ILOILO CITY — The historic Calle Real is poised for a stunning transformation, as the city government and private partners unite to restore its architectural glory while burying unsightly utility lines underground. The project aims to turn the heritage district into a pedestrian-friendly, smart destination for locals and tourists alike.
A Heritage Jewel Gets a Modern Upgrade
Mayor Raisa Treñas recently convened a meeting with key stakeholders to map out the next steps for the rehabilitation of J.M. Basa Street. The gathering included MORE Power President Roel Castro, PCCI President Fulbert Woo, and representatives from Converge, ICE, and various city offices. Their shared vision is to modernize the area without erasing its soul.
The plan focuses on restoring building facades, developing underground utility lines for electricity and internet, and exploring smart city solutions. These improvements are designed not only to beautify the area but also to revive the economic charm of the historic streets. The mayor emphasized that the project will add to the city’s current efforts rather than replace them.
Burying the Spaghetti Wires
A central feature of the revival is the Underground Distribution System (UDS), which will remove the tangled overhead cables that have long marred the heritage zone’s skyline. MORE Power is utilizing Horizontal Directional Drilling, a trenchless method that minimizes traffic disruption by working mostly at night. This technique ensures the historic district remains accessible during construction.
Alongside the electrical upgrades, Converge and other telecommunications providers are laying fiber optic cables underground. This will deliver reliable, high-speed internet to businesses and residents, making the area more attractive for modern enterprises. The removal of visual clutter will dramatically enhance the visitor experience, revealing the full beauty of the century-old facades.
Restoring Architecture, Reviving Commerce
The project includes a comprehensive effort to clean, repaint, and structurally restore the Neoclassical, Beaux-Arts, and Art Deco buildings that line the street. This painstaking work will bring back the original grandeur of landmarks like the Eusebio Villanueva Building and the Regent Theater. The city aims to create a vibrant backdrop for new cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
By improving the physical environment, the city hopes to entice entrepreneurs to invest in these classic structures. The economic ripple effect is expected to create jobs and turn Calle Real into a must-visit destination for heritage walking tours. The initiative honors the Ilonggo legacy of commerce and craftsmanship while securing its future.
A Walkable, Smart City Hub
Part of the long-term vision is to make Calle Real more pedestrian-friendly, expanding walkways and adding greenery to create a safer, more inviting atmosphere. This aligns with the city’s broader push to promote eco-mobility and reduce vehicular congestion in the downtown core. Visitors will soon be able to stroll comfortably, admiring the architecture without dodging traffic.
The underground infrastructure also lays the foundation for Iloilo City’s transition into a smart city. Reliable power and connectivity are essential for digital services and modern businesses to thrive. The rehabilitation proves that heritage preservation and technological advancement can go hand in hand, creating a unique experience for tourists seeking both history and modern comfort.
A Shared Commitment to the Future
The Calle Real revival is a testament to the power of public-private partnership, with utilities, business groups, and local government working in harmony. The project is driven by a shared understanding that preserving cultural treasures is essential for building a proud and prosperous city. It is a legacy project that future generations of Ilonggos will inherit.
As the plans move forward, residents and visitors can look forward to a Calle Real that honors its storied past while embracing a bright, connected future. The street that once defined the city’s golden age of commerce is poised to reclaim its place as the beating heart of Iloilo.
