Preparations are under way for the inauguration of first Iloilo river Esplanade project on August 18, Saturday, and now plans for two more projects are being ironed out by the Iloilo city government and Department of Public Works and Highways along the Iloilo River.
Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog made the announcement after Ilonggo Senator Franklin M. Drilon approved the proposal made by the city to extend the project to two more sites along the river.
The second esplanade project will be from the Carpenter’s Bridge going to Sooc and the third project will be from the Diversion road up to the Jalandoni Bridge.
With the first river Esplanade project along the Efrain Treñas Boulevard built at P37 million contract amount only, the balance amount from the P70 million budget and other unused materials from the project will initially start construction of the second Esplanade project.
The designer of the first Iloilo Esplanade project was internationally acclaimed architect Paolo Alcazaren who also designed the Singapore quay and river esplanade.
The first esplanade will be available to the general public from 5 in the morning to 11 o’clock in the evening everyday. The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) will maintain the cleanliness of the area while the Iloilo City police office will maintain the security and peace and order situation.
The Iloilo city government will be providing other needs of those using the esplanade such as comfort rooms and water. Vendors will not be allowed in the area but people can bring along their picnic basket or patronize nearby restaurants at the boardwalk area.
