Drilon cited for contribution to Iloilo’s economy

MANILA, Philippines — Business leaders in Iloilo have honored Sen. Franklin Drilon for his contribution to the economic development in the province. 

The Iloilo Economic Development Foundation Inc. and the Iloilo-Multisectoral Business Organization Inc. hosted a reception for Drilon on Friday night. 

“The last 12 years have seen tremendous growth. Senator Drilon has contributed a lot of big-ticket projects which changed the landscape of Iloilo forever,” former tourism secretary Narzalina Lim said. 

“Senator Drilon and I have worked on a quite a number of projects, like the construction of the Iloilo International Airport. We cannot underestimate its impact,” former Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor Sr.  said

Defensor also cited the 10-lane and 15-kilometer long Benigno Aquino Avenue, the main gateway to the city.   

Francis Gentoral, executive director of the Iloilo Local Economic Development Foundation Inc., said Iloilo stands out as an investment location because of its well-connected infrastructure. 

Fanny Uy, president of the Iloilo Multi-Sectoral Business Organization Inc., said economy in the province grew with the arrival of big companies that are seen to foster economic growth  in the next five years.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said Drilon revived interest in the province’s main river with the development of the Iloilo River Esplanade, the longest linear park in the country, which also became a model of urban development. 

Drilon, for his part, thanked local leaders and the business community for recognizing his efforts.

“In Iloilo, we have proven that we can create change when we put our collective interest before individual interest,” he said.