AN ordinance was passed by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) authorizing the temporary closure of Galvan and Zamora Roads for the holding of the Christmas Baratillo or Street Bazaar in observance of the City Fiesta from November 2, 2025, to January 15, 2026. The ordinance also provides rules and regulations for its orderly management, sanitation, and accountability.

Draft Ordinance No. 0-044, known as the “Dagupan City Christmas Baratillo Ordinance of 2025,” authored by Councilor and Liga ng mga Barangay President Marcelino Fernandez, gives Mayor Belen Fernandez the legal basis to close the two streets in observance of the yearly Baratillo tradition. The event aims to provide opportunities for small and micro-entrepreneurs to earn a living while offering affordable goods to residents and visitors.

For the first time in many years, a Baratillo Management Committee has been created, with the head of the City Tourism Office as chairperson and the head of the City Economic Enterprise Office as vice chairperson. The committee will implement the ordinance, approve the stall layout and boundary markings, coordinate inspection and enforcement, act on complaints and violations, and submit a post-event report to the SP.

Anticipating that the Christmas Baratillo on Galvan and Zamora Roads could lead to traffic congestion in the city’s central business district, Councilor Luis Samson Jr. proposed a vacant lot along Jose de Venecia Expressway as an alternative venue, where the event could continue until the Bangus Festival, which will last until April 30 next year.

However, Councilor Fernandez rejected the proposal, stressing that Dagupan’s central business district remains the best location for the Christmas Baratillo because it is easily accessible to buyers.

All collections and fines from the Christmas Baratillo shall accrue to the City General Fund and will be subject to existing accounting and auditing rules. ( Leonardo Micua)