Are you a shopper who misses the gritty appeal of Divisoria before there was Lucky Chinatown Mall…read moreand 168? Fear not. The long and circuitous sprawl of Baclaran's open-air market still provides such an experience. If you're game enough to brave wayward jeepneys, daring pedicab maneuverings, and the occasional wet sidewalk, then this is the place for you. It's all worth it, though, if you're a true-blue bargain hunter.
Starting from the Baclaran church, just follow the overhead train tracks and you'll find cheap clothes, shoes and bags, industrial supplies, beauty supplies, cleaning supplies, party supplies, fish and meats, fruits and vegetables, cheap electronics, furniture, toys, gift items, it goes on! It's like being at the mall only without the aircon and product branding. It makes me think of Chatuchak, but without the organization. Sometimes, it's more fun that way, though! And if you get hungry while shopping, there's no shortage of street food vendors to satisfy you - from fresh coconut juice and sago-gulaman, to roasted peanuts and barbecue, and many more. I used to be a mall-hound, but Baclaran has changed me. I recommend even just a stroll through here (in clothes you don't mind getting dirty) if you want to see a different side of modern Manila.
My family and I have been shopping here since we moved to Parañaque and it's become a comfortable activity. I've never actually felt threatened here (but of course it never hurts to be aware of one's surroundings anywhere you go). The stretch of stalls and shops challenge me to stay alert and sharp as I'm constantly bombarded with smells, sounds, and motion. It's a happy chaos that I think I can only find in Manila.
