City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo and Councilor Celia Flor at the ceremonial distribution of special permits to the vendors.* BCCO photo
The Bacolod City Government has issued special temporary permits to 222 vendors selling flowers, food, and other goods at designated cemetery sites ahead of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The initiative gives local sellers legal, organized space to earn extra income for their households, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
Mayor Greg Gasataya met with the vendors Thursday morning , October 29, to inform them that the permits let them operate without worry, while helping keep cemetery‑side areas safe and orderly.
“What is important is that the city ensures everything is in order for you. You should not be nervous about selling because you have a permit issued by the city. We are here to protect you because we believe that every opportunity to sell here is a big help to your families,” the mayor said.
Among those who received permits is first‑time Undas vendor Sheila Mae Salvador, a housewife from Barangay 13 with two children, who hopes the seasonal trade will bring in much‑needed extra cash for her family.
“Since this is my first time, I hope this will be a good opportunity for me to have an additional income for my family, “ Sheila Mae said.
Fifty‑eight‑year‑old Ruby Merkado, a long‑time flower vendor, has been selling blooms at the cemeteries since she was 12 years old — a livelihood passed down from her mother.
She thanked the city government for the permits, saying these let her carry on their family tradition without fear of being asked to leave. “We are very thankful to the mayor and the city for giving us the opportunity to sell with special permits. Since I was young this is like a tradition and big help to our family.”
Meanwhile, 69‑year‑old Dante Alunan from Barangay Mansilingan has sold agogo, bitsukoy, and quail eggs near the Handumanan Cemetery for 49 years.
He said that in previous years, vendors had to keep out of sight from city inspectors; now the permit lets him focus on his trade with peace of mind. “I’ve been selling in handumanan for 49 years now since I was small. I am really thankful to the mayor. We can now sell goods without worry.”
City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo and Councilor Celia Flor led the ceremonial distribution of the special permits.
Executive Assistant Ariel Guides reminded vendors to keep their IDs and permits handy for regular inspections, and to keep their selling spots clean at all times.
Executive Assistant April Rose Mayo noted the permits are valid only from October 29 to November 2. Vendors are required to take down their stalls and clear their belongings by November 3, dispose of waste properly, and follow the “Clean As You Go” (CLAYGO) rule while operating.
With this temporary vendor program, the city government aims to open up livelihood opportunities for residents while keeping cemetery surroundings orderly, safe, and clean throughout the Undas season, the press release said.*
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