The involvement of Raisa Treñas-Chu in Iloilo City’s official events following her resignation from public office has raised eyebrows and sparked debate about the legalities of her actions.
Treñas, daughter of Mayor Jerry Treñas, resigned from her post as Executive Assistant V on October 7, a day before filing her candidacy for mayor in the 2025 elections. Yet, despite stepping down, she continued to perform public duties, including declaring the opening of the Dinagyang Festival’s 100-day countdown.
The controversy erupted when Raisa, in front of a significant audience, proclaimed, “By the power vested in me by the city mayor of Iloilo City,” as she officially opened the Dinagyang Festival.
This statement, which gave the impression that she was acting in an official capacity, did not sit well with many. Notably, Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon, who has been serving as acting mayor since Mayor Treñas took a medical leave on September 28, was present at the event but did not make the official declaration.
Under Republic Act No. 7160, also known as the Local Government Code of 1991, the vice mayor assumes the powers of the mayor during their absence, barring certain personnel-related decisions.
This raised the question: Should Ganzon, as the acting mayor, have made the declaration instead?
According to the Local Government Code, the acting mayor holds the full responsibilities of the local chief executive in the absence of the mayor. Section 46 of the law clarifies that the vice mayor, serving in an acting capacity, should perform all executive functions.
As such, the declaration of significant city events, like the opening of the Dinagyang countdown, falls under his jurisdiction—not that of a private individual.
The City Government has a stake in the Dinagyang as it organizes and even funds the festival, meaning people’s money are spent for the holding of the annual mardi gras.
Moreover, Philippine law does not grant private citizens the power to execute official government functions. Section 444(b)(1)(iv) of the Local Government Code specifies that the mayor—or in their absence, the acting mayor—holds the authority to represent the city in its dealings, which includes formal public declarations.
Raisa Treñas’ involvement, though possibly meant as a gesture of familial support, crosses a line between personal loyalty and public duty.
She is no longer a government official, having resigned to run for mayor in 2025. While she may have been asked by her father to deliver his message, there is no legal provision that permits private citizens to perform executive actions on behalf of the city government.
Critics argue that her actions constitute an “ultra vires” act, meaning actions performed without legal authority. This has understandably led to concerns about the legality and ethics of her involvement in these official events.
Ethical concerns also come into play. While some may view Raisa’s involvement as benign, her continued presence at city events, coupled with her father’s ongoing role as mayor, could be seen as an attempt to legitimize her “arranged victory” ahead of the 2025 elections.
The use of phrases like “By the power vested in me” further blurs the line between public duty and political opportunism, possibly misleading the public about her current status as a private citizen.
This incident calls for a review of governance protocols, particularly in instances where the mayor is temporarily absent. Clear lines of authority must be respected to avoid confusion and maintain the integrity of public office.
Governance should strictly follow legal frameworks, and private individuals, regardless of familial ties, should not be allowed to assume roles meant for duly authorized officials.
Let this episode become a reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to legal processes in government.
The debate will continue, however, what is certain is that the public deserves clarity and proper observance of laws when it comes to the discharge of official duties.
