Trade fairs now totally banned in Baguio parks

By Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY – The city council last week approved on final reading an ordinance “totally disallowing the conduct of trade fairs” in parks and government-owned facilities.

The body approved the proposed ordinance authored by Councilor Richard Carino which amended for the third time the original trade fair measure Ordinance No. 49 series of 1994.

“The conduct of trade fairs have been depriving local enterprises of earning opportunities caused by the abuse of some businessmen who openly violate the conditions set forth in the Trade Fair Ordinance of 1994,” the measure notes.

He said “numerous complaints have been received from concerned citizens on the irregularities and infractions committed in the conduct of trade fairs in the city.”

As per policy, the city now will allow “only trade fairs for a period of not exceeding 15 days in suitable private places only and to totally disallow the conduct of trade fairs and other similar activities in all city-owned or city managed public properties and facilities that promote agricultural, industrial, indigenous and commercial products, crafts, and other merchandise through inter-regional trading that will foster better livelihood opportunities, enhance local tourism and help advance economic development.”