Iloilo city: The Calle Real night market initiative, launched by the city government in 2024, has successfully generated over PHP10.5 million in sales while drawing in approximately 89,000 visitors.

According to Philippines News Agency, Leny Ledesma, the executive assistant for special projects, highlighted in a press conference on Tuesday that the night market, which has been held seven times since its inception, has significantly bolstered micro and small enterprises. It also serves as a platform to promote local produce, artisanal products, and homegrown talents.

Ledesma announced plans for another night market to coincide with the Valentine's Day celebration, offering the public a unique venue to mark the occasion while supporting local enterprises and artisanal goods. Scheduled from February 13 to 15, Calle Real will transform into a vibrant festive corridor showcasing gastronomy, heritage, arts, and home-grown businesses.

"The theme is 'Iloilo City Blooms.' As you know, Iloilo City recently won the ASEAN Clean Tourist City award. We aim to showcase a more vibrant and revitalized heritage district and emphasize a collective responsibility towards discipline, ensuring that as our city blooms, it remains clean, safe, and accessible for everyone," Ledesma stated.

The market will operate from 5 p.m. to midnight, featuring performances and a variety of vendors. It will include ambulant, on-the-go food, grilled and barbecue, and non-food vendors, as well as participants from the central market. As of Tuesday, around 60 food and non-food vendors and 100 stalls have registered for the event. Given the Valentine's theme, an increase in flower vendors is anticipated.

Ledesma noted that about 18,000 people attended the Christmas night market, and they hope to attract a similar number of visitors for the Valentine's event.