Engaging Displaced Vendors Directly
BACOLOD - City Administrator Atty. Mark Mayo took a hands-on approach by personally visiting and conducting direct dialogues with four displaced vendors operating along South Capitol Road. During the site visit, Atty. Mayo clarified that their current spot falls outside recognized zones under the existing ambulant vending ordinance, making their operations technically illegal. Despite this regulatory hurdle, Mayor Greg Gasataya specifically instructed the administration to help the affected micro-entrepreneurs find sustainable alternatives rather than enforce immediate harsh evictions.
Presenting Viable Relocation Pathways
Atty. Mayo personally laid out two immediate relocation pathways for the vendors to ensure their livelihood continuity. He suggested transferring either to the permitted vending section along North Capitol Road or returning to a previously occupied area near Forest Park. He noted that utilizing the Forest Park location requires specific administrative approval because that portion is no longer classified as part of the public road network. To manage expectations, he warned that insisting on staying in unauthorized zones makes sellers ineligible for any city-funded livelihood assistance.
Studying Potential Ordinance Amendments
While strongly advising sellers to voluntarily vacate the premises before clearing operations, Atty. Mayo revealed that the city is studying possible amendments to the current ordinance. If the city council approves including the disputed South Capitol Road segment into designated vending areas, the vendors could legally return. Such an amendment would allow them to secure special business permits and operate safely, much like merchants stationed at the Bacolod Public Plaza.
