Mabilog backs Treñas' bill declaring 4 areas Iloilo's official tourist spots

ILOILO CITY, Philippines - Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog expressed his full support to House Bill No. 4957 authored by Lone District Rep. Jerry Treñas declaring four areas as official tourist spots of the metropolis namely, Jaro cathedral, Molo church, Central Business District (CBD) and Fort San Pedro.

"We are thankful to Rep. Treñas for pushing this bill because this will mean a lot to our tourism industry and to our economy. We want more tourists to come to our city, see its many beautiful places and ultimately invest here," Mabilog said.

The mayor has been looking forward to a lot of developments in the mentioned places once they are officially declared the city's tourist spots. Treñas, in his bill's explanatory notes, expounded the cultural significance of the sites.

Mabilog said this was what Treñas had in mind because the House bill would bolster Iloilo City tourism and the Department of Tourism could eventually give additional emphasis on the promotion and enhancement of these sites to attract more tourists.

The Baroque-style Jaro cathedral was the first and only cathedral built in Panay in 1864. It was where Ilonggo hero Graciano Lopez Jaena was baptized in 1856.

The Molo church was constructed in 1831 and features a unique blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, once passed by the church on his way back to Manila from his exile in Dapitan.

The CBD has been known for its buildings that date back to the Spanish and American colonial periods. Their architectural designs continue to exhibit the vibrancy of Iloilo City's historic trade and commercial sector.

The Fort San Pedro, built between 1603 and 1616, served as the Ilonggos' bastion against invading pirates during the Spanish period. Despite being badly damaged in World War II, a park was created where it previously stood complete with a statue of Christ marking where the Fort used to be.

Mabilog said Fort San Pedro will undergo major restoration under his administration. - THE FREEMAN