Iloilo city: Iloilo City is set to receive two international recognitions for its efforts on biodiversity restoration and for meeting the standards for the Clean Tourist City Award. General Services Office chief Neil Ravena announced that Iloilo City is the sole Philippine representative to be named Role City Model awardee for the Generation Restoration Initiative (2023-2025) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Center. "We will be awarded as Role City Model. I think we are the only city in the Philippines," he stated during an interview.

According to Philippines News Agency, the recognition is due to the city's efforts in restoring biodiversity, notably the mangrove restoration in Barangay Bito-on-Hinactacan and the inventory of mangroves at the Iloilo River. The city began with 35 hectares, which has expanded to 85 hectares along the Iloilo River. Ravena noted that the presence of 24 species of mangroves, including three rare species, significantly contributed to the award. He also highlighted sightings of juvenile birds and reports of a python, indicating thriving fauna. To ensure harmony between humans and wildlife, Ravena considered zoning the Iloilo River, acknowledging mangroves as natural habitats.

Additionally, Iloilo City is recognized by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Clean Tourist City Award for adhering to their standards. The validation process assessed aspects such as environmental management, cleanliness, waste management, environmental protection awareness, green spaces, security, and infrastructure. The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard aims to enhance tourism quality in member countries. Ravena emphasized the importance of integrating open spaces into urban planning, showcasing a balance between infrastructure and environmental considerations in developing a highly urbanized city.