Iloilo City is making room for a little extra hustle and bustle for various retailers each Tuesday, which is designated market day. The “bolanteros”—displaced vendors from across Western Visayas—can set up shop every Tuesday in the city’s redeveloped public markets.
Mayor Raisa Treñas shared that designated market days will allow these vendors to earn a living while keeping the city’s markets lively and vibrant. “Thea and I went shopping yesterday at the Iloilo Terminal Market for Holy Week. It’s cheap, fresh, and we saved a lot! And the best part? You get to support our local vendors,” she said with a smile.
To ease any worries from long-time stall owners, Treñas reassured that their income won’t be affected by the arrival of the bolanteros. She also encouraged Ilonggos to buy local, especially in these times of rising oil prices and cost of goods.
The city’s markets have gotten a major makeover thanks to a 25-year lease agreement with SM Prime Holdings Inc., which invested around P1.5 billion and P2.5 billion to modernize the Iloilo Central Market and the Iloilo Terminal Market. The result? Clean, safe, and efficient commercial hubs that now house some 2,000 stalls, offering improved facilities for vendors and a more organized shopping experience for customers.
The Central Public Market operates from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., while the Terminal Public Market opens even earlier—from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m.—making it easy for early birds and night owls alike to grab fresh produce and local goodies.
This redevelopment ties into the city’s “My Heart Beats in Iloilo City” campaign, designed to highlight Iloilo’s rich heritage while fostering pride among residents.
Even Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor Jr. praised the public-private partnership, saying the upgraded markets provide fresh opportunities for long-time vendors, new businesses, and shoppers looking for comfort, convenience, and variety under one roof.
So whether you’re hunting for fresh seafood, sweet treats, or simply want to soak in the lively market vibes, Tuesday just became an even better day to explore Iloilo City’s bustling markets.
