Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso announced on Tuesday that bazaars will be allowed in the city to give businesses the opportunity to earn as the country enters the Yuletide season.

In an interview, Domagoso assured that minimum health standards will be followed and that everything will be done smoothly.

“Rest assured that what happened to MindaTienda, how it was done and hanggang natapos nakita naman na talagang naging maayos (until its last days, everything went smoothly) so we will do the same thing,” he said.

In late October, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), in partnership with the city of Manila, held a three-day bazaar showcasing products and handicrafts from the Mindanao at the Kartilya ng Katipunan.

Domagoso said he asked the Manila Bureau of Permits to start gathering all possible businesses, whether from Manila or not.

“I have already tasked Director Levi Facundo last Friday to gather all possible Manilenyo who have products to sell, those who have skills or talents for handicrafts, it doesn’t matter if they are from Manila or not, everyone is welcome. In fact, we will put a place for them to have an opportunity to earn extra and to provide job opportunities,” Domagoso said in a mix of Filipino and English.

Domagoso added that if malls in Manila decide to do their sale bazaars, he will support them as long as businessmen and consumers continue to be responsible and follow health protocols imposed.

However, Domagoso said Christmas caroling will be banned in the city.

Meanwhile, Domagoso said they will continue with their testing efforts and give free Covid-19 swab tests in the city to protect both businesses and the consumers. (PNA)