Manila, Oct. 31 -- Iloilo City opened its two public markets on Thursday afternoon after being redeveloped under a public-private partnership.

The redevelopment of the Iloilo Terminal Market and the Iloilo Central Market began on Sept. 18, 2023 under a partnership between the city government and SM Prime Holdings, Inc.

"Today, we have reasons to celebrate and give thanks to the Lord because one of our greatest dreams to have a beautiful, clean, and modernized public market has finally come true," Mayor Raisa Trenas said in her message during the soft opening.

She said the event is a milestone in the city's history -- a new beginning for vendors and shoppers who no longer have to suffer the stench and getting wet when it rains.

"Let me...