Iloilo City has achieved a significant milestone in sports infrastructure with the inauguration of the La Paz Plaza Football Ground Lighting Project, marking the first plaza-based lighted football facility in Panay Island.
Historic Lighting Ceremony
The ceremonial lighting took place on November 12, 2025, at exactly 5:15 p.m., led by Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas and MGEN Thermal Panay Site Head Antonio "Jun" Cabalhug. The event formed part of the annual "Paskwa sa La Paz Plaza" Christmas celebration initiated by Panay Energy Development Corporation in 2011.
The P17.3-million project represents a powerful collaboration between the Iloilo City Government and private sector partners including MGEN Thermal Panay Site, Panay Energy, and One Meralco Foundation.
Community Resilience and Collaboration
In his welcome address, Cabalhug emphasized that the project symbolizes community resilience, particularly referencing the recent challenges faced by Ilonggos including earthquakes and typhoons. "Our hearts are still with the people of Iloilo, who have shown remarkable strength and resilience," Cabalhug stated.
The lighting system features internationally compliant LED technology imported from China, consisting of 40 powerful lights designed to ensure safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability. While the private partners provided full funding, the Iloilo City Government contributed technical design and specifications.
Boosting Iloilo's Football Capital Status
Mayor Treñas described the project as more than just infrastructure, calling it "a glowing symbol of what collaboration and shared dreams can achieve." The facility aligns with the city's "placemaking" initiative to transform public spaces into vibrant community hubs.
The lighted football ground is expected to create numerous opportunities for sports development, tourism, and youth engagement. "When young athletes train under bright lights for their sports tournaments—we are reminded that development is not just about structures or facilities. It's about people," Treñas emphasized.
The project reinforces Iloilo City's reputation as the "football capital of the Philippines" and provides a venue where young athletes can pursue their aspirations during evening hours, while families create lasting memories in the community space.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by officials from MGEN Thermal Panay Site, One Meralco Foundation, Global Business Power, the Philippine Sports Commission, barangay leaders of La Paz District, and members of the Iloilo City Government.
