THE Iloilo City Government and Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC) are teaming up to illuminate the La Paz Plaza Football Ground with a modern, internationally compliant lighting system, a first in Western Visayas for a football ground facility in a plaza. This exciting initiative aims to extend the usability of the sports facility beyond daylight hours, creating a more vibrant and active community space for football enthusiasts.
Previously limited to daytime use due to a lack of proper lighting, the La Paz Plaza Football Ground is poised for a transformation. Recognizing the importance of accessible sports facilities for overall well-being, PEDC, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, is stepping forward with a P16.45-million contribution. This investment will provide a state-of-the-art lighting system, allowing Ilonggos to safely utilize the football ground for evening games, practices, or casual recreation. This project serves as a fitting tribute to Iloilo’s reputation as the Philippine football capital.
This collaboration builds upon the existing partnership between the Iloilo City Government and PEDC for the development of La Paz Plaza. It follows the successful rehabilitation of the tennis court in 2015 and the recently inaugurated La Paz Plaza Koi Lagoon and Butterfly Garden.
The Iloilo City Government will play a key role in ensuring the project’s smooth execution. This includes securing necessary permits, providing technical expertise through the City Engineer’s Office, and overseeing the project’s successful completion. The City Environment and Natural Resources Office, responsible for the care of plaza, will also be actively involved.
PEDC’s commitment to empowering the communities it serves is further emphasized by Mr. Jaime T. Azurin: “This project aligns perfectly with our CSR goals of promoting sustainability and fostering community engagement, especially in Iloilo City, where PEDC has been operating since 2011. We are confident that the improved lighting system will significantly enhance the usability of the football ground, encouraging greater participation from local residents of all ages.”
A detailed Project Map, Design, and Technical Description have been developed by the Iloilo City Engineer’s Office. The project timeline and anticipated completion date will be announced soon.
PEDC and Iloilo City encourage residents to embrace this project and look forward to utilizing the newly illuminated La Paz Plaza Football Ground once completed./PN
