The construction of the urban shading, also known as the "green tunnel," along Diversion Road in Mandurriao, Iloilo City is now underway. This initiative is part of the P74-million national investment aimed at promoting active mobility and sustainable infrastructure.
Funding and Scope
Financed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) at no cost to the Iloilo City Government, the project includes the establishment of one Stand-Alone End-of-Trip (EOT) Cycling Facility, a Short-Term EOT Facility, and improved public transport stops. These additions aim to create safer and more commuter- and cyclist-friendly roads.
Project Sites
Site I for the urban shading stretches 378 linear meters along the bike lane of Cuartero-Calubihan. Site II will begin along the bike lane across Plazuela de Iloilo going toward San Rafael, with a total length of 352 linear meters.
The Iloilo City Government and the DOTr officially broke ground on May 11, 2026, marking a shift from simply maintaining roads to creating an integrated mobility ecosystem. These transformative projects are designed to make the city more walkable and bike-friendly.
Second City to Receive Project
Iloilo is only the second city in the country to be granted this project, following Marikina City, as revealed by Mayor Raisa Treñas during the ceremony.
"We are very grateful for this project, and the commitment of the city does not end here," she said, expressing gratitude to the project partners, the Iloilo City Active Mobility Council, the public, and the city's cleaning, greening, and beautification teams.
End-of-Trip Facilities
The EOT facilities will feature secure bicycle parking, showers, changing rooms, and lockers to support commuters cycling to work or school. Chosen sites include Esplanade 3 Skate Park, where the groundbreaking ceremony took place, and the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
"It's timely because of the crisis. But we're showing also that the initiative was prior to the crisis; we've thought of this ahead," said Ar. Wilfredo S. Sy Jr., member of the Iloilo City Active Mobility Council.
Although the project is slated for completion within 280 calendar days, Sy looks forward to one component completed ahead of schedule. This phased approach will allow the city to refine construction and implementation for future project components. The DOTr initially provided a project template, granting the city flexibility to customize and localize the implementation.
Future Plans
As part of sustainable urban transportation efforts, the mayor teased improving the Iloilo Bike Festival, held annually in June, into a Mobility Festival. Sy supported this, adding that the council seeks to elevate the quarterly bike count by integrating pedestrian count and covering the new Iloilo Sunset Boulevard.
