The Iloilo River Esplanade is one of the best examples of successful urban renewal in the Philippines. It shows how good governance, honest leadership, and sustainable planning can turn a flood-prone river into a clean and vibrant public space. Once a neglected and polluted area, the Esplanade is now the country’s longest linear park and a symbol of what a city can achieve with a clear vision and teamwork.
The project, led by Former Senator Frank Drilon and Mayor Jerry Treñas, started as a flood control and river rehabilitation initiative. Over the years, it developed into a modern riverside park that protects communities from flooding while promoting fitness, tourism, and environmental protection. It is proof that infrastructure can be both functional and beautiful.
Other Philippine cities should learn from Iloilo’s experience. Across the country, billions of pesos are wasted on unfinished or corrupt flood control projects that fail to protect people during heavy rains. Iloilo shows that when leaders are transparent and accountable, progress follows.
The Esplanade is more than just a park. It is a model of disaster resilience and community pride. If Iloilo can clean its river, control flooding, and build a world-class public space, then cities like Manila, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro can do it too. The answer is simple: stop corruption, plan wisely, and build with honesty and purpose.
#IloiloEsplanade #SustainableCities #FloodResiliencePH #StopCorruption #USWAGIloilo
UrbanTribe PH 