ILOILO CITY — As students return to classrooms this June, Iloilo City’s growing network of public libraries stands ready to support them. The city has expanded from a single library at City Hall into 16 learning hubs spread across the metropolis, offering free Wi‑Fi, extended hours, and a diverse collection of resources. These spaces provide quiet, conducive environments for studying, research, and reading.
The network includes a flagship museum‑library in Jaro, district libraries in Arevalo and La Paz, community libraries, outdoor reading spaces in historic plazas, and integrated libraries within early childhood centers. Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized that libraries are more important than ever. “While technology offers many benefits, it also poses challenges to learning. Reading should be accessible, welcoming, and part of daily life for every Ilonggo,” she said.
A New Landmark in La Paz
The newest addition to the network is the Justice Delfin Jaranilla Learning Center, which officially opened on February 3, 2026, at La Paz Plaza. The two‑story, 1,110‑square‑meter facility cost ₱50.9 million and serves as the city’s 16th learning hub. It houses the La Paz District Library along with several city government offices and multi‑purpose halls.
The center honors Justice Delfin Jaranilla, a distinguished Ilonggo born in La Paz who served as Attorney General, survived the Bataan Death March, and later represented the Philippines at the Tokyo Trials. Councilor Miguel Treñas, who represented Mayor Treñas at the launch, said the center is designed to help “unlock the potential of future justices and learners.” The facility includes public toilets, a cistern, and a youth center.
The flagship Dr. Graciano Lopez Jaena Learning Resource Center and Museum in Jaro, opened in December 2022, serves as both a museum and full‑service library with reference materials and internet access. The Chief Justice Ramon Avanceña District Library in Arevalo provides a dedicated community library space for residents of the coastal district.
Outdoor Libraries Bring Reading to the Plazas
In a creative push to revive reading habits, Iloilo City has established mobile outdoor libraries in key public plazas. As of June 2026, four outdoor libraries are already operational at Plaza Libertad, Molo Plaza, Jaro Plaza, and Plaza Mandurriao. The latest, at Plaza Mandurriao, launched on June 1, 2026, spearheaded by Councilor Miguel Treñas and TIIC Administrator Maria Mathilde Treñas.
The outdoor libraries provide accessible physical books in a free, open‑air reading space where Ilonggos can read, learn, and connect with nature. Each location was fabricated by students and staff of the Technical Institute of Iloilo City, with book donations from private families and partners. The spaces operate weekdays and form part of the city’s commitment to bringing books closer to communities.
Investing in the Future
The city’s ₱680‑million Special Education Fund for 2026 supports not only libraries but also the construction of new Early Childhood Care and Development centers. Two new ECCD centers are planned for Barangays Cubay and Mansaya, each featuring a daycare on the ground floor and a library on the second floor. The city has also hired 50 contractual teachers funded by the SEF.
With 16 learning hubs, over 200 ECCD centers, and four outdoor libraries now operational, Iloilo City is building a comprehensive ecosystem for lifelong learning. For students returning to school, these spaces offer free Wi‑Fi, ample table space, and quiet corners to focus on their studies. The city’s investment in accessible libraries reflects its broader commitment to quality education for every Ilonggo.
