The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and international consultancy firm Arcadis recently revealed Iloilo City was chosen as a “model partner” for their planned resiliency projects.

“There’s big potential for new projects and more resilient development in Iloilo City,” said Arcadis shelter program manager Bert Smolders. “It’s clear the city is grasping the opportunities and making the city a better place.”

“I had been here a few years ago and you see the difference, the change, especially the relations with the water,” he added.

Officials from both organizations met with Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III last week at City Hall.

“We are very fortunate and thankful to be chosen as [the] benchmark and beneficiary of future projects,” the mayor said. “This is a validation of our outstanding good governance to make the city’s growth inclusive and resilient for the benefit of the Ilonggos.”/WDJ