Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has assured legitimate vendors at the Carbon Public Market that they will have stalls in the redeveloped market. Speaking to reporters on Monday, June 29, 2026, Archival reiterated the city government's commitment to accommodate all affected vendors, emphasizing that security of tenure has been a priority since the project's inception.
Mayor Questions Ongoing Protests
Archival expressed confusion over why some vendor groups continue to protest despite repeated guarantees that no vendor would lose their livelihood. "I cannot understand why there are vendors continuously protesting. I asked myself, who are these people? What do they stand to lose when we have already assured them that they will all be inside?" he said.
The mayor's statements come amid controversy over alleged unauthorized collections within the market, prompting an executive session of the City Council to investigate whether vendor associations and private individuals are charging illegal fees from ambulant vendors.
Alleged Illegal Collections Under Scrutiny
Archival disclosed that the Office of the City Markets (OCM) confirmed that collections have been ongoing for some time. "The City Market Office said there are collections. They said they are illegal. The associations say they are not. So who should we believe?" he said. The mayor suggested that some opposition to the redevelopment may stem from individuals who would lose income from these collections once the market is fully managed under the city government's system.
Support for Redevelopment
The mayor revealed that some vendors have personally approached him to express support for the redevelopment project and their desire to proceed with modernization. He emphasized that selling within Carbon Public Market is not an exclusive right of current vendors, noting that while some oppose the redevelopment, others are ready to take their place.
Despite the opposition, Archival reiterated the city government's commitment to accommodating all legitimate vendors. "Those who are there now will all be accommodated. That has always been our commitment," he said.
Privatization Allegations Dismissed
When asked about allegations that the Carbon redevelopment is a form of privatization, Archival refuted the claim, stating that the city government retains ownership of the public market. He explained that the city can still negotiate or amend certain provisions of the agreement with the private developer if necessary, as the local government maintains control over policies.
