Iloilo Esplanade: Reflecting the beauty of Iloilo

Iloilo Esplanade is proof that a place that was once on the brink of death could be revived and restored to its natural beauty. See for yourself and visit this riverside park in Iloilo City.

This 1.2-kilometer tree-lined and flora-adorned riverside park used to be a road dominated by vehicles, running parallel to a sullied Iloilo River. The place was tainted by civilization; the river was dying and drowning in waste. But the people saw that. The local government did, too.

Cleanup activities, participated by the citizens and businesses, were held until the river started breathing again. And now, it’s one of the most beautiful landmarks of the city. Who would have thought a black mark on Iloilo’s map would become the most colorful one?

Iloilo Esplanade opened in 2012 and is now traversed by feet rather than wheels. The best activities to do here are jogging, sunset walking, and boating. 30-minute boat rides are available from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. for only Php 85 per person (minimum of 2).

You can enter Iloilo Esplanade from two points. You can go through the entrance along R. Mapa Street near the Carpenter’s Bridge or through the Riverside Boardwalk near Diversion Road.

Details:

Address: Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Operating hours: 4 a.m. – 10 p.m. every day

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This feature appears in the December 2017 issue of Philippine Primer Japanese magazine.
Written by Rizelle “Rei” Leaño