BACOLOD City – The impending P4-billion development at the Reclamation Area will see at least 25 Manokan Country stall owners moving to a temporary location next year.
During a hearing on the proposed lease agreement between the city government and a major developer on Tuesday, Councilor Al Victor Espino, who chairs the committee on laws and ordinances, informed vendors of a planned move to the North Parking Area Terminal Hub of a nearby shopping mall, set for January of the coming year.
The relocation, which allows vendors to use the area for 12 months at no cost, does require them to handle their utility bills.
Additionally, Espino urged any vendor with outstanding debts to the city to settle them promptly. This ensures they retain their stall positions upon their return to the revitalized Manokan Country.
David Montoya, the president of the Manokan Country Vendors association, expressed approval of the proposal, with vendors agreeing to come back after the 18-month-long development phase.
The forthcoming project involves the lease of a city-owned 16,875-square-meter plot by the developer, who will be making an advance payment of P132 million for three years. The project’s overview, presented during the hearing, detailed plans for a parking area on the third and fourth levels and spaces designed for business process outsourcing companies.
City Administrator Pacifico Maghari III expressed optimism about the project, anticipating it to enhance Manokan Country’s infrastructure and elevate its status as a tourist attraction.
In earlier developments, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez had sought the city council’s approval to authorize him to sign the lease agreement./PN
