ILOILO City – As Iloilo ushers in a new generation of political leadership — dominated by women and young public servants — the Iloilo Economic Development Foundation (ILEDF) has expressed full support, describing it as an opportunity to deepen public-private collaboration for inclusive and sustainable development.
In a statement following the conclusion of the May 2025 elections, ILEDF congratulated re-elected Cong. Julienne Baronda (Lone District of Iloilo City), Iloilo City mayor-elect Raisa Treñas and Vice Mayor-elect Love Baronda, re-elected Iloilo provincial governor Arthur Defensor Jr. and Vice Governor-elect Lee Ann Debuque. The foundation hailed the composition of the new leadership, pointing to its mix of experience, innovation, and youthful energy.
“This marks a new chapter for Iloilo, with women now holding the majority of key leadership positions — joined by a new generation of young and dynamic officials,” the statement read. “This combination of seasoned experience and fresh perspective reflects a renewed mandate for inclusive governance and progressive leadership.”
ILEDF underscored the role of sustained public-private partnerships in driving Iloilo’s development, citing shared accomplishments in trade, tourism, talent development, and investments. The foundation reaffirmed its readiness to work with both city and provincial governments in pushing forward a common vision of progress.
“As a private sector-led organization committed to advancing inclusive, sustainable development, we see this as the best time to level up Iloilo,” said ILEDF president Roel Z. Castro who is also the president and chief executive officer of MORE Electric and Power Corporation.
“We stand with you in building a resilient, investor-friendly, and future-ready Iloilo,” he stressed./PN
