Bizman collects fees from vendors at Tabunok market?

CEBU, Philippines - The collection of stall rentals and payment for water and power consumption at the Tabunok public market in Talisay City is allegedly being done by a businessman not connected at all with city hall.

Since city hall had no one to collect from the vendors, some enterprising businessman had allegedly taken over the responsibility.

The word is that the businessman lends money to stall holders, finances the repair of stalls, and pays for the installation of the water and power connections.

In return, the businessman collects regular fees from the vendors.

The Freeman yesterday tried to reach the businessman, whose name is being withheld, but the calls went unanswered.

Talisay City Public Information Officer (PIO) Vincie Monterde told The Freeman yesterday the city has already assigned collectors and will investigate whether the businessman was authorized to collect for the city.

Monterde said the previous collectors were sent back to their respective offices in compliance with an executive order.  (FREEMAN)