By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo City Government has launched the “Iloilo Blooms: Bulak sa Pag-Uswag” initiative on July 8. This ambitious beautification project aims to promote green living and community engagement by planting 100,000 endemic flowers throughout the city.
The initiative targets to collect and plant 20,000 each of bougainvillea, yellow bells, Fukien tea tree, gumamela, and golden ficus in center islands, service roads, and other green spaces across Iloilo City.
Spearheaded by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas and first lady, Rosalie Treñas, a member of the Iloilo Garden Club, the project receives advisory support from Shirley Sanders of Gardens by Sanders, Inc.
Sanders lauded the Treñases’ dedication, drawing parallels to Singapore’s success as a Garden City.
“This is about making Iloilo a Blooming Garden City among the cities in the Philippines. Because if you can be a pioneer, maybe the rest of the cities all over the Philippines will replicate it just like Singapore, the Garden City of Southeast Asia,” Sanders remarked.
Donations of potted plants, seedlings, cuttings, and gardening supplies are welcomed and can be dropped off at the Iloilo City Garden of Love from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mayor Treñas emphasized the project’s alignment with global sustainability goals and the importance of public-private partnerships. “This project is a testament to Iloilo’s dedication to sustainability and community spirit,” he said.
The Greening and Beautification Division, led by Engr. Neil Ravena, will oversee the project with support from various city offices and private sector partners, including the Zonta Club of Iloilo City Inc., JCI Ilang-Ilang, MerryMart Consumers Corporation, Jesus is Love Church and Kingdom Advancement Movement, Ms. Ditas Taleon-Luzuriaga, and Rev. Leanette Jabano.
With 100,000 flowers set to bloom, “Iloilo Blooms: Bulak sa Pag-Uswag” showcases Iloilo City’s commitment to enhancing its urban environment and serves as an inspiration for other cities in the Philippines to adopt similar green initiatives.
“This initiative not only beautifies our city but also instills a sense of pride and responsibility among our citizens,” Treñas added.
