• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod City government is currently coordinating with the Gonzaga family to secure a relocation site for 41 vendors operating around the government center, ahead of a scheduled clearing operation.
Mayor Greg Gasataya initiated talks with the family, who originally donated the land for the government center, to request a space where the displaced sellers can continue their livelihood.
City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo noted that while the vendors will likely need to pay rent if relocated to a private area, the city is negotiating for affordable daily rates to ease the transition.
The issue stemmed from the city’s legal obligation to follow the original deed of donation, which requires the government center’s perimeter to remain clear of unauthorized business activities.
As the formal negotiation continues, the city has set the demolition of the existing stalls around the government facility for today, March 6.*
