ILOILO City – Private establishments in this city are stepping in to help residents cope with extreme heat by opening and preparing cooling stations, expanding the city’s growing network of public relief hubs amid soaring temperatures.
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the participation of malls and hotels strengthens the city government’s ongoing efforts to protect Ilonggos from heat-related illnesses as temperatures remain elevated across the region.
Among the first establishments to roll out a cooling station is Festive Walk Mall, which has opened a public cooling hub near its marketplace area from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The facility provides seating areas, drinking water, electrolytes, and personnel trained to respond to heat-related emergencies.
“Private establishments are stepping up, and Iloilo City is grateful for this cooling relief support,” Treñas said.
She lauded the mall management for taking the initiative to provide immediate relief to residents affected by the sweltering weather.
“This shows proactive support from the private sector in helping address the challenges brought by extreme temperatures,” the mayor said.
Treñas said Citadines Amigo Iloilo and Robinsons Place Jaro are also preparing to establish their own cooling stations, while other private establishments have signified interest in joining the initiative.
“We are hopeful that more establishments will participate in this collective effort for a safer, more prepared, and more responsive Iloilo City,” she said.
The private-sector initiative complements cooling hubs already established by the Iloilo City Government along Diversion Road in Mandurriao district and near Jalandoni Bridge, with another facility being readied at Plazoleta Gay in the City Proper district.
City officials said the cooling hubs are designed to provide temporary refuge for residents exposed to intense heat, offering hydration support and basic health monitoring services.
Treñas emphasized that cooperation between government and businesses is essential in addressing climate-related challenges affecting urban communities.
“This effort shows that when we work together, nothing is impossible and everyone benefits, especially in addressing the effects of extreme heat,” she said.
The city government continues to remind residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and responsibly use available cooling stations as extreme heat conditions persist./PN
