ILOILO City – Former Senate President Franklin Drilon on Tuesday urged Ilonggos to strictly observe laws and regulations, warning that failure to do so could undermine investor confidence and stall Iloilo’s economic momentum amid recent tensions over clearing operations involving ambulant vendors.
Drilon made the call during his April 14 visit to the newly redeveloped Iloilo Central Market and Iloilo Terminal Market, emphasizing that discipline and adherence to rules are critical to sustaining growth and securing continued investments in the city.
“Let us follow the rules. Whatever the regulations are, we must obey them. If we do not follow them, there will be chaos — and we will never be able to move forward,” he said.
He emphasized that the rule of law remains the foundation of any thriving community.
“An orderly society is the key to the progress of any place. If there is no order, there will be no progress,” Drilon added.
Drawing from national experience, Drilon cited the rehabilitation of Boracay Island as an example of how strict enforcement of laws can yield long-term benefits.
“If Boracay had not been closed, it would not be what it is today. That shows that when you enforce the law, people follow — and we move forward,” he said.
He also pointed to past efforts to clear sidewalk obstructions nationwide as a necessary step toward restoring order in public spaces.
“These are examples that when the law is enforced — especially if it is just — people will comply. And when people comply, development follows,” he added.
Drilon’s remarks came in the wake of a recent commotion involving ambulant vendors, highlighting the challenge of balancing livelihood concerns with enforcement of city regulations.
While acknowledging ongoing difficulties, he urged Ilonggos to support government policies aimed at long-term progress.
“Instead of increasing poverty, let us grow the economy. Instead of having more poor people, let us create more who can afford,” he said. “That is why I am asking everyone — let us follow the rules for the good of all.”
Highlighting the redevelopment of Iloilo’s public markets through a partnership with the SM Group, Drilon stressed that public cooperation is essential to protect and justify major investments.
“This is a P3-billion investment. The SM Group entrusted this to Iloilo — to the Ilonggos,” he said. “But we must also show them that we deserve their confidence. We must show them that we are worth their investment.”
He described the project as a “masterpiece” of public-private partnership, demonstrating what can be achieved when government and private sector work together.
“In today’s environment, government resources are limited. That is why partnerships like this are critical. This is how we continue development,” Drilon added.
Drilon emphasized the vital role of public markets in sustaining local economies, especially during periods of economic uncertainty.
“A public market is a basic economic unit. It provides livelihood, creates jobs, and keeps economic activity alive,” he said.
He noted that the Iloilo Central Market, which has stood for over a century, has survived wars, economic crises, and even the pandemic.
“It has lasted more than 120 years because it serves the people. That is why this redevelopment must succeed,” he said.
Drilon also expressed strong confidence in Iloilo’s continued rise as a model for urban development, citing effective leadership and strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“Iloilo is now a model of urban development. It shows what a properly managed local government unit can achieve through partnerships,” he said.
He credited the continuity of programs under Mayor Raisa Treñas, building on the initiatives of former mayor Jerry Treñas.
“I am confident that if we continue on this path — with discipline and good leadership — we will become even more progressive,” he added.
For Drilon, infrastructure and investments alone are not enough to ensure progress.
“It is not only about buildings and projects. It is about people following the rules,” he said. “If we follow the law, we cannot go wrong.”/PN
