Revival of ‘Tabo sa Sugbo’ eyed

CEBU, Philippines — More efficient market operation in Cebu City is expected after Mayor Michael Rama designated a new operations head.

Late last week, Engr. Robert Barquilla was called by Rama and named the market operations division. Aside from the new assignment, Barquilla’s former assignment as the human settlements administrator remains.

Wynne Cenas, for his part, also remains with the city’s market division and will focus on the administrative side.

The two officials are expected to work hand-in-hand to improve the situation in the public market, not only the Carbon market but all public markets here.

Barquilla, in an interview with The Freeman, said he is looking into reviving “Tabo sa Sugbo” and adding up more satellite markets in the barangays here.

Currently, there are only 10 satellite markets in the city.

“Matag barangay butangan natog satellite market, banhawon nato ang tabo sa Cebu City,” said Barquilla.

Barquilla said it is on top his priority to give the Cebuanos a more accessible and affordable food supply amidst economic challenges.

“Of course priority na nato kay particular naman kaayo ang mga tawo karon aside nga barato ang atong pamaliton, ang kapreskuhon pud sa atong mga vegetables, fruits,” said Barquilla.

Aside from affordability and accessibility, Barquilla had also been instructed by Rama to look into the improvements of the other public market after Carbon’s redevelopment.

“Ang instruction ni Mayor, ninduton nato atong mga public market kay in line with our Singapore-like Cebu City,” Barquilla said. — GMR (FREEMAN)