BAMBAN, Tarlac (Jan. 13, 2026) – A significant milestone in local governance and economic development was marked last January 12 as the New Bamban Public Market in Barangay Anupul was formally inaugurated, heralding a new era of commerce and community spirit for the municipality.
The blessing and opening ceremony was graced by key provincial and local leaders, including Tarlac Governor Christian Tell Yap, Congressman Bong Rivera, Bamban Mayor Joey Salting, and Board Member Casada David, alongside members of the Sangguniang Bayan.
A Promise Fulfilled: Mayor Salting’s Legacy of Priority
The inauguration stands as a testament to the determined leadership of Mayor Jose “Joey” Mallari Salting Jr., who made the market’s reconstruction a cornerstone of his administration. In his inaugural address, Mayor Salting emotionally recounted that replacing the old, dilapidated market was his first directive upon assuming office last year—a promise made during his campaign after witnessing firsthand the vendors’ plight.
“First priority kayu, ikong magtinda king palengke (You are the first priority, you vendors in the market),” Mayor Salting emphatically told the gathering, directly addressing original vendors’ concerns. He firmly dismissed rumors of unfair vendor displacement, assuring that original stallholders were given top priority in the new facility. Any additional spaces, he clarified, would only be offered afterward to other aspiring local entrepreneurs.
He emphasized the project’s integrity, “Eke pu menintunan keni” (We did not make this a business or seek profit from this). The mayor highlighted that the project followed municipal ordinances and was executed purely as a public service, a core principle of his “Serbisyong maSALTING” brand of governance.
From Ashes to Hope: A Symbol of Resilience
The new market replaces the former public market that was destroyed by fire in 2018, ending years of inconvenience for vendors and shoppers alike. Mayor Salting framed the modern structure as more than just a building—it is “a symbol of our resilience, hope, and our continued aspiration for Asenso Garantisado (Guaranteed Progress) with a Pusong Kalmado (Calm Heart) in Bamban.”
He also announced plans to convert the old market site into a public plaza, ensuring the area continues to serve the community’s social needs.
Collaborative Effort for Community Progress
The project was hailed as a model of efficient collaboration and fiscal responsibility. Congressman Noel “Bong” Rivera, who supported the market’s planning since 2021, commended the administration’s work. “Memondo yamung ditak, pero meyari ya mu rin (He only allocated a small fund, but it was still finished). This means that when the town’s money is used correctly, the action toward our goals is swift,” he remarked. Rivera also unveiled plans for a new municipal hall to be constructed this year, signaling continued infrastructure development for Bamban.
Governor Christian Yap and BM Casada David also expressed their full support for the project, recognizing its potential to boost not only Bamban’s local economy but also regional trade in North Luzon.
A Unified Step Forward
In a social media post, Mayor Salting extended his gratitude to all partners and the people of Bamban. “Ang tagumpay po na ito ay para sa inyo, mga kababayan kong Bambanense. Sama-sama nating harapin ang bukas na may pag-asa. Hangad natin ang isang bayang masagana, maunlad, at nagkakaisa tungo sa iisang mithiin,” he stated.
The New Bamban Public Market now stands in Brgy. Anupul as a beacon of Mayor Salting’s commitment to prioritizing his constituents’ welfare, transparent governance, and sustainable local development, paving the way for a more organized and vibrant commercial center for future generations.
