Freedom Park stalls up for demolition

CEBU, Philippines - About 16 stalls in the Freedom Park have only until this Saturday to do business before the Market Operations Division demolishes them first thing on Sunday.

Market Administrator Racquel Arce said that the stalls were supposed to be demolished Monday last week but the eight stall occupants asked reconsideration.

They were given an almost two-week extension but Arce said Sunday will be their last day.

Arce said the affected vendors were properly informed as they were sent notices to vacate last month. The notice expired last October 3. Eight vendors occupy the 16 stalls that are up for demolition.

The city needs the area cleared to expand the portion that the Market Authority has eyed to designate as the loading and unloading station of trucks and other vehicles loaded with supplies from the mountain barangays and other areas to be sold in Carbon Market.

The city wants to designate a space exclusive for loading and unloading so trucks will not have to unload along the road which causes traffic in the Carbon area.

Arce added these vendors are delinquent in their payment since 2010. They started occupying the stalls in 2009.

Arce said these vendors also do not have existing contracts with the city government. They only signed a Memorandum of Undertaking last year where they agreed to vacate the area once the city is ready to use it. No relocation will be provided. — (FREEMAN)