While LGUs rely on local market codes, the Department of the Interior and Local Government continued funding the construction of public markets. But the DILG has not reported on the current state of public markets or how these are even used for political patronage. A few problematic market projects tell it is not an easy matter for governance. Take the case of a market conflict in Tarlac City.The rice grinder and coconut milk extractor at the stall of Apong Simang have been idle on most days.
Although selling separately—Apong Simang at the stalls of Baque Corp., Mangutara in Uptown, both located inside the Tarlac City Old Public Market; and Pingol in the new RUA private market nearby—they have been earning little in the last 10 months or facing uncertainty in getting long-term leases. The alternative place the mayor gave to Uptown tenants was a private market built by the Romeo U. Aquino Construction and Development Corp. RUA is also constructing a shopping mall on an adjacent lot vacated by Uniwide.
Some shoppers who come to the market, where a few vendors remain, risk being hurt by using gaps in the fence and barricade to enter and leave the premises. —PHOTO BY TONETTE T. OREJASThe LGU next encircled the 3-hectare public market with concrete barriers and galvanized sheets, stopping Paliparan’s operation and eventually, commercial activities there. Some sellers and buyers enter crevices, at the risk of being injured.