2026 IN SIGHT: ILOILO CITY BUILDS ON EARLY GAINS TO DELIVER PEOPLE-FIRST PROGRESS

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ILOILO CITY — Early into the administration of Mayor Raisa S. Treñas, Iloilo City is translating momentum into measurable outcomes, as people-centered programs across health, housing, livelihood, education, and mobility begin to show tangible impact on everyday Ilonggo lives.

These early results are setting the tone for a stronger and more responsive development agenda heading into 2026.

Guided by the city’s RISE-to-Action governance framework—anchored on stronger health and social services, a more inclusive economy, and improved livability—the city government has rolled out reforms and services that emphasize access, dignity, and long-term resilience.

Mayor Treñas stressed that the administration’s direction is firmly rooted in continuity and shared responsibility, building on reforms already in place while scaling up programs that directly benefit communities.

“What we have started must grow, and we can only do that together,” the mayor said, calling on residents to remain engaged and supportive of city initiatives.

SERVICES THAT REACH COMMUNITIES FASTER

One of the most visible improvements under the current administration is the strengthening of frontline services. Within her first 100 days, Mayor Treñas’ administration launched 42 programs, signaling an accelerated approach to governance.

One of the flagship programs is the Uswag Atipan Center, which consolidates social services, financial and burial assistance, health and dental care, livelihood support, and education services in one location. Since opening in July, the center has served over 8,000 Ilonggos, significantly reducing processing time and improving access for vulnerable sectors.

Healthcare access has also expanded through Uswag Pharmacies, now operating in nine district health centers. Each site assists 200 to 300 beneficiaries weekly by providing free medicines, easing the financial burden of healthcare for low-income families.

SECURING HOMES, SKILLS, AND JOBS

Housing remains a priority of the city’s people-first approach. Through the PASILONG Program, more than 2,000 housing units are on the pipeline across Molo, Mandurriao, and Jaro. These projects aim to provide not just shelter, but safe and disaster-resilient communities.

On the economic front, livelihood and employment programs continue to expand. The SIGE Asenso Program has supported over 1,564 market vendors and 240 other nano/micro-entrepreneurs with P375,000 livelihood assistance, while RISE Ilonggo has trained more than 170 residents in high-demand technical and vocational skills.

Employment facilitation through PESO-Iloilo City also yielded strong results, with over 30,000 job placements recorded as of November through job fairs, recruitment centers, and local hiring initiatives. Emergency employment programs further provided temporary jobs to nearly 10,000 beneficiaries.

INVESTING IN LEARNING AND COMMUNITY WELL-BEING

Education and social inclusion remain key priorities. The launch of RISEable, Iloilo City’s first Special Education and Early Intervention Center, marks a milestone in inclusive education, currently serving 26 children with special needs and set for expansion next year.

Longstanding programs such as the USWAG Scholarship Program—which has supported over 30,000 students since 2010—is also expanding and continue to evolve through mentorship and leadership initiatives, alongside plans to expand the Iloilo City Community College with a new campus in City Proper.

Community-building initiatives also gained traction, including free mass baptism ceremonies and expanded animal welfare programs that vaccinated over 38,000 pets against rabies.

INFRASTRUCTURE, RECOGNITION, AND MOVING AHEAD

The completion of the redevelopment of Iloilo City’s major public markets such as the Iloilo Central and Terminal markets and the district public markets in Arevalo, Jaro Big, and La Paz—an initiative started under former Mayor Jerry P. Treñas—stands as one of the administration’s most significant infrastructure milestones. Modernized facilities now provide safer, cleaner, and more dignified spaces for vendors while improving traffic flow and attracting visitors.

These governance efforts have been reinforced by numerous national and international awards, recognizing Iloilo City’s achievements in mobility, business-friendliness, culture, employment services, and child-friendly governance.

FOCUSING ON 2026 AND BEYOND

With the approval of the city’s 2026 budget—₱4.5 billion for the General Fund and ₱83.9 million for the Local Economic Enterprise Office —Mayor Treñas said the administration is ready to deepen investments in health, housing, employment, and social protection.

“Our goal is not just progress on paper, but progress people can feel,” the mayor said. “What we are building now is a city that works better for every Ilonggo.”

As Iloilo City moves forward, its early gains are shaping a development path grounded in continuity, inclusivity, and lasting impact—positioning the city as one of the country’s most forward-looking urban centers. (CITY HALL ADVERTORIAL)