ILOILO City – Over 100 delegates arrived in this southern city on Sunday for the 44th Executive Committee meeting of CityNet, an association of urban stakeholders committed to sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region, from November 18-20.
The meeting, happening today, will revolve around the theme, “Living the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Shared Future for All”, highlighting the importance of sustainable urban progress.
According to Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Officer Velma Jane Lao, a member of the city’s organizing committee, the hosting of this international event positions Iloilo City as a leader in urban development and highlights its proactive role in addressing regional challenges.
It also promotes economic growth and tourism as well as aligns with its sustainability goals to include green initiatives, climate resilience and inclusive growth, among others.
“We are now presenting Iloilo City not just to the national stage but also to the international stage, bringing global attention to our city and showcasing our cultural potential to attract more tourists and investments,” Lao added.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, though on medical leave, expressed his deep honor in hosting the 44th CityNet ExeCom Meeting in the metro.
Iloilo City made an unchallenged bid to host the 44th CityNet ExeCom Meeting when Treñas attended the ExeCom meeting in South Korea last year. He is a member of the Executive Board.
In his message, Treñas underscored the significance of this year’s executive meeting’s theme, which he said “encapsulates the very essence of our collective endeavor towards a future where cities are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.”
Treñas shared that Iloilo City is committed to aligning its initiatives with the SDGs.
“In Iloilo City, we take immense pride in aligning our current and proposed initiatives with the SDGs, which also underpin our goal to be the Top 3 Most Livable, Sustainable, and Resilient City in the Philippines by 2029,” he added.
The event is an opportunity for Iloilo City to demonstrate its progress and aspirations to fellow leaders across the Asia-Pacific region.
Treñas also assured Iloilo City’s commitment to promoting sustainable cities and communities through a range of impactful initiatives.
“Our efforts are evident through various projects aimed at enhancing social and health services and implementing eco-friendly programs,” the mayor said.
The CityNet 44th Executive Committee Meeting in Iloilo City will see diverse representation from the Philippines and other nations in the Asia-Pacific region. Four city mayors from the Philippines — Makati, Muntinlupa, Roxas, and Tacurong — will share their experiences and insights on urban management, adding a local perspective to the discussions.
They will be joined by six mayors from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Fiji, underscoring a regional commitment to collaborative urban growth in South and Southeast Asia.
Also participating are other distinguished officials, including the Vice Mayor of Kuala Lumpur and the Director General from the City of Yokohama, Japan.
Habitat for Humanity will contribute their expertise on sustainable housing and community resilience, enriching the dialogue on achieving inclusive, sustainable cities.
Additionally, the group will sign memoranda of agreements with the Global Parliament of Mayors and Habitat for Humanity to drive impactful urban initiatives across member cities.
This year’s ExeCom meeting is chaired by Seoul’s International Relation Ambassador, underscoring the city’s dedication to foster global partnership.
CityNet Secretariat Programs Director Youngmin Chang expressed their goal of fostering “greater exchanges between Iloilo City and Seoul, paving the way for more collaborative projects, shared knowledge, and innovative solutions that benefit both cities.”
Chang added that the CityNet Secretariat sees significant potential in deepening the cooperation between Iloilo and other CityNet members, including Seoul, to encourage sustainable urban development and enhance mutual understanding.
This opportunity not only underscores Iloilo’s commitment to sustainable urban progress but also highlights the city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and high quality educational institutions.
On Tuesday, Nov. 19, there will be an awarding of best innovative practices on SDGs and International Seminar on SDGs which include discussions on urban climate financing, zero waste initiatives, and workforce development./PN
