Tutuban Center Mall

It's one of the go-to place for shopping. From home and office, school supplies, clothes and RTWs, kitchen needs, cloth, shoes. You name it, you will have. It's budget friendly and very affordable. You can even haggle with the seller for a lower price. Aside from those mentioned there are also food stalls in the area and other establishments.

When I was young, the only mall we had nearby was Tutuban Mall (and of course Divisoria Mall; there was no SM Lazaro nor 168 back then). It is massive. Sprawling from PNR or bus terminal, Moriones, Fiesta Night Market, Mayhaligue, up to the Bonifacio Monument in Recto. It is made up of clusters or blocks. Unlike SM or Ayala which are like branded, this is more bazaar type, small businesses. Not to say they don't house mainstream boutiques as well. Since usually no price on display, use your haggling ability. You can find clothes, shoes, jewelry, mini carnival, salons, cellphone and its accessories, banks and of course a lot of food selection. From foodcourt, fiesta hawker food stalls to popular mainstream fastfoods, they have a lot to choose from. There is also a Mama Mary image you must visit. In the evenings there is a side where there are many bats flying. Over the years, many tenants have been replaced. I think a Chinese owns this before, now Ayala has taken over. There are pay toilets. There are free toilets but quite harder to find and during mall hours only. Spacious parking and strict security they don't allow those entering just anywhere. It is just sad to note that the popular National Bookstore that was once our regular stop, is now replaced with a Mr Diy. This seems more lively in the evenings - it is the famous Night Market after all. It also looks worn for the better, surely past its prime. But hey still fighting!!!

Lots of variety stores with affordable items from clothing, food, appliances, and many more. A one stop shop if you want a haul. Parking slots are widely available. Rates are on the higher side.

The mall is ok compared to Ayala Malls or SM Malls. Stairs and exits are sometimes confusing. There are many cheap but quality things that you can buy. But I'd say it's cheaper outside the mall, around Divisoria. There are also many fast food restaurant selections. Just keep an eye on your belongings at its walkway area is heavy on foot traffic.

Pros -cheap and affordable items from clothing, household items, accessories, and many more -easily accessible -affordable fast food and restaurants when you get hungry Cons -too crowded especially on weekends and holidays -very expensive parking but very difficult to get a slot; paid 110.00 for 4 hrs??? kahit mas malalaking malls di kami umaabot ng 100 for 4 hrs -dilapidated elevator in parking building -unreasonable pay CR but 2-3 cubicles not working so lines get long