ILOILO City – The newly inaugurated Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, also known as the Iloilo River North Bank Road, is an example of the responsible and transparent use of pork barrel funds, according to former senator Franklin Drilon.
Drilon was the prime mover of the boulevard’s construction.
When used properly, pork barrel funds have the potential to transform cities, boost tourism, attract investments, and stimulate economic growth, said Drilon.
The boulevard was officially opened to vehicular traffic on Friday, January 24.
This P2.261-billion infrastructure project spans five kilometers and connects Barangay Tabucan in Mandurriao district to Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo.
“This project is proof that pork barrel funds, when used with integrity and transparency, can serve as a powerful tool for national and countryside development — not a means to enrich one’s pocket,” Drilon said.
Designed with eco-friendly urban planning in mind, the boulevard features four lanes, bike paths, solar-powered LED lights, viewing decks, a scenic esplanade walkway, and recreational spaces.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked its inauguration, with key figures such as Drilon, Iloilo City’s Cong. Julienne Baronda, and Raisa Treñas, daughter of Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, and other city officials in attendance.
The Sunset Boulevard, launched in 2021 with a P1.261 billion allocation, was funded through Drilon’s initiative, commonly referred to as “pork barrel funds,” lodged in the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), being the implementing agency.
Congresswoman Baronda underscored the boulevard’s impact on enhancing mobility, economic activity, and regional connectivity.
She emphasized the collaborative efforts behind the project, stating that it reflects a “commitment to serving the public and creating legacies that benefit future generations.
Not only this project provides an alternative road network between Iloilo City and the Province of Iloilo but it also reflects our aspiration to fuel our local economy with impactful infrastructure that would hasten the flow of goods and products, as well as enhance mobility and result in positive economic spillover effects,” stressed Baronda.
She noted that the infrastructure project is a testament to how opposing leaders set aside their personal political agendas and instead consider the welfare of the people.
“Structures like this Iloilo River North Bank Road may be a great legacy. But I believe that the best legacy we can leave is that which is etched in the hearts and minds of the people,” said Baronda.
For his part, Mayor Treñas lauded the project as a landmark initiative that will address the city’s growth needs, enhance connectivity, and open up opportunities for land development and investments.
With added incentives for new businesses in the area, the boulevard is expected to stimulate tourism, provide employment opportunities, and drive economic progress for Ilonggos.
“It is evident that our city center is now overwhelmed by development, and we need expansion so that we can move fast enough for more growth,” he said.
With the new zonal development resulting from this new road network, the mayor said the public can expect more investment and employment opportunities in this area.
“Our government is doing its part to improve economic activity so our business community, especially our micro, small, and medium enterprises, can directly benefit,” the mayor said.
The project is poised to stimulate tourism, attract investment, and provide long-term benefits to Ilonggos, with tax incentives aimed at fostering new business opportunities in the area./PN
