By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA

The Bacolod City Legal Office (CLO) served demand letters or notices to vacate against at least 41 owners of illegal structures near Barangay Tangub Hall.

CLO spokesperson Vanessa Encabo said the owners have until August 3 to vacate the area.

She said the illegal structures, most of which belong to market vendors, were occupying roads and causing traffic congestion.

Before the notices were issued, Encabo said the market vendors had already been given an advisory urging them to voluntarily remove their illegal structures.

She added that the vendors were selling fish, groceries, fruits, and other goods.

The CLO also advised barangay officials to identify a permanent location to accommodate the affected market vendors.

The notices were served by the CLO Enforcement Team, the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department, the Business Permits and Licensing Office, and the City Health Office.

The department heads also met with Barangay Tangub Captain Noli Villarosa to ensure the smooth implementation of the notices./MAP, WDJ