Residents, particularly senior citizens, can now enjoy a dedicated exercise facility at Jaro Plaza following its formal inauguration on Thursday, October 22, reinforcing the Iloilo City Government’s efforts to promote health and wellness through enhanced public spaces.
The facility was officially opened during a ceremony attended by Mayor Raisa Treñas, city officials, and community members. The project forms part of the city’s continuing programme to improve public plazas and make wellness activities more accessible to residents.
Mayor Treñas underscored the importance of integrating health and wellness initiatives into the city’s infrastructure development plans.
“That’s why we are trying to bring health and wellness also to our plazas,” she said.
She explained that while the redevelopment of Jaro Plaza had long been envisioned, the addition of exercise facilities for senior citizens remained an important goal that has now been realised through partnership and community support.
The mayor noted that similar facilities are being planned and installed in other public plazas across the city, including Plaza Libertad and La Paz, while rehabilitation efforts continue in Mandurriao Plaza.
She stressed that public infrastructure should contribute directly to the welfare of residents.
“Kay para sa akon, ang priority ang health and wellness gid sang tanan. Ano naton ang tanan nga infrastructure naton kon indi maayo ang lawas sang mga pumuluyo naton?” she added.
Treñas also thanked the project’s private sector partners for supporting initiatives that benefit the community.
Earlier, City Architect Regina Gregorio described the facility as a valuable investment in the well-being of the community.
“These exercise facilities are more than just equipment; they represent our commitment to the health, well-being, and quality of life of our senior citizens and youth,” Gregorio said.
Representing the family, Walter Uy expressed support for projects that improve public spaces and encourage active lifestyles among residents.
Uy also shared that his family is considering additional recreational facilities for children in the future.
The exercise area is expected to provide senior citizens and other residents with a safe and accessible venue for physical activity while further enhancing Jaro Plaza as a community gathering space.
