Farmers’ Markets of Manila

A different kind of palengke

Since I was a kid, I have always been familiar with palengke or public markets. They are rented stalls where you can buy local produce, meats, fish, and other products. They’re usually crowded and sometimes sketchy, with the threat of pickpockets lurking around. Sometimes, it’s even dangerous to snap pictures. But the prices at the palengke are cheaper than grocery supermarkets. Plus, you will learn about regional dishes based on the native ingredients available here. In other words, going to a palengke has its benefits. As long as you’re street smart or have someone to guide you, going to a palengke should not be a problem.

However, I have noticed another kind of market that has spurted around Manila. These are farmers’ markets that carry organic, gourmet, and specialty products. They are direct from the farmers, artisans, cooks, and connoisseurs. Usually, tourists and ex-pats go here. I’m guessing because it’s safer and easier to navigate than a palengke.

Ever since I discovered the farmers’ market in the US, going to one has been my favorite activity. Finding a few here in Manila (one that is even all-vegan) is such a relief. Of course, going to a palengke remains a classic Filipino experience. But the farmers’ markets here are a fine alternative, especially for a balikbayan like me, at least for now.

 

Three Farmers’ Markets I’ve visited in Manila

Salcedo Farmers Market
Saturdays, Salcedo Park

This farmers’ market has a wide selection of organic vegetables, fruits, plants, spices, gourmet products, and souvenir items. It has plenty of grilled and cooked food stalls too. At first glance, it does not look vegan-friendly because of the meat and fish, but I found vegan versions of cookies, cheese, yogurt, and lassi. Not to mention, it has tons of fresh local fruits and vegetables. It also sells tofu in bulk. One stall that’s purely vegan is “In a Nutshell”, which offers vegan versions of mozzarella, gouda, brie, and aged cheeses. They also sell grilled vegan cheese sandwiches.

 

Good Food Sundays
Sundays at Mandala Park, Mandaluyong

Rare as it may sound, the Philippines has an all-vegan farmers’ market called Good Food Sundays at Mandala Park. Over here, you would find mostly cooked vegan food stalls but also vegan skin care, household products, fresh produce, and other vegan items. I highly suggest to come in hungry and bring plenty of cash. You will find vegan versions of Filipino classics like Sinigang, Kaldereta, Palabok, Dinuguan, even Liempo, Inasal, Isaw, Empanada, and Siopao. You’ll also find vegan pizzas, ice cream, and brownies. As for skin care, not only they’re vegan, they’re also eco-friendly with their packaging. As icing on the (vegan) cake, the Sunday market is next to a coffee shop with really good coffee and a section for eco-friendly products that you can buy in bulk.

 

Legazpi Sunday Market
Legazpi Village, Makati

The Legaszpi Sunday Market is the most expansive out of all three. Because of the bustling crowd easing in and out of wide line of stalls, I felt like I was in a palengke. Looking around, I felt giddy with how festive everything looked with their colorful produce and goods. Some vendors were playing the drums they’re selling, which further enhanced the experience. Although the pace seemed hectic, I slowed down and carefully strolled and appreciated each scenery. Surprisingly, I also found some vegan versions of gelato, fruit shakes, and cheeses. The vegan vendor, The Good Choices, proudly display their slogan, “You won’t believe it’s not meat” as they sell their vegan pork liempo and many other vegan Filipino dishes.

I have yet to make a trip to at least ten more farmers’ markets in Manila. Traffic here can be congested so exploring different cities in Manila should be tackled piecemeal. And once I’m brave enough, I will also visit the real public markets or palengke on my own. Perhaps that would be the mark of a true local.