By Jamina Joaquin
The relocation of market vendors who were affected by the fire that hit the Baguio City Public Market is among the priorities of the local government.
The city Public Information Office said the local government will fast-track the relocation of affected vendors to help them resume operations as soon as possible.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said displaced vendors would be allowed to use the market streets. At the same time, negotiations are ongoing for the relocation site under a public-private partnership project.
He said almost 1,700 of the 3,900 booths were destroyed in the fire that broke out at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, which destroyed the whole of Block 3 and half of Block 4 of the market.
Baguio City Fire Marshal Supt. Marisol Odiver said the fire started in the Block 4 extension area or in the ukay-ukay or used garments portion.
Property damage was estimated to be P24 million.
Magalong said the city government is working to provide aid and help in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development Office and the City Social Welfare and Development Office have been tapped to immediately assist all the affected vendors.
Overall, as a help for the vendors, he said displaced vendors would be allowed to use the market streets. At the same time, negotiations are ongoing for the relocation site under a public-private partnership (PPP) project. –ag
