Lawmaker to inspect city projects

SENATOR Franklin Drilon will check the status of the more than P2-billion road projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Iloilo City.

Drilon will be accompanied by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, officials of the DPWH and the National Housing Authority (NHA) to inspect the projects, including the ongoing construction of 1,300 housing units at Barangay Lanit and the soon to be completed Double A slaughterhouse in Jaro district.

Drilon will also lead the inauguration of the Iloilo River esplanade project on Saturday with Mabilog, Representative Jerry Treñas, Vice Mayor Jose Espinosa III, city councilors and Sarangani Congressman Manuel Pacquiao.

Drilon said the road projects will open new areas in the city, especially in the eastern part, shorten distance from north and south of Iloilo, and have more road access to the Iloilo airport of international standards.

Meanwhile, the NHA assured P144-million fund for the construction of housing units at the city-owned five-hectare lot in Barangay Lanit, Jaro to accommodate families living in Molo district along Iloilo River.

President Benigno Aquino III has assured another P100 million for the relocated families along the river banks and the project site is earmarked at the more than 3-hectare lot in Barangay Sooc, Arevalo.

The DPWH also assured another P100 million under its socialized housing program for the construction of houses for the informal settlers.

The city has recorded more than 5,000 families, who are still living along the river banks and danger zones and are needed to be relocated.