ILOILO City – The city government has allowed flower vendors to sell in public plazas and the Iloilo Central Market beginning today until Friday in line with the yearly observance of All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2).
But the vendors must first secure a special business permit for P200 and pay P300 for electricity connection both at the Business Permit and Licensing Office of city hall, said Jeck Conlu, chief of the Public Safety and Transportation Management Office.
The vendors must also secure a barangay clearance, he added.
These are the only requirements of the city government, stressed Conlu.
“Wala sang iban nga may manukot sa ila. Wala sang dapat mag-take advantage sa aton mga vendors,” he stressed.
Flower vendors must turn away anybody demanding any other payment from them, said Conlu.
In Jaro district last year, flower vendors were allowed to sell only at the back of the Jaro Cathedral but this created traffic congestion. Thus this year, said Conlu, they were allowed to do business at the public plaza.
PSTMO sees an estimated 140 flower vendors at Jaro plaza this week, and 160 at the central market.
“Ang mga wala permits and those selling flowers other than at the public plazas and central market risk being apprehended by the Task Force on Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures,” said Conlu.
All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are traditionally marked by visiting the graves of loved ones. People usually bring flowers, light candles and offer prayers./PN
