The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) officially turned over the Molo Plaza to the Iloilo City government in a ceremony Friday, June 17.
The P20-million renovation project is among those that NHCP is funding through the lobbying of outgoing Sen. Franklin Drilon, who hails from this city.
NHCP Chairman Rene Escalante said they will soon finish the renovation of the Jaro Plaza, including the belfry, in Jaro, Iloilo and the Iloilo Custom’s House here which will be transformed into a maritime museum.
“Preserving our rich history while promoting the metro’s tourism is one of our huge leaps towards economic growth,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas here.
The Molo Plaza renovation is a public-private partnership.
Sole power distributor MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power) pitched in and provided lights for the Molo Church, the neo-gothic church across the plaza.
“This project is a testament to why MORE Power is here in Iloilo. This is not only to modernize the electricity services or bring down the power rates, but also to support the initiative of the city government to highlight Iloilo’s rich culture, history, and heritage,” said MORE Power President and CEO Roel Castro.