Surprise Inspection Targets Sidewalk Obstructions
BACOLOD - The Bacolod City Legal Office conducted a surprise inspection in the downtown area on September 9, led by City Legal Officer Atty. Karol Joseph Chiu, together with personnel from the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department (BTTMD) and the CLO enforcement team. The inspection covered Araneta, Luzuriaga, Gatuslao, and Gonzaga Streets, where sidewalk vendors and establishments were given verbal reminders not to occupy pedestrian footwalks or obstruct public access. The activity forms part of the city’s continuing efforts to maintain accessible sidewalks and promote safer movement for pedestrians in busy commercial areas.
Vendors Reminded of Permit and Space Requirements
During the inspection, vendors were reminded to obtain a special permit from the City Administrator’s Office and comply with City Ordinance No. 1009, Series of 2022. They were also instructed to observe the prescribed vending space limit of 1 meter by 1 meter. These requirements are intended to ensure that vending activities can operate within designated rules without compromising pedestrian access and the proper use of public spaces. Clear compliance guidelines also give vendors an opportunity to adjust their operations and avoid potential enforcement action.
Follow-Up Inspections to Strengthen Compliance
The Bacolod City Legal Office said it will conduct follow-up inspections in the affected areas and issue formal notices to vendors and establishments that fail to comply with the city's policies. The continued monitoring highlights the local government's effort to balance livelihood activities with the need to keep sidewalks open and public areas orderly. By encouraging compliance before stronger enforcement measures are imposed, the city aims to promote safer, more accessible, and better-managed streets in downtown Bacolod.
