Fish stall extension boosts livelihood in Buenavista, Agusan Norte
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY -- To uplift the livelihood of local fish vendors and improve public market conditions, the local government of Buenavista in the province of Agusan del Norte inaugurated the fish stall extension building at the Buenavista Public Market in Barangay 3.
Mayor Joselito T. Roble led the turnover ceremony, highlighting the LGU’s commitment to creating a more spacious, organized, and vendor-friendly market environment. The new building houses 16 fish stalls, allowing more vendors to operate in clean and secure spaces, boosting both income opportunities and customer satisfaction.
“This extension was built to accommodate more of our fish vendors,” said Mayor Roble. He emphasized that public service should always come first, regardless of affiliations.
The P4 million project, funded under the LGU’s Capital Outlay, was completed ahead of schedule and includes structural excavation, concrete works, steel trusses, electrical, and plumbing installations, as detailed by Municipal Engineer Lilian T. Bokingo.
Municipal Vice Mayor Ramon A.G. Bungabong lauded the development, calling the public market a vital economic hub and symbol of progress. “Proud kaayo ko nga kabahin ko sa kasaysayan... Pasalamat ko sa atong mayor sa paghatag ug importansya sa mercado. (I am proud to be part of this history... I thank our mayor for prioritizing our market),” he said.
Barangay 3 Punong Barangay Neil V. Ebarle echoed this gratitude, saying their barangay is fortunate to host the market and benefit directly from its continued improvements.
On behalf of the vendors, Market Vendor President Joan Jamero expressed deep appreciation: “This shows that our mayor cares about us. This building brings empowerment and stability.” She also committed to keeping the market clean and peaceful, encouraging vendors to resolve issues constructively through proper channels.”
Looking ahead, the LGU revealed that the main public market building is currently under construction with a P70 million budget, and is expected to be completed by December of this year.
The fish stall extension marked another milestone in Buenavista’s mission to create inclusive spaces that empower micro-entrepreneurs and stimulate local commerce. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
