As temperatures continue to rise across the country, Iloilo City is stepping up its climate resilience efforts by opening public Cooling Hubs and encouraging private establishments to join the initiative in providing safe spaces for residents during extreme heat conditions.
Two city-initiated Cooling Hubs officially opened on May 6, 2026, offering residents temporary relief from the heat. The hubs are located along Diversion Road in Mandurriao and near Jalandoni Bridge in City Proper. These facilities operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and can accommodate up to 20 individuals at a time.
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the hubs were assembled using refurbished office materials and eco boards made from recycled plastic waste, reflecting the city government’s commitment to sustainable and environment-friendly solutions.
Personnel from the City Health Office are stationed at the hubs to monitor visitors and provide assistance when needed, especially during peak heat hours when heat-related illnesses become more likely.
The initiative forms part of Iloilo City’s broader campaign to protect public health while promoting climate adaptation measures in urban communities.
Alongside the city-run hubs, the local government is also strengthening partnerships with the private sector to widen access to cooling spaces across the city.
Among the first private establishments to support the initiative is Festive Walk Mall, which already operates cooling stations near its marketplace. The stations are open to the public daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and are equipped with seating areas, drinking water, electrolytes, and personnel trained to respond to heat-related emergencies.
The city government also thanked Citadines Amigo Iloilo and Robinsons Place Jaro, which are preparing to establish their own cooling stations as part of the growing network of heat relief areas.
City officials continue to encourage more establishments to participate in the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector in addressing the impacts of climate change.
“Kabay pa nga mas madamo pa nga establishments ang mag-upod sa ini nga collective effort para sa mas safe, prepared, kag responsive nga Iloilo City,” Mayor Treñas said.
The expansion of Cooling Hubs highlights Iloilo City’s proactive approach to climate resilience, demonstrating how local governments and businesses can work together to ensure the safety and well-being of communities amid increasingly extreme weather conditions.
