ILOILO City – Mayor Raisa Treñas has secured a slot in the Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG), a national alliance of reform-driven leaders, after being accepted under “observer status” — a recognition she said highlights Iloilo City’s commitment to transparency and accountability in government.
“This is more than just an honor; it is a solemn responsibility,” Treñas said in a statement on Saturday. “Since Day 1 of our administration, we have implemented an open-door policy so that the City Government of Iloilo will always be open, accessible, and accountable to our people. We issued executive orders and memorandum circulars to institutionalize transparency without shortcuts or hocus-pocus. It is very important that the projects being implemented can be seen and felt by the public — not delayed, not defective, and not ghost projects.”
Treñas stressed that Iloilo City’s inclusion affirms her administration’s pledge to safeguard public resources and deliver services effectively.
“Being part of M4GG affirms our mission to safeguard public resources, deliver services with efficiency, and ensure that all Ilonggos benefit from genuine public service,” she said. “This is a very timely development as we will always rise to action in the spirit of transparency, accountability, and good governance.”
The alliance released its first batch of accepted “observers” on August 30, with Treñas among the list. She admitted that entry was not easy.
“It is difficult to enter. Many must vouch for you to prove that you are aligned with their cause. They saw our transparency, all our programs, and the direction of our city’s initiatives, which is why we were chosen and included,” she explained.
To earn full membership, Treñas must complete three specific programs required by M4GG, including in-person trainings designed to show alignment with the group’s reform agenda.
“For now, I do not yet know what programs I will need to undertake,” she admitted.
Despite the observer designation, the mayor said the opportunity allows Iloilo City to showcase its reforms while also learning from other local governments.
“This opportunity gives us a big chance to showcase our reforms, share best practices, and also learn from other local governments that are equally committed to honest and people-centered leadership,” she said.
“Iloilo City has always stood for trust, inclusivity, and good governance. Joining this alliance is a commitment to continue building a city founded on integrity, collaboration, and a shared vision of a brighter, better future for all Ilonggos,” Treñas added./PN
