BONTOC, Mountain Province – The Bontoc Municipal Public Market was officially opened on March 5 ushering in a new era of secure and vibrant shopping experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Lourdes Claire Peel said the rehabilitation had to be implemented immediately due to safety concerns arising from the building being declared unsafe by the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) team in the aftermath of the 7.0-magnitude earthquake that struck Northern Luzon on July 27, 2022.
Department of the Interior and Local Government Provincial Director Evelyn Trinidad, who represented Regional Director Araceli San Jose, commended the collaborative effort of the government and the community that has culminated in this significant achievement.
“Today, we celebrate more than just the physical structure before us. We celebrate the spirit of enterprise and innovation that has driven us to this point. We celebrate the resilience and tenacity of our community, our local officials for the completion of this project. And most importantly, we celebrate the promise of what lies ahead – a future filled with opportunity, prosperity, and a deep sense of belonging for all of us who call this place home,” Trinidad said.
Engineer II Edmarie Agnes Kitongan of the Municipal Engineering Office, a total of 82 stalls to include 45 fruit and vegetable stalls, 18 food stalls, and 19 dry goods shops are set to cater to consumers from the municipality as well as its neighboring provinces.
Meanwhile, Mayor Jerome Tudlong, Jr. in his message highlighted the market’s significance as a hub for economic activity.
“The inauguration of the Bontoc Public Market is a testament to the dedication and partnership of our local government and the community. This infrastructure is more than just a physical space but a symbol of our commitment to progress and prosperity,” Tudlong said.
Also in attendance during the inauguration were Vice Mayor Eusebio Kabluyen; Councilor Viola Okko; Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr.; Poblacion Punong Barangay Florence Taguiba; Bontoc Market Vendors Association members, LGU personnel, and community members.
The P50 million project was funded through the 2022 Local Government Support Fund-Financial Assistance to LGU of the DILG. – Christy Mae F. Pangesfan
