The Pasay City government has launched an outdoor food market project to help restaurant owners and provide job opportunities to their workers affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
The project dubbed “Pasayahin Buyummyhan”, which is situated at the North Fountain in SM Mall of Asia – By the Bay, is in collaboration with SM Supermalls and the Restaurant Owners of the Philippines.
The food market features more than 30 merchants including popular SM By the Bay restaurants, home-based and online Pasay entrepreneurs and members of the Pasay City cooperative who lost their jobs during the pandemic.
Some of the stalls were also operated and owned by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), cruise ship workers and food and beverage industry employees.
The project is part of the city’s various programs initiated by Mayor Imelda Rubiano in line with the city’s 157th anniversary.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan said they came up with the project as recognition to the need to slowly restart and rebuild the economy, and especially understands the plight of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).
“With that, we are more than happy to have these safe and socially-distanced activities, that remind everyone of the joy of the season, as well as bring hope during these unprecedented times,” he said.
Mayor Rubiano reminded marketgoers that as the city celebrates its 157th founding anniversary, they must remain vigilant against the spread of the coronavirus disease while dining outdoors. She said residents must also follow health protocol.
The Pasayahin, Buyummyhan outdoor food market is open daily from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.