BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Is Rep. Julienne “Jam-jam” Baronda seeking reelection against Mayor Jerry Treñas’ daughter, Raisa Treñas-Chu?
Talks are rife that Baronda is preparing for her reelection bid after officially joining the Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) on Tuesday.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Lakas-CMD party president, administered the oath to Baronda as new party member in a simple ceremony at the Speaker’s Office in the House of Representatives.
In a statement, Baronda confirmed she attended the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and Lakas CMD Alliance signing yesterday. She also confirmed she became a member of Lakas on Tuesday.
“After thoroughly weighing all options, I have decided that it is in the best interest of the people of Iloilo City that I join Lakas party. This decision has not been reached lightly. I am proud to have worked with the people of NUP (National Unity Party) who similarly shared with me a commitment to serve the community and its well-being. I will always cherish the relationship formed and the experiences gained during my stay with the party,” said Baronda.
She added, “As our society evolves and confronts new challenges, I find myself drawn to a political party whose values and principles more closely align with my advocacies. After careful consideration, I believe that Lakas party offers the best platform for me to effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to our city.”
Baronda took her oath as the new member along with Representatives Ching Bernos (Abra) and Kristine Tutor (Bohol).
Romualdez welcomed the new party members as he expressed confidence that they would provide meaningful contributions to advance the ideals of Lakas-CMD, citing their dedication to public service.
“Together we can leverage Lakas-CMD’s significant representation in the House of Representatives and extensive membership nationwide to address the pressing issues facing our nation and advance policies that promote inclusive growth and prosperity for all,” Romualdez said.
Baronda switched party barely two months after she and Mayor Treñas ended their political alliance and announced that daughter Raisa is running for congresswoman.
Lakas-CMD is currently the biggest party – with 100 members – in the House of Representatives. The House has 309 members./PN
