THE HOLIDAY season in Iloilo City is taking a familiar yet freshly managed turn with the recent announcement by Mayor Jerry Treñas to allow open sidewalk vending from Dec. 10 to 31. This decision, encapsulated in Executive Order No. 151, is a nod to the traditional Filipino holiday spirit, where the bustling streets become a kaleidoscope of commerce and community. However, it is not just a concession to tradition but a strategic move towards economic recovery, especially poignant in the post-pandemic era.
The executive order is a thoughtful blend of controlled freedom. By confining vending to specific streets like Iznart, JM Basa, Ledesma, and Valeria, and areas near Jaro Molo plazas and Mandurriao district, the city government is attempting to create a harmonious balance. This approach respects the vibrancy and economic necessity of street vending, which for many vendors is a crucial source of livelihood, while also maintaining order and avoiding the chaotic sprawl that often accompanies unregulated street markets.
One of the key strengths of this policy is its temporary nature. By limiting sidewalk vending to the holiday season, the city is acknowledging the special role that these vendors play in the Filipino Christmas celebration, while also safeguarding against the potential long-term negative impacts on traffic and pedestrian flow. It’s a delicate balance between fostering a festive atmosphere and ensuring public safety and accessibility.
However, while the executive order is commendable for its intent to support local vendors and enliven the city’s streets, it is not without its challenges. The requirement for vendors to obtain various clearances and permits, including a health card in the case of food vendors, while essential for maintaining public health and safety, could be a hurdle for some. The bureaucratic process must be streamlined and made accessible to ensure that this opportunity is within reach of all vendors, especially the smaller, less established ones.
Moreover, the success of this initiative hinges on strict adherence to the guidelines and effective enforcement. The city’s Joint Task Force on Road Clearing has a critical role in ensuring that vending activities do not spill over into unauthorized areas, maintaining the delicate balance that this policy seeks to achieve.
Allowing holiday season sidewalk vending is a significant step towards acknowledging and incorporating the informal sector into the city’s economic fabric, especially during a time of year that is culturally and economically important. It represents a thoughtful approach to urban management, one that respects tradition while prioritizing order and safety. As the city decks its streets, it will be crucial to monitor the implementation of this policy, ensuring it delivers its intended benefits to both vendors and the community at large.
