ILOILO City – The Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC) of the Regional Development Council of Western Visayas is set to meet today to discuss major infrastructure initiatives, including the Philippine Ports Authority’s (PPA) revised Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) port project, which incorporates heritage conservation efforts.
A key aspect of the updated RoRo port proposal is the planned restoration of Fort San Pedro in partnership with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), under Secretary Vince Dizon, is working with NHCP architects to ensure the restoration aligns with national preservation standards. This collaboration aims to address IDC’s concerns and secure endorsement from the Regional Development Council General Assembly.
The committee will also review plans to enhance the Esplanade near Fort San Pedro, expanding public spaces to improve accessibility for residents and visitors while reinforcing Iloilo’s reputation as a sustainable riverfront city.
The discussions follow DOTr Secretary Dizon’s recent inspection of Iloilo International Airport, accompanied by Iloilo’s Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and Cong. Jojo Ang of Uswag Ilonggo party-list, highlighting national and local efforts to enhance the region’s transport infrastructure.
Mayor Jerry Treñas confirmed that funding for the RoRo port project and Fort San Pedro restoration is already secured through the DOTr’s budget.
“Secretary Dizon informed me that the budget for establishing the new RoRo port and restoring Fort San Pedro is already available and will come from his office,” Treñas said./PN
