BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The city government will enforce strict regulations on flower vendors for All Saints’ and All Souls’ days on November 1 and 2, respectively.
Zellah Gil, head of the city’s Special Services Division (SSD), said around 300 vendors are expected to sell flowers in designated areas across the city.
The vendors, she said, must meet the requirements before setting up their stalls that include a barangay clearance, community tax certificate, valid ID, special permit, a copy of the executive order or ordinance, and an “Anti-Smoking” sign provided by the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ICAST).
“In an effort to support vendors, the city has waived permit fees for flower sellers this season,” Gil added.
She however emphasized that vendors must maintain cleanliness in their areas, adhere to their designated spots, and strictly avoid smoking, alcohol, or illegal substances at their stalls.
Flower vendors are only allowed to operate from October 29 until November 1 at 11:59 p.m., based on Executive Order (EO) No. 138-A issued by Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon.
The designated selling areas are the following:
* Arevalo district – Yulo Drive (in front of the police station)
* Molo district – Locsin Road
* Mandurriao district – Mandurriao plaza (near the Civil Service Commission office)
* Jaro district – from Jaro Belfry to across Ledi Supermart
* City Proper district – Iznart Street extension
The EO added that vendors must construct their own stalls within a size limit of 2×3 meters.
The Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures Division led by Love Joy Hosenilla warned that any structures exceeding designated markings will be demolished.
For vendors selling outside cemetery areas, barangay authorities will oversee compliance to ensure roads remain clear of obstructions.
To further ensure public safety and maintain order in cemeteries, the aforementioned EO also banned alcoholic beverages within cemeteries as well as flammable items, drones, firearms without proper clearance, and sharp objects such as knives and cutters.
Additionally, sound systems, gambling materials like bingo cards, and overnight stays in cemeteries are also forbidden./PN
