ILOILO City – To strike a balance between festive commerce and public order, the city government has authorized temporary sidewalk vending for the Christmas season — turning previously cleared walkways into regulated vending zones where small entrepreneurs can legally sell their goods.
Under Executive Order No. 139 signed by Mayor Raisa Treñas, vending will be permitted in designated city areas on selected dates starting November 15 and continuously from December 1 to 31, 2025.
The measure aims to stimulate local business activity while ensuring public safety and cleanliness amid the holiday rush.
“The Executive Order reflects the city’s inclusive approach to economic activity while maintaining urban order,” said Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal, spokesperson for Mayor Treñas. “Through this Executive Order, Mayor Raisa wants to provide a dignified and regulated space — an organized, peaceful, and safe environment where vendors can earn a living while keeping the local economy alive.”
Designated vending zones
Temporary vending will be allowed only in selected sections of key streets and plazas, including:
* Iznart Street – from Jollibee to Merci/Po’s Marketing (corner Solis and Iznart Streets) and from Maria Clara to before BPI
* J.M. Basa Street – from Piche-Piche to Regent (excluding the International Heritage Building)
* Ledesma Street – from Iloilo Auto Supply to XPH, and from Unitop to F&C
* Valeria to Delgado Streets – from F&C to Iloilo Supermart Marymart
* Delgado Street – from corner Merzci to Iloilo Supermart Marymart
* Jaro Plaza area – across SM SaveMore from Pius XII side to corner JASAC
* Molo Plaza area – Locsin Street across Molo Mansion, plaza side
* Mandurriao Plaza area – across CSC Building stretch, plaza side
Strict compliance required
The city government emphasized that the privilege is temporary and subject to strict compliance. Vendors must secure permits and stay within their assigned areas to prevent obstruction and maintain order.
Fantilaga-Gorzal appealed for cooperation among both sellers and shoppers.
“The important thing is maintaining order, safety, and fairness for everyone — vendors, pedestrians, and motorists. This way, we can balance opportunities for our people with the preservation of public order and safety,” she said.
After the holiday period, sidewalk clearing operations will resume as the order automatically expires on December 31.
City officials said the initiative not only uplifts microentrepreneurs but also adds vibrancy to Iloilo City’s festive streets, and that disciplined and inclusive governance can bring order and opportunity together this Christmas./PN
