City ordinance to aid displaced vendors

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor Jerry Guardo has proposed an ordinance extending financial assistance to the displaced sidewalk vendors at a very low interest rate as well as connecting them directly to the suppliers.

Guardo said this only shows that the city is not only exerting an effort in providing an alternative location for the vendors, which is the night market, but also creating plans for their welfare.

In the “Vendors Welfare Ordinance,” there is a coordination from the City Council's Committee on Markets; Office of the Market Administrator; Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification, Enhancement team; and representatives of vendors.

"Importante na dunay tingog ang mga vendors. Kung unsa ang mga concern nila, mapaabot sa body, although they are subjected to regulations by the policies of the government. Ang importante lang na madungog ang ilang sentimento," said Guardo.

He added the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as well as the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) were also tapped for the realization of the ordinance.

He said the involvement of DTI and CCCI contributes to the welfare of the vendors.

The DTI can help extend loans to the vendors which can be beneficial to them since the financial assistance will be in a very reasonable interest rate.

"Three percent lang compared sa 5-6 nga 20 percent," said Guardo.

He said the purpose of the ordinance in extending financial assistance at a very low interest rate for the vendors is for them to have huge profit.

Another purpose is to connect them directly to the suppliers, so that they can buy their products at an affordable price.

"We're looking at direct import... wa nay middle man involved. There are investors nga makatabang ana," said Guardo.

The councilor said the CCCI can come in and help them with that.

Meanwhile, Guardo said the night market, which accommodated the displaced sidewalk vendors, is one way to help them earn a living.

He, however, said that since the vendors were given the privilege to sell again, they must comply with the regulations set by the city government.

The Vendors Welfare Ordinance is now scheduled for public hearing. (FREEMAN)