The new Iloilo Freedom Grandstand, set to replace the current Iloilo Freedom Grandstand, located at Ortiz-Muelle Loney Streets in the City Proper district of Iloilo City, is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

According to Arch. Dolly Anne M. Zoluaga of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), P50 million has already been provided by the city government, which provides for a venue that will be able to accommodate almost 1,000 spectators.

Last December, the Regional Trial Court dismissed a case brought forward by informal settlers who were occupying the 2,600-square meter lot the structure will be built on. The case was brought forward in August 2017 after they were ordered to vacate by the city’s Task Force on Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures.

The Municipal Trial Court also reached the same decision in the respective civil case.

Meanwhile, Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III will lead today’s flag raising ceremony at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand site, as the Iloilo City Zoning Administration prepares to demolish the existing structure./PLL, WDJ