ILOILO CITY — Mayor Raisa Treñas signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MORE Power, Metro Pacific Iloilo Water, and Quantum Digital Services on July 15, 2026, formally locking in the annual Kabalaka Expo. The agreement ensures that the city’s premier disaster preparedness showcase becomes a permanent fixture, reinforcing Iloilo’s status as a safe and attractive destination for residents and investors alike.
A Permanent Commitment to Preparedness
The MOU institutionalizes a collaborative framework that brings together local government and critical utility providers. By committing to an annual expo, all parties signal that resilience is not a one‑off campaign but an ongoing priority. This long‑term vision gives property buyers and businesses the confidence that their investments are protected by a community that plans ahead.
The signing took place during the opening of Kabalaka Expo 2.0 at Iloilo Business Park, with top executives from each utility present. Engr. Ronald Torres of MORE Power, Angelo David Berba of Metro Pacific Iloilo Water, and Artemio Pama of Quantum Digital Services joined the mayor at the ceremony. Their presence underscored a shared understanding that safety requires continuous cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Utilities as Pillars of Resilience
When a calamity strikes, the swift restoration of electricity, water, and connectivity determines how quickly a city recovers. MORE Power’s involvement ensures that emergency power protocols are synchronized with city‑level response plans. Metro Pacific Iloilo Water’s participation guarantees that clean water supply remains a priority during crises, while Quantum Digital’s communication backbone keeps vital information flowing.
These partnerships mean that the expo is not just a showcase of shiny equipment but a test bed for real‑world coordination. The utilities will use the annual event to demonstrate their readiness and to educate the public on what to expect during emergencies. For the real estate sector, knowing that these lifeline services are deeply integrated into the city’s disaster planning adds a layer of security that enhances property values.
An Expo That Builds Investor Confidence
Disaster‑prepared communities consistently attract higher investment because they offer lower risk and faster recovery. By making Kabalaka Expo an annual institution, Iloilo City sends a clear message to developers and homebuyers: this is a place where safety infrastructure is taken seriously. The expo, which features rescue simulations, safety roadshows, and expert briefings, becomes a public demonstration of the city’s readiness.
The first Kabalaka Expo in 2025 drew over 1,700 visitors and laid the groundwork. This year’s edition expands with more interactive exhibits and a stronger private‑sector presence. As the event grows, it serves as a marketing tool for the city’s livability, directly benefiting the property market. Real estate agents can point to the annual expo as proof that Iloilo City is built to withstand and recover from disasters.
A Template for Resilient Urban Growth
The MOU creates a template for other cities looking to merge public governance with private utility expertise. By formalizing the partnership, Iloilo avoids reliance on ad‑hoc arrangements and ensures that resources and knowledge accumulate year after year. The expo becomes a living laboratory where new technologies and response strategies are tested and shared with the public, further cementing the city’s reputation as a model for proactive urban management.
For current and future residents, the annual Kabalaka Expo is a tangible reminder that their safety is a priority. As Iloilo continues to grow, this institutionalized commitment to resilience will remain a cornerstone of its appeal, keeping property demand strong and community confidence high.
