For expats and digital nomads who have chosen the vibrant city of Puerto Princesa as their temporary home, exploring local markets is a fantastic way to immerse oneself in the local culture, cuisine, and community. Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is not only a gateway to the island’s stunning natural wonders but also a hub for bustling markets that offer everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. Here are some of the best markets in Puerto Princesa City that you should not miss.
Puerto Princesa Public Market
Location: Malvar Street, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Traditional Public Market
Open: Daily, early morning until evening
The Puerto Princesa Public Market is the main market of the city and a lively spot where locals go for their daily necessities. It’s a colorful and bustling place where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and a variety of local delicacies. The market is also a great place to experience the local way of life and practice your haggling skills.
We Recommend: Trying the freshly caught seafood, especially the tuna and shrimps, which are known to be particularly succulent and flavorful in this region.
New Market
Location: San Jose, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Public Market
Open: Daily, early morning until evening
Known locally as the ‘New Market’, this is a more modern market facility that caters to a variety of needs. It’s clean, organized, and offers a wide range of products from fresh produce to clothing and household items. It’s a one-stop shop for expats and digital nomads looking to stock up on supplies or find a local snack.
We Recommend: Sampling the local sweets and pastries, such as the ‘hopia’, a bean-filled pastry that is a favorite among the locals.
Iwahig Penal Colony Farm
Location: Iwahig, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Prison Farm Market
Open: Daily, 8 am to 5 pm
While it may seem unconventional, the Iwahig Penal Colony Farm is a unique place where inmates are rehabilitated through farming. Visitors can purchase organic produce, handcrafted items, and souvenirs made by the inmates. It’s a market experience that supports the community and offers a glimpse into a different side of Puerto Princesa.
We Recommend: The handwoven baskets and wood carvings, which are not only beautiful but also support the rehabilitation of the inmates.
San Miguel Night Market
Location: San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Evenings, usually starting around 6 pm
The San Miguel Night Market is the perfect place for expats and digital nomads to unwind after a day of work or exploration. With a variety of street food stalls, clothing, and souvenir vendors, it’s a lively spot to enjoy the local nightlife and indulge in some delicious Filipino snacks and dishes.
We Recommend: The grilled isaw (chicken intestines) and balut (fertilized duck egg), for those looking to try some adventurous local street food.
Robinsons Place Palawan
Location: National Highway, Barangay San Manuel, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Shopping Mall Market
Open: Daily, 10 am to 9 pm
For a more contemporary shopping experience, Robinsons Place Palawan offers a variety of local and international brands, a supermarket, and dining options. It’s a great place to escape the heat, enjoy some shopping, or catch a movie at the cinema.
We Recommend: Visiting the supermarket for a wide selection of local fruits like mangosteen and rambutan, especially when they’re in season.
LRC 908 Market Mall
Location: Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Indoor Market Mall
Open: Daily, 8 am to 8 pm
LRC 908 Market Mall is a combination of a traditional market and a shopping mall. It’s a great place to find local handicrafts, pearls, and other souvenirs. The mall also has a food court where you can taste various local dishes.
We Recommend: The Palawan pearls, which are known for their quality and beauty, making for a perfect keepsake or gift.
Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa Organic Farm
Location: Barangay Bancao-Bancao, Puerto Princesa City
Type of Market: Organic Farm Market
Open: Contact the resort for visiting hours
For those interested in sustainable living and organic produce, the Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa Organic Farm offers a tranquil market experience. Visitors can buy fresh, organic vegetables and herbs directly from the farm, ensuring the highest quality and freshness.
We Recommend: The organic salad greens and herbs, which are perfect for a healthy and fresh meal.
These markets in Puerto Princesa City offer a diverse range of shopping experiences, from traditional public markets to modern malls and unique community-based markets. Each one provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and offers expats and digital nomads an opportunity to connect with the community while enjoying the best of what the city has to offer.
