AS ILOILO CITY celebrates its 88th Charter Day — a testament to its growth, resilience, and identity — one of its longest-serving leaders is entering a new chapter in his life.
Former Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, who steered the city through decades of transformation and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, now embraces a slower, more personal rhythm. No longer bound by the weight of public office, “Tito Jerry” finds fulfillment in mentoring, teaching, family traditions, and quiet moments with the community.
Living in a slower rhythm
“Well, in the meantime, I will be here helping out in areas where my help is being asked,” Treñas said with a smile.
He is preparing to reopen his law office, closed for more than 20 years, and is finalizing the donation of his late father’s law books to the UP College of Law.
“The donation is already being finalized together with Chancellor Clement,” he noted — a gesture that ties his family legacy to the future of legal education.
The transition, however, comes with mixed emotions. “What I really miss is the day-to-day work. I don’t miss the stress of making fast decisions that affect many people, but I miss the very busy work I used to have. Now, my pace is a little slower.”
From city hall to law school
With more time in his hands, Treñas has returned to the classroom. He now teaches a law subject on local government.
“I took one law subject — it’s not too heavy — and so far, I’ve had one class already. I’ve already given assignments,” he said, visibly excited about the new role.
Books continue to be his constant companions.
“I read books — both old and new. That’s enough for now. I’ve been getting several books on local government to prepare for my classes.”
Reconnecting with the community
Even outside of politics, Treñas keeps close ties with the grassroots. He still visits barangays — not to cut ribbons, but to share coffee and conversations.
“I have more time now to go to the barangays, to have coffee with the barangay captains and leaders. Every time I visit one district, they tell me, ‘This will be our schedule next time.’ So we still meet often.”
His circle of friends has also remained intact.
“My friends in City Hall are still my friends. We started as friends, ended as friends, and continue to be friends. Even my high school classmates and I, though few, remain very close — we still have dinners, coffee, and enjoy each other’s company.”
Family first, always
For Treñas, family remains at the core of everything.
“For me, family is the most important. Work will always be there, but at the end of the day, it’s how you raise your children, how they become young adults, and how they care for their own children. That, for me, is the most important thing.”
Sundays are reserved for tradition: “Every Sunday, ever since I was with my parents, we always had Sunday lunch. And we still continue to do that. The children and grandchildren join us, keeping the tradition alive.”
Staying fit and moving forward
The former mayor also ensures his health stays a priority.
“I do regular exercise — treadmill, bike, dumbbells, and weights — to keep fit.”
Looking back, he has no regrets about the decisions he made during his tenure.
“I believe everything I did was the correct decision given the time I had to make it. Even during the pandemic, I think we all did the right thing. With everyone working together, it didn’t seem as difficult.”
Tito Jerry’s words of advice and legacy
Asked about the advice he gives his daughter, Mayor Raisa Treñas, he keeps it short but firm: “Trust your gut feelings.”
As he reflects on the roles he has played — as a public servant, father, and proud Ilonggo — he hopes to be remembered for the lives he touched.
“As a leader, I did everything to make sure life became a little better every day for the Ilonggos. As a father, I want to be remembered as someone who gave my children the best education and guidance. And as an Ilonggo, I want to be remembered as someone who tried to do his best under the circumstances he was in.”/PN
