Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the official opening of the P130 million Ajuy Business Park, a modern three-storey facility designed to serve as the municipality's new public market and primary economic hub.
The inauguration ceremony on Thursday, September 10, 2026, coincided with the Ajuy Municipal Fiesta.
In his message, Governor Defensor highlighted public markets as the real barometer of the province’s economic state.
“Ang aton public market amo ang center sang aton pangabuhi kag panghimanwa. I always say nga kon gusto mo maintindihan ang ekonomiya sang probinsya, kadto ka sa tindahan,” he said.
(Our public market is the center of our livelihood and local governance. I always say that if you want to understand the economy of the province, go to the market.)
Defensor shared that he regularly visits public markets himself to purchase goods and assess the real situation on the ground of farmers and local producers.
Implemented in three phases, the three-storey facility is funded from the 20 percent development fund of the municipality. The market structure has an area of more than 3,000 square meters.
The ground floor is dedicated to local market vendors, while the second floor accommodates commercial enterprises. There is also a roof deck which provides a scenic view of the municipality.
To ensure the full completion of the commercial complex, Governor Defensor pledged P41.5 million for the construction of a dedicated wet market building. It will be located at the back of the Business Park.
Mayor Espinosa thanked Governor Defensor for the assistance in ensuring that there is an additional space to cater to produce of local farmers and fisherfolk.
“This is a historical event in the municipality of Ajuy. This represents the future of Ajuy and the future of our vendors. Every stall represents your hardwork,” Espinosa said.
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Vice Mayor Jett Rojas, Board Member Rolex Suplico, Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo OIC-Provincial Director Ma. Dorita Chaves, Iloilo Police Provincial Director Bayani Razalan, and other private sector partners. Mayor Jon Aying of Sara also showed his support..