BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – Makati City’s Mayor Abby Binay arrived in this city to participate in the 44th CityNet Executive Committee (ExeCom) Meeting, marking her first visit to the City of Love.
Speaking to Panay News, Binay expressed her admiration for Iloilo City and praised Mayor Jerry Treñas for hosting the international gathering.
“Mayor Jerry Treñas has decided to host this. This is a Southeast Asia international organization. It’s a great opportunity for Iloilo City to showcase its achievements,” Binay said.
The Makati City mayor highlighted her interest in exploring the city’s famed Iloilo River Esplanade, often touted as a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
“I’d still want to go to your promenade kasi yun yung pinagmamalaki ni Mayor Jerry. Iloilo is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and you’re very proud of your food. I’ll go to your promenade to see kung gaano talaga kaganda ang Iloilo,” she added.
When asked about her initial impressions of the city, Binay was struck by Iloilo City’s strict no-smoking policy and cleanliness.
“Unang-una, na-shock ako kasi bawal manigarilyo dito. Sabi ko sa asawa ko, bawal siya dito. That really requires political will. Very admirable kasi kahit sa amin ‘di kayang gawin yun. Panglawa, ang linis,” she remarked.
Yesterday, Binay attended a welcome party hosted by the Gorriceta family at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. She noted her close friendship with Mark Gorriceta, a prominent figure from Iloilo who also has ties to Makati City.
The 44th CityNet ExeCom Meeting gathers leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss sustainable urban development. Four city mayors from the Philippines — Makati, Muntinlupa, Roxas, and Tacurong — are set to share their insights and experiences, providing a valuable local perspective to the discussions./PN
