02/11/2025
𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺 — 𝗔 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁.
Hindi man ako nanalo, I still feel it’s important to speak up for something that matters to me deeply — the future of the Baguio Public Market and the people who have built their lives around it.
For generations, this market has been more than a place of trade. It is a community, a living heritage, and a symbol of who we are as a city. Our vendors are not just selling goods — they are preserving a culture, a way of life that reflects the resilience and creativity of Baguio’s people.
Redevelopment can bring opportunities, yes — but it must not come at the cost of the very people it aims to serve. A non-compete clause alone cannot protect vendors if rent prices soar or if consumer trends are driven toward commercial centers played by big commercial players. True protection means meaningful consultation, fair terms, and a firm commitment to keep the market affordable, inclusive, and rooted in local identity.
I'd love to see a redevelopment plan that uplifts, not displaces — one that builds with the market community, not over it. The future of the Baguio Public Market must reflect genuine progress: fair, participatory, and respectful of our cultural heritage.
