ILOILO City – Mayor Raisa Treñas has thrown her weight behind the September 21 protest rally, warning that massive failures in national infrastructure projects have eroded public trust and left communities more vulnerable.
Treñas, speaking as a member of the Mayors for Good Governance (MG44) alongside leaders such as Naga City mayor and former vice president Leni Robredo, framed the protest as a nationwide demand for accountability.
“This is not just about one city, one issue, or one administration – it is about demanding good governance, transparency, and accountability from those who manage our people’s money,” she said.
The mayor cited examples in Iloilo City, including unfinished multi-purpose buildings and gyms that have been abandoned, school facilities declared unsafe by the Department of Education despite being reported as completed, and billion-peso flood control projects that worsened, rather than solved, flooding.
“These are not small mistakes. These are failures that cost our people opportunities, safety, and trust in government. Trillions have been appropriated nationwide, yet so many of these projects are either delayed, palpak, or useless,” Treñas stressed.
Barangay captains from Lapuz, Molo, and Arevalo districts are expected to join Treñas in the protest, which coincides with the September 21 anniversary of Martial Law — a date long associated with the public’s calls for justice and accountability.
“The outrage of the people is valid. Their frustration is real. And their demand for accountability is urgent. It is time we say, enough is enough. Transparency is not optional. Accountability is not negotiable. Our people deserve better,” Treñas said./PN
