ILOILO City – With tens of thousands of devotees and tourists expected to flood the city for Dinagyang 2026, the Iloilo City government has rolled out a comprehensive set of rules to regulate street vending and food truck operations during the festival period.
The guidelines are contained in Executive Order No. 003, Series of 2026, signed on Jan. 13 by Mayor Raisa Treñas, outlining when, where, and how transient vendors may operate during the celebrations honoring Señor Santo Niño.
Under the order, transient ambulant vending will be permitted from January 21 to January 25, 2026, until 11:59 p.m. daily. Food trucks are likewise allowed during the same dates but are restricted to evening operations and specific locations identified by the city.
City officials said the measure is intended to maintain peace and order, manage traffic and sanitation concerns, and at the same time allow vendors to earn during one of the country’s most attended festivals.
Permit process and fees
Transient ambulant vendors — generally non-residents of Iloilo City selling goods or services on a temporary basis — must secure permits from the city government. Requirements include a valid government-issued ID or community tax certificate, a completed profile form, proof of payment, and updated health cards for food vendors and handlers. A permit fee of P500 will be charged.
Food truck operators are required to submit similar documents, with the addition of official vehicle registration papers to prove ownership. The permit fee for food trucks is set at P1,500.
Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on January 23, 2026, at the Iloilo City Business Center beside Sunburst Park, as well as at satellite application centers in Atrium Mall and Marymart Mall.
Approved vending areas
To prevent congestion, food truck operations will be confined to selected portions of Quezon Street, Ortiz Street, Guanco Street, and Mapa Street. Slots will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the order.
Vendors operating outside the approved zones or beyond the allowed hours may face penalties, including confiscation of permits.
Enforcement during festivities
The Public Order and Safety Management Office (POSMO) has been tasked to inspect stalls and food trucks throughout the festival period. Inspections will focus on sanitation, waste disposal, display of goods, and compliance with health protocols such as the use of hairnets, gloves, face masks, and designated garbage bags.
The city also warned against the use of fake permits and official receipts, noting that violators may be charged criminally or administratively.
City officials said the regulations are meant to strike a balance between public safety and livelihood opportunities, ensuring that Dinagyang Festival 2026 remains orderly, safe, and enjoyable for both residents and visitors./PN
