ILOILO CITY (PIA) – The Iloilo City government is set to hold a public New Year’s countdown celebration on the night of December 31, 2024 at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand, giving Ilonggos a night filled with excitement and joy.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, in a statement, said that the event will give everyone the chance to celebrate together as the city welcomes the 2025 “with pride and joy.”
“This is an extraordinary celebration of hope, unity, excitement, and pride as multi-awarded Ilonggos, carefully planned to ensure a wholesome and safe experience for all,” Treñas said in a statement.
The event will feature live performances by talented local bands from 10:00 PM on December 31 until 2:00 AM on January 1, 2025; while the highlight of the celebration will be the grand fireworks display at Atty. Cesar Drilon Bridge.
The city government also ensures the safety of the public as the Iloilo City Police Office, public safety officers, traffic aides, and ambulances from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office will be on the site to ensure the safety and security of Ilonggos.
Leny Ledesma, Executive Assistant for Special Projects, said that the city contracted Dragon Fireworks to handle the 15-minute fireworks display for the New Year countdown.
Ledesma added that the celebration is in line with the Department of Health’s campaign promoting community fireworks that the public can enjoy from a safe distance to avoid injuries.
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) identified the Muelle Loney area in the city as the designated fireworks and firecrackers zone, while Brgy. Buhang in Jaro district, Arevalo district, and Muelle Loney in City Proper district are identified as firecrackers selling areas.
Meanwhile, Traffic and Transportation Management Office head Ret. Col. Uldarico Garbanzos said that road closures will be implemented on the night of the celebration.
The Cesar Drilon Bridge and the stretch of Muelle Loney Street will be closed starting 10:00 PM on December 31 and a different vehicular traffic scheme will be implemented.
The event is also free for everybody to give Ilonggos the moments to enjoy and celebrate with their families and loved ones.
“I look forward to celebrating with you all as we usher in the new year with hope, unity, and excitement,” Treñas said. (AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo)
