THE newly completed P50-million Carmen Public Market stands as a landmark public facility in Cebu and marks a significant leap forward in local infrastructure under Congressman Duke Frasco’s leadership. Designed to complement and expand the town’s existing public market, the new facility serves as an additional economic hub and self-sustaining revenue driver for the Municipality of Carmen, boosting local trade right alongside the old market, which continues to operate and serve the community.
Pre-operational earnings to deliver upfront LGU revenues
Even before opening its doors for full operation, the new market is set to contribute significant capital straight to the Carmen municipality. The town won't have to wait for the market to open to start earning. By putting stall spaces, open vendor slots, and alfresco dining spots up for competitive bidding, the local government is set to generate ₱3.5 million to ₱5 million in projected income. Beyond the initial bidding, monthly stall rentals will give the town a continuous, long-term revenue source to fund local programs.
"This is the kind of infrastructure we should continue building: projects that not only serve our people but also strengthen the financial capacity of our local government," said Cong. Duke Frasco.
"Every peso earned can be reinvested into better public services, improved facilities, and more programs that benefit every person in Cebu’s 5th District.”
Carmen Mayor Carlo Teves Villamor expressed deep gratitude for the
project, highlighting the financial advantage it brings to the municipality.
“Akong dakong pasalamat gayud ni Cong. Duke Frasco in behalf sa tanang
lumulupyo sa Carmen. Wala gyud mi niya gikalimtan,” said Mayor Teves
Villamor.
"While other LGUs have to loan hundreds of millions of pesos just to build a market like this, kami diri sa Carmen, we are a very proud recipient of this new facility. This new public market is through the congressional efforts of Congressman Duke. Dako kaayo ni nga dungag sa komersyo sa Carmen on top of our existing public market.”
Empowering producers, vendors and daily consumers
More than just a revenue source for the town, the additional market provides local farmers, fisherfolk, and market vendors with expanded venues to conduct business while offering residents a clean, modern
space to shop.
Farmers and fisherfolk get a clean, organized venue to sell directly to buyers without relying on middlemen, while vendors gain stable, modern stalls to expand their operations. For residents, the facility offers enhanced accessibility, complete with organized parking and modern amenities.
Global inspiration, local heritage
Drawing design inspiration from modern public markets during Cong. Duke’s travels abroad, the architectural plan intentionally incorporates Cebuano touches. The design blends eco-friendly features such as solar panels with iconic local elements, including red-brick exteriors and structural arches patterned after Liloan’s famous Titay’s.
"For more than 50 years, our original public market has faithfully served generations of Carmenanons and will continue to do so," Frasco added.
"Together with the existing market, we hope this new facility, if properly managed and well-maintained, will further spur local commerce and serve the people of Carmen for the next 50 years and beyond." (Sponsored Content)