
BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has given utility and telecommunications companies until April 2025 to clear unsightly wires along Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue, formerly Diversion Road.

The mayor pointed out that these dangling wires, often described as “clotheslines”, detract from the aesthetic and functional value of the avenue, which has undergone significant improvements funded by the national government, including bike lanes and service roads championed by then senator Franklin Drilon.
During a meeting with public utility companies yesterday, Treñas secured their commitment to address the issue.
Companies needing additional time may request a formal three-month extension, with a deadline of April 2025.
However, failure to comply will result in immediate action by the City Engineer’s Office (CEO), which has been tasked to dismantle the wires.
To ensure thorough implementation, Treñas appointed Francis Cruz, co-chairman of the Public Utilities Group in Iloilo (PUGI), to work with the CEO in identifying and removing unaccounted-for lines.
“These unsightly lines undermine the investments we’ve made to enhance the Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue. I urge utility companies to act swiftly and responsibly,” said Treñas.
The initiative is part of a broader underground cabling project mandated by Regulation Ordinance No. 2023-006, authored by Councilor Romel Duron.
The ordinance requires utility companies to relocate wires underground in areas like Calle Real and Aquino Avenue within 240 days. Non-compliance could lead to fines and permit cancellations.
Treñas earlier praised the efforts of Converge, Globe, Smart, and PLDT for adhering to the ordinance by removing lines and poles along Calle Real.
However, the mayor directed City Administrator Melchor Tan and the CEO to monitor other utilities closely to ensure progress.
Focus on urban transformation
Treñas stressed the importance of the project as a cornerstone of Iloilo City’s transformation, blending progress with heritage preservation.
“This is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that Benigno Aquino Avenue and Calle Real remain symbols of Iloilo City’s progress and history,” Treñas added.
The mayor reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding public spaces, maintaining Iloilo City’s reputation as a model for development, and ensuring that utility companies contribute to the city’s urban beautification.
“This is for the welfare of Iloilo City and its people. We cannot let these wires ruin the hard work and resources invested for the benefit of all Ilonggos,” Treñas stressed./PN