ILOILO CITY GOV’T CRITICIZED OVER DISPERSAL OF MARKET VENDORS

Groups and individuals condemned the Iloilo City government under Mayor Raisa Treñas over the dispersal of ambulant vendors during a clearing operation on April 10.

The operation, assisted by police and the city’s Local Economic Enterprise Office, led to clashes after vendors resisted the confiscation of their goods.

Critics, including consumer groups, said the policy restricting vendors to limited selling days is not a viable solution amid rising economic pressures.

Vendors argued they have long been displaced from their traditional selling areas following market redevelopment and have been seeking dialogue with the city government.

The city said vendors are allowed to sell on a rotating schedule in designated areas, but the policy continues to draw backlash from the public.

Source: PhilNews24 | April 12, 2026