THE local government of San Simon is set to construct a modern public market in Barangay San Jose, which is about 100 meters away from the existing facility.
Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr. said the new facility will be funded under the public-private partnership between the local government and Wan Chiong Steel Corporation.
The steel plant, located along the Quezon Road in Barangay San Isidro, pledged some P50 million for the construction of the public market, Punsalan said.
For its share, Punsalan said the local government shouldered the purchase of the 3.2-hectare lot in front of the San Simon High School where the new facility will rise.
"The local government will not shell out a single centavo for the construction of the structure. Our role is only to provide a strategic site for the market, and we are very grateful to Wan Chiong Steel Corporation owner Mr. Benjamin Co for his generosity in shouldering the expenses," he said.
Once completed, Punsalan assured that the total 131 legitimate vendors in the existing public market will be prioritized in the awarding of stalls.
The local chief executive said consumers will benefit as the new facility will become a safer, cleaner and more convenient venue for commerce.
"Our priority for this project is to ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of the market because we are talking about the food that Simonians consume. Through the new public market, we are positive that we will be able to address these concerns, as well as the safety and convenience of Simonians," he said.
The existing public market will be converted into a public park after the new one is completed, added Punsalan.
He said a private organization pledged to develop a portion of the park.