By Xander Ledesma
In preparation for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, the Bacolod City government has issued special permits to nearly 250 flower vendors, allowing them to sell flowers in designated areas across the city until November 2.
The permitted areas include Gonzaga, Araneta, and Gatuslao Streets in downtown Bacolod, the Libertad and Burgos public markets, and outside the city’s public cemetery on Burgos Street. Traditionally, vendors would set up near the public plaza, but with the MassKara Festival extended until October 31, they have been relocated to adjacent areas.
City Administrator Lucille Gelvolea confirmed that the City Council approved the relocation of flower vendors. A PHP400 special permit fee has been set for vendors operating from October 28 to November 2. According to city data, 105 vendors have set up along Gonzaga Street, 82 near the city public cemetery, and 60 along Libertad Street.