TO BOOST domestic tourism and spur local economic activity, the Provincial Government will launch a weekend Market-Market at the Panaad Park and Stadium on October 15.
Board Member Nehemias de la Cruz, chairman of the Provincial Board committee on tourism, said that they aim to make the “Market-Market sa Panaad” a weekend destination not just for tourists but for traders as well. He added that the program will also involve all local government units in the province.
“This is in line with tourism and economic program of the governor,” de la Cruz said, adding that Gov. Alfredo Marañon wants to revive the economic activity in Panaad on a regular basis and not just during the weeklong Panaad Festival which is usually held on the month of April.
Akin to the concept of the “tiangge,” De la Cruz explained that producers from various towns and cities in the province will be selling their products at the LGU booths.
“We will organize our fruits and vegetable producers, livestock suppliers, seafood sellers, as well as those selling local delicacies and handicrafts to bring their products at the Panaad Park,” de la Cruz added.
He said this activity is also intended to “link suppliers with traders minus the travel time and provide a venue for our producers to transact business.”
“We will enjoin the public to do their marketing at the Panaad Park for fresh supplies on scheduled dates and at a price much lower than those sold in local markets,” De la Cruz added.
Ian de Ramos, Panaad Park and Stadium manager, said that apart from the products that will be sold in the booths, the Provincial Government with the participation of the employees will also be organizing a garage sale at the stadium lobby.
He added that they will eventually open the market to others who will be interested to rent a table or a booth for a minimal fee.
De Ramos said that they are planning to extend the activity till nighttime to invite local tourists to bring their families for “an evening of wholesome entertainment.”
A chorale competition will be held in the evening of October 15 and other similar activities like “Concert at the Park” are also in the offing.
De Ramos stated that come November, they will have another weekend market in Panaad but for December, we will make it a week-long Paskuhan sa Panaad where we will also be inviting traders to sell holiday goodies.
“This initiative will provide a venue for our LGUs and the private and public sectors to interact and do business with each other while, at the same time, increasing local revenue utilizing the corporate personality of the province,” De Ramos said.
Other sectors who are interested to join may inquire with the Panaad Park and Stadium office for inquiries, he added. (Teresa Ellera Dulla)