Drilon said he will meet internationally-renowned landscape architect Paulo Alcazaren today, February 17, to discuss ways to transform the river into a tourism and business hub.
Alcazaren is credited for developing the Singapore Quay and many other landmark places in the country into tourist attractions.
Drilon said his vision for saving the Iloilo River is not confined to just clearing, cleaning and dredging the waterway and bring it back to its old self.
The Ilonggo senator said the Iloilo River has tourism and business potentials which will add another dimension to the city if designed and managed properly.
While local agencies involved in the Iloilo River Development Council are busy for the preparatory activities for a re-launch of its programs, Drilon has been meeting top agency heads to secure their commitments to help save the river.
“Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Jesus Singson has approved funding for the transfer of the river dredging equipment stationed in Hagonoy, Bulacan to Iloilo and undertake desilting operations,” Drilon said.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje has instructed Regional Executive Director Julian Amador to submit a list of illegal structures to be removed, he added.
Drilon said he has met with Philippine Ports Authority General Manager Juan Sta. Ana for the removal of sunken vessels or derelicts that pose a danger to navigation and present an ugly face of the river.
The senator also conferred with Peter Tiangco of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) to present a briefing on the orthophoto and hydrographic surveys of the river over the last 20 years.
The briefing will present a clearer picture of how siltation, encroachment and pollution have changed the Iloilo River.
Drilon vowed to bring back Iloilo River to the people by clearing it of obstructions and other unsightly structures.
source: The Daily Guardian ILOILO
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