Vendors at privatemarket in Talisay set up barricade

CEBU, Philippines - The vendors at Nacario Trade Center in barangay Tabunok, Talisay City yesterday afternoon put up a barricade at the entrance of the private market to prevent the anti-sidewalk vending taskforce and licensing office to enter the place so it can close six stalls allegedly selling rice and corn.

Inspector Rio Hugo Ipong, who led the police to secure the area to maintain peace and order, said there was tension in the area.

Bystanders were seen clutching empty bottles, pieces of wood, and stones but fled when the police arrived, while the vendors removed their barricade.

The six stalls were closed past 1:00 pm yesterday after talks were held between the NTC management and the city licensing office.

Months ago, there was confrontation at the back of the private market in sitio Molave when the task force seized vegetables and other goods from vendors.

Some taskforce members were hurt when vendors struck them with pieces of wood.

One member was shot allegedly by one vendor.

Talisay City administrator Richel Bacaltos said the stalls violated a court order which prevents them from selling rice and corn and aside from having no business permits.

The court order made it clear that the vendors at NTC are not allowed to sell rice, corn, meat, fish, dried fish, and poultry products.

The order came when the owner of the NTC filed a complaint in court alleging that the city did not allow the vendors at NTC to secure business permit and was only interested in closing the private market.  (FREEMAN)