BACOLOD City – The city government is set to launch the Gabay Merkado Program, also known as the G Merkado Program, in a ceremonial event this Saturday, July 26.
The initiative will be rolled out across the city’s three major public markets — Libertad, Burgos, and Central.
City Administrator Atty. Mark Mayo said the G Merkado Program is aimed at promoting public welfare and consumer protection in public market settings.
A key component of the program is G-Cares, which will offer free basic medical services to the public, such as blood pressure monitoring and access to first aid kits for use during emergencies.
To ensure smooth implementation, selected city government personnel underwent training from the City Health Office (CHO) and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO). They will be deployed to the three public markets to provide on-site health assistance and enhance emergency preparedness.
Another vital feature is G-Timbangan, a regulatory effort to ensure vendor compliance with fair pricing and accurate weighing of goods. The initiative seeks to prevent unfair trade practices and promote transparency in market transactions.
City officials underscored that the G Merkado Program reflects Bacolod’s commitment to building safer, more accessible, and consumer-friendly public markets for all residents./PN
