Iligan official hails Iloilo City’s PPP model for transforming public markets

An official from the City Government of Iligan has commended Iloilo City for demonstrating how effective public-private partnerships (PPP) can transform public infrastructure while protecting the welfare of vendors and strengthening local economic enterprises.

During a benchmarking visit to Iloilo City, Iligan City Administrator Darwin J. Manubag, who was joined by some of their City Hall department heads, highlighted the significant contribution of the city’s partnership with SM in modernizing its public markets.

“We are very happy that Iloilo hosted us because we came here to benchmark its best practices. The partnership between the Local Economic Enterprise Office and SM is one of the innovations that all local government units in the Philippines should look into,” Manubag said.

After visiting the Iloilo Central and Terminal Public Markets, Manubag noted that the city has successfully changed the traditional perception of public markets by creating clean, modern, and organized facilities while keeping vendors at the center of development.

“We are happy that Iloilo is protecting its vendors. We learned that the rental rates remain the same even as the infrastructure has been modernized,” he said.

For Manubag, Iloilo’s experience proves that a strong partnership with the private sector can significantly contribute to local development.

“If you have a very strong private sector partner, it will strengthen public spaces and boost the confidence of vendors. It shows that public markets can be modern, attractive, and efficient through the support of the private sector,” he said.

He added that Iloilo City has become a model for other local governments, particularly in implementing PPP projects and strengthening economic enterprises. He added that Iligan is looking to replicate Iloilo City’s initiatives, especially as it begins strengthening its own PPP program.

“I think Iloilo is leading the country in terms of public-private partnerships. Many LGUs are coming here to benchmark, and we expect even more local governments to visit in the coming years,” Manubag said.

He also lauded the city government and the Local Economic Enterprise Office for their hospitality and commitment to innovation, saying Iloilo’s achievements are a source of pride and inspiration for local governments across the country.

“As a Filipino, I am proud of what Iloilo is doing in strengthening its economic enterprises,” he added. (Iloilo City PIO)