Council raises concerns over fencing Pasil Fish Market

A PROPOSED fencing project for the Pasil Fish Market, aimed at enhancing security and order, has sparked debate within the Cebu City Council, with concerns raised about its potential impact on accessibility and the market’s vibrant economic activity.

The area, described by Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera as “bustling with economic activity” due to its role for buyers and sellers, is also eyed as a future island-hopping port. Pesquera, who chairs the committee on tourism, plans to develop an island-hopping port there due to its proximity to the city proper, aiming to attract more tourists to the city.

Pesquera believes there would be no conflict between fishing boats (which unload early dawn) and island hopping boats (which operate in the morning).

However, the necessity and design of the fencing project have come under scrutiny. During the council’s regular session on April 23, 2025, Pesquera questioned the need for the fence, warning that while it might offer security, it could also restrict the already limited space in the bustling market.

Maria Lilibeth del Mar, head of the City Engineering Office planning division, explained during an executive session on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, that the project was requested by the City Market Administrator. Del Mar justified the fencing as crucial for defense and security, aimed at reducing theft and vandalism. She cited numerous reports of lost items and emphasized that a fence would allow for better monitoring of individuals entering and exiting the market.

The proposed fence separates the Pasil Fish Market from the residential area and features three gates: one along Gen. Gines St. and two along Belgium St.

The matter was brought before the City Council after Councilor Jerry Guardo, committee on infrastructure chairman, pushed for the approval of a resolution authorizing Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia to enter into a P9,695,401.13 construction agreement with Aloja Builders and Realty. The contract has already been awarded, though a notice to proceed has yet to be issued.

During the executive session, Pesquera raised concerns regarding the gates’ width, which measures six meters. She argued that this width would pose difficulty for vehicles, particularly trucks, to maneuver. Pesquera recalled an ordinance she previously amended, which stipulates that for a road measuring six meters in width, a gate should ideally be 12 meters wide.

Pesquera expressed worry that a small gate opening could “kill the market.” “It should be easy ba, accessible, kay mao gyud na mamatay ang atong merkado,” she said. She underscored that Pasil Fish Market is the very reason why barangays Pasil and Suba thrive, warning that other local government units might establish their own markets, drawing fishermen away from Pasil.

Criselda Lazarte, the city market administrator, supported the fencing project during the session. She recounted that upon her assignment to the office early this year, the market was “so dirty” with rampant theft and encroachment, especially at night. Lazarte expressed joy upon learning about the budget for market fencing, seeing it as a crucial tool for monitoring people entering and exiting the area.

Lazarte assured that if the fence is implemented, she would ensure proper management for vendor safety. She also stated that she would suggest to the engineering team to modify the design to prioritize accessibility.

Meanwhile, two representatives from the Cebu Pasil Fish Market Association expressed their hope for the council to approve the fence, emphasizing the much-needed security it would provide against theft. “Dugay na na namo gihangyo nga isarado, para naa sad mi security,” one representative said.

Lylian Tagosila, a city market maintenance personnel who designed the fence in coordination with the Department of Engineering and Public Works, affirmed that the six-meter wide gate meets the standards of the Office of the Building Official and can accommodate 10-wheeler trucks. She clarified that managing simultaneous entry and exit would fall under the enforcement and regulation team, not her design task, maintaining that the project is for the good of all. / JPS