Ramadan Night Market opened on Colon Street

CEBU, Philippines — The first Ramadan Night Market was opened yesterday on Colon Street, Cebu City.

This is one of the activities of the Cebu City government that aims to showcase the culture of the Muslim community.

According to Maria Pino, chairperson of the Garbo Asenso Sumbanan Alyansa (GASA), nearly 70 percent of the night market vendors are Muslims.

In fact, part of the night market is a separate area for Halal foods.

According to Pino, more than 300 vendors are involved this products exhibit and nearly 70 percent of them are Muslims brothers and sisters.

The Cebu City government’s partner in this event is the Office of Muslim Affairs.

The Ramadan Night Market is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until April from 6:00 in the evening to 2:00 in the morning.

“Unsay nakalahi  sa atong night market karon? Atoang food court karon, ato nang gitarong og han-ay. Ang atong mga kaigsoonang Muslim, ato g’yod gibutangan og ilang kaugalingon nga kan-anan (Halal). Ato gyud nga i- showcase ang kultura sa atong Muslim brothers and sisters,” Pino added during yesterday’s press conference held at Iconique Mall.

Colon Street has become a part of history since it is the oldest street in the country.

In the previous night market last December, the Cebu City Government earned P1.3 million from the “arkabala.”

“Gawas nga nakatabang ta sa atong traders, nakatabang sad na sa panudlanan sa siyudad,” said Pino.

Considering that the expected number of people visiting the night market, the Cebu City Police Office and the Cebu City Transportation Office have ensured that security preparations are in place.

The Cebu City Environmental Sanitation Enforcement Team (CESET) and Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement (PROBE) will be going around to monitor if the cleanliness and orderliness are complied with by the vendors in their respective areas. (FREEMAN)