ILOILO City – Amid the long-standing concerns between ambulant vendors and stallholders inside the city’s markets, Mayor Raisa Treñas acknowledged that balancing the interests of both groups has been challenging.
“It is difficult to make a decision, but we will make sure that we fix all the necessary issues,” Treñas said, noting that the city government wants to arrive at a solution that is fair and sustainable.
The city government is studying the possibility of relocating bolanteros to the rooftops of public markets as part of efforts to address both groups’ competing interests.
Treñas said the city is carefully evaluating possible sites where bolanteros can continue earning a livelihood without affecting the operations of vendors who have occupied stalls inside the markets for decades.
“We are looking for a place for them. First, we have to protect our vendors inside the markets because they have been there for many years, some for more than 30 to 40 years. We have to listen to both sides and find a solution that will be a win-win for everyone,” Treñas said.
The issue involving bolanteros resurfaced following clearing operations conducted by the Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) against vendors occupying roads and sidewalks, which were considered obstructions to public passage.
In response to the concerns raised by displaced vendors, the city government allowed bolanteros to sell through the “Market Day” scheme, giving them designated selling opportunities in different public markets across Iloilo City on a rotating basis.
However, vendors inside the markets have continued to complain that the presence of bolanteros outside market buildings has affected customer traffic inside public markets and reduced their sales.
Treñas said the city government remains committed to finding a balanced solution that protects the investments of long-time stallholders while also recognizing the livelihood needs of ambulant vendors.
“We want a solution where no sector is left behind. That is why we are taking time to study all possible options before making a final decision,” she said./PN
