ILOILO City – Mayor Raisa Treñas has expressed full support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), emphasizing that many of the President’s key priorities directly align with Iloilo City’s development agenda, particularly in education, mental health, water security, and flood mitigation.
“As Mayor of Iloilo City, I express my support and appreciation sa mga inisyatibo nga ginpresentar ni President Marcos sa iya 2025 SONA,” said Treñas. “Madamo sang iya mga prioridad subong nga tuig ang nagatandog sang mga isyu nga ginaatubang naton sa lokalidad.”
One of the national programs Treñas lauded was the push for improved mental health services in schools, particularly the hiring of more guidance counselors — a move that complements her own administration’s ongoing education reforms.
“Sang nagligad nga semana, nag-meeting na kita para mapasanyog pa gid naton ang mental health advocacy sa mga eskwelahan,” she said, adding that Iloilo City now operates 202 Child Development Centers, with two more under construction.
She also welcomed the national feeding program’s continuity, saying it reinforces the local government’s nutrition efforts through the Iloilo City Nutrition Center.
“Gina-preparar gid sang syudad ang pagkaon para sa kabataan sa eskwelahan,” said Treñas, citing the city’s partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Florete Group of Companies Foundation.
Marcos’ call for sustainable urban development, including car-free Sundays, also resonated with Treñas’ plan to designate Calle Real as a pedestrian zone during night markets once the Super and Central markets reopen.
“This initiative supports our ongoing partnership with the NCCA to repaint heritage buildings, especially in the Calle Real area,” she said.
On infrastructure and water security, Treñas highlighted public-private partnerships for a long-term water supply solution.
Treñas likewise expressed support for the President’s education thrust, including free college and technical-vocational education, pointing to the city’s ongoing collaborations with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and its own Iloilo City Community College.
She also welcomed the announcement of year-round free dialysis sessions, saying it mirrors existing services at city-run dialysis centers in Barangay East Baluarte (Molo) and Barangay San Isidro (Jaro).
In response to the President’s directive to audit and publish flood control projects nationwide, Treñas stressed the importance of coordination and transparency.
“Tuman ka importante ang transparency kag accountability,” she said, urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to closely coordinate with local governments to prevent project duplication and improve disaster resilience.
“We, in Iloilo City, stand ready to work hand-in-hand with the national government to build a more resilient, inclusive, and progressive city for every Ilonggo,” Treñas said./PN
