By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – After 42 years, Manokan Country stall owners have officially vacated the old site in Barangay 12 as demolition of the structures has begun.
“End of an era: Today, we bid farewell as Manokan Country closes its doors,” Nena’s Rose Chicken Inasal/Yanna Chicken Inasal, one of the stalls at the old site, shared in a Facebook post.
They thanked their customers for their unwavering support and for being part of their journey.
“Your love for our food and your loyalty will always be cherished. This is not goodbye—it’s a step toward new beginnings. Maraming salamat!” they said.
The city government partnered with SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SPHI) to redevelop the iconic Manokan Country in an effort to boost tourism and economic growth.
SPHI has invested PHP4 billion in the redevelopment project, which is tentatively set to begin operations this year.
After a series of negotiations with tenants, all 24 stall owners vacated the old site by the Feb. 21, 2025 deadline in agreement with the city government.
The tenants have relocated to the SM City Bacolod parking area as a temporary site while construction is underway.
The city has provided each tenant with PHP20,000 in financial assistance, and SM has built temporary stalls to allow them to continue their businesses.
“So far, there have been no significant complaints, and the temporary space with 24 stalls has been fully occupied,” Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez said in a media briefing Tuesday.
Benitez acknowledged that while business owners, vendors, and restaurant operators may have concerns about the changes, the city is providing support to help them recover and thrive.
He believes the vendors are in a better position in their new location and hopes they are beginning to see the benefits.
Councilor Celia Flor, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Committee on Markets, said that out of the 3,400 food vouchers worth PHP500,000 that were distributed earlier, more than 2,500 vouchers amounting to PHP384,000 have been redeemed.
Flor noted that at least 900 unclaimed vouchers will be replaced to extend their validity.
The food vouchers were sourced from Benitez’s personal fund to promote the temporary Manokan Country site and boost tenant sales.
Meanwhile, the city is also set to meet with flower vendors to discuss their space options.
Officials are working with SM management to integrate designs into the area to ensure all businesses benefit from the redevelopment.
While no relocation schedule has been set, the city will continue discussions with SM to address concerns regarding both the flower vendors and the Manokan area.
Flower vendors currently occupy a space beside SM City Bacolod after being previously relocated from the public plaza.
“We will sit down with them to discuss their options,” Benitez said.
