Baguio eyes stricter Maharlika Livelihood Complex stall rules

BAGUIO CITY — Two key provisions in the proposed interim policy guidelines for the Maharlika Livelihood Complex (MLC) took center stage in a public consultation held on September 10, as the Baguio City Council weighed measures to address “clan monopolies” and illegal subleasing.

Led by Councilor Paolo Raynor Salvosa, the consultation highlighted widespread interest in Section 9 (Single Stall Policy) and Section 10 (Personal Management of Stalls), both aimed at ensuring fairer access to the complex for small entrepreneurs.

Under the Single Stall Policy, each verified occupant may lease only one stall, while families are collectively capped at five stalls, with each stall tied to a separate household.

Relatives up to the fourth degree must be declared to avoid circumvention.

Salvosa clarified that the policy does not prohibit families from having multiple stalls but seeks to prevent monopolies and allow other applicants more opportunities.

Meanwhile, Section 10 requires leaseholders to personally manage their businesses, maintaining presence for at least half of the operating hours weekly.

Prolonged absences may be treated as evidence of subleasing, with all forms of subleasing banned starting January 1, 2026.

Some tenants expressed concern that the rule could be too restrictive, especially for those who rely on family or staff to run daily operations.

Salvosa acknowledged these concerns and encouraged tenants to submit recommendations, noting the need to balance livelihood protection with fair access.

He also suggested assessing the economic standing of relatives who may inherit stalls and strengthening support programs to help tenants explore other business opportunities.

The proposed guidelines form part of MLC’s transition framework as it moves under city government management, ahead of its eventual conversion into a Local Economic Enterprise (LEE).

Aside from stall policies, the guidelines cover rental agreements, tenant support, financial management, and long-term planning.

A two-year renewable lease system is also proposed, with affordable rates to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Revenues will go directly to the city government and be earmarked exclusively for the complex’s upkeep and development.

MLC General Manager Arthur Allad-iw reported that adjudication is ongoing for disputes involving subleasing, with 62 cases already settled.

City officials said further consultations may be held to refine the guidelines and strike a balance between protecting existing tenants’ livelihoods and ensuring the facility’s sustainability as both a public market and a cultural hub.