Did you know that Bankerohan is the most iconic Public Market and it isn’t the first market in Davao City? While the historic Magallanes Market holds that title, Bankerohan has grown to become the city’s largest and most iconic marketplace. Located near the Davao River, this bustling hub evolved from a simple docking point for small boats (bangka) into a vibrant center of trade and culture.
Whether you’re here for fresh durian, affordable goods, or a slice of Davao’s rich history, Bankerohan offers an experience like no other. Here are seven compelling reasons why this market is the beating heart of Davao City!
Why Bankerohan Is The Most Iconic Public Market in Davao City?
Nearby Amenities for Your Convenience
While Bankerohan offers a full Davao experience, it’s also conveniently located near essential services and attractions.
- Hospitals:
- Davao Doctors Hospital (10-15 minutes away)
- San Pedro Hospital (5-10 minutes away)
- Malls:
- SM City Davao (15 minutes away)
- Gaisano Mall Davao (10 minutes away)
- Hotels:
- The Pinnacle Hotel and Suites (10 minutes away)
- Red Planet Davao (5 minutes away)
- Restaurants:
- Davao Durians and Native Delicacies (within the market)
- Lanzones Café (5 minutes away)
Why Bankerohan Is Must-Visit
- Fresh Local Produce: Famous for its durian, pomelo, and other tropical fruits, Bankerohan is the go-to place for fresh and affordable finds. You can also score top-quality vegetables, seafood, and meats from farmers and fishers who bring their goods directly to the market.
- Authentic Food Delights: Enjoy Davao’s street food culture with dishes like binignit (a sweet soup made with coconut milk, root crops, and bananas), puto maya (sticky rice served with ripe mangoes and hot chocolate), and other regional delicacies.
- Bustling Atmosphere: The market’s lively energy—vendors calling out deals, locals bargaining for the best prices, and the aroma of freshly cooked meals—is an experience in itself.
A Peek Into Its History
The name “Bankerohan” comes from the Cebuano word “bangka” (boat), as the area once served as a docking point for small boats along the Davao River. In the early 1900s, this riverside location became a center for trade, attracting farmers and traders from nearby provinces. Over the years, Bankerohan transformed from a simple trading spot into a sprawling public market, now a vital economic hub in the city.
What Makes Bankerohan Unique?
- Durian Capital: Known as Davao’s “Durian Market,” Bankerohan offers a variety of this iconic fruit, available fresh, frozen, or even as candies and pastes.
- Cultural Connections: The market showcases the harmonious blend of cultures in Davao, from indigenous tribes to settlers from various parts of the Philippines.
- Community Spirit: The market’s success is built on the hard work of generations of vendors and the loyalty of its patrons, making it a cornerstone of the local economy.
Tips for Visiting Bankerohan Public Market (Visit here)
- Go Early: To get the freshest produce and avoid the midday rush, visit between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM.
- Bring Cash: Most transactions here are cash-based, so make sure to have small bills and coins for easier payment.
- Explore All Corners: Don’t just stick to the fruit section—explore the dry goods, cooked food, and even the stalls selling handmade crafts.
- Bargain Wisely: Haggling is common, but do it respectfully. Vendors are more likely to give you a good deal if you’re friendly.
Why Locals and Tourists Love It
Bankerohan isn’t just a market—it’s an experience. For locals, it’s a place where they can connect with their roots, find affordable goods, and enjoy traditional food. For tourists, it offers a rare chance to immerse themselves in Davao’s vibrant culture, all in one place.
How Bankerohan Supports Local FMCG Companies
In addition to being a vibrant market hub, Bankerohan also plays an essential role in the growth of the Top 50 FMCG companies in the Philippines. As one of the busiest and most iconic markets in Davao City, it serves as a crucial point for local manufacturers, wholesalers, and producers to sell their products directly to consumers.
Many FMCG companies that produce daily necessities like food, beverages, personal care products, and cleaning supplies distribute their goods to the market, providing a constant supply of essential products to locals and visitors alike. With its wide reach and established trust among Dabawenyos, Bankerohan is an important link between FMCG brands and their customers.
Bankerohan Public Market stands as a testament to Davao City’s history, culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re hunting for the freshest durian, craving local street food, or simply looking to experience the everyday life of Dabawenyos, Bankerohan is the place to be.
So, the next time you’re in Davao, make sure to include this bustling market in your itinerary. You’ll leave with not just bags of fresh produce but also memories of a rich and authentic cultural adventure.