CCCI backs Colon revitalization

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry has assured support for the Cebu City government’s revitalization plan for Colon Street, believing it will boost the local economy.

The CCCI Board of Trustees passed a resolution supporting the city for its undertaking, which includes the night market, as it is seen to help and promote small and medium enterprises in downtown areas.

“…we laud the effort of the city government for its commitment to uphold the city as the center for trade and commerce in Cebu island,” the BOT resolution read.

CCCI president Ma. Teresa Chan said the restoration of Colon Street would lead to increasing business transactions and sales along Colon Street, the oldest road in the country.

“Its restoration would lead to enhancing business activities thereby leveling up investments and improving the social, environmental and economic conditions within and outside the periphery of the street,” she said.

“Most of the establishments operating in Cebu City fervently desires for the complete makeover of the street being hailed as the monument of heritage and one of the top tourist destinations in the country,” she added.

In line with this, CCCI requested the council to enlist the participation of the business sector in the process of crafting the Implementing Rules and Regulation of the proposed executive order revitalizing Colon Street.

Based on the EO, the Colon Street would be revitalized by establishing an “all-in-one store with a world class shopping, recreation and business centers.”

 Section 5 of the order provides that, “Cebu City shall be the store for all kinds of merchandise, commodities and supplies and shall be known as a service provider and business activity center that houses fashionable shops, respectable offices, famous restaurants, fast foods, movie theaters and coffee shops making it a world class shopping, recreation and business center.”

 The Department of Public Works and Highways said recently though that the closure of Colon Street at night time to pave way for the night market is “illegal” as it violates Republic Act 917 otherwise known as the Philippine Highway Act of 1953, among other national legislations. (FREEMAN)