ILOILO — The rehabilitated public markets of Iloilo City have recorded 10 million in foot traffic since reopening last year, Mayor Raisa Treñas announced during a Livability Cluster meeting. The milestone underscores the markets' role as economic hubs and models for other local government units.
A Benchmark for Market Governance
More than 20 local government units have conducted benchmarking activities at Iloilo's public markets to study and adopt best practices in management and operations. Local Economic and Enterprise Office head Maricel Mabaquiao presented the report to the mayor, highlighting the city's growing influence in market governance.
The visits reflect Iloilo's reputation as a pioneer in market rehabilitation and vendor management. Cities and municipalities from across the country are eager to learn how the city transformed aging facilities into vibrant, well-organized commercial centers. The markets now serve as living laboratories for effective public market administration.
Collections Show Steady Growth
The city also recorded a 2.69 percent growth rate in collections from seven public markets and slaughterhouses for January to June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. The increase signals rising vendor activity and consumer spending within the city's commercial network.
Higher collections translate into more resources for public services and infrastructure. The steady growth reflects the markets' ability to attract shoppers despite competition from modern retail establishments. Vendors benefit from increased foot traffic, which supports their daily livelihoods.
Vacant Stalls and Pending Applications
Despite the success, 975 vacant stalls remain across several public markets, including Central, Terminal, La Paz, Jaro Big, Arevalo, and Mandurriao. The city is working to fill these spaces to maximize market capacity and generate additional revenue.
A total of 1,548 applications are currently under review. The Market Committee is adjudicating these applications to ensure that qualified vendors receive proper allocation. Once processed, the turnover of stalls will provide more entrepreneurs with opportunities to operate within the city's premier market facilities.
Markets as Community Lifelines
The rehabilitated markets offer Ilonggos convenient access to fresh and nutritious food for their families. Daily essentials are now available in cleaner, safer, and more organized environments. The transformation has elevated the shopping experience while preserving the markets' traditional character.
Treñas emphasized that these achievements belong to every Ilonggo. She credited the collective effort of vendors, market administrators, and residents for the sustained progress. The markets reflect the city's broader direction toward economic growth and inclusive development.
Sustaining the Momentum
The mayor conducts regular cluster meetings with department heads to identify areas needing improvement. These sessions allow the city to address concerns quickly and implement solutions without delay. The hands-on approach ensures that services remain responsive to the public's needs.
As more LGUs seek to replicate Iloilo's success, the city continues to refine its market management strategies. Future plans include filling vacant stalls, improving facilities, and enhancing vendor support programs. The goal is to maintain the markets' status as thriving centers of commerce and community life.
