ILOILO City – A daily night market along JM Basa Street is set to become the centerpiece of Mayor Raisa Treñas’ revitalization push for the City Proper’s old business district, as the city eyes inclusive economic growth that prioritizes both big investors and small entrepreneurs.
Mayor Treñas unveiled the plan during her keynote address at the Western Visayas Business Conference and Exhibit (WVBIZCONEX) 2025 on July 2, emphasizing that the move will not only breathe new life into the historic downtown area but also provide fresh livelihood opportunities for small vendors.
“This is part of my vision to bring life back to the City Proper and ensure that our small players are not left behind as we welcome major investors,” said Treñas, speaking before a crowd of business leaders and development planners.
The daily night market will feature designated business carts, seating, and vending spaces for micro-entrepreneurs along JM Basa Street. It will coincide with the anticipated reopening of the Central and Terminal public markets, which are currently undergoing redevelopment.
Alongside this initiative, Treñas also highlighted her administration’s support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through free capacity-building programs under the Uswag Negosyo Academy.
The program, launched in 2023 in partnership with the BDO Foundation, offers training in basic accounting, financial literacy, marketing, food safety, and proper housekeeping — key tools to help MSMEs become more competitive and sustainable.
“Training under the academy is open to all MSMEs because we want to equip them with the skills and tools they need to thrive in our growing economy,” Treñas said.
Nearly 600 market vendors have completed the program so far, each receiving P5,000 in capital assistance upon graduation to help strengthen or expand their businesses./PN
