BY PRINCE GOLEZ
Manila Reporter
MANILA – On June 27 when President Benigno Aquino III inaugurates the widened Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue in Iloilo City, he may also test its newly constructed bicycle lanes.
Senate President Franklin Drilon said the avenue, popularly known as the Diversion Road, has been purposely widened to ease traffic congestion and make it pedestrian-friendly.
Tree-lined sidewalks and bicycle lanes have been provided on both sides of the avenue.
Bicycle use, Drilon said, will help decongest the long stretch of highway and save people money on gasoline.
Drilon also said improving Iloilo City’s roadways will provide easy access to key investment areas.
Next week, the President will also inspect the ongoing construction of the P700-million Iloilo Convention Center.
He is expected to witness the ceremonial contract signing for the convention center’s operation and management, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda told Panay News yesterday.
“As we work toward achieving lasting peace and prosperity, we build wider networks of roads that connect Filipinos across the country in our shared vision of a stronger, more united Philippines,” Lacierda said.
President Aquino will also inaugurate the 14-kilometer Iloilo Circumferential Road.
Cong. Arcadio Gorriceta of Iloilo’s 2nd District has proposed that this be named after the President’s mother, former President Corazon Aquino.
Also on June 27, President Aquino will turn-over 1,000 low-cost houses in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro, Iloilo City to informal settlers that used to live along the banks of the Iloilo River./PN
