ILOILO City – More than 400 municipal and city councilors across Iloilo will converge from September 11 to 13 for the election of new officers of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) – Iloilo chapter, with interim president Christy Love Custodio-Margarico pledging a fair and participative process.
Margarico, who has been serving as interim leader since July, assured members that the three-day gathering will not only elect a new set of officers but also strengthen the League’s commitment to transparency and collaboration.
“Personally, I’m honored to be chosen as the interim president of PCL. I have been in the League for almost my entire political career since 2013, and I have served as one of the officers. As the interim PCL President, I have seen how our actions here significantly impact the conduct of each municipality. During these two months, it has been my obligation to ensure that we hold a fair election where everyone can participate,” Margarico said.
The activities will open on September 11 with hotel billeting, registration, picture-taking for the PCL National ID, and a welcome dinner.
September 12 will feature a plenary session, discussion of reports and election matters in the morning, followed by the election proper at 1 p.m. under the supervision of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Winners will be proclaimed and take their oath on the same day.
The closing program and distribution of certificates are set for September 13.
“To all the councilors, our records of all ordinances passed in the province are readily available for your review. This openness fosters proper coordination and strengthens our commitment to effective governance,” Margarico added, underscoring the importance of accountability in local legislation.
She also shared her future plans, noting that this is her final term as a Sanggunian Bayan (SB) member in Guimbal.
“At this point in my career, I am focused on running for Vice President of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL). This choice allows me to center my attention on my municipality, where I believe I can make the most impact,” she said.
“It’s my last term as SB Member sa Municipality of Guimbal, and it is actually a time to go back to the people. Ang akon gid nga advocacy, family mo. So, may ara ko nga ordinance nga code of parental responsibility… we have to bring back the moral fiber of family, especially now that parenting is very difficult with the convenience of information through the social media,” she emphasized.
Margarico reminded fellow councillors that the PCL presidency is not only about leadership but also humility and service.
“You truly need to have a heart for service, as you will be serving over 400 councilors,” she said.
The race for the presidency is already drawing political weight, with Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. officially endorsing JP Peñol, SB member of Pavia, as his bet for the top post./PN
