Market authorities in Mangaldan started early rounds at the public market to crack down on fish vendors selling outside designated areas. Several were warned and issued tickets for violating the town’s market rules.

The Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) said the operation targeted ambulant fish sellers who have been repeatedly told to stay inside the wet market.

“‘Yung mga ambulant vendor inirereklamo na rin sila kasi ‘yung mga tubig ng isda kung saan-saan itinatapon, mabaho na,” Gerry Ydia, Mangaldan POSO Chief, said.

Among those apprehended was Virginia Aquino, a vendor from San Fabian. She admitted she knew it was against the rules but said she had no choice.

“Makikiusap ako kay hepe, wala rin kami kasing mapwestuhan doon,” Aquino said.

Authorities cited sanitation and food safety as key reasons for the strict enforcement. They reminded vendors that only those with permits are allowed to sell inside the market.

Those caught violating the rule face a P100 fine under the town’s Market Code.