Iloilo City’s public markets are getting a bold new look — modern, spacious, and resilient — without losing sight of their heritage.
Arevalo, Jaro Big, and La Paz Public Markets are all set for soft openings this December, each boasting a design that captures the culture, history, and identity of its district.
Arevalo Market pays tribute to the famous Paraw Regatta Festival with a striking steel sail-like façade that symbolizes movement and progress. Inside, wide walkways, high ceilings, and elevated floors create a fresh, airy space for vendors and shoppers, while solar panels and rainwater harvesting make it a model of sustainability.
Jaro Big Market blends colonial charm with modern functionality. Inspired by the district’s ancestral houses, the new two-storey market offers an immersive experience where history meets commerce, giving both locals and visitors a taste of Jaro’s rich cultural legacy.
La Paz Public Market celebrates the district’s culinary fame, especially its iconic La Paz Batchoy, with a design that complements the existing Art Deco heritage along Huervana Street. The market promises a safe, welcoming, and functional environment for vendors and diners alike.
Vendors will begin operations on December 1 at Arevalo, December 10 at Jaro Big, and December 16 at La Paz.
With these redevelopments, Iloilo City not only upgrades its marketplaces but also reaffirms its commitment to progress, culture, and community — creating spaces where history, commerce, and innovation meet.IMT
