Iloilo city: The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) and the local government have formalized a partnership to conduct a comprehensive research project aimed at monitoring the water quality and identifying factors influencing the Iloilo-Batiano River System. The agreement was signed by UPV Chancellor Clement Camposano and Mayor Raisa Tre±as, with the event attended by UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies Director Dr. Rosalie Arcala-Hall and City Environment and Natural Resources Office head Janis Sy.

According to Philippines News Agency, the project titled "Revitalizing an Urban River: Stakeholders' Engagement in Improving the Water Quality of the Iloilo-Batiano River Basin" will focus on the river system, which impacts 29 barangays in the region. The study is financed by UPV and aims to document the social conditions of communities along the river, assess relevant national and local legislations, and update the socio-cultural profile of the affected areas.

Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development and Project Leader Rhodella Ibabao emphasized the significance of revisiting the river system's master plan, initially drafted in 2002. The research intends to provide insights for updating this plan and guide the development control regulations for the river. Ibabao noted that this will be the first revision of the master plan since its inception.

Chancellor Camposano highlighted that the study represents a continuation of UPV's ongoing collaboration with the Iloilo City government. He remarked on the longstanding support the university has provided to the local government, particularly in projects related to sustainability, eco-tourism, and food safety.