Barely over a week after Ondoy’s devastation in Metro Manila and neighbouring provinces, a new typhoon hit the Philippines — typhoon Pepeng (international codename: Parma) — this time causing havoc to Northern Luzon, including Baguio City, the home of Sayote Republic netizens. We have already received news of UP Baguio alumni and their family who lost their home in the mudslide. Likewise, many of us have families and friends who have been affected by the floods in Pangansinan.

The Baguio City Public Market is the womb of Baguio City. While we celebrate the city’s centennial year, the market quietly passes its 101st year. That is, one hundred and one years of the growth of a public space that has a unique aesthetic and a vibrant atmosphere. 101 years of extensive, thick, living networks of farmers, fisher-folk, entrepreneurs, their families, and the families of Baguio residents and visitors. 101 years of trade in the products of our region, and products from around the country and the world.