By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA

The Bacolod City government eyes extending the operating hours of vendors selling along North Capitol Road to cater for customers who work through the night.

City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo said he will discuss the proposed amendments with Councilor Celia Matea Flor, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod committee on markets.

He said that vendors are currently allowed to sell along North Capitol Road from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

“Based on the sentiments of our vendors, their market extends beyond 10:00 p.m.,” Mayo said.

He noted that customers, particularly those working in business process outsourcing companies, have also been observed visiting the area beyond 10:00 p.m.

“We will wait for the decision of the Sangguniang Panlungsod on whether they will approve the vendors’ request,” Mayo added.

Earlier, the city government insisted that roadside vendors along North Capitol Road would not be removed, as the city continues to implement the ordinance that allows them to sell in the area.

“Their operations should comply with the conditions set forth in the vending ordinance,” Mayo said.

He added that the city is still strictly implementing the “no permit, no vending” policy along North Capitol Road.

“Vendors who fail to secure permits are not allowed to operate in the area, including those selling ready-to-wear products,” he said.

Vendors selling non-food products are likewise prohibited from conducting business along North Capitol Road.

The city government did not grant the Negros Occidental Provincial Legal Office’s request to relocate sidewalk vendors operating near the provincial capitol, citing traffic obstruction, sanitation issues and security concerns./MAP, WDJ