On April 16, 2016, Manabí suffered a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that destroyed a large percentage of infrastructure, one of them being Market No. 1; but under the protection of the Solidarity Law, Plaza Central de Portoviejo was built, inaugurated on October 17, 2021, with a modern and inclusive infrastructure with access ramps, escalators, nursery elevators, administrative offices, parking for 200 vehicles. The market provides security, mobility, logistics and ease of loading and unloading.
Dennisse Guillen, manager of Porto Comercio, stressed that thanks to joint work, great achievements are achieved, and that the certification received is a door that opens to national and international tourism, and recognizes the greatness of the customs and talent of its people.
Juvenal Saltos, director of tourism for the Municipal Government of Portoviejo, invited everyone to recognize the efforts of all those who work at Plaza Central. “This achievement highlights Ecuadorian gastronomy and reaffirms the commitment to turn Portoviejo into a renowned gastronomic destination,” he said.
Karol Pancha, owner of the Rosita restaurant, believes that Plaza Central is more than a market; this place represents Manabi culture through its gastronomy.
The selection of this market was based on several criteria, including its historical and cultural value to the community, its proximity to tourist services, the availability of signage and basic services, and gastronomic standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices and food handling training.
Source: Government of Ecuador.