BACOLOD City — Flower vendors operating along Fr. M. Ferrero Street in the Reclamation Area, Barangay 12, will be relocated due to the ongoing redevelopment project of SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SPHI) in Barangays 10 and 12, city officials said.
In October 2023, the city government entered into a long-term lease agreement with SPHI covering city-owned properties under Transfer Certificates of Title Nos. T-55865 and T-55866. The leased areas include Manokan Country, the Vendors Plaza, the Bacolod Youth and Sports (BAYS) Center, and nearby properties along Fr. M. Ferrero Street, where the flower vendors are currently located.
Under the contract, the lessee was granted authority to develop the leased premises, including the construction of additional buildings and the installation, alteration, or repair of improvements within the area.
City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo said flower vendors are among those who will be affected by the redevelopment.
“Since they have been selling flowers there for a long time, the city government has already met with the vendors to discuss the upcoming changes and to hear their concerns,” Mayo said.
He added that the vendors agreed to a temporary arrangement under which they will be issued special permits, renewable every two months, by virtue of a Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) resolution.
The vendors were also informed that relocation would be inevitable once the development project moves forward, and they expressed willingness to cooperate, Mayo said.
The city government is currently exploring possible relocation sites. Mayo said one option being considered is integrating the flower vendors into the planned Night Market concept under the vision of Mayor Greg Gasataya, which will feature both food and non-food items.
However, since the flower vendors operate during daytime hours, Mayo said the city is working to identify a suitable and accessible location that will allow them to continue their operations.
He clarified that no demolition or forced removal will take place in February or March, as the vendors remain covered by their special permits. Relocation, however, will be necessary as the development project progresses.
“We want to ensure that the vendors are properly accommodated while the private firm moves forward with its development plans,” Mayo said.
Meanwhile, Mayo said the city government is coordinating with SPHI regarding the project’s implementation, which will include portions of Barangay 12. Adjustments are also being considered, particularly on pathways used by residents, following requests from the barangay for wider access routes.
The city government is also currently conducting demolition activities in the Bay Center area as part of its redevelopment efforts./PN
