Divisoria Public Market

Divisoria Market is a well-known commercial hub located in the heart of Manila, Philippines. It spans several districts, primarily in Tondo and Binondo. The market is renowned for its vast array of goods, making it a go-to destination for both retail and wholesale shopping.

Divisoria has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial period. It became a commercial center due to its strategic location near the Manila port. Over the years, it has evolved into a major trade and commerce area, contributing significantly to Manila’s economy.

Products and Offerings: Divisoria Market offers a diverse range of products, including textiles, clothing, footwear, accessories, electronics, toys, home goods, and fresh produce. It is particularly famous for its affordable prices, attracting bargain hunters and small business owners looking to buy in bulk.

Shopping Experience: The market is a bustling, lively place with narrow streets and numerous stalls, shops, and malls. Haggling is a common practice, allowing shoppers to negotiate prices and get the best deals.

Shopping Malls and Centers:

168 Shopping Mall: A popular mall known for its variety of affordable goods, including clothes, accessories, electronics, and toys. It’s a favorite for bargain hunters.

Tutuban Center: Once a railway station, now transformed into a bustling shopping complex offering a mix of retail stores, food stalls, and entertainment options.

Divisoria Mall: Another key shopping destination, featuring numerous stalls selling everything from textiles to household items.

Wholesale Markets:

Tabora Street: Famous for its wholesale shops, particularly for wedding supplies, party favors, and craft materials. Ideal for event planners and DIY enthusiasts.

Ilaya Street: Known for textile and fabric shops, where you can find a wide range of materials at competitive prices. It’s a go-to place for tailors and fashion designers.

Food Markets and Street Food:

Ylaya Street: Offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and meat. It’s a vibrant market that provides an authentic local shopping experience.

Street Food: Throughout Divisoria, you can find a plethora of street food vendors selling local delicacies such as lumpia (spring rolls), kikiam, fish balls, kwek-kwek (quail eggs in batter), and taho (sweet tofu).

Speciality Shops:

Plastic and General Merchandise: Several shops in Divisoria specializes in plastic products, offering a wide range of items like storage bins, kitchenware, and toys.

School and Office Supplies: A great place to buy school supplies in bulk at lower prices, including notebooks, pens, and art materials.

Tips for Shoppers:

• Wear comfortable clothing and stay vigilant, as the market can get crowded.
• Be prepared to negotiate prices and check multiple vendors before making a purchase.
• Have a general plan or list of items you want to buy to make your shopping trip more efficient.
• Visit early in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and get the first pick of goods.
• Stay Hydrated, and bring water as it can get hot and crowded.

Divisoria Market is not just a shopping destination but also a cultural experience, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic lifestyle of Manila. It reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos and their knack for trade and commerce. Overall, Divisoria Market remains an integral part of Manila’s identity, offering a unique blend of affordability, variety, and cultural richness.

Other things to see and do near Divisoria:

Divisoria Night Market: The market transforms at night, offering a different shopping experience with vendors selling everything from street food to clothing.

Quiapo Church (Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene): A major Catholic church known for housing the Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, which is believed to be miraculous.

Escolta Street: Once known as Manila’s “Queen of Streets,” Escolta features historic buildings with architectural significance from the early 20^th century.

Binondo Church (Minor Basilica of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz): Just a short distance from Divisoria, this historic church is a significant cultural landmark.

Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz: Near Binondo Church, a small plaza commemorating the first Filipino saint, Lorenzo Ruiz.

Location: Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Opening Hours: Malls are open from 8AM – 6PM, Divisoria Public Market is open from 5:25 AM–11 PM.

Entrance fee: Free

How to get there:

• Take the LRT1 to Doroteo Jose station and get off at Rizal Avenue corner Doroteo Jose. Walk towards Claro M. Recto Avenue then ride a jeep to Divisoria.

There are also buses from Aurora Blvd in Cubao / Epifanio de los Santos Avenue Intersection, Mandaluyong to Antonio Rivera, Manila.