IT WASN’T too long ago that Iloilo was once again celebrated as one of the most livable cities in the country. But as the weekend’s news of the heaps of trash left along Iloilo Sunset Boulevard circulated, it was a sobering reminder that keeping that title is not just about well-paved roads, scenic river esplanades, or world-class bike lanes. At its core, a livable city is about its people and how they care for their home.
Ilonggos have long taken pride in their sense of community — our innate respect for order, our commitment to pagbinuligay, and our reputation for being among the most disciplined urban dwellers in the country. But maintaining that culture takes more than just nostalgia; it requires action, consistency, and a shared sense of responsibility among the government, businesses, and the community. If we truly want Iloilo to remain the city that others look up to, we must take ownership of our spaces and reinforce the values that make it livable in the first place.
The Role of Community in Livability
Livability is not just about infrastructure; it’s about the experience of everyday life. A clean, safe, and efficient city doesn’t happen by accident — it results from deliberate efforts from all sectors. Government policies and urban planning provide the framework, but the true measure of success is how the people respond to and sustain these initiatives.
Take the case of Malaysia’s Penang Island. Once facing severe waste management issues, the local government implemented a community-based program that incentivized waste segregation and responsible disposal. But what made it work was the strong participation of local businesses and residents. Schools educated children on sustainability, businesses adopted green practices, and community leaders actively reinforced responsible behavior. The result? A city that thrives not just in tourism but in overall quality of life.
Strengthening Partnerships for a Cleaner Iloilo
We already have policies in place — waste management programs, clean-up drives, and ordinances that regulate public cleanliness. But policies without active participation remain just words on paper. The local government needs to strengthen its partnership with businesses and communities to ensure that clean, sustainable practices become second nature to every Ilonggo.
Indonesia’s Bandung City provides a valuable lesson. Recognizing that maintaining cleanliness cannot rest solely on government shoulders, the city empowered neighborhood associations to take charge of their areas. Public spaces became a collective responsibility, with residents holding each other accountable. Could we replicate this in Iloilo? Imagine every barangay, business establishment, and civic group treating our public spaces not as somebody else’s job to maintain but as a shared duty.
Learning from Regional Leaders
Vietnam’s Da Nang, another rising star in Southeast Asia, showcases how consistent community engagement can lead to sustainable urban development. Residents participate in regular clean-up campaigns, and businesses are given incentives to maintain eco-friendly practices. The result? A city that isn’t just beautiful for visitors but is genuinely enjoyable for those who call it home.
And of course, Singapore remains the benchmark for urban livability. What sets it apart is not just its strict regulations but the culture of discipline ingrained in its citizens. Cleanliness is not merely enforced; it is embraced as a way of life. Singapore’s success lies in its ability to foster civic-mindedness — something that Iloilo, with its strong cultural identity, is more than capable of achieving.
Ilonggos Act Together
Ilonggos have always been known for their discipline and warmth. But as our city grows and urban challenges increase, we must be intentional in reinforcing the values that make Iloilo livable. This is not just a government issue, nor is it the sole responsibility of businesses. It is a community task — one that requires each of us to step up, make responsible choices, and hold each other accountable.
The sight of trash-strewn public spaces should not just frustrate us; it should move us to act. If we take pride in our city, then we must also take responsibility for it. Because a livable Iloilo is not just about what we build — it’s about what we choose to sustain together. – KEN LERONA, Iloilo City
