PNoy inaugurates Iloilo City Hall

By Elsa S. Subong

Friday 1st of June 2012

ILOILO CITY, June 1 (PIA6) -- Amidst the distinct beat of "ati-ati" drums and the cheers of the crowd numbering about a thousand, President Benigno S. Aquino III unveiled the marker of the seven-storey modern design Iloilo City Hall.

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Mabilog, who assisted the President, said the new city hall is a “green, eco-friendly” city hall, with its 7th and 8th floors solar-powered.

The other features include sensitive fire alarm systems with sprinkler, four service elevators, centralized air-conditioning system, garage, three stair case with a service stair and fire exits, ample working space.

Another distinct landmark is that of a bronze lady, called “Lin-ay” (maiden), signifying a traditional Ilongga.

President Aquino then toured the Iloilo Gallery where bust statues of former Iloilo City mayors are lined up on one side, and with two life-size Dinagyang warriors at the center and other symbols of the city occupying the corners.

The city hall was opened to the public early this year, with all its offices just opened a week prior to the inauguration.

Mayor Mabilog, who chose to hold office at the 7th floor, said the city hall building is very accessible to all constituents, because it is located at the heart of the city where almost all jeepney routes within the city limit pass.

Foremost, he said, it is a one-stop shop building for all the transactions that the city government requires.

The new city hall costs close to P600 million from a loan with the Land bank of the Philippines. (JSC/ESS/PIA6 Iloilo).