The newly opened tourist destination at the Bicol River Esplanade, known for its vibrant late-night street food scene and scenic river views, has rapidly become a crowd favorite. However, the lack of a regulated vendor system has resulted in issues involving space allocation, traffic congestion, and loitering.
To address these concerns, Mayor Leni Robredo, in coordination with the Market Enterprise and Promotions Office (MEPO), Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO), and Public Safety Office (PSO), has temporarily closed the esplanade to facilitate improvements and reorganization efforts.
Mayor Robredo announced that all registered vendors will be assigned a 2×4-meter space, with operating hours extended until midnight—an adjustment from the previous 10 p.m. cut-off. Additional lighting will also be installed in dimly lit areas to discourage loitering and public drinking.
To ease traffic during peak hours, a portion of General Luna Street will be temporarily closed to vehicles beginning at 7:00 p.m., allowing better pedestrian movement and safer vendor operations.
Sanitation policies will likewise be strictly implemented to safeguard public health and consumer safety.
Mayor Robredo emphasized that vendor registration is essential to prevent inequality and further conflict in the area. I via Kim Villafuerte
