Giving Surplus Market Produce a Second Purpose
BACOLOD - The G-Merkado Social Responsibility Program collected 48.5 kilograms of food at Libertad Public Market on November 4, 2026. The collection included 39.75 kilograms of vegetables, 7.50 kilograms of fruits, and 1.25 kilograms of fish and other seafood. Rather than allowing usable food to go to waste, the initiative helps redirect these goods toward community food assistance. The program is spearheaded by the City Administrator's Office and Sagup Negros in collaboration with the public market, showing how cooperation between local organizations and market participants can make better use of available food resources.
Extending Food Assistance to More Households
The program has already demonstrated how consistent food recovery can benefit families. According to a Sagup Negros report dated October 21, more than 2,065 kilograms of food had been collected during 20 days of distribution activities at Libertad Public Market. These recovered goods helped provide food assistance to 616 families through the community pantry in Barangay 36. The initiative connects available market supplies with households that can benefit from additional food, while encouraging vendors and residents to participate in community-centered efforts.
Expanding Food Recovery Across Bacolod Markets
The city plans to continue the initiative at Burgos and Central Public Markets in December 2026, extending food recovery opportunities to more vendors and communities. Expanding the program can help collect additional usable produce and seafood while building stronger partnerships among market administrators, sellers, volunteers, and beneficiaries. Residents and vendors can contribute by supporting responsible food handling and identifying edible surplus products that can still be shared. Through these efforts, Bacolod can strengthen its approach to reducing food waste and helping more families access nutritious food.
