By Michelle Ducut
The newly rebuilt Pampanga Public Market was inaugurated on Friday, November 29, marking a significant milestone in Angeles City’s efforts to maintain its status as a hub of trade and commerce in the province.
The PHP400-million state-of-the-art facility spans 30,685 square meters and was inaugurated by Senator Imee Marcos, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr., and Pampanga 1st District Representative Carmelo Lazatin II. The market replaces the original structure, which was destroyed by a fire in 2020.
“This new Pampanga Public Market is not just a building but a testament to our commitment to uplift our local vendors and sustain Angeles City as a center of trade and commerce,” Mayor Lazatin said during the event.
The modern facility features a 2,682-square-meter dry goods section on the ground floor, a spacious food court, and a separate wing with 50 stalls dedicated to eateries. Parking facilities occupy the second and third floors, offering 251 slots and an elevator for easy access to vendors and patrons.
The project, completed in 588 days, aims to enhance convenience for both sellers and customers. Vendors, like Orly, expressed gratitude for the new market. “Malaki pong bagay sa aming mga vendor ang ganito kagandang pasilidad (This beautiful facility is a big help to us vendors),” Orly said, noting the clear separation between wet and dry sections of goods.
Senator Marcos praised the project and reaffirmed her support for Angeles City, highlighting the PHP20 million she facilitated for repairs at the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center. Mayor Lazatin commended her ongoing contributions to the city’s development and progress.