BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO City – To foster economic growth during the holiday season, Mayor Jerry Treñas issued Executive Order No. 151, Series of 2023 enabling regulated open sidewalk vending.
The order (“Guidelines for Open Sidewalk Vending in the City of Iloilo”) seeks to balance the need for road clearing with economic opportunities for vendors.
The initiative coincides with a Filipino tradition where vendors set up stalls along designated streets, contributing to the holiday market atmosphere.
This activity not only provides vendors with a vital source of income but also aids in the city’s economic recovery.
To ensure order and safety, the Iloilo City Public Safety and Traffic Management Office (PSTMO) will oversee the placement of sidewalk stalls, including their size, spacing, and permit compliance. Vending is permitted from Dec. 10 to 31, 2023, in specific areas, with strict regulations in place to manage the activity.
Designated vending areas include:
* Iznart Street (from Jollibee to POS Marketing); J.M. Basa Street (from Socorro to Regent); Ledesma Street (from Iloilo Auto Supply to Pro-Racing)
* Valeria to Delgado streets (from F&C to Iloilo Supermart)
* Delgado Street (from corner Merzci to Iloilo Supermart)
* Jaro Plaza (outside perimeter across Evangelical Church except the area in Ledi Supermart; front of SM SaveMore, Pius XII side to Montinola Mansion)
* Molo Plaza (Locsin Street, Church area; Katilingban / M.H. del Pilar Street)
* Mandurriao Plaza (De Leon Street, across Mandurriao Police Station)
Vendors must adhere to several requirements, including obtaining a Barangay Clearance, Community Tax Certificate, Special Permit Contract, Anti-Smoking signage, and a Health Card if selling food.
These documents must be submitted to the Special Services Division (SSD) of the PSTMO.
Upon approval, a payment of a minimum of P200 per stall is required, with the provision that only one stall is allowed per vendor.
Stalls must adhere to specific dimensions (2m x 2m) and placement guidelines, including a mandatory one-meter distance between each stall.
The SSD, in collaboration with the Investment Services Business Permits / License Division (ISBPLD) of the City Mayor’s Office, will conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the guidelines, focusing on permit verification and cleanliness.
At the end of the holiday period, vendors are responsible for the removal of their stalls, leaving the areas clean and litter-free./PN
