On January 24, 2025, the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, officially known as the Iloilo River North Bank Road, was opened to vehicular traffic by the Department of Public Works and Highways in Western Visayas (DPWH 6). This significant infrastructure project is set to tackle transportation issues while also promoting tourism, drawing investments, and fostering economic development in Iloilo City and its surrounding regions.
The project, which was a vision of former senator Franklin Drilon, aims to improve connectivity, alleviate traffic congestion, and support economic growth across Iloilo City and nearby municipalities and provinces in Region VI. Assistant Regional Director Al Fruto of DPWH 6, speaking on behalf of Director Sanny Boy Oropel, highlighted the project’s role in linking the road networks of Iloilo City, Antique, and Iloilo province, in preparation for the upcoming Panay Guimaras Negros Bridge.
Spanning five kilometers, the four-lane concrete road starts at Molo-Mandurriao Road (R. Mapa St.), passes through the Iloilo Business Park (Megaworld), and concludes at Oton-Pakiad-Mandurriao Road in Cagbang, Oton, offering a direct path to Tigbauan, Iloilo. The boulevard is equipped with various amenities including slope protection, reinforced concrete pipe culverts, drainage systems, a one-meter-wide median island with 80-watt solar-powered LED double-arm roadway lighting, bike lanes, and four bi-level concrete viewing decks.
Former Senate president Franklin Drilon praised the scenic beauty of the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, noting its views of sunsets, migratory birds, and tranquil fishing spots along the Iloilo River. Initiated in 2021 with a budget of PHP1.26 billion, the project was funded through Drilon’s efforts, supported by the office of Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne Baronda.