ILOILO City – The mall and retail wings of the newly redeveloped Iloilo Central Market and Iloilo Terminal Market officially open to the public today, November 28, marking a major milestone in the city’s effort to modernize its commercial hubs while preserving their cultural identity.
The redevelopment, done through the partnership between the Iloilo City Government and SM Prime Holdings, introduces clean, organized, and contemporary market spaces designed to elevate daily commerce for both vendors and consumers.
The new retail sections feature a curated mix of shops, food stalls, local brands, and service establishments that complement the traditional wet and dry market areas. At the Central Market, SM’s retail zone highlights authentic Ilonggo experiences — bringing together local delicacies, homegrown products, artisan goods, and café-style dining under one roof to create a space that appeals to locals, balikbayans, and tourists.
Meanwhile, the Terminal Market’s retail area focuses on accessibility and convenience, offering a wide range of affordable essentials, ready-to-eat meals, and community-centered services for everyday needs.
Both markets now boast improved facilities, including wider aisles, better ventilation, enhanced sanitation systems, organized zoning of stalls, and a roof deck with ample parking to accommodate shoppers. These upgrades aim to make the markets safer, more comfortable, and more efficient, benefiting thousands of daily market-goers and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises.
The partnership with Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu, former Mayor Jerry Treñas, and the Iloilo City Government played a key role in turning the long-planned market modernization into reality. With the retail sections now open to the public, the project enters its next phase, as additional amenities and operational improvements are expected to be introduced in the coming months.
City officials said the transformed Central and Terminal markets symbolize Iloilo’s forward momentum — blending tradition with modern retail experiences and showcasing how public-private partnerships can reshape community spaces for the better./PN
