City vendors support no use of colored bulbs

CEBU, Philippines —  The Cebu Market Vendors Multipurpose Cooperative (CEMVEDCO) has posed no objection to the proposal prohibiting the use of colored bulbs and/or reflectorized or color shades in the fish, meat, fruit, and vegetable sections in public and private market and groceries in the city.

Erwin Goc-ong, president of CEMVEDCO, said they would not oppose the proposed ordinance sponsored by Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr. during the City Council’s online public hearing.

“Wala mi supak niana, Mr. Chairman, kay sobra naman lima ka tuig kami nga gibadlong sa Dakbayan sa Sugbo pinaagi sa DVMF (Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries) na dili na pagamiton og suga nga pula para sa karnehan,” said Goc-ong.

“It shall be unlawful for any vendor or trader of vegetable, fish, fruits, and meat inside and outside of the public and private markets or groceries, talipapas and other premises where such food are sold to use colored bulbs or reflectorized shades in promoting or marketing their products,” read a portion of Gabuya’s proposed ordinance.

As stated in the proposed ordinance, a violator will have to pay a fine of P1,000 for first offense, P2,000 for second offense, and P3,000 for third offense.

For the fourth and succeeding offenses, the violator must pay a fine of P5,000 or face 10-day imprisonment, or both, at the discretion of the court.

If a business establishment violates the ordinance, it has to pay a fine of P5,000 and a three-month suspension of its business permit.

“Sa maong proposed ordinance, in behalf of Cebu Market Vendors Multipurpose Cooperative o CEMVEDCO ug sa kinabag-an sa mga stallholders sa Carbon Complex, wala kami supak sa maong ordinansa ingon man sa iyahang mga penalties,” said Goc-ong.

Once approved, the ordinance provides that the City Market Authority Division; Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement (PROBE) and the Department of Trade and Industry 7 should jointly formulate the implementing rules and regulations.

Gabuya said his proposed ordinance aims to protect and promote the right to health of the public. — GMR (FREEMAN)