Iloilo City Hosts 2025 PopDev Awards, Recognizing Western Visayas Champions
The Commission on Population and Development (PopDev) is hosting the 2025 PopDev Awards on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Iloilo City. This significant regional event brings together local government units, partner agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners from across Western Visayas to celebrate excellence in population and development initiatives.
Celebrating Excellence in Population Programs
The awards ceremony recognizes outstanding Local Population Offices and PopDev champions for their contributions to advancing population and development programs throughout Western Visayas. In a video message, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized the ongoing commitment to people-centered programs, stating, "We are reminded that our work does not stop here with these awards. We will continue strengthening our people-centered programs in line with the vision of our regional and national government."
Mayor Treñas expressed pride in Iloilo City's recognition as the Most Outstanding Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in the region and revealed the city's ambition to achieve Hall of Fame status. The Iloilo City Population Office, led by Ma. Cecilia Guillergan, plays a pivotal role in these efforts.
Strengthening Partnerships and Knowledge-Sharing
Director Harold Alfred Marshall of the Commission on Population and Development Region 7 highlighted the agency's focus on fostering knowledge-sharing and partnerships to enhance programs across Western Visayas. "I extend my congratulations to all local population offices across Western Visayas. May we continue to inspire one another as we strive for excellence and work toward our common goal for the good of our local governments," added Mayor Treñas.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. was represented by Atty. Ruel Von D. Superio, his chief of staff and head executive assistant. Superio underscored the deeper motivation behind public service, saying, "Public service is not driven merely by recognition but by our shared commitment to serve where we live, and by our conviction that every effort we make helps our communities thrive."
Iloilo City as a Hub for Regional Development
Iloilo City's hosting of the 2025 PopDev Awards reinforces its position as a central hub for governance, collaboration, and regional development initiatives in Western Visayas. This event not only honors achievements but also strengthens the network of stakeholders dedicated to improving population outcomes and community well-being across the region.
