Treñas Open to Congress Probe on Markets’ Privatization

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas defended the redevelopment of the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets following a senatorial candidate’s proposal for a congressional probe into the privatization of public markets.

“We are ready to appear before Congress if needed, confident that this partnership was made in the best interest of Iloilo’s people—balancing development with the protection of local vendors,” Treñas said in a statement on Thursday, March 13.

His statement came after Gabriela Women’s Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas, a senatorial aspirant, vowed to push for a congressional investigation into public market privatization.

Speaking at a press conference in Iloilo City on Wednesday, Brosas said privatization often results in higher stall rental fees and reduced space for vendors, usually implemented without proper consultation.

“What we do not want is for our vendors to struggle,” Brosas said.

“Privatization leads to higher stall fees, smaller spaces, and decisions made without properly consulting those affected. Public markets should remain public.”

She also criticized corporations involved in such projects, accusing them of prioritizing profits over the livelihoods of small vendors.

“We want to send a clear message—corporations should not be greedy,” she said.

“What they are doing is taking away the livelihood of small vendors, and that’s how they survive.”

Treñas emphasized that the redevelopment of the two major public markets followed the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) ordinance and national laws.

The project is a collaboration between the city government and SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI), which was awarded a 25-year lease agreement for the redevelopment.

Treñas clarified that market operations will be divided into two sections, with one part remaining under city management and the other operated by SMPHI.

“SM Prime will manage only the portion under their lease, which was granted in exchange for building modern, safe, and sustainable markets,” he said.

He also stressed that the project was carried out with the participation of market vendors, consumers, barangay leaders, and the business community, all of whom strongly supported the initiative.

The Iloilo City Council unanimously approved the project, citing its potential to improve working conditions and create a better market environment for vendors and consumers.

“We cannot and should not remain in our present state—the Ilonggos can and will always move forward,” Treñas added.

The Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets are scheduled for completion and inauguration in May, moving from an earlier target of December 2024.

“The delay was caused by various factors, including the need to resolve issues with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines regarding the project’s plans and the demolition of existing structures,” Treñas said.