Tacloban Shopping

As a city known for its historical significance, Tacloban likewise provides shopping enthusiasts with something worth visiting. The establishments found in the city may range from designer apparels, jewelries, native products, appliances, to name just a few. The citys boutiques provide shoppers with a glimpse of renowned labels of RTWs from Cebu and Manila.

For people who are looking for handicrafts, Tacloban City has a wide range of shops offering products from Eastern Visayas and other regions. Some of these establishments are located in shopping centers while other shops are found in the public market. The most popular locally made handicraft in Tacloban is the sip-hid, a variety of soft broom which is more durable when compared to similar products.

Another local handicraft famous not only to local residents but also among transients is the banig. The main attraction of this product is that the manufacturer weaves a weed known as tikog into fine products that receives a high value because of its one of a kind drawings and geometric shape.

In addition, Tacloban shopping caters to a wide range of marine products. Dried fish and squid as well as preserved shellfish can be purchased throughout the year at a very low cost.

For tourists coming from Manila who are fond of shopping in popular malls like Robinsons, the Gokongwei company is setting up and expanding its operations to Tacloban. The shopping malls venture into this city is reportedly worth P2 billion.

According to the city administrator of Tacloban, the construction of Robinsons Mall is the biggest thing that would change the face of Tacloban shopping. The construction of the store started in October 2007 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2008. This project is expected to boost the economy of the city and generate more jobs for the residents of the city as well as surrounding areas.

Since construction of shopping malls is a sign of development in any location, Robinsons Mall is not the only major shopping investment that the city is venturing into. Other shopping malls are expected to rise in Tacloban within the coming years. The construction of a Gaisano Mall is currently in the works.

There are likewise reports that the SM franchise has recently acquired a parcel of land and would eventually set up another shopping complex in the city.

Shopping Tips

Before going to the various establishments to buy items in Tacloban, here are some helpful tips that would make your Tacloban shopping experience fun and worthwhile.

Make A List of All The Things You Intend To Buy. Listing down the things you intend to buy is more efficient and less time consuming. Likewise, this will help ensure that you got everything covered.

Set A Budget. When shopping, you need to make sure that the items you will buy are well within your budget. Buy the most important items first so that you will not exceed the budget.

Consider Shopping in Bulk. If you intend to buy souvenirs for your officemates, friends, or loved ones, shopping in bulk can be a good practice. You can find bulk items in public markets or bazaars.

Avoid The Rush Hour. If you are the type of shopper who hates queuing in long lines, then avoid shopping during the peak hours of the store. Keep away from weekend shopping because this is the time when most people usually do their shopping.

Look For Alternative Venues. If you are conscious with your budget, it is recommended that you look for alternatives when shopping in Tacloban. The public market, for instance, offers similar items found in a shopping center at a more affordable cost.

Take note of these tips and you will have more fun with your Tacloban shopping.