Charter Day Night Market eyes to draw 15K visitors

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Calle Real Night Market is expected to attract around 15,000 visitors from Aug. 29 to 31 as part of the highlight events for Iloilo City’s 88th Charter Anniversary celebration.

Executive Assistant Jay Treñas, resource speaker for the event, said the three-night showcase will feature at least 60 food and non-food vendors.

“The theme for this event is ‘Threads of Culture, Tastes of Tradition: A Feast of Heritage,’” Treñas said.

“Our night market is a flagship initiative showcasing gastronomy, heritage, arts and local enterprises while providing a boost to inclusive economic growth.”

He added that in its past five editions, the night market has drawn an estimated 61,000 visitors and generated more than PHP7.1 million in sales for micro, small and medium enterprises.

Treñas also assured that proper coordination has been made with the Iloilo City Police Office, Bureau of Fire Protection and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to ensure public safety.

The Iloilo City Traffic and Transport Management Office will also be on hand to manage vehicular and pedestrian flow.

Organizers also addressed pricing concerns raised in previous editions to ensure fair margins for both vendors and consumers.

Portable toilets will be installed along Mapa Street with assigned personnel to handle maintenance.

This year’s event layout has been improved, with separate zones for grilled food, on-the-go meals and ambulant vendors.