ILOILO City – New mayor Raisa Treñas has wasted no time in signaling stability and continuity by retaining three top officials who served under her predecessor and father, Jerry Treñas, assuring the public that the city’s operations will proceed without disruption.
During the inaugural session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) on July 2, councilors confirmed the reappointments of Melchor Tan as City Administrator, Edgardo Gil as City Legal Officer, and Jonas Antonio Bellosillo as Chief of Staff in the Office of the City Mayor.
The three were endorsed by Mayor Treñas herself.
“These officials perform essential roles and are directly involved in the daily operations of the city,” said City Hall spokesperson Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal. “Their reappointment was necessary to ensure no disruption in the delivery of public service.”
Tan and Bellosillo hold the rank of City Government Department Head II, while Atty. Gil continues as head of the city’s legal office. Their reappointment was considered urgent as their functions include the signing of official documents and supervision of legal and administrative processes.
Other appointees, such as executive assistants and technical consultants, remain in a status quo arrangement until July 15.
Observers noted that the decision reflects a pragmatic leadership style by Mayor Treñas, who appears committed to preserving institutional memory while preparing to roll out her own agenda. The move is seen as a balancing act — reassuring the public and City Hall personnel that the transition in leadership will not hinder ongoing governance.
With the confirmation of these core appointments, Mayor Treñas is expected to accelerate the implementation of her administration’s priorities while keeping the city’s bureaucratic machinery running smoothly./PN
