ILOILO CITY — Vendors and shoppers are reaping the benefits of the extensive redevelopment of the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets, with many praising the upgraded facilities, cleaner environment, and improved overall shopping experience.
For market vendors, the modernization project has brought significant changes to their daily operations, creating a more conducive space for business while attracting more customers and visitors.
“The market is more beautiful, and it can entice more customers and tourists,” one vendor shared.
She noted that the newly redeveloped market is now cleaner, more spacious, and visually appealing, making it a destination not only for locals but also for tourists exploring Iloilo City.
“It looks beautiful outside, cleaner and more spacious,” she added.
The upgraded markets now feature wider selling areas, improved ventilation, modern sanitation facilities, and enhanced structural design, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for both vendors and consumers.
Another vendor highlighted the positive impact of the redevelopment on sales, saying the improved facilities have helped attract a broader customer base, including middle- and upper-income shoppers.
“The benefit is really huge, even the sales. Many people are coming here, even middle class and upper class. That is why the market is much better now,” he said.
Customers have likewise welcomed the improvements, citing convenience, cleanliness, and better organization within the markets.
“All that I am looking for are here already. Everything is complete. You will not find it difficult to roam around and you will not stumble into dirty and flooded slippery areas,” one shopper remarked.
She added that the spacious walkways and orderly arrangement of stalls have made shopping easier and more enjoyable.
Recognized as key trading centers and major “bagsakan” hubs in Western Visayas, the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets play a crucial role in connecting farmers, suppliers, vendors, and households across Iloilo City and neighboring provinces.
According to the Iloilo City Government, the two markets remain vital components of the city’s economic ecosystem.
“Together, these markets form a critical part of Iloilo’s economic ecosystem. These have been more than a place to trade,” the city government said.
The redevelopment project stemmed from a 25-year lease agreement forged under the administration of former Mayor Jerry Treñas between the Iloilo City Government and SM Prime Holdings. Through the partnership, SM Prime invested approximately P3 billion to modernize both public markets, transforming them into clean, safe, and efficient commercial hubs.
Now under the leadership of Mayor Raisa Treñas, the revitalized markets house around 2,000 stalls, providing improved facilities for vendors while delivering a more organized and comfortable shopping experience for consumers.
The Iloilo Central Public Market operates daily from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., while the Iloilo Terminal Public Market is open from 1:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The market redevelopment also supports the city’s “My Heart Beats in Iloilo City” campaign, an initiative aimed at promoting Iloilo’s rich heritage and culture while strengthening residents’ pride and connection to their city.
With modern facilities, growing foot traffic, and renewed economic activity, the transformed Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets stand as symbols of Iloilo City’s continuing progress and commitment to inclusive urban development.
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