Escolta Saturday Market: Oldies but Goodies

Saturday Market. Photo courtesy of The Filipinas

When in Manila, you will be surprised how an old and historical place can turn into a vibrant and artsy district of the modern times. Once known as one of the premier commercial districts in the early times of Manila, Escolta Street is as thriving as ever. By the looks of the recent staging of the so-called Escolta Saturday Market, it has definitely taken a step towards fusing modernism, culture, art and history.

The Escolta Saturday Market was pioneered by 98B COLLAboratory, a multidisciplinary design commune, conceptualized and envisioned the invigoration of Escolta through the said artsy Saturday Market. Located in the heart of Binondo, entrepreneurs and local artists gather here and set up shops to interact with the community and sell artist-made merchandise, crafts and quirky vintage items.

It is said that the space where the flea market is currently held, i.e. the ground floor of the First United Building, was once called Berg’s Department Store. It was a popular retail upscale establishment in the early 20^thcentury where one could buy clothes and household goods.

First United Building, Escolta, Manila. Photo Courtesy of Mansy Abesamis

The sellers who participate in the Escolta Saturday Market are all creative people who continue to propel the bazaar with their fresh ideas, producing something great out of antiques and pure talent, and bringing Old Manila back to life. It is always nice to know that a group of collaborative Filipinos can come up with such a concept and support local ingenuity, while devising a subtle response to commercialism at the same time.

The stuff you’ll see here are similar to those you will see at regular bazaars and flea markets: handmade art, collectibles, secondhand clothes, jewellery and even tarot card reading – you name it!

Maybe you can skip the usual Saturday routine of going to the mall and try exploring what Old Manila has to offer you for a change. After all, Manila’s heritage, history and distinctive architectural design are truly captivating – an absolute inspiration that shows our generation that we can always do something to cultivate the country’s culture.