1 month ago
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ILOILO CITY — Mayor Jerry Treñas has expressed strong dismay over the irresponsible disposal of waste at the newly opened Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, calling it an unacceptable disregard for public cleanliness.
CLEANUP Personnel from the Iloilo City Environment and Natural Resources Office and the General Services Office collect trash littered along the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard and the nearby waterways on Feb. 2, 2025. PHOTO FROM ILOILO CITY GOVERNMENT
Days after it was opened for full public use on Jan. 24, the P2.261-billion boulevard quickly turned into an open dumpsite by local residents and tourists who visited the area. Photos of trash reaching the nearby waterways have also circulated online.
"I am extremely disappointed by the lack of discipline shown by some individuals, especially after the government's efforts to build and beautify this public space. This kind of behavior is unacceptable, and we will not tolerate it," the mayor said in a statement on Saturday.
In response, the city government led a cleanup operation on Sunday morning at the boulevard, including the river beside it.
Treñas said temporary garbage bins and kaings (bamboo baskets) will be placed throughout the area to prevent further littering and green guards will be deployed to help enforce cleanliness and order.
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Aside from waste management efforts, police visibility will be heightened to monitor compliance with ordinances on public drinking, curfews for minors and littering in public places.
The City Veterinary Office has also been directed to ensure that stray animals such as dogs and goats do not roam the boulevard.
"Keeping Sunset Boulevard clean and orderly is not just the city's job — it is everyone's responsibility [...] Let us respect and protect the spaces that the government has worked hard to build," Treñas said.
The city mayor warned that strict enforcement of city ordinances will be implemented without exceptions. Individuals caught violating regulations will be penalized, including possible arrest.
"Do not try my patience," the mayor firmly stated.
Meanwhile, the partial turnover of the boulevard from the Department of Public Works and Highways to the city government is set to proceed once Treñas secures authorization from the City Council.
