ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has been recognized as 2024 “Kaya Natin! Champion of Good Governance and Ethical Leadership” for his exemplary leadership and commitment to excellence in public service.
The accolade was presented to Defensor by Kaya Natin! chairperson and former Bam Aquino on August 8, 2024, at B Hotel in Quezon City.
Defensor, who was accompanied by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, is the sole governor to receive this distinction this year.
The Kaya Natin! movement, established in 2008, celebrates outstanding public officials nationwide who exemplify ethical, effective, and empowering leadership based on the “Three E’s Leadership” principles.
Since assuming office in 2019, Governor Defensor has been instrumental in propelling Iloilo towards significant developments, now serving his second term.
Prior to being governor, his tenure as Provincial Board member and congressman for the 3rd District saw him author several impactful legislations, including the Tax Amnesty Act of 2019 and the Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization Act.
Among Defensor’s notable initiatives is the Purok Resilience Program, which focuses on building climate-resilient communities prepared for natural disasters.
His Zero to Limpyo Iloilo movement, targeting the eradication of open defecation to enhance sanitation and public health, earned the prestigious Galing Pook Award.
Under his development agenda, MoRProGRes ILOILO (Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo), the governor has vigorously advanced sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, significantly boosting the local economy.
Other luminaries honored as KN Champions include Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong of Baguio City, Mayor Victor Ma. Regis “Vico” Sotto of Pasig City, Mayor Trina-Firmalo-Fabic of Odiongan, Romblon, and Board Member Kerby Javier Salazar of Cavite Province. (With a report from Capitol News/PN)