ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has responded to growing concerns over infrastructure projects in this city, following the viral circulation of a letter from District Engineer Roy Pacanan addressed to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 director Sanny Boy Oropel.
In a statement, Treñas emphasized that his defense and exercise of the city’s oversight function was in the interest of the people of Iloilo City, citing legitimate grievances raised by residents, business owners, and market vendors directly impacted by the slow progress and lack of transparency in certain DPWH-administered infrastructure projects.
“The concerns I have raised are legitimate complaints from our constituents — residents, business owners, and market vendors — who have been directly affected by the delay and lack of transparency in the implementation of certain infrastructure projects,” Treñas stated.
Pacanan had reportedly viewed the mayor’s inquiries as an intrusion into his duties, but Treñas clarified that the city government’s involvement was rooted in its responsibility to safeguard public interest and ensure accountability in the management of government funds.
“These inquiries are necessary to act on written complaints without imputing malice. Public office, after all, is a public trust,” said Treñas./PN
