ILOILO City – Anchored on the theme “Celebrating 89 Years of Progress Toward a Better Iloilo City for All,” Iloilo City is celebrating its 89th Charter Day through a diverse, monthlong lineup of sports, cultural, economic, and public service activities designed to bring the government closer to the grassroots.
One of the highlights of the monthlong celebration is the recognition of the Top 10 Outstanding Ilonggos. These individuals are being honored for their commitment to public service, community impact, and exemplary contributions to the city’s rapid development. The awarding ceremony will take place during the Mayor’s Night on August 25, coinciding with the city’s official 89th Charter Day Anniversary.
Mayor Raisa S. Treñas emphasized that this year’s milestones extend far beyond simply commemorating the city’s founding anniversary. Instead, they spotlight Iloilo City’s sustained, forward-looking momentum through people-centered programs that champion community participation, cultural preservation, grassroots sports, tourism, and inclusive economic growth.
“As part of our Charter Day celebration, we have so many activities lined up — from sports and culture to social services and many more. We made sure that this celebration is truly for the Ilonggos. Our culminating activity will be the awarding of the Top 10 Outstanding Ilonggos on August 25,” Mayor Treñas said.
Throughout August, residents are encouraged to take part in a diverse lineup of social service programs, cultural and arts events, sports competitions, and community activities.
On August 10, the City Civil Registry Office, in partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), will hold a Mobile Registration Caravan and National ID registration at Plaza Libertad.
Pet owners and animal lovers can also join Pet Fashionista on the RISE! on August 14 at Robinsons Place Jaro, featuring free pet consultations, deworming, anti-rabies vaccination, and a pet adoption drive.
Other health and community-centered activities include the BSPO and Family Planning Day on August 20 at the La Paz Plaza Covered Gym, a Medical and Dental Mission for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in the districts of Jaro, La Paz, Molo, Arevalo, and Mandurriao from August 24 to 28, and the GAD & GLOW: Iloilo City Employees Wellness and Pampering Day on August 27 at the Iloilo City Hall Penthouse Auditorium.
Culture and the arts will also take center stage with the official Saot Ilonggo launching on July 31 at SM City Iloilo, followed by the Saot Ilonggo Competition on August 21 at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center. The celebration culminates with the Calle Real Charter Day Night Market from August 28 to 30, showcasing local food, products, entertainment, and the City’s vibrant creative and entrepreneurial spirit.
In line with Iloilo City’s distinction as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIC) will also conduct free cooking classes every Saturday throughout August, where participants can learn to prepare traditional Ilonggo dishes such as KBL (kadyos, baboy, langka), laswa, and other local favorites.
“One program I personally pushed for is the free cooking classes because Iloilo’s culture is now closely associated with its gastronomy. Every Saturday, residents can learn how to cook traditional Ilonggo dishes at TIIC,” the mayor added.
Sports enthusiasts can likewise look forward to a full calendar of competitions, including the Karate Tournament on August 8; the 89th Charter Day 17-Under Volleyball League from August 8 to 22; Rise & Flip: ICSA Charter Day Gymnastics In-house Competition, the Taekwondo Tournament, and the Charter Day Iloilo City Marathon on August 15; the 2nd Iloilo Charter Day Pencak Silat Inter-Schools Championship from August 21 to 23; Sambuwa 2026: 1st PEKAF Iloilo City Open Invitation Sports Arnis Tournament and the Iloilo Tigersharks Swimming Competition on August 22 to 23; the Boxing Tournament on August 23; and the 4th Haboyanay sa Ciudad de Iloilo Charter Day National Darts Tournament from August 22 to 24.
Mayor Treñas encouraged all Ilonggos to participate in the various Charter Month activities and celebrate the City’s rich heritage, achievements, and shared aspirations.
The complete schedule of activities is also available on the official Facebook pages of the Iloilo City Government and Mayor Raisa Treñas./PN
