Mayor Raisa Treñas has lauded the passage of a resolution that “earnestly encourages” all 180 barangays in Iloilo City to adopt and integrate solar power systems amid the ongoing energy crisis.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved Resolution No. 2026-0236, which was crafted in response to President Bongbong Marcos’ declaration of a state of national energy emergency.
The crisis, triggered by the escalation of the US-Israel-Iran conflict and threats to the Strait of Hormuz, has placed the Philippines under a severe energy calamity, necessitating urgent contingency planning.
In a statement, Treñas emphasized the necessity of moving toward renewable energy to safeguard the city’s future.
“Sa aton ginatubang nga national energy emergency, kinahanglan naton ang practical kag long-term solutions,” the mayor said.
“Solar energy will help reduce electricity costs, strengthen energy security, and promote environmental resilience,” Treñas continued.
The Mayor noted that the city has already proven the viability of solar technology through successful installations at public schools, dialysis centers, and City Hall.
The new measure, she said, is expected to expand this success to the grassroots level, focusing on barangay halls and public spaces.
The city currently requires approximately 5.75 million kilowatt per hour (kWh) daily to power its 118,000 households and 20,000 commercial establishments.
By integrating solar power, the city aims to:
▪️ Reduce operational costs: Lower monthly electricity bills for barangays, allowing for the reallocation of funds to vital social services.
▪️Ensure continuity: Provide a reliable power source for community centers during outages and natural calamities.
▪️Provide technical support: The City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) and the City Engineer’s Office have been tasked with providing technical assistance to barangays for the design and implementation of these projects.
The initiative is a key pillar of the “RISE, Iloilo City” roadmap and the WHEELS (Welfare, Health, Education, Environment, Livelihood, and Sustainability) program.
Beyond the barangay halls, Treñas said during a recent Crisis Management Council meeting that solar power systems will also be a priority for the city’s iCare buildings.
“We are ready to expand this success to our barangays. I commend the Sangguniang Panlungsod for unanimously approving this measure,” she added.IMT
