BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO CITY – Mayor Jerry Treñas announced the expansion of the Iloilo City Action and Response (ICARE) Centers, aimed at boosting emergency response efficiency across the city. The expansion will include new centers in the Jaro district.
The mayor detailed plans for a new multipurpose building to replace the current barangay hall of Benedicto, located next to the Puericulture building, which temporarily houses the Jaro police. An additional ICARE Center is slated for construction in Banker’s Village subdivision, Barangay Tabuc Suba, which will also serve as the new location for the Jaro Police Station.
This expansion is a continuation of the city’s efforts to enhance public safety. Currently, operational ICARE Centers are located in the barangays of Calumpang, Balantang, Ungka, and Sooc, with a command center at Gaisano Diversion. Additionally, construction is underway for three more centers in Esperanza, Nabitasan, and Megaworld.
Mayor Treñas highlighted the relocation of police stations closer to community areas, emphasizing the initiative’s role in improving emergency service accessibility and response times.
The overarching goal of these developments, as underscored by City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head Donna Magno during a forum with local government unit (LGU) representatives, is to significantly reduce emergency response times for police, fire, and ambulance services. The strategic placement and integration of these centers are pivotal in achieving this objective.
Mayor Treñas reiterated the city’s commitment to enhancing public safety and ensuring rapid, coordinated responses to emergencies. The ongoing expansion of the ICARE network reflects this commitment to the welfare and security of Iloilo City’s residents. /PN
