The planned Colon Street Night Market and Bazaar in Cebu City is facing significant regulatory obstacles, with the Cebu City Council declaring the market cannot operate legally without proper authorization from both national and local government bodies.
Mandatory Permits from National and Local Agencies
The City Council's Committee on Laws, Ordinances, and Styling has emphasized in its recent report that Colon Street, being a national road, requires explicit permission from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) before any road closure for the market can be implemented. The committee stated clearly that "The DPWH's concurrence is non-negotiable because Colon Street falls under national jurisdiction."
Additionally, the committee mandated that the Garbo Asenso Sumbanan Alyansa (GASA) Board must approve the activity to ensure informal vendors comply with city policies and guidelines. This approval process is crucial for regulating vendor operating hours, stall locations, and overall compliance with city standards.
Proposed Road Closures and Public Consultation
The proposed ordinance outlines extensive road closures scheduled to run daily from 6:30 PM to 2:00 AM between October 15 and December 30, 2025. If passed, the measure would authorize complete road closures from Osmeña Boulevard to Pelaez Street and from Junquera Street to Mabini Street, with partial closures affecting northbound lanes between Pelaez and Junquera Streets.
The committee has recommended conducting a public hearing regarding the proposed ordinance. Business owners and other stakeholders must receive at least five days' notice to provide comments or express concerns about the planned night market operations.
Traffic Management and Safety Measures
Multiple agencies have been designated to manage the potential impact of the night market operations. The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), Cebu City Police Office, and Bureau of Fire Protection will coordinate traffic control and public safety measures throughout the event duration if approvals are granted.
The regulatory requirements highlight the complex approval process needed for major public events in Cebu City, particularly those involving national infrastructure like Colon Street, one of the country's oldest thoroughfares.
