By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod City council has approved a three-month special permit allowing vendors at the Asenso Market in Barangay Alijis to continue their livelihood while authorities work to establish a permanent public market.

The resolution, passed on Wednesday, March 18, temporarily halts the planned demolition of vendor stalls along the vicinity of Bacolod Memorial Park, which was initially scheduled for March 30.

Councilor Dindo Ramos, chair of the Committee on Laws, said the affected vendors are primarily sidewalk sellers organized by the barangay.

Ramos noted that the special permit aims to give them time to continue operations while the local government identifies a suitable site for a permanent market in Barangay Alijis.

He revealed that a proposed ordinance is currently pending before the council to formalize the establishment of a public market in the area — one of the largest barangays in the city that still lacks such a facility.

The councilor added that efforts are underway to secure a permanent location within the three-month window.

In the meantime, Ramos emphasized that the current vending operations have not caused significant traffic disruptions.

The councilor’s office is also set to conduct an ongoing assessment of the situation on the ground as the city government works toward a long-term solution for both vendors and residents./CJ, WDJ