ILOILO City — Small entrepreneurs and community-based sellers in this city posted impressive earnings as the local government’s Merkado Lokal and USWAG Rolling Store programs generated over ₱5.6 million in gross sales from January to May 2025.
The City Agriculturist’s Office reported that Merkado Lokal accounted for ₱3,058,474 in sales, while the USWAG Rolling Store contributed ₱2,546,171, signaling the strong performance of these homegrown livelihood and market-access initiatives.
Mayor Jerry Treñas hailed the results as “a powerful testament to the resilience, talent, and entrepreneurial drive of our people,” emphasizing that the programs not only promote economic self-reliance but also bring government support closer to the grassroots.
Merkado Lokal, which features pop-up markets of locally produced goods, held events at high-foot-traffic areas like the Iloilo City Hall grounds, Central Philippine University, the Dinagyang Festival, and even the Manggahan Festival in Guimaras. These venues helped vendors reach broader markets, boosting their visibility and income.
The USWAG Rolling Store, a mobile market initiative, visited various barangays and underserved communities, selling basic goods and homegrown products at affordable prices. Apart from income generation, the project helps improve food access in areas with limited market connectivity.
“These programs were launched to empower our small entrepreneurs and give them a platform to grow. What we’re seeing now is the result of consistent collaboration between government and community,” Treñas said.
The city government also shoulders utility costs such as water, electricity, and internet access for vendors participating in both programs, allowing them to maximize their earnings.
Treñas extended his gratitude to vendors, cooperatives, city employees, and volunteers — particularly the Office of the City Agriculturist led by Engr. Iñigo D. Garingalao — for sustaining the momentum of the programs. More rollouts and market events are already lined up in the second half of the year.
“Let’s continue to uplift each other by supporting local and strengthening our communities from the ground up,” Treñas added./PN
