ILOILO – Lawmakers from this province and its lone city district have emerged as influential power players in the 20th Congress, clinching strategic leadership positions that are seen to elevate Iloilo’s voice in national policymaking.
Third District’s Cong. Lorenz Defensor secured one of the most prominent appointments as Senior Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, a promotion from his previous role as Deputy Majority Leader in the 19th Congress.
His elevation was bolstered by the endorsement of presidential son and Ilocos Norte 1st District congressman Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos.
“This appointment means more responsibility, especially as I now serve as acting Floor Leader,” said Defensor, who is on his final term in Congress.
Iloilo’s legislative influence was further cemented with 4th District’s Cong. Ferjenel Biron and 1st District’s Cong. Janette Garin being elected Deputy Speakers — positions that place them among the presiding officers of the House and allow them to directly shape the legislative agenda.
They join a roster of Deputy Speakers that includes congressmen Paolo Ortega V, Jay Khonghun, Yasser Balindong, Raymond Mendoza, Ronaldo Puno, Faustino Dy, and Kristine Singson-Meehan.
Quezon’s Cong. Jay-Jay Suarez was elected Senior Deputy Speaker.
Adding to the Ilonggo leadership surge, Iloilo City Lone District’s Cong. Julienne Baronda and USWAG Ilonggo party-list’s Cong. James “Jojo” Ang were named Deputy Majority Leaders, roles that involve steering the legislative priorities of the supermajority coalition.
With five representatives from Iloilo now holding leadership roles, the province is seen to be well-positioned in leveraging greater influence in budget deliberations, committee priorities, and national legislation over the next three years./PN
