by Leonardo Micua
An ordinance was passed by the Dagupan Sangguniang Panlungsod authorizing the temporary closure of Galvan, Zamora and Jovellanos Roads in downtown Dagupan from March 18 to June 18 in line with the celebration of the 2026 Bangus Festival.
Draft Ordinance No. 0-024, Series of 2026, seeks to provide additional livelihood to the people of Dagupan who are set to put up street bazaars or baratillo, and food strip in said roads for the duration of three months.
Calendared only for first reading, it was given priority for deliberation by the Sanggunian in view of the Certificate of Urgency signed by Mayor Belen Fernandez on March 9, citing the current economic situation brought about by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East that impacted economic stability and welfare of the residents of Dagupan, needing them to earn more in order to support themselves and their families.
Councilor Marcelino Fernandez, sponsor of the measure, said the street bazaar and food strip will afford local residents a chance to sell their wares, including local food delicacies, enticing people to come and flock to the downtown area, which is seen to also increase the earnings of jeepney and tricyce drivers commuting passengers.
As to traffic, the people need not worry because the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO), in coordination with the Dagupan City Police Office, had been directed by Mayor Fernandez to implement a rerouting plan to manage traffic flow in surrounding areas during the closure period, with proper signages and personnel to be deployed to guide motorists and pedestrians.
Fernandez said activities in the 2026 Bangus Festival will be concentrated on three sites: the downtown area, Jose de Venecia Expressway Extension in Lucao; and Tondaligan Ferdinand Park, venue of the yearly Pista’y Dayat on May 1.
Image from Dagupan Fresh Bangus Daily Fb page