THE local government of Manila reported that it has completed the P112.42 million worth of renovation for seven public markets in the city in time for the Yuletide season.
Mayor Joseph E. Estrada said these establishments, which form part of his rehabilitation program, are a better alternative to shopping malls that are becoming overcrowded due to holiday rush.
“We have completed the renovation in time for Christmas,” he said during the recent opening of a fast-food chain in the newly refurbished Quinta Market in Quiapo. “We want to provide marketgoers and shoppers comfort and convenience when shopping for their Christmas needs.”
The seven newly refurbished public markets include Obrero Public Market in Blumentritt Street (P16.97 million); Pampanga Public Market in Pampanga Street, Tondo (P10.44 million); Dagonoy Market on Onyx Street, San Andres (P47.70 million); Wagas Market on Wagas Street, Tondo (P12.85 million); Baseco Market in Baseco Compound, Port Area (P8.35 million); Bambang Market on Bambang Street, Tondo (P7.87 million); and Pandacan Market (P8.24 million).
“We want to erase the stereotype that public markets are dirty and smelly,” said Annie Balboa, city market administrator.
Balboa also urged the Manila residents to buy the items they need for Christmas in these marketplaces since they are of high quality and are affordable.
Estrada took pride in the success of the city government to repair and modernize the city’s 17 old and dilapidated public markets, which are now comparable to private shopping malls.
He recently led the launching of the upgraded Quinta Market worth P150 million.
This joint venture project of the Manila City Hall and a private developer-partner boasts of new and clean wet and dry sections, air-conditioned restrooms, food court, fast-food restaurants, security cameras, parking area and free Wi-Fi connection.
A fish port with ferry terminal will be established near the Quinta Market for use by fish traders and passengers coming from different areas through the Pasig River.
Last year, the city mayor led the opening of the newly renovated public markets in Sampaloc, Santa Ana, San Andres and Trabajo districts.