INSTITUTIONALIZING THE NIGHT MARKET

Cebu City Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr.’s proposed ordinance to regulate its operation has been referred to the council’s committee on laws

A move to regulate and provide rules for the operation of a night market on Colon St. in Cebu City is pending before the City Council.

Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr., sponsored the proposed measure, which seeks to establish the Night Market Ordinance of Cebu City.

“The Cebu City Government acknowledges the vital role of the micro, small and medium enterprises in the city’s socio-economic status. The micro, small and medium enterprises provide livelihood to the city’s constituents and present a training ground for our youth’s entrepreneurial skills and resourcefulness,” read portion of the ordinance.

Eligibility requirements

Under the proposed ordinance, operation of the night market will be allowed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the entire year except December and January.

For December and January, it will be allowed for the entire week in time for the Christmas and Sinulog celebrations.

The night market will be located along the stretch of Colon St., particularly in front of Vision Theater, and will be open from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Residents who are registered voters will be given priority to sell, provided that their application will be approved by the City Market Authority.

Upon approval of the application, the seller will be given a permit and will be allowed to rent a maximum of 2.5 square meters.

Once approved, the City will finalize the rental fee and payment for electric consumption in the implementing rules and regulations.

Subleasing of the rented area will not be allowed.

Gabuya’s proposed ordinance was referred to the council’s committee on laws for comments and recommendations.