Mayor Jose Espinosa III says the sidewalks are now open to vendors for whole month of December.
ILOILO CITY -- Some 300 vendors stand to benefit from the move of the city government, giving them space to sell their goods on the sidewalks until the end of this month.
In an interview after Monday’s regular flag-raising ceremony, Mayor Jose Espinosa III said vendors can use the sidewalks not just at the central business district (CBD) on J.M. Basa Street but also in Lapaz, Arevalo, Mandurriao, Jaro, Molo, and Lapuz districts.
“We want to give them chance to sell their goods to shoppers likewise allowing our indigent sector to earn,” the mayor said.
While the vendors are given the privilege to sell, the mayor urged them to sell their goods at reasonable prices.
Espinosa also encouraged the vendors to properly dispose of their garbage so as not to be eye sores.
“We really hope that they will comply with the requirements of the city government,” Espinosa added.
Meanwhile, Jeck Conlu, head of the Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO), said that while the sidewalks are now open, vendors still have to follow certain guidelines.
He said they should not occupy the entire sidewalk but leave a one-meter gap for pedestrians to pass. They should first secure a permit from the city government, Conlu said.
He said vendors are not allowed to sell firecrackers and wet goods, and are only allowed to sell ready-to-wear, fruits and gift items.
“The PSTMO through its Special Service Unit Division will regulate the vendors,” Conlu added.
The opening of the sidewalks to vendors was officially launched on Dec. 1
Apart from sidewalk vendors, the city government is also finalizing the target recipients for the annual gift-giving that will benefit more than 20,000 indigent city residents.
Espinosa said they target to distribute the gifts before December 25. (PNA)
