LGU execs to foreign retirees: Come to Iloilo

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Foreign tourists, particularly retirees, should consider putting their investment in the country, especially in this city.

Local government officials led by Mayor Jerry Treñas made a pitch for the potential of this city as a haven for retirees to the delegates in the Winter Escapade tour program.

Among the delegates are citizens of Canada, Germany and the United States. 

“We have made Iloilo City one of the most livable cities in the Philippines. This is the cleanest perhaps in the Philippines,” Treñas said in his speech.

“Traffic is manageable. There is order in the streets and you see police everywhere. Lights in the streets are working. You see the government working,” he added. 

Treñas said the city government aims to make Iloilo the third most livable city in the country by 2028 based on standards set by the national government and business organizations.

He said he “won’t be surprised” if many Filipino-Americans and Filipino-Canadians find Iloilo City attractive for retirement.

Treñas attributed the economic boom in the city to spending by tourists, especially during the Dinagyang Festival as well as various conventions and group events held here.

 The UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy recognition last year helped boost the city’s tourism industry, Treñas said.

In 2022, the city welcomed 752,301 visitors, 2.4 percent of them foreigners.

 Meanwhile, Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. thanked delegates in the Winter Escapade tour for visiting the city and the province.

“Your homecoming is an affirmation of the things we in the local government in the city and the province have been doing,” Defensor said. ”We are working hard to make this place worthy of your visit, your time and your homecoming.”