Sprouting food parks

It has been a week since I visited that controversial food park in Lapu-Lapu City. The night before was tragic, as its steel beams collapsed into the dining area. Good thing those eating were spared, except for a few bruises and wounds. The owner took responsibility to take them to the hospital for treatment. However, the trauma couldn't be treated.

That visit also shocked me as the roof was made only of plastic and bolts. It is unusual to use that material for such a structure which is a crowd-drawer. Food parks have become a thing these days, as entrepreneurs try to grapple for more income. The public also keeps on searching for something new, as an effect of the pandemic.

What also shocked me was their lack of business permits and other documents needed to operate. A certain middleman assured the owners that they wouldn't need these anymore. It is hard to comprehend doing business without its legalities, as there is no way around the law. Nobody is exempted, even the closest friends of the officials of the local government.

That incident that made its rounds online will also teach us a lot of lessons --as an entrepreneur or a consumer. The first one would be complying with standards set by government agencies. They were made and crafted by experts, also proven to lessen risks. If we always put ourselves in the position of comfort and ease without looking forward, then we will be bound to repeat that incident again. Who knows it could be worse the next time around? Hopefully not.

Second would be compliance also with government requirements. More than the permit to build, are also permits for the business per se such as sanitary permits and tax requirements among others. How do we expect to develop as a local government unit, if we do not even follow basic rules? Acquiring documents is a hassle, that is true. However, it is only for a certain period.

Lastly, consumers should know how to scrutinize and be wise enough on what to patronize. When one can see that there are inconsistencies and irregularities, we have the power to call them out. Remember that the power always emanates from the people. We are not dictated by those who govern us, they should be dictated by the people's choice. If we are only vigilant enough and brave enough to call out what is wrong, there would be fewer chances of accidents and other inconsistencies.

By now the papers have been served and the owners are most likely also learning from this experience. They will rise, as always and like most of us will. These events are simply not just coincidence but those that teach us lessons to make us better persons. I hope this will be one for the books. Food parks will always be special for everyone, to eat and bond. It will be a place to reconnect, have fun, and make memories.