TABUK CITY, Kalinga– The city government through the City Market Administration Office reports that a total of P1,782,604.00 was collected from stall rental fees inside the Dagupan Public Market and at the vicinity of the People’s Gymnasium in the first semester of the year.
In addition to this sum, P368,900.00 from parking fees for delivery trucks and tricycles and P261,210.00 from ambulant sellers were also generated during this time period.
The overall collection is significantly lower than in previous years, which, according to Astro Manadao, Administrative Officer I, is a result of the pandemic that had a significant impact on vendors’ daily sales and the gradual decline in the number of vendors brought about by the clearing of some structures inside the facility.
Due to these factors, according to Manadao, the city government implemented a condonation period to aid vendors in recovering from their financial losses.
He continued by saying that, despite the desire for bigger collection, the fees collected depend on what the Revenue Code specifies, placing special emphasis on the quantity and price of the items sold.
There are 123 stalls listed in the Dagupan Public Market according to CMAO records, and thanks to the condonation period, lessees are no longer needed to pay P10.00 each day. However, if they choose to stay longer in their designated location, they must pay the specified sum.
The office also charges a small fee to street vendors who sell a variety of goods, including accessories, food, and motor spare parts, mainly in front of Tabuk City National High School.
Gilbert Ayang-ang, the supervising administrative officer, emphasized that the city government is aware of the predicament of vendors, particularly those who have been severely impacted by the pandemic. He made a plea to new ambulant sellers who wanted to sell their wares at the public market to visit their office first so they will be given the right location and pay the appropriate fees.