A ‘greener’ future for Iloilo City

Iloilo City is headed for a “greener” and more sustainable future with more green projects to be implemented as the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic has forced authorities to invest in long-term projects.

The city government has started laying down the groundwork for the ambitious Iloilo City Tree Park Network which envisions a greener and environment-friendly metropolis, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.

Among the projects include a three-hectare Tree Park to be developed at Brgy. Boulevard in Molo district at the mouth of Iloilo-Batiano River; and a three-hectare Tree Park near the relocation site in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro.

Meanwhile, the first-ever Iloilo City Butterfly Garden will soon rise at the La Paz Plaza. The 270-square meter garden will feature 24 plants and four common butterfly species.

The mayor also announced the plan to construct the Iloilo City Green Tunnel along the Benigno Aquino Avenue St. in Mandurriao district which will be integrated in the existing bike lanes in the metro.

Alongside the tunnels, the city government has also partnered with property-giant Megaworld for the installation of waiting sheds along Diversion Road.

On Sunday, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Iloilo City government and Megaworld for the construction of the waiting sheds.

Under the public private partnership (PPP), Megaworld will initiate the construction of 31 waiting sheds designed by renowned Architect Paulo Alcazaren.

“Climate change has brought extreme rains and heat waves to the globe. In Iloilo City, in order to mitigate climate change, the Green Tunnels are on the works for our residents to have a greener walk lane. We will also be constructing waiting sheds with vines and plants as roofing along Benigno Aquino Avenue’s public jeepney loading and unloading bays. This 2021, we envision a safer, cleaner, and greener Iloilo City for our citizens to enjoy and nurture,” the mayor said in previous interviews.

The Iloilo City Tree Park Network which will include eco-parks, mangroves and wetlands developments will be implemented in partnership with City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). (ERS)