ILOILO City – The newly opened Iloilo River North Bank Road, also known as the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, has quickly become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its scenic esplanade walkway and eco-friendly features.
Spanning five kilometers from Barangay Tabucan in Mandurriao district to Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo, the P2.261-billion project boasts four lanes, bike paths, solar-powered LED lights, viewing decks, and recreational spaces.
Despite its popularity, concerns have been raised about how the boulevard is being used.
During the recent Dinagyang Festival, thousands of revelers left behind significant waste, including liquor bottles and food wrappers, prompting calls for stricter regulations.
Mayor Jerry Treñas has directed the City Council to draft an ordinance outlining guidelines and penalties for the proper use of the boulevard.
The ordinance is expected to address issues like littering, the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and the management of activities in the area.
Partial turnover for maintenance
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 director Sanny Boy Oropel has proposed a partial turnover of the boulevard to the Iloilo City government.
This would allow the city to allocate resources and pass resolutions ensuring cleanliness, security, and proper maintenance.
Oropel acknowledged that DPWH currently lacks maintenance funds, leaving the area without proper upkeep.
He also supports deploying police officers and traffic aides to enhance safety and orderliness along the boulevard.
Collaboration with Oton LGU
Engr. Neil Ravena, head of the General Services Office, emphasized the need for collaboration with the Oton local government.
Since a significant portion of the boulevard lies in Oton, both sides have agreed to implement uniform rules on waste management and planting materials.
“We need to work together to ensure that the rules and regulations we set are consistent,” Ravena said, noting that his team has already been deployed to manage garbage disposal and beautification efforts.
Ravena urged residents to take pride in Sunset Boulevard and help protect it. “This is a very good infrastructure. Hopefully, we will have a sense of ownership as Ilonggos. Let us keep the boulevard free from litter and protect the plants,” he said.
Sunset Boulevard, designed with eco-friendly urban planning, includes a road, pedestrian and bike lanes of equal width, and a planting strip.
It officially opened to vehicular traffic on January 24, following its opening to joggers in June last year.
Mayor Treñas has also instructed the installation of waste bins and additional plants to enhance the area further.
As the city and Oton continue to coordinate on the boulevard’s management, local officials hope that the landmark will remain a clean, safe, and beautiful space for everyone to enjoy./PN
