ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has voiced his disappointment over irresponsible waste disposal at the newly opened Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, officially known as the Iloilo River North Bank Road.
His frustration stemmed from the lack of discipline among some users, jeopardizing the government’s efforts to beautify and maintain the public space.
“Don’t try my patience,” the mayor warned, adding that such behavior is unacceptable and will be met with strict enforcement of existing laws and ordinances.
The P2.261-billion Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, spanning five kilometers from Barangay Tabucan in Mandurriao district to Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo, has become a popular destination since it opened to joggers in June 2024 and to vehicular traffic on January 24, 2025.
It boasts four lanes, bike paths, solar-powered LED lights, viewing decks, and recreational spaces.
However, the boulevard has faced challenges with cleanliness and orderliness. On February 1, 2025, Facebook user Steve Francis Quaitchon shared photos of a polluted shoreline filled with trash, including plastic bottles, cans, bags, wood, and other debris.
In response, the City General Services Office (GSO) and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) conducted a cleanup operation, including the river beside the boulevard.
“The city will strictly enforce all existing ordinances — no exceptions. Violators will be arrested and brought to the police station. The mayor has made it clear: Do not try his patience,” said Joy F. Fantilaga, the mayor’s spokesperson.
To ensure cleanliness and order, the city has deployed three police patrol cars and four motorcycles for immediate enforcement.
Minors violating curfew and individuals caught littering will face strict penalties.
Additionally, the city will install portable toilets to address sanitation concerns, with measures in place to prevent vandalism.
Mayor Treñas appealed to the public for cooperation, saying “I will not allow Sunset Boulevard to deteriorate because of your irresponsible actions. We urge everyone to respect these regulations for the safety and orderliness of Sunset Boulevard.”
Treñas also seeks approval from the Iloilo City Council for the partial turnover of the boulevard to the city government to ensure its proper maintenance and regulation.
The City Engineer’s Office is set to inspect the site as part of the turnover process./PN
