ILOILO City – This southern city’s best practices on sustainable development gained commendation from no less than the Secretary-General of the CityNet, Vijay Jagannathan.
In a press briefing Monday at the sidelines of the 44th CityNet Executive Committee Meeting here, Jagganathan hailed Iloilo City’s disaster risk management as a “standout best practice”.
He highlighted the city’s proactive efforts in disaster preparedness, response, and resilience-building, emphasizing its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Iloilo City is recognized as a leading example. I can say that even globally, it is a hugely successful example,” he told reporters.
Jagannathan noted that Iloilo City’s strategies serve as a model for other cities aiming to enhance their disaster risk management frameworks while fostering sustainable urban development.
Jagannathan also praised Iloilo City for its dedication to protecting its cultural heritage. He cited this effort as a critical achievement, noting that many cities in the Asia-Pacific region are only now beginning to prioritize heritage conservation.
Jagannathan remarked on the growing pressure to demolish historical buildings due to increasing land values and the allure of high-rise developments. He said Iloilo City’s commitment to preserving its heritage mansions is significant in maintaining its historical identity.
“The fact that you’ve been able to keep your mansions is very important,” Jagannathan said, adding that without such efforts, the city risks losing its historical essence over time as seen in highly urbanized areas like Makati City.
He lauded Iloilo’s foresight in safeguarding its cultural legacy for future generations.
In addition, Jagannathan further praised the city’s efforts to maintain its historical landmarks, such as heritage mansions, which protect Iloilo’s unique identity and legacy for future generations.
Iloilo City’s proactive and effective strategies in disaster preparedness and resilience were lauded as exemplary practices.
Jagannathan noted the city’s innovative initiatives to celebrate its culinary heritage and create vibrant public spaces, such as its night markets. He pointed out that such ideas, while common in Europe and the United States of America, are still rare in many developing countries.
For his part, Acting Mayor Jeffrey P. Ganzon officially welcomed the delegates to the ExeCom Meeting, expressing Iloilo City’s pride in hosting this vital event.
In his remarks, Ganzon emphasized the city’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability in urban development.
Speaking on behalf of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, Ganzon encouraged CityNet members to strengthen collaborations, explore innovative solutions, share best practices, and integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into urban planning and development frameworks.
In his message to the 44th CityNet ExeCom Meeting, Mayor Treñas expressed Iloilo City’s pride in aligning its current and future initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized that these efforts support the city’s aspiration to become one of the Top 3 Most Livable, Sustainable, and Resilient Cities in the Philippines by 2029.
Treñas underscored Iloilo City’s commitment to embedding the SDGs into its urban development strategies, showcasing its dedication to creating an inclusive, safe, and progressive environment for its residents.
“Our efforts in promoting sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) are evident through our various initiatives such as enhancing social and health services, implementing eco-friendly projects like extensive native tree planting and renewable energy endeavors, alongside sustainable programs that cater to the needs of senior citizens, persons with disabilities, youth, women and LGBTQIA+,” he said.
Treñas noted how Iloilo City’s initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly contributing to improved health and well-being (SDG 3), reduced inequalities, and climate action.
The mayor also emphasized the interconnected and reinforcing nature of the SDGs, where progress in one area supports advancements in others.
The leaders also participated in the international sessions, which aimed at promoting knowledge-sharing on pressing urban issues, exploring resolutions aligned with sustainable development principles.
Over 100 leaders from Asia Pacific region gathered yesterday at the Iloilo Convention Center to kick off the 44th CityNet ExeCom Meeting.
The meeting, themed “Living the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Shared Future for All”, underscores a unified commitment to achieving the SDGs and promoting urban sustainability through collaboration and innovation.
The prestigious event brought together high-ranking officials from across the region to exchange ideas and share best practices in addressing urban challenges, reaffirming the role of regional partnerships in driving sustainable development.
Running until Nov. 20, the gathering includes key events such as the 3rd SDG City Awards Session and a series of international seminars.
The first day of the meeting highlighted the 3rd SDG City Awards Session, wherein cities showcased their innovative practices and strategies for advancing the SDGs, offering inspiration and practical lessons for other localities./PN