More Modern Public Markets to Open in Iloilo City

Iloilo City is set to open three newly redeveloped public markets this December, further strengthening the city’s push for improved public infrastructure and enhanced livelihood support for micro-entrepreneurs.

The Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) announced that the Arevalo Public Market will have its soft opening on December 5, followed by the Jaro Big Market on December 10, and the La Paz Market on December 16. The update was shared during a press conference at the City Hall Media Lounge.

Mayor Raisa Treñas personally led the adjudication process and site visits in the three districts, ensuring that original stall owners are properly prioritized and that the facilities are ready for operations.

Adjudication for all original vendors has been completed, and LEEO will now proceed with processing applications for new stallholders.
According to the LEEO, the markets will accommodate the following:
✅ Arevalo Public Market: 117 original vendors, 179 new stalls
✅ Jaro Big Market: 193 original vendors, 547 new stalls
✅ La Paz Market: 359 original vendors, 423 new stalls

These modernized markets feature improved amenities such as access stairs, elevators, loading and unloading bays for PUJs, delivery bays, service road access, sprinkler systems, PA systems, rainwater harvesting facilities, septic vaults, cistern tanks, grease traps, provisions for STP, and CCTV coverage.

LEEO head Maricel Mabaquiao emphasized that all operations and guidelines strictly follow the Iloilo City Market Code (Regulation Ordinance No. 2009-316).

“So tanan nga gina-implement naton sa markets, nakabutang dira sa ordinance naton,” she said.

Mayor Treñas, during her rounds, also met with the market vendors to encourage cooperation, cleanliness, and shared responsibility in maintaining the newly improved facilities.

“I was also happy to have spoken sa mga pinalangga naton nga mga vendors. Ginpangayo ko sa ila nga magbuligay sa pag-maintain sang ila pwesto kag palibot once makapwesto na sila sa sulod,” she shared.

She added that her office remains open to assist vendors with any concerns during the transition.

Boosting Livelihood Through Uswag Negosyo Academy

The reopening of these markets comes on the heels of the recent graduation of 75 market vendors from the Uswag Negosyo Academy (UNA) — the city’s upskilling and entrepreneurship training program. Graduates received Certificates of Completion and ₱5,000 in additional capital, empowering them to improve their businesses as they prepare to operate in the redeveloped markets.

Mayor Raisa Treñas reaffirmed the city’s commitment to uplifting small entrepreneurs:

“Priority naton ang maplastar sila sang maayo,” she said, adding that continuous training and modern facilities will help vendors grow their businesses sustainably.

With three major markets set to open in key districts, Iloilo City continues to strengthen its economic landscape by providing better opportunities, safer facilities, and more inclusive public spaces for both vendors and consumers.