The Davao City Local Government Unit (LGU) has denied allegations of a “brutal demolition” at the Bankerohan Public Market, describing the claims made by Kilusang Mayo Uno–Southern Mindanao Region (KMU-SMR) as a “one-sided view.”
In a statement released following the April 29 incident, the city government said the criticism failed to consider the impact of illegal vending on compliant traders.
“The statement issued by Kilusang Mayo Uno-Southern Mindanao Region presents a one-sided view and overlooks the impact of illegal vending on law-abiding vendors,” the LGU said.
“While protecting livelihoods is important, enforcement of existing regulations is necessary to ensure fairness and order. Vendors who comply with the rules are equally entitled to protection,” it added.
The city government maintained that the operation at Bankerohan Public Market was part of its ongoing enforcement of regulations aimed at maintaining order and fairness among vendors.
Earlier, KMU-SMR condemned the demolition, calling it “violent” and accusing the LGU of lacking compassion toward affected vendors.
The group said some displaced vendors, despite regularly paying market fees, were not provided with proper or permanent spaces, which led to tensions during the clearing operation.
KMU-SMR spokesperson Jeffry Uypala criticized the incident, describing it as indicative of poor governance and worsening economic conditions.
The organization also urged the local government to halt demolitions conducted without consultation and adequate relocation plans, and called for accountability and compensation for those displaced.
In response, the Davao City government said it would conduct an investigation into the incident and take appropriate action based on verified information.
“The local government, in coordination with the Davao City Police Office, is investigating the April 29, 2026 incident at Bankerohan Public Market,” Davao LGU said.
“Appropriate action will be taken based on verified facts. Road-clearing operations will continue to uphold public order and ensure equitable conditions for all,” it added.
