The Iloilo City Government has been implementing the rehabilitation of district plazas. This is to create healthy and urban living environments that will encourage physical activities and promote social interaction within the community.
“The plazas are being restored by the city because we want to make public spaces available to our constituents for free. Public spaces are very important as it gives people a place to rethink and recharge,” Mayor Jerry Treñas stressed.
The City Government has initially allocated about P190-million for the redevelopment of three district plazas. The budget distribution are as follows: Jaro Plaza with P90-million, La Paz with P60-million, and Arevalo with P40-million.
Meanwhile, Phase 1 of Mandurriao Plaza Redevelopment is funded with some P17-million under the Green, Green, Green Program 2020 of the Department of Budget and Management.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines funds and implements the rehabilitation of the following:
Molo Plaza Redevelopment
Restoration of the Jaro Belfry
Rehabilitation of the Lopez Jaena Shrine and Jaro Plaza Bandstand
“The revitalization of our district plazas aims to bring back community patronage and appreciation of our public open spaces. A space where “everyONE knows every JUAN,” a diminishing trait or character in an urbanized society,” said City Architect Regina C. Gregorio.
Plazas in Libertad, Jaro and Arevalo have started rehabilitation works. Fourth quarter of 2022 is the expected date of completion.
Hopefully, construction for plazas in Mandurriao and La Paz will commence by March.
Generally, the scope of works for plazas involve the reconstruction of walkways or pathways. It also includes the construction of drainage system, installation of streetlights, restoration of monuments and installation of signages.
Report from: Iloilo City PIO
