INQUIRER FILES
ILOILO CITY – The city government of Iloilo is urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to speed up a project on Calle Real, a vital thoroughfare in downtown Iloilo.
In a letter sent to Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Dec. 17, Mayor Jerry Treñas highlighted the urgency of completing the project, noting that Calle Real is a major artery for over 500,000 residents.
He also emphasized that the delay in the construction works on Calle Real hinders economic activities and daily commuting, significantly affecting residents’ quality of life.
The ongoing P49.4-million project includes crucial upgrades like a new drainage system, rehabilitation of Plazoleta Gay, installation of curb and cutter enhancements, and application of thermoplastic pavement markings.
Although the project was initially scheduled for completion by Dec. 13, District Engineer Roy Pacanan reportedly requested an extension.
Treñas voiced his frustration over the delays.
“It appears that the district engineer has no sense of urgency and is insensitive to the plight of more than 500,000 residents of Iloilo City who have been tremendously affected by the delayed completion,” he said.
Residents from nearby municipalities also expressed their grievances about severe traffic jams, disrupted business operations, and overall inconvenience.
Pacanan attributed the delay in drainage works at Calle Real to city government officials for not quickly responding to their requests. He said they had requested to meet with Treñas on Feb. 15, 2024, but it happened on May 2.
Pacanan also refuted Treñas’ claim that they made an assurance that the project would be completed by Dec. 13.
“Had the city government timely responded to our request for meetings as early as May 2024, the project could have been completed ahead of schedule. Thus, instead of pointing an accusing finger, [Mayor Treñas] should check the efficiency of his administration, with all due respect,” he said.
During a media briefing last month, Dave Belarga, the project’s supervising engineer, mentioned efforts to fast-track the construction.
He also said construction would pause in the second week of December to accommodate preparations for Christmas, the Dinagyang Festival, and the Chinese New Year celebration in January.
The original plan aims to open significant portions of the road back to traffic by the second week of December, but logistical delays have prevented this goal from materializing.
Treñas appealed to DPWH to prioritize the project completion, emphasizing that delays are no longer just logistical inconveniences but are beginning to impact residents’ livelihoods and city commerce.