Wet market goes online in Quezon City

Community App. Image from the Quezon City Government

MANILA, Philippines — Wet market shopping just went online in Quezon City, in a bid to make it easier for people to stay at home amid the coronavirus pandemic.

On Monday, the Quezon City government launched Community Mart, an e-market project initiated by the Office of the Vice President, which can be downloaded in Apple Store and Google Play.

“This is also a win-win situation, as local vendors will be able to continuously make a living while giving customers access to fresh produce from the comfort and safety of their homes,” QC Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a statement.

Community Mart was launched at the Kamuning Market, which will receive orders from nearby barangays Obrero, South Triangle, Kamuning, Mariana, Sacred Heart, and Laging Handa.

The endeavor will also provide income to tricycle drivers since purchased goods would be delivered by them to customers. Tricycle drivers were initially sidelined after they were banned from operating under the enhanced community quarantine, with government citing lack of space for social distancing.

“In the foreseeable future and following new guidelines after ECQ (enhanced community quarantine), daily earnings of tricycle drivers and operators may decline. Community Mart gives them an opportunity to earn additional or alternative source of income,” said Mona Celine Yap, head of the city’s Small Business and Cooperatives Development Promotions Office.

EDV