Team DailyPedia
The redevelopment of the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets is not only improving the experience of vendors and consumers but is also turning the city’s public markets into emerging tourist destinations, attracting celebrities and prominent personalities much like iconic market attractions in other countries.
The latest notable visitor was actress and social media personality BB Gandanghari, who recently stopped by the Iloilo Terminal Market to enjoy dinner at Betty’s BBQ with friends during her vacation in Iloilo City and Guimaras.
During her visit, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas welcomed Gandanghari to her office, where the actress shared her admiration for the city and its attractions, including the Esplanade, Sunset Boulevard, and the Iloilo Business District.
“We are grateful to BB Gandanghari for promoting Iloilo City through her social media posts and for sharing her positive experiences with her followers,” Treñas said.
As a gesture of appreciation, the mayor presented Gandanghari with a copy of Iloilo City’s Gastronomy Book and an Ilonggo-made hablon, showcasing the city’s rich culture, craftsmanship, and heritage.
In recent years, several other celebrities and media personalities have also visited the revitalized markets, including actresses Jean Garcia, Arra San Agustin, Jennica Garcia, and award-winning broadcast journalist Ces Oreña-Drilon.
The Iloilo Terminal Public Market also served as one of the primary filming locations for the feature film Kusinerang Bulag, directed by Hugo Yonzon III. The movie stars Jean Garcia, Arra San Agustin, Jennica Garcia, Victor Neri, Samantha Samarita, and Madeleine Nicolas.
Shot primarily in Iloilo City, the film follows the story of three sisters who overcome tragedy and adversity to rebuild their family’s restaurant, highlighting themes of resilience, unity, and legacy.
Meanwhile, Drilon praised the partnership between the Iloilo City Government and SM Prime Holdings in redeveloping the city’s public markets, describing it as a strong example of how collaboration between local government and the private sector can deliver meaningful benefits to communities.
She also commended the transformation of the facilities, noting their cleanliness, organization, and improved environment.
According to Drilon, the redevelopment enhances the overall market experience for both vendors and visitors while preserving the role of public markets as vital community spaces.
The modernization project began under former Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas through a 25-year lease agreement with SM Prime Holdings, which invested approximately ₱3 billion to upgrade the Central and Terminal Markets into modern, safe, and efficient commercial hubs.
The project has continued under the leadership of Mayor Raisa Treñas, with the redeveloped markets now accommodating around 2,000 stalls and offering improved facilities for vendors as well as a more comfortable and organized shopping environment for consumers.
The Iloilo Central Public Market operates from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., while the Iloilo Terminal Public Market is open from 1:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The redevelopment initiative supports the city government’s “My Heart Beats in Iloilo City” campaign, which aims to highlight Iloilo’s unique heritage, culture, and identity while strengthening the connection between residents and their city.
