Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. is entering the final stretch of his gubernatorial career, yet the political future of his family and the Defensor dynasty hinges on a crucial decision: who will serve as his running mate in 2025? While the governor has so far refrained from announcing his choice, the political calculus behind this decision is more complex than ever.
Running for his third and last term, Gov. Defensor is now at the apex of his career, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. His running mate will not only reflect the administration’s immediate priorities but also determine the future dynamics of Iloilo’s provincial leadership. The political ambitions of the Defensor family do not end with Arthur Jr.’s exit from the Capitol—his brother, Rep. Lorenz Defensor of the 3rd District, has two terms left, and his political trajectory could be defined by the selection of Gov. Defensor’s vice-gubernatorial partner. A weak running mate could safeguard the family’s influence, ensuring that a placeholder won’t overshadow Lorenz’s eventual move for the governorship. But political giants aren’t known to play second fiddle for long.
Defensor has been vocal about his alignment with the Marcos administration, a stance that has raised eyebrows in local political circles. It’s a stark contrast to his father, former Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr., who was an outspoken critic of the Marcoses during his heyday. This pivot can be attributed to the need to secure national support, particularly given the influence of the Marcos-aligned Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, where Gov. Defensor holds a key position.
But this alignment brings its own set of risks. The political terrain in Iloilo has long been shaped by established clans with national connections, particularly the Garins and the Birons, who have deep roots in supporting Marcos. By aligning himself with the same forces, Gov. Defensor risks alienating his political base, many of whom remain critical of Marcos-era policies.
In 2025, six prominent names have emerged as potential running mates, each carrying their own political baggage and ambitions. Among them are Miagao Mayor Richard Garin and 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron, both of whom have been significant players in their respective districts. There’s also Uswag Ilonggo Rep. James “Jojo” Ang, 2nd District Rep. Michael Gorriceta, 4th District Board Member Domingo Oso, and 5th District Rep. Raul Tupas. All of these figures have enough political clout to pose a credible challenge to the Defensor dynasty’s long-term plans.
The Defensor Dilemma
Gov. Defensor’s decision will ultimately shape the future not only of his family but of Iloilo itself. A “token” running mate with no real political ambitions could provide a safeguard for his brother’s potential candidacy in the future. However, this strategy assumes that such an individual would accept a mere placeholder role, which is doubtful given the political ambitions of those in the running.
On the other hand, choosing a powerful ally risks empowering a potential rival for Lorenz Defensor when his time comes to run for governor. This balancing act is crucial, and any misstep could alter the political landscape for years to come.
Long-term Stakes
For the Defensors, it isn’t just about 2025—it’s about maintaining influence in the Capitol for the long haul. The family’s political future may rely on whether Arthur Defensor Jr. can secure a running mate who will follow the party line without undermining his brother’s chances in 2028.
The Defensors have shown political savvy over the years, but as the 2025 elections approach, the guessing game surrounding Gov. Defensor’s running mate could be a defining moment for their legacy. Whichever path they choose, the implications will resonate far beyond the coming electoral cycle.
