the meeting, peace and order concerns were also raised.

Councilor Maylen Yaranon said it is about time the issue is talked about and is backing relocation plans. “As to where, some proposed Kayang, perimeter of Melvin Jones. This should pressure the mayor to rescind Uniwide and develop the public market with a market square. I would also push for the proper use of Maharlika as a livelihood center, not as bars,” said Yaranon.

However, Yangot is opposing plans to close the night market saying it gives livelihood to vendors.

“Nagbibigay ito ng marangal na hanapbuhay ng nakakarami and it helps financial support to the vendors for the education of their children. Nakapagbibigay ng income para sa local na gobyerno para magagamit sa mga pagpapatayo ng proyekto dito sa Baguio City at ang night market ay isa sa mga showcase sa Baguio City kung pagbubutihin and to improve the night market,” Yangot added.

The night market started in 2007 when vendors of “ukay ukay” (used clothing) stalls along Calderon Street started selling their ware at night on makeshift tables as well as on the pavements.

Market Superintendent Fernando Ragma said if the market folds up, there will be 1,067 vendors displaced.

Ragma said the city collects P1.5 million monthly from the night market operations.

Mayor Mauricio Domogan is aiming for a temporary site for relocation at the peripherals of Melvin Jones, away from the street.

Another meeting is slated this week with night market block leaders. (With reports from Giovanni Galendez and Emma Guillermo / MMSU intern)

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