Bringing New Life to Iloilo’s Public Markets

1 of 8

SM and Iloilo City Government has successfully opened the new Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets.

The Iloilo City Government and SM marked a major milestone with the successful opening of the modernized Iloilo Central Market and Iloilo Terminal Market—flagship projects under their Public–Private Partnership (PPP). The redevelopment showcases how strong collaboration between government and the private sector can deliver meaningful, community-centered progress.

Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu underscored the importance of the partnership, noting that the project demonstrates what can be achieved when public service and private expertise work together for the benefit of the people. SM likewise affirmed their commitment to supporting local development through investments that uplift small businesses and enhance public spaces.

As Iloilo proudly holds its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the upgraded markets preserve their cultural and culinary role while introducing improved sanitation, wider walkways, organized vendor zones, and better facilities for both tenants and shoppers.

The project places vendors at the core of development. The partnership is not just about buildings—it is about bringing dignity, comfort, and growth to local vendors.

Vendors welcomed the improved environment, Susan ‘Diding’ Loterono, a fruit and vegetable vendor of Iloilo Terminal Public Market shares her story—” The market now is so different from the old one  that is muddy and smelly, now, the new markets is beautiful, clean and organized.”

Market-goer Jessica Alameda shares how her mother is loving the new market as she comes back to her favorite vendor at Iloilo Terminal Market and how it is now more enjoyable to buy her goods in a modern and clean space.

The revitalized Central and Terminal Markets now stand as models of inclusive modernization—preserving tradition, supporting livelihoods, and elevating the market experience for all Ilonggos. Through this successful PPP, Iloilo showcases how progress becomes most meaningful when it is built together.