The Bacolod City Council has taken a decisive step in a local transport dispute, formally requesting the city's chief executive to postpone the approval of a business permit for a tricycle association from a neighboring city.
Council Resolution Seeks Temporary Halt
On January 14, 2026, the council approved a resolution directed at Mayor Greg Gasataya. The measure asks the mayor to defer the processing of the business permit for the Sum-ag, Tabunan, Abuanan and Dulao Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (Stadtoda). This action is not permanent but is intended to be in effect while a formal complaint against the association's operations is being resolved.
Root of the Conflict: A Barangay's Formal Complaint
The push for deferment stems from a complaint officially filed by Barangay Sum-ag. The barangay has raised concerns about the operations of Stadtoda, which is based in Bago City. According to the complaint, the association's activities are negatively affecting the barangay and its residents, though the specific nature of the impact was not detailed in the resolution.
The resolution's author, Councilor Dindo Ramos, who chairs the City Council Committee on Transportation and Traffic, emphasized the need for caution. "The continued processing of the business permit of Stadtoda while the complaint remains unresolved may prejudice the outcome of the proceedings and undermine orderly governance," Ramos stated.
Prioritizing Fair Process and Public Welfare
Councilor Ramos further justified the council's move by highlighting core principles of local governance. He argued that temporarily putting the permit process on hold is a prudent measure. It serves the interests of fairness, public order, and due process, ensuring the complaint receives a proper and unbiased resolution without external pressures.
The City Government of Bacolod has a clear mandate to regulate all business operations within its jurisdiction. This authority is exercised to guarantee that businesses comply with local and national laws, city ordinances, and, crucially, considerations for public welfare. The council's resolution is framed as an exercise of this regulatory duty, aiming to maintain orderly business conduct and protect community interests.
The ball is now in Mayor Gasataya's court to consider the council's formal request. The next steps will depend on his response and the progression of the complaint proceedings initiated by Barangay Sum-ag against the Stadtoda tricycle association.
