NEW IPIL PUBLIC MARKET RISES IN DON ANDRES; ₱50M ADDITIONAL FUNDING EYED

Daphne Santuyo

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — The long-awaited new Ipil Public Market officially moved into the construction phase following its groundbreaking ceremony yesterday in Don Andres, marking a major step toward providing the municipality with a modern and improved commercial facility.

During the ceremony, DPWH Assistant District Engineer Engr. Christopher Ebal presented an overview of the project and said construction is expected to take approximately 300 days.

Mayor Ramses “Rambo” Troy Olegario, in his message, expressed his appreciation to Second District Representative Doc Marly Hofer-Hasim on behalf of the Sangguniang Bayan and the people of Ipil for her support in making the project possible.

Olegario recalled that the new public market was among the projects envisioned during the campaign period, saying its realization shows how plans made for the municipality are gradually being turned into actual developments.

He also acknowledged that projects of this magnitude may face challenges during implementation, but said these are part of the process and can be addressed through close coordination among the agencies and stakeholders involved.

In her message, Hofer-Hasim said she was convinced that Ipil needed a new public market because the facility would serve not only local residents but also people coming from other parts of the Second District.

She said she wants the new market to provide a memorable experience for travelers and tourists passing through Ipil, making it more than simply a place where people buy and sell goods.

A major feature of the planned facility will be a food court on the second floor, which she envisioned as a welcoming space where residents and visitors can dine and experience local food.

Hofer-Hasim also pledged an additional ₱50 million in 2027 to help ensure that the project is completed.

She said the public market forms part of her broader effort to bring development projects to Ipil and improve the municipality’s facilities, commercial environment and economic opportunities.

Also present during the groundbreaking were Municipal Administrator Rey Andre Olegario, Sangguniang Bayan members Elias Dangpalan and Joel Ebol, barangay officials led by Punong Barangay Yoyong Cuamag, the team from the construction company and representatives of the market vendors association.