Vendors and customers alike have lauded the significant improvements in the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets, citing better facilities and improved comfort that have contributed to an easier shopping experience and higher income for vendors.

According to the vendors, the market redevelopment has brought significant improvements in their daily operations, resulting in better working conditions and increased efficiency in selling their goods.

“The market is more beautiful, and it can entice more customers and tourists,” a vendor said.

“It looks beautiful outside, cleaner and more spacious,” she said, adding that more tourists are visiting the upgraded markets, which now feature larger areas for selling, improved ventilation, upgraded sanitation systems, and enhanced structural design.

Another vendor said that the redeveloped markets have attracted even middle- and upper-class customers, helping expand their customer base and increase their sales.

“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.

“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,” a customer said, adding that the spacious walkways and organized stalls have made the shopping experience a better one.

As a major trading center and “bagsakan” hub, the Iloilo City government said the two markets support the large-scale movement of goods, connecting farmers, suppliers, vendors, and households across the city and nearby provinces.

“Together, these markets form a critical part of Iloilo’s economic ecosystem. These have been more than a place to trade,” it said.

Under the administration of former Mayor Jerry Trenas, the Iloilo City Government entered into a 25-year lease agreement with SM Prime Holdings, which invested approximately P3 billion in the Iloilo Central Market and Iloilo Terminal Market to modernize the facilities, transforming them into clean, safe, and efficient commercial hubs.

Continued under the watch of Mayor Raisa Treñas, the redeveloped markets now house around 2,000 stalls, providing improved facilities for vendors and a more comfortable and organized shopping experience for consumers.

The Iloilo Central Public Market operates 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 aligns with the local government’s “My Heart Beats in Iloilo City” campaign, which aims to showcase the city’s unique heritage and culture while fostering a strong emotional connection between residents and their city.