In a nod to the observance of Ramadan, the Cebu City Colon night market has resumed operations, albeit on a smaller scale than before.
Maria Pino, the night market organizer, confirmed to the media that the market reopened on March 1, 2024, following a brief hiatus that began on January 31.
This year’s operation sees a significant change in schedule, with the market only opening its doors on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
This reduced operational period is set to last for 18 days, culminating on April 14, which marks the end of this season’s run.
Pino explained that the decision to operate the night market only on select days was made to accommodate the Muslim vendors observing Ramadan.
“Before, they used to sell every day. Now, they’ve requested to operate only from Friday to Sunday because they won’t be eating during the day due to fasting, and these are the only days they can sell after they break their fast,” Pino said.
Despite the limited operational days, vendors are still required to pay the standard P200 arkabala (rental fee) to the Cebu City Government for each day they operate. “We really have to pay, and the collection is on a daily basis,” Pino stated.
The restricted schedule has led to a decrease in vendor participation. Pino revealed that only about 60 percent of the usual vendor population, or around 200 vendors, have joined the market’s reopening.
“Many have chosen not to sell this time because we can’t force them; the income is not as high as it is in December,” Pino remarked.
This adaptation of the night market’s operation reflects the community’s effort to show solidarity with Muslim vendors during the holy month of Ramadan, despite the challenges posed by reduced operating days and decreased vendor participation. – CebuLifestyleChannel.ph