Calle Real, Iloilo City’s iconic downtown hub, just got a major glow-up.
Thanks to the Hybrid Underground Distribution System (HUDS) project by MORE Power, Iloilo City’s main electric power distributor, the “spaghetti wires” that ruined the historic street’s aesthetic for years are finally gone.
“This initiative ensures, safer, cleaner, and more organized streets while preserving the historical charm of Calle Real and enhancing its iconic beauty,” said MORE Power on social media.
Aside from making the street Instagram-worthy, the project also made Iloilo City the first in Western Visayas to roll out this kind of system, setting the bar for innovation and progress.
ICYDK, Calle Real, also called J.M. Basa Street, is lined with luxury American-era neoclassical, beaux-arts, and Art Deco buildings that have stood the test of time.
Officially named after Filipino businessman and propagandist Jose Maria Basa, also a close associate of Jose Rizal, the street has been serving iconic looks since the Spanish era.
Residents and netizens alike praised Calle Real’s transformation, with many hoping other cities follow Iloilo’s lead:
“What a big improvement to better appreciate the century-old structures in downtown Iloilo City!”
“Hope the same goes for the rest of the city. Congratulations Iloilo! May the rest of the country follow suit and may all Philippine cities follow your lead. Paging Baguio City”
“Thank you for making our city beautiful.”
“New townships must adopt this better approach in power distribution!”
