ILOILO City – The city government will lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of the Iloilo River North Bank Road, also known as the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, on January 24.
According to Joy Fantilaga, spokesperson for Mayor Jerry Treñas, the city government is collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to organize the event.
“The city government and DPWH Region 6 will assist each other to make the opening program a success,” Fantilaga said.
Cong. Julienne Baronda expressed surprise that the city government is spearheading the ribbon-cutting for the national project. In a press briefing, she said she received an invitation from DPWH indicating the city’s role in organizing the event.
DPWH, as the implementing agency, should lead the ceremony, Baronda stressed.
Despite her initial reaction, Baronda welcomed the project’s completion, underscoring her commitment to securing funding for initiatives started by former senator Franklin Drilon.
“I was surprised. But what matters is that these projects, meant for the people, are completed. I ensured funding for feasibility studies and other initiatives started by Senator Drilon,” Baronda said, confirming her attendance at the ceremony.
Baronda also noted that P850 million was secured under her leadership to complete key components of the project.
Fantilaga clarified that Senator Drilon himself advised city officials to collaborate with DPWH for a “simple program” which they readily agreed to.
The P2.261-billion, five-kilometer project includes bike lanes, solar-powered LED lights, viewing decks, and scenic esplanade walkway.
It serves as an alternative route connecting Barangay Tabucan in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, to Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo Province.
The event, originally set for January 22, was rescheduled to January 24 to finalize preparations.
The program will feature biking, tree-planting activities, and a short ceremony attended by Drilon./PN
