City prohibits peddling in cemeteries during Undas

Vending and vendors are prohibited inside cemeteries and its perimeters during the observation of All Souls Day and All Saints Day in Baguio City.

The prohibition on peddling applies both for private columbaries and public cemeteries during the scheduled visitation period from October 31, 2023 to November 3, 2023.

This was reiterated to members of the Oplan Kaluluwa 2023 committee during its meeting Monday, October 9 as plans and policies are being finalized for an orderly and peaceful observance of Undas.

Assistant City Treasurer Fernando Ragma Jr. said his office is now finalizing the documentary procedures for the issuance of Special Permit for flower and candle vendors relative to Undas.

Same as last year, wholesale of flowers and candles (‘bagsakan area’) will be allowed at the Old Library Site parking area and Jose Abad Santos Drive parking area from October 27 to 31, 2023 at 7PM to 12 midnight subject to traffic rules particularly the Truck Ban.

Wholesale of flowers along Magsaysay Avenue in front of the Rice Section and other allowed market bagsakan areas is from 7PM to 10PM in accordance with market bagsakan rules.

As to retail of flowers and candles, Ragma said applicants shall secure forms at the Campaign and Investigation Division of the Treasury Office in City Hall from October 18 – 20, 2023.

To qualify, applicant vendors shall be a bona fide resident of Baguio City, of legal age and had no violations regarding Oplan Kaluluwa for the previous years.

Requirements for applicants include two copies of 2×2 photo picture, barangay business clearance, residence certificate or Baguio Cedula, Official receipt of residential garbage payment for 2023; and, photocopy of any valid identification card.

Selection of flower and candle vendors will be on a first come, first served basis with a total of P1,393 fees for the selling duration from October 26 to November 1, 2023.

Additional guidelines and vending sites will be announced pending legislative approval.

The committee encouraged the public to start cleaning the tombs of their departed loved ones until October 30 to avoid congestion and vehicular traffic.

By October 31 onwards, entry of pointed objects for cleaning will no longer be allowed along with other prohibited materials such as liquor, firearms, flammable materials, gambling paraphernalia and loud speakers. – JMPS