Guv wants eco-friendly Larsian

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia has ordered the renovation of Larsian in Fuente Osmeña to make it more friendly to the environment.

Garcia said the popular place for barbeque in the uptown area will be transformed into Eco-Larsian starting February 1.

The renovation plan includes installation of solar bulbs, construction of grilling station at the center to provide enough ventilation. Around the grilling station would be the dining sheds. Fruits stands will also be constructed outside.

Vendors and customers will be provided with washing facilities and additional four restrooms will be built. The government has appropriated P7.1-million budget for the upgrading of Larsian.

Garcia yesterday met with the Larsian stall owners together with the officials of the Cebu City Squatters Prevention, Encroachment and Elimination Division (SPEED) for the renovation plan. Also present during the meeting was the representative of Maningo Construction who will do the renovation.

Noel Artes, head of SPEED, said the stalls will be temporarily relocated at the sidewalk of Larsian pending the renovation. There are 36 existing stalls at Larsian-Fuente.

After the meeting yesterday, they proceeded to the area to determine if the plan is feasible and would not cause traffic congestion.

Artes said they will also only allow half of the number of stalls to use the sidewalk.

“We can’t accommodate tanan. We will recommend na half ra’y ipasud. If possible, alternate na lang,” he said.

Mac Azarcon, president of the Larsian Stall Owners Association, agreed with the plan, saying that it would be as long as they can still generate income even with the ongoing renovation.

“Mag-alternate lang mi para dili mi mawad-an ug panginabuhian,” she said.

The plan to renovate the facility came up last year and was then scheduled to finish before Christmas. However the plan was postponed. (FREEMAN)