ILOILO City – The city government has formally assumed control of the redeveloped Iloilo Central and Terminal public markets following their turnover, marking a critical transition for the P3-billion public-private partnership (PPP) project.
Mayor Raisa Treñas confirmed that the two flagship markets are now under the city government, which has begun addressing minor concerns, including leaks, to ensure safe and comfortable conditions for vendors and shoppers.
“Na-turnover na sang July 22 and ongoing na ang rehabilitation,” Treñas said when asked by the media about the status of the markets.
She clarified that only minor corrective work is being carried out.
“Ina ‘ya mga minor nga kay-o sa markets to make sure nga ma-address naton ang problema sa merkado naton,” Treñas added.
The turnover effectively places the operation and maintenance of the two facilities under the city government after their redevelopment through a PPP agreement with SM Prime Holdings.
The twin projects are among Iloilo City’s largest market modernization initiatives, designed to transform traditional public markets into modern economic hubs while preserving their historical and commercial significance.
Architectural designs for the markets were unveiled in May 2023, while their joint groundbreaking was held on Sept. 18 of the same year.
The redevelopment aims to establish sustainable, mixed-use market complexes that will stimulate business activity and preserve the economic value of Iloilo City’s Old Central Business District, popularly known as Calle Real.
The Iloilo Central Market, also known as Tienda Mayor, is envisioned as a showcase of Ilonggo heritage, local food and products. It is also expected to support micro, small and medium enterprises by providing improved facilities and greater opportunities for vendors.
The Iloilo Terminal Market, popularly called “Super,” remains a major wholesale and retail trading center for agricultural produce arriving from different parts of Panay Island.
Treñas said the modernized markets have also begun attracting visitors, including delegates to the Philippine Councilors League National Convention held in Iloilo City from July 29 to 31.
“Naging tourist attraction ang aton markets,” she said.
The mayor noted that Iloilo City simultaneously redeveloped five public markets and reopened facilities across its districts — an undertaking she described as unprecedented in the country.
She said each market must develop a distinctive identity to strengthen its appeal and highlight the products and traditions associated with its district.
Under the city’s concept, the Central Market will be known for local goods and food, while the Terminal Market will retain its identity as the city’s “bagsakan,” or principal trading and distribution center.
The La Paz Public Market will highlight the district’s famous noodle soup batchoy, while the Jaro Public Market will showcase the traditional market day called “Huwebesan” with its second floor envisioned as office space. The Arevalo Public Market, meanwhile, will focus on flowers, gardening products and lechon.
“Each of our markets have different identity, amo na isa ka rason nga ma-highlight ang mga merkado naton,” Treñas said./PN
