By Xander Ledesma
The Iloilo River Esplanade has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Asian Townscape Award. The award honors cities, regions, and projects that have made significant contributions to landscape architecture and urban development.
The 9-kilometer esplanade, spanning both sides of the Iloilo River, is considered the longest linear park in the Philippines. It features 13 interconnected sections and traverses seven city districts.
Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed his gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the project’s role in transforming Iloilo City into a model of sustainable urban development. He credited former Senator Franklin Drilon’s vision and leadership for the successful implementation of the project.
The award was received by City Planning and Development Office head Ronald Cartagena in Fukuoka, Japan.
In addition to the Asian Townscape Award, Iloilo City is set to receive a special trophy for the Livable City Award during the 3rd CityNet’s United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) SDG City Awards.