BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – After a nearly three-month medical leave following a bile duct operation at St. Luke’s Medical Center on November 11, Mayor Jerry Treñas resumes his official duties at City Hall today.
Having returned to Iloilo City on December 6, he took some time to rest before getting back to work.
In a statement, Treñas, 68, expressed his eagerness to embrace a more relaxed and fulfilling phase of life following nearly four decades of public service.
Reflecting on his journey, which began in 1986 when he was appointed as a councilor at the age of 29, Treñas shared his gratitude and plans for the future.
“This is my second life, granted by the grace of our Lord, and I intend to enjoy it while I still can. As I reflect on my years of service, my heart swells with gratitude,” he said.
Treñas is also looking forward to a “stress-free life without appointments and deadlines,” focusing on personal and family time.
He said he has asked the lawyers at his law office to prepare a space for him to work, allowing him to engage in limited law practice and assist local chief executives seeking his advice and expertise.
Treñas also plans to cherish moments with his six granddaughters, watching them grow and creating lasting memories.
But for today as he resumes working, one of Treñas’ immediate priorities is a meeting with Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon and the city councilors to deliberate on the proposed 40 percent extension of the real property tax discount for land until 2026. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on Iloilo City residents and businesses.
During his medical leave, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) ensured the smooth operation of the city government by appointing Vice Mayor Ganzon as acting mayor and Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna as acting vice mayor.
The arrangement was formalized through a memorandum issued by DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos, which clarified the limitations of Cabaluna’s temporary duties as outlined in DILG Memo Circular No. 2019-21.
Treñas expressed heartfelt gratitude to various sectors for their collective efforts in making Iloilo City a model of progress and inclusivity.
He lauded department heads and employees for their dedication, which has earned prestigious awards that bring pride to the city.
The also commended barangay officials for their steadfast partnership in advancing initiatives and acknowledged the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their tireless commitment to keeping the city safe, drug-free, and crime-free.
Treñas also extended his appreciation to the private sector for their invaluable collaboration, which has been crucial in shaping Iloilo City’s growth.
“Sa aton nga pagbuligay, we have made Iloilo one of the most livable, sustainable, and inclusive LGUs in the country, as well as one of the fastest-growing economic powerhouses in the nation. Congratulations to all of us!” he declared.
The mayor stressed the need to sustain the city’s progress and to build on its strengths, cautioning against actions that could undermine their achievements.
Treñas has urged the public to place their trust in her daughter, Raisa Treñas, and Team Uswag to further elevate and expand the progress of Iloilo City.
He called for unity and collective effort in sustaining and building on the city’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of working together to create a brighter future for all.
In a pivotal political development, Treñas has announced that he will not seek re-election in the 2025 midterm elections.
He stated that stepping down would best serve Team Uswag and the interests of Iloilo City.
To ensure the continuity of his administration’s programs and vision, Treñas has endorsed his daughter, Raisa Treñas-Chu, as his successor.
“Buligan naton tanan nga itib-ong pagid ang kaUSWAGan sang aton Siyudad kag indi paggub-on bangud lamang sa pulitika tungod kanugon lang ang aton ginpangabudlayan,” Treñas said.
The mayor also appealed to the community to set aside political differences and focus on the shared goal of continued growth and prosperity for Iloilo City./PN