Ray Macalalag
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From Receipts to Reality: How Electricity and Water Bills Tell Iloilo’s Story
4–6 minutesThe rising utility bills in Iloilo City expose a harsh reality: while families strive for efficiency, external factors like volatile energy prices and water tariff hikes compound the pressure. Without significant action from both consumers and government, the cost of living will persistently climb, revealing our city’s precarious balance between progress and affordability.
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The Wins and Losses of Transport in 2025
3–5 minutesIn 2025, Western Visayas saw infrastructure advancements and safety initiatives but faced significant policy and equity challenges. Key events included the inauguration of the Sunset Boulevard, rising crash rates, modernization confusion, and the development of the Western Visayas Road Safety Action Plan.
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Cars, not malls, create the jam
3–4 minutesTraffic congestion on EDSA persists as a major issue, exacerbated by a surge in registered vehicles and ineffective transportation strategies. While past measures, such as extended mall hours, provided temporary relief, they are no longer sufficient. Authorities must improve public transport reliability and implement cohesive traffic management to prevent worsening conditions.
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Daluy Retreat Spa: A Sanctuary of Filipino Healing
2–3 minutesDaluy Retreat Spa in Iloilo City beautifully merges Filipino wellness traditions with modern comforts. Its signature Daluy Hilot Massage offers a rejuvenating 90-minute experience rooted in cultural healing practices. With a range of treatments catering to all needs, Daluy stands out as a sanctuary for relaxation and holistic well-being.
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Does an ‘E’ on E-Trike mean exclusion?
3–5 minutesThe ban on electric bicycles and tricycles from national highways raises serious concerns about the Department of Transportation’s motives and clarity. While branded as a safety measure, this policy neglects the broader issues of urban mobility and reveals systemic failures in public transport, leaving low-income commuters disadvantaged.
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The road safety blueprint is out; have your say
3–5 minutesThe draft Western Visayas Road Safety Action Plan (WVRSAP) for 2026-2028 was released before the National Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. It targets reducing road fatalities through a comprehensive approach involving six focus areas, expert consultations, and alignment with regional development priorities. Its success depends on combined efforts from all stakeholders.
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Infrastructure development in the next three years
3–5 minutesThe updated Western Visayas Regional Development Plan emphasizes holistic infrastructure development, connecting lives and boosting opportunities. With substantial investments in transport, digital connectivity, and social infrastructure, the region is poised for transformative growth. An integrated and collaborative approach will ensure a resilient and prosperous future for all.
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Modernization left us stranded
3–5 minutesThe PUVMP is a grand illusion, promising a modern transport revolution but delivering chaos instead. Commuters remain hostages to a broken system marred by rising costs and mismanagement. Unless grassroots voices are prioritized, mobility will continue to be a privilege for the few, not a right for all.
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Collaterals of Corruption
3–5 minutesCorruption in the Philippines’ infrastructure projects is not just financial theft. It is a betrayal of safety and trust. From ghost projects to overpriced essentials, the public’s outrage is boiling over. Public trust is eroding day by day and the burden is borne only by some who are simply accessories to this grand scheme of…
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Civil engineers with integrity, dedication, and conscience
3–5 minutesThe flood control crisis reveals a troubling landscape of corruption within civil engineering, with PHP545 million spent on 60 “ghost” projects. However, not all engineers are corrupt; many are dedicated to genuine public service. Upholding integrity, dedication, and conscience is vital for restoring trust and delivering impactful projects that safeguard lives and communities.
Ilonggo Engineer 