Razon-Owned Electric Company Installs Underground Power Lines in Calle Real
Calle Real, Iloilo's heritage street, finally got rid of the unsightly "spaghetti" or tangled wires commonly seen in urban cities just in time for the province's famous Dinagyang Festival.
The culmination of the groundbreaking Hybrid Underground Distribution System (HUDS) project was revealed by Enrique Razon Jr.'s MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power) on January 10. It is part of Iloilo City Regulation Ordinance 2023-006, which took effect on March 13, 2023, that mandates all public electricity companies, public telecommunication carriers, and other similar entities to place underground wires and cables within the confines of plaza complexes, Sunburst Park, B.S. Aquino Avenue, and all heritage sites in the city including Calle Real.
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MORE Power's Hybrid Underground Distribution System Project
The project involved the relocation of overhead utility lines to an underground system. This not only declutters the skyline but also safeguards the architectural integrity of the historic buildings that line Iloilo's old business district. Removal of the unsightly wires restores the street's visual grandeur, offering both locals and tourists an unobstructed view of its architectural marvels. This move is expected to bolster tourism and local business, reinforcing Calle Real's status as a cultural and economic hub.
Beyond aesthetic improvements, the underground cable initiative is a strategic response to the increasing demand for efficient utility services in the city. By modernizing the infrastructure, the project ensures a more stable and reliable supply of electricity and telecommunications services. This is particularly crucial for Iloilo, a city experiencing rapid urban development and an influx of both local and international businesses. The underground system is designed to be more resilient against natural calamities, reducing the risk of service interruptions during adverse weather conditions.
The HUDS project along Calle Real is in collaboration with the local government led by Iloilo City Jerry Treñas.
"Iloilo City continues to embrace growth and innovation while preserving its rich cultural heritage. As part of our efforts to blend modernity with tradition, we have successfully removed the remaining wires and poles along JM Basa Street, unveiling the true beauty of Calle Real," said Treñas on January 9.
Calle Real, also known as J.M. Basa Street, stands as a testament to Iloilo City's rich historical tapestry. Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, this iconic street is more than just a thoroughfare; it is a living museum that showcases the architectural grandeur and cultural heritage of Iloilo. The street's charm lies in its well-preserved collection of heritage buildings, which date back to the Spanish and American colonial periods. These structures, with their intricate details and neoclassical designs, serve as a reminder of the city's prosperous past when Iloilo was a major economic hub in the Philippines.
