ILOILO City – To curb nighttime accidents and protect pedestrians along one of Iloilo City’s busiest thoroughfares, Mayor Jerry reñas has ordered the installation of floodlights and the restoration of pedestrian lane markings along Diversion Road.
The City Engineer’s Office has completed the installation of seven floodlights across strategic pedestrian crossings to improve visibility for both walkers and motorists. These improvements come amid growing concerns over road safety, particularly after dark, when faded lane markings and poor lighting have increased risks for thousands of daily commuters.
Treñas said he has also formally requested the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to repaint pedestrian lanes and install rumble strips ahead of crossings. These additions aim to alert drivers to slow down and give way to pedestrians — a critical upgrade, especially near schools, offices, and commercial hubs that line the 14-lane highway.
Diversion Road, officially known as Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue, carries heavy daily foot and vehicle traffic. The recent upgrades signal the city government’s heightened attention to pedestrian infrastructure, especially as urban mobility grows.
“This is part of our continuing effort to make Iloilo a safer city for everyone — not just motorists, but especially pedestrians who are most vulnerable on the road,” Treñas said.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the local government to integrate safety into urban planning, and aligns with Iloilo City’s ongoing transformation into a more walkable, inclusive city./PN
