By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA and CESAR JOLITO III
The Bacolod City Legal Office will review the Negros Occidental provincial government’s request to relocate street vendors operating along North Capitol Road which, the Capitol said, constitutes a nuisance and an obstruction to traffic flow, posing safety hazards to both motorists and the vendors.
“We will review our process considering that the implementation is pursuant to a city ordinance that allows the vendors to sell under specific conditions along the road,” City Legal Officer Karol Joseph Chiu said.
“I will have to check officially what their concerns are. I have yet to read and review the letter, but it will be referred to our City Legal Office for proper action and communication,” he added.
Chiu said the portion of North Capitol Road is being occupied by vendors during the night.
In its letter dated June 4, the Negros Occidental Provincial Legal Office (PLO) has formally called the attention of the city government over issues involving ambulant vendors operating along North Capitol Road, citing traffic obstruction, sanitation problems and security concerns in the area.
PLO head Roberto Nellas, Jr. said the office received reports and complaints that vendors have already caused obstruction on sidewalks, with some activities spilling over into public roads and contributing to traffic congestion.
He also cited concerns that accumulated litter and waste from vending activities have affected cleanliness in the area and increased maintenance challenges.
“In view of the foregoing, it is respectfully requested that the subject vendors along North Capitol Road be abated,” the letter stated.
The PLO likewise pointed to security issues, including reported vandalism incidents involving public facilities at the Capitol Lagoon, particularly damage to a newly renovated comfort room.
It also raised concerns over the proximity of vending activities to government offices handling sensitive financial transactions, such as the Provincial Treasurer’s Office.
The PLO stressed that public streets and sidewalks are intended for public use and should not be compromised by private commercial activity.
Following the concerns raised, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said he understands the city’s decision to regulate ambulant vendors through the issuance of special permits, noting that vendors have long been present in the area and that the move is intended to organize their operations rather than remove them.
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II also supported PLO’s position, saying that transferring or properly relocating food carts would promote public safety, convenience, sanitation, and cleanliness.
Diaz further assured that the provincial government will continue efforts to maintain, improve and secure the Capitol Grounds and Lagoon, ensuring that these public spaces remain safe and accessible./MAP, CCJ, WDJ