Iloilo river has been and continues to be a river of life for the Ilonggos. Through the decades of its ebb and flow, it has silently witnessed countless historical events, cultural evolutions, economic developments, human experiences, and environmental battles – this especially as the 15-km estuary is home to important fish and mangrove species. With the development of the Esplanade, rehabilitation efforts of the riverine body were strengthened by community involvement and effective implementation of river management policies. Since then, both waterway and man-made structure have been making significant contributions to the city’s economic and tourism industry.

Singbenco, E. D. (2024, April 9). Paddle Power by the Iloilo River Queens. Daily Guardian, pp. 10, 11.