FIRST 2 HOURS OF FREE PARKING AT CITY MARKETS PROPOSED

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ILOILO CITY — The Iloilo City Government is proposing an ordinance that will provide two hours of free parking at the Iloilo City Terminal and Central Public Markets as part of efforts to regulate parking and ensure fair access for vendors and customers.

The measure aims to prioritize those conducting legitimate transactions in the markets and nearby establishments.

Officials noted that some vehicles remain parked the entire day, leaving little space for marketgoers and vendors who need parking while doing business.

“Parking areas are meant for active users of the market and mall, not for vehicle storage,” Mayor Raisa S. Treñas said.

She said the measure is not meant to commercialize parking spaces but to regulate their proper use.

“This is about responsibility, safety, and fairness for everyone,” she added.

The proposed ordinance aims to ensure equal access to parking slots, improve turnover of spaces, and promote a safer and more organized market environment.

Treñas expressed confidence that the Sangguniang Panlungsod will carefully deliberate on the measure and help craft a policy that protects the interests of vendors, customers, and the general public.

Based on data from the Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO), daily foot traffic at the city’s two largest markets and the adjoining mall complex has increased following recent modernization efforts, with each market having a parking capacity of just over 300 vehicles, including motorcycles.

The Iloilo Terminal Market logged more than 2 million visitors from November 2025 to February 2026, with 350,648 in November, rising significantly to 597,098 in December, 610,736 in January 2026, and 583,716 in February 2026.

The Central Market recorded 799,970 visitors during the same period, rising from 107,460 in November 2025 to 192,863 in December, 216,573 in January 2026, and 283,074 in February 2026.

The uptick in visitors is attributed to upgraded facilities, improved sanitation systems, and a reorganized layout designed to create a more efficient and customer-friendly environment.

Wider walkways, enhanced lighting and ventilation, and designated vendor sections have reduced congestion and improved accessibility.

Vendors reported that the changes have positively affected their sales.

Joelle Iubel Janeo, third-generation owner of Rawit’s Native Lechon Manok — established in 1975 — said business has improved since the upgrades were completed, with their stall on the second floor of the Iloilo Central Public Market now offering a more comfortable space for customers.

“Nagapasalamat gid kami nga nagdaku man amon sales everyday,” Janeo said, citing the organized layout and improved dining area as factors contributing to increased patronage.

Shoppers likewise reported a better market experience.

Christine Benadero, council adviser of the College of Business and Accountancy at the University of Iloilo, said the proximity between the public market and SM Iloilo Central Market makes it convenient to complete purchases in one trip.

“I prefer to do my marketing here because it’s very convenient, especially with all the improvements. Even our students are always in and out of the market. The main reason kon ngaa nanamian kami diri is the convenience of having everything in one place,” Benadero said.

With the rising number of vendors and customers taking advantage of these improvements, parking regulation has become a priority.

The proposed ordinance is designed to ensure that parking spaces remain available for those actively conducting business or shopping at the markets, rather than being occupied for extended periods.

It forms part of Iloilo City’s broader push to ensure that its modernized public markets remain accessible, efficient, and welcoming spaces for vendors, families, and entrepreneurs, helping sustain the city’s growth momentum. (Press Release)