By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has vetoed a regulation ordinance on road closures for Iloilo City District Engineering Office (ICDEO) projects due to its failure to coordinate with the city government.
Regulation Ordinance No. 2025-046, which was approved by the Iloilo City Council on March 5, was blocked by the mayor, preventing the temporary road closures outlined in the measure.
The planned closures involve three projects: the reconstruction of concrete pavement on Arevalo Bypass Road, the construction of a road and drainage system near Iloilo Doctors’ College, and a similar project in Lawaan Village.
The road closures began on March 6, 2025, and will continue until the projects are completed.
Treñas cited ICDEO’s failure to comply with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Order No. 110 as the basis for his veto.
The order requires DPWH implementing offices, such as ICDEO, to conduct periodic consultations and coordinate with concerned local officials, including the city mayor.
It also mandates that local officials receive copies of the approved DPWH Infrastructure Program for their areas, including any realignments or amendments.
The lack of consultation deprived the city government and its constituents of the opportunity to determine whether the projects comply with local ordinances, including environmental, socio-cultural, and heritage laws, according to Treñas.
Joy Fantilaga, Treñas’ spokesperson, clarified that ICDEO can still reapply for approval by complying with DPWH guidelines.
However, until compliance is met, the projects cannot proceed.
Councilor Johnny Young, chair of the Committee on Engineering and Public Works, is set to conduct a hearing to address the issue.
