ILOILO — The Iloilo City Government officially unveiled the second Library sa Merkado on October 24, 2026. Situated in the Rice and Grains Section on the second floor of the Iloilo Terminal Public Market, this new facility aims to bring accessible learning resources directly to the heart of the local community.
A New Hub for Learning
The new facility provides a welcoming environment designed for children, students, market vendors, and residents who wish to read and study. By placing a library inside a bustling commercial area, the city ensures that educational materials are available to everyone, seamlessly blending daily commerce with lifelong learning.
Expanding Access to Education
Mayor Raisa Treñas, represented by Assistant Department Head II Maria Mathilde Treñas, led the opening ceremonies. They were joined by Zonta Club of Iloilo Inc. President Lorelli Flores, alongside partner organizations and local officials, highlighting the strong community support behind this highly anticipated educational project.
The library is a collaborative effort between the Iloilo City Public Library, the Technical Institute of Iloilo City, and the Zonta Club of Iloilo Inc. Together, these groups aim to distribute learning resources to a wider demographic, ensuring that no community is left behind in the city's ongoing educational push.
Building on Early Success
This new branch follows the opening of the first Library sa Merkado at the Iloilo Central Public Market on August 28. That inaugural project was a historic milestone, becoming the very first public library situated inside a public market in the city, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from residents and visitors alike.
The continued expansion of this program reflects the local government's commitment to fostering a culture of reading and study. By converting available spaces into functional libraries, the city transforms ordinary market visits into opportunities for personal growth, intellectual enrichment, and community bonding for all citizens across different age groups.
Empowering Local Communities
The library's location inside the market is a strategic move to reach individuals who might not have the time to visit a traditional library. Market vendors, who often work long shifts, can now easily browse books or encourage their children to read while they attend to their stalls.
The facility operates from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, accommodating the regular peak hours of the market. This schedule allows vendors to easily access books and educational materials during their breaks, while students can utilize the space for focused study after their regular school hours.
Through this initiative, the Iloilo City Government hopes to cultivate a highly educated and well-informed citizenry. The Library sa Merkado stands as a testament to the power of public-private partnerships, particularly with the Zonta Club, in creating safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces that directly benefit the entire community.
