Cebu City probes illegal fees burdening Carbon Market vendors amid redevelopment
The Cebu City Government is looking into claims that private groups are charging vendors at Carbon Public Market unauthorised daily fees. Reports suggest some vendors pay up to P300 a day, adding to their financial strain. The issue comes as tensions rise over the market’s ongoing redevelopment project. The investigation began after complaints surfaced about certain vendor associations collecting fees from their members. With around 2,000 vendors paying P300 each, these groups allegedly gather up to P18 million monthly. Those who refuse to pay—or avoid using equipment controlled by these associations—risk being barred from working in the market.
Mayor Nestor Archival has raised concerns over the extra costs, noting that many vendors already struggle with daily expenses. The City Market Office is now conducting a full census of all vendors to ensure transparency and prevent individuals from holding multiple stalls. The results will determine whether the city steps in to halt these private charges. A separate legal battle over the redevelopment project continues. While a local court recently rejected an attempt to halt construction, a broader lawsuit questioning the project’s legality remains unresolved. Many vendors fear the modernised market will push up rents, making it harder for them to afford their spaces.
The city’s vendor census aims to clarify how many are affected by the fees and whether intervention is needed. Meanwhile, the redevelopment project moves forward despite ongoing legal challenges. Vendors now face uncertainty over both their daily costs and the future of their market stalls.
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