Iloilo city: The local government is opposing the proposed bridge that will connect Sunset Boulevard and the Carpenter's Bridge, both in Barangay Tabucan in the city's Mandurriao district. The project, intended to be Esplanade 12, spans 240 lineal meters across the river and is proposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) at a cost of PHP150 million.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Raisa Tre±as has expressed concerns over the redundancy of the infrastructure given the existing 11 connectivity structures spanning the Iloilo River along 13 Esplanade sections. In a letter addressed to DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, the mayor highlighted that the DPWH issued a notice to proceed to the contractor without obtaining the necessary permits from concerned government agencies.

Mayor Tre±as emphasized that the DPWH has not produced the required environmental compliance certificate and certificate of non-coverage, failing to comply with the mandatory requirements of the local government. She described the total cost of PHP150 million as excessive and unconscionable for a project deemed redundant and posing an environmental threat to the Iloilo River.

In her statement, Tre±as called for the suspension of the project pending a comprehensive and transparent review. She stressed the importance of conducting genuine consultations with affected communities and stakeholders and exploring sustainable alternatives that address mobility needs without compromising the ecological balance of the Iloilo River.

The mayor emphasized the significance of aligning infrastructure projects with actual community needs, environmental safeguards, and the city's long-term development framework. She affirmed Iloilo's reputation as a model for inclusive and sustainable urban development, vowing to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and the city's lifeline, the Iloilo River, remains safeguarded.