ILOILO City – Former mayor Jerry P. Treñas officially launched his memoir, “Nobody But Jerry,” yesterday in an intimate ceremony attended by family, friends, and supporters.
The 272-page memoir chronicles his life in public service, personal journey, and the vision that shaped his leadership and legacy in Iloilo City.
The book is divided into eight chapters, along with a foreword, introduction, endword, and letter of gratitude, tracing his life from his early years and entry into public service to his leadership in government, his experiences during challenging times such as the pandemic, the role of family and faith in shaping his values, and the legacy of his vision and contributions to the city and the Ilonggo people.
“If there is one thing I hope readers will take from this memoir, it is that public service is never about one person. It is about community, about commitment, and about believing that we can always make things better if we work together,” Treñas said during the launching.
The title of the book was inspired by the witty slogan emblazoned on light blue shirts — “Nobody but you, Jerry” — worn by his supporters who chanted the lyrics while the 2008 hit song “Nobody” by the South Korean girl group Wonder Girls played on loop outside the Treñas Law Office at the Golden Commercial Building during his public declaration to run for congressman in 2010. This moment marked his departure from the city’s dominant political group.
During the launch, Treñas shared that he began writing the memoir in February 2025 and continued working on it even from his hospital bed while undergoing chemotherapy.
The former mayor expressed his appreciation to everyone who supported him through the years, especially his family and the Ilonggos who stood by him throughout his journey in public service.
“And I have always believed that whatever I achieved in public service was never done alone. Behind every decision, every challenge, and every success were people who trusted, supported, and sometimes even corrected me — and for that, I am very, very grateful. Madamo, madamo guid nga salamat sa inyo,” he added.
Filipino economist and former Secretary of Finance Jesus P. Estanislao who wrote the foreword, entitled “Jerry the Visionary: From Iloilo to the Nation and Beyond,” underscores how Jerry Treñas translated the national vision of Dream Philippines 2046 into concrete local action through Dream Iloilo. He emphasizes that Treñas demonstrated how good governance — anchored in integrity, accountability, and citizen participation — can bring about meaningful and measurable transformation.
Under Treñas’ leadership, Iloilo City emerged as a model of clean, modern, and competitive local governance.
“When strong institutions and active citizenship align, sustainable and inclusive progress is not just possible—it can be achieved within a generation,” Estanislao wrote.
The endword, titled “The Leadership and Legacy of Jerry P. Treñas,” is written by Dr. Vijay Jagannathan, Secretary-General of CityNet.
Dr. Jagannathan reflects on Treñas’ enduring impact on Iloilo City and the broader landscape of urban governance in the Asia-Pacific region. He underscores how Treñas’ leadership combined vision with practical action, strengthening institutions while empowering communities to take an active role in shaping their future.
“Jerry Treñas exemplifies visionary, people-centered leadership. Through his commitment to collaboration, resilience, and proactive governance, he transformed Iloilo City into a model of sustainable urban development—proving that true leadership is defined not by position, but by vision, purpose, and heart,” Dr. Jagannathan wrote.
Incumbent Mayor Raisa S. Treñas, Jerry’s daughter, in her message, expressed her pride and respect for his father as her mentor.
“Being exposed to public service at a young age—first as someone quietly observing, then later as a volunteer helping behind the scenes, and eventually serving as his executive assistant—awakened in me the same calling to serve. And that is why I stand here today—not only as a proud daughter, but as a proud public servant deeply inspired by the life and example of former Mayor Jerry P. Treñas. I am very proud of you, Papa,” Mayor Raisa expressed.
For project manager Ted Aldwin Ong, overseeing the book project of former mayor Jerry proved to be a deeply rewarding experience.
“It stands out as one of the most organized and efficient publication projects I have handled, especially considering that it was completed in record time. The project showed how mutual trust, competence, and close coordination can lead to the successful publication of a memoir,” he shared.
He also expressed his gratitude to the former mayor for the confidence placed in the team’s editorial and technical judgment, which gave them the freedom to make well-informed decisions. This trust, he said, allowed the group to work with clarity, accountability, and a strong sense of purpose.
“Transforming the personal and public life story of a prominent contemporary leader into a finished book deepened my appreciation of his leadership. It was truly an honor for the entire team to work closely with him and his family,” he added.
“Nobody But Jerry” is available at Carlos Bakeshop and Café in Jaro, Iloilo City; The Bookmark, Inc. in Makati City; Vibal Books on Araneta Avenue, Quezon City; and Pandayan Bookshop branches nationwide.
The book gives Ilonggos and readers everywhere a chance to revisit a significant chapter in Iloilo’s history and to reflect on the true essence of dedicated public service.
In the story of the city, during one crucial era, there was only one name that led the way — Nobody But Jerry./PN
