ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has denied allegations of taking credit for the privatization of the Iloilo International Airport, clarifying that his role as chairman of the Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC) of the Regional Development Council (RDC) focuses on facilitating and following up on major infrastructure projects.
In a statement, Treñas explained that his responsibilities include overseeing various regional initiatives such as the privatization of the Iloilo International Port, monitoring the status of flyovers, advancing the Panay River Basin Project in Capiz, promoting the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Bridge, completing the Jalaur Dam and its irrigation canal, and securing additional water supply for Iloilo City.
“Never have I taken credit for any project, as these are all government initiatives ultimately funded by the people through their taxes,” Treñas stressed.
He emphasized that as mayor and chair of the RDC Infrastructure Committee, his role is that of a “sulugo-on” (servant) and “taga-follow up” (facilitator), ensuring the smooth progress of infrastructure developments.
Treñas also dismissed accusations from political opponents, labeling them as “off-tangent” and motivated by political “sour grapes.”
“All records of the RDC Infrastructure Committee will attest to this,” he added.
Treñas earlier announced that the long-anticipated construction of the Panay-Guimaras-Negros (PGN) Link Bridge is set to begin this year, following confirmation from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during a recent RDC meeting.
The P189-billion megaproject aims to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth by linking the islands of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros.
It will consist of two major sections: Section A and Section B. Section A is a 13-kilometer Panay-Guimaras segment, including a 4.97-kilometer sea-crossing bridge, while Section B is a 19.47-kilometer Guimaras-Negros segment, featuring a 13.11-kilometer sea-crossing bridge.
The project will traverse challenging marine terrain, necessitating advanced engineering solutions and meticulous planning.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is leading the initiative, with feasibility studies and detailed engineering design already underway.
During the RDC meeting, Treñas highlighted several other critical infrastructure projects for Iloilo and Western Visayas.
These include the Jalaur Irrigation Canal, a vital initiative for agricultural productivity and water management; the Panay River Basin Project, a flood control and water resource management effort; and the Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project, which aims to secure a sustainable water source for Iloilo City.
President Marcos assured that the national government would allocate the remaining budget required for the completion of these projects, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in the region./PN
