BACOLOD CITY — Local talent took center stage as the City Administrator’s Office officially launched “Saturday Night with Mayor G” at the Summer Night Market along Gonzaga Street on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

The initiative forms part of G (Gabay) Mercado, a program introduced by Mayor Greg Gasataya to support market vendors and expand assistance to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) amid ongoing fuel and energy challenges.

The opening night featured a lively variety show, highlighted by performances from local singer Zyra Superar, along with open mic segments that showcased emerging Bacolodnon artists.

Mayor Greg Gasataya said the Saturday night initiative aims to spur economic activity in the downtown area and encouraged residents and visitors to take part in the open mic sessions. “We are doing this to improve economic activity around the Bacolod City Plaza.

We noticed that when the construction of the city hall started, economic activity in the area declined. That’s why this initiative is very timely,” the mayor said. Ma. Veronica Saavedra, President of the Bacolod Alliance of Small Entrepreneurs (BASE), expressed her gratitude to the city government.

“We thank the city government for giving us the opportunity to showcase our products. We hope more Bacolodnons will visit the night market and help bring the downtown area back to life,” she said. The “Saturday Night with Mayor G” series will run until May 31 and feature a diverse lineup of performances, including singing, spoken poetry, beatboxing, and choral presentations.

Due to space limitations, group performances such as dance numbers are not included. These entertainment offerings are designed to enhance the overall visitor experience while exploring a wide selection of food and non-food products at the market.

City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo explained that G (Gabay) Mercado, which was initiated when Mayor Gasataya assumed office in July, has evolved into a broader platform supporting local vendors. “While this may go beyond regular market operations, the city remains committed to helping our vendors through initiatives that are conducted legally, peacefully, and properly,” he said.

To further boost foot traffic, the mayor introduced the “Saturday Night with Mayor G” concept. Atty. Mayo added that Mayor Gasataya will personally shoulder the talent fees of all performers.

The Summer Night Market currently features 89 stalls, including 52 food vendors offering beverages, local delicacies, chicken inasal, and other specialties, as well as non-food items such as ukay-ukay (pre-loved goods) and ready-to-wear clothing.

The market operates daily from 4:30 p.m. to midnight at designated parking areas along Gatuslao and Gonzaga Streets. From Friday to Sunday, additional sections including the half-lane near BDO in the plaza parking area are also open during the same hours. The city government invites all Bacolodnons to visit the Summer Night Market and enjoy a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, with police personnel deployed to ensure public safety. (Bacolod City Communications Office)