Iloilo City’s transformation into a hub of innovation and sustainability has earned praise from United States Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, during her visit on Friday, January 17.
Carlson met with Mayor Jerry Treñas and department heads to evaluate the impact of projects supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
She praised the city’s progress in environmental restoration, innovation, education, and digital modernization, driven by U.S.-backed initiatives.
USAID’s support for the Iloilo River Development Master Plan enabled the creation of the Iloilo Esplanade, which rehabilitated the river and positioned Iloilo as a model for urban environmental sustainability.
These initiatives directly addressed critical challenges, revitalizing the Iloilo River, improving literacy, and streamlining business processes, Carlson said.
On the economic front, the Urban Connect Project introduced a fully digital business permitting system, modernizing processes and strengthening Iloilo’s appeal to investors.
ALSO READ: Signal jamming off the table for Dinagyang, says Iloilo City mayor
Also, Carlson dived into the city’s cultural and culinary heritage, emphasizing its global recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and celebrating its vibrant identity on the international stage.
On the other hand, the city achieved the highest literacy rate in Western Visayas through USAID’s Advancing Basic Education in the Philippines program, which enhanced literacy and numeracy skills among children. City leaders continue to pursue full literacy as their next milestone.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.