This Week in Iloilo (August 21 to 27, 2016)

A landslide struck Barangay Mali-ao in Leon, Iloilo which affected more than 20 families. The barangay chieftain said heavy rains could have caused the soil to erode. Evacuees have been transferred to a safer area since their barangay hall, which initially served as their evacuation area, is just close to site of the landslide.

The average weather for the week is 25C. Rains with accompanying thunderstorms are expected for the entire week. The public is advised to always bring an umbrella, jacket, or raincoat when roaming around.

The death anniversary of Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. is celebrated on August 21. It is a special non-working holiday even if it falls on a Sunday.

The people of Iloilo will celebrate the 79th Charter Day of the city on Thursday, August 25. There will be no work and classes for this special non-working holiday. Among other activities, a civic military parade will be held on that day at 8:00 AM to start at the Gaisano Mall in Luna St., Lapaz, and end at the Freedom Grandstand in corner JM Basa and Macario Peralta St.

For the past two weeks, heavy rains and the problematic drainage system have been causing flash floods and difficulties in navigating main roads in Iloilo City. Further worsening the traffic flow is the ongoing drainage and construction work in the La Paz Plaza area. As the rains persist this week, pedestrians and motorists are urged to exercise caution, especially in traversing roads with deep holes dug for the said construction efforts.

On August 25, Luna Street from Gaisano City Mall to Calle Real along Freedom Grandstand will be closed to give way to the Civic Military Parade as part of the Charter Day celebrations.

Health authorities have expressed alarm over the increasing number of cases of HIV/AIDS in Iloilo City, which included teenagers. Dr. Odetta Villaruel of the Social Hygienic Clinic stated that of the 338 recorded cases, most of the victims are 15 to 24 years old. Most of those affected were men who engaged in homosexual and bisexual relationships. One of the major causes cited is the active night life in Iloilo City.

The City Tourism Development Office is putting up a photo exhibit at SM City Iloilo from August 21 to 28. The works of renowned Ilonggo photographers featuring the culture and arts of the city will be shown in the exhibit.

On August 24, 8:00 AM, the Drumbeats: Interschool Drum and Lyre Competition will be held at the Car Park of SM City Iloilo in Mandurriao district.

On the other hand, the Vice Mayor’s Debate Cup at the Iloilo City Hall will be held on August 22 to 23 and August 25. Students will debate on pressing local and national issues. On August 24, Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog will officiate the mass wedding of 79 couples at SM City Iloilo.

The photo exhibit, Drumbeats Competition, debate, and mass wedding are all part of the 79th Iloilo City Charter Day Celebration.

Multi-awarded volleyball player Alyssa Valdez will hold the Alyssa Valdez Skills Camp on August 27 at the Ateneo de Iloilo Gym in Mandurriao. Valdez is hailed as one of the best volleyball players in the country today.

The Bucari Pine Forest, or the Little Baguio of Panay, is located in Leon, Iloilo. With the recent landslide which occurred in the area, it is unsafe yet to hike or trek in this tourist spot.

On the other hand, travelers who intend to visit Guimaras island to camp at Nature’s Trail in Sibunag are advised to go there on a Wednesday, when there is less chance of rain.