Iloilo City authorities are intensifying enforcement of rules banning the sale of fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat, and native delicacies near public markets. Tensions rose during operations on April 10 and 11, with vendors losing goods to confiscation. Bolanteros call for fairer arrangements as officials explain the measures' intent.
Iloilo City's Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) is ramping up enforcement of the 2009 Market and Slaughterhouse Code, prohibiting sales of fresh produce outside public markets or within 100 meters. Bolanteros should act solely as wholesalers in designated drop-off zones, LEEO states. The stricter measures followed the November 2025 reopening of redeveloped Terminal and Central markets via a public-private partnership with SM Prime Holdings.
On the night of April 10 along Fuentes Street, a scuffle erupted between vendors and LEEO staff, the Anti-Squatting Unit, and police. Officials confiscated goods from 21-year-old Christian Cajandab of Cabatuan, including radish and bottle gourd. "They arrived without warning and immediately took our goods," he said. Cyril Labos, 26, from San Rafael, avoided losses but highlighted the challenges of dodging operations.
On April 11, Inday from Lanit, Jaro—a mother of 10—lost her pumpkin and bottle gourd while awaiting transport. Vendors urge daily nighttime sales at the Terminal Market. LEEO introduced rotating market days across six markets for over 300 registered bolanteros, reserving 200 stalls inside Terminal.
LEEO head Maricel Mabaquiao described the system as a win-win for order and fair competition. Vendors, however, cite overcrowding and intense rivalry. Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu pledged ongoing talks: "We will enforce the law firmly but with fairness and understanding."