Quezon City launches app-based market for ‘new normal’

The Quezon City government on Monday launched a mobile application where local residents can buy fresh produce from the nearest markets online as preparation for the “new normal” amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said Community Mart, which is an e-market project initiated by the Office of the Vice President Leni Robredo, would provide residents and vendors an easier and safer way to transact.

"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," Belmonte said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Mona Celine Yap, head of the city’s Small Business and Cooperatives Development Promotions Office said local markets should be ready to adapt to changes on how they conduct business under the “new normal” after the enhanced community quarantine.

“We are optimistic that Community Mart will serve as a springboard for our businesses to climb to a higher level via the digital world. Its business principles will help enterprises become innovative to compete and maintain customers and will keep the local economy dynamic,” she said.

Yap said the city government also tapped tricycle operators and drivers associations to deliver orders from the markets to the respective households.

“In the foreseeable future and following new guidelines after ECQ, daily earnings of tricycle drivers and operators may decline. Community Mart gives them an opportunity to earn an additional or alternative source of income,” she said.

Community Mart would be launched at the Kamuning Market, which would receive orders from nearby barangays Obrero, South Triangle, Kamuning, Mariana, Sacred Heart and Laging Handa.—AOL, GMA News