Improved “Larsian” reopens to public

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu’s famous food strip Larsian would never be the same as before.

It reopens with better customer service and improved amenities following the three-month rehabilitation, said Larsian Administrator Alberto "Joey" Herrera, Jr.

And with more food stalls and new parking space, the Larsian management is anticipating an increase in the collection fees.

“If we base on the monthly collection before (the closure), (revenues at) Larsian accounts for about P300,000 a month but now, with all stalls rented, the expected earnings may reach more than P500,000 a month,” said Herrera during the Capitol’s weekly talk show “Kasayuran sa Kalamboan” on Friday.

At least 43 stalls were rented before but presently, all 59 stalls are occupied.

He also announced yesterday that the management has developed a parking space near Larsian since this has been one of the common concerns among customers who bring their own private vehicles.

Herrera said the parking area can accommodate at least 22 cars and around 40 motorcycles.

For now, parking at the space is free of charge but eventually, the management may request from the Economic Enterprise Committee to allow them to impose a fee for the maintenance and regulation of the area, he said.

The proposed parking fee, he added, may be similar to the rate imposed at the Capitol compound of P20 per hour and additional P10 per succeeding hours.

Moreover, stringent fines for violating stall owners and employees, and strict food handling and sanitation guidelines resulted from the three-month closure.

Policy guidelines were formulated and agreed upon by all parties including stall owners to ensure food safety cleanliness at the area.

Also, violators, either stall owners or workers, will have to be disciplined as certain penalties and sanctions correspond to their offense.

The temporary closure also gave a leeway for the management to improve the place by putting up better drainage; enhancing the comfort rooms and washing area; and elevating the roof of the grilling station.

The three-month closure since July allowed the management to rehabilitate the food center, particularly to correct the reported food handling and sanitation problems there.

Employees were subjected to a seminar for proper food handling and sanitation and will be inspected periodically by the Cebu City Health Department whether they continuously comply with the requirements.

Larsian, which lies near the Fuente Osmeña Circle, is one of the food havens in Cebu frequently visited by people including tourists. — GAN (FREEMAN)