THE Higalaay Festival Organizing Committee has addressed recent concerns about the reported high-end open market at Rio de Oro Boulevard, emphasizing the festival's commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
In an official statement released by Sheila Lumbatan, Chief of Staff at the City Mayor's Office, and Chairperson of the Higalaay Festival 2024 Organizing Committee, it was clarified that the festival partners with various sectors, including private businesses, religious groups, and civil society, through an open and transparent process.
The high-end open market at Rio de Oro Boulevard was one of many planned events where the city collaborates with the private sector, said Lumbatan.
The city government had agreed to allow the use of a 200-meter section of the 2.7-kilometer boulevard, encouraging business by offering incentives to festival partners. This usage was subject to the rules and regulations of the boulevard management.
Lumbatan also clarified that there was no financial transaction between the city hall and the market organizers.
The P50,000 fee for participants, which sparked controversy, was designated for operational expenses, including security, tents, janitorial services, power, water, and overall event management.
The responsibility for managing these funds lay with the event organizers, who were trusted to assess the feasibility and risks of their venture.
Lumbatan reiterated that the proposed market would occupy less than 10 percent of the boulevard, leaving the rest available for other uses.
The administration under Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy remains supportive of micro and small entrepreneurs, including street vendors, according to Lumbatan.
Unfortunately, due to disinformation, the young entrepreneurs behind the high-end market proposal decided to withdraw from the festival.
The committee expressed regret over the situation, condemning critics of Mayor Uy for spreading misinformation that ultimately sabotaged a promising business opportunity that could have benefited small entrepreneurs and boosted tourism.
Despite the setback, the committee assured that the Higalaay Festival remains a significant event, far beyond this controversy.
They urged the public to focus on the positive aspects of the festival and come together to celebrate.
