By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas is expected to return to office in December following a successful bile duct surgery.
“I look forward to returning to Iloilo City to celebrate my birthday with all of you next month. I ask for your continued prayers for my fast and full recovery,” Treñas said in a statement.
The mayor shared that doctors at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City in Taguig, Metro Manila, have advised him to rest and recover before resuming his official duties.
“I am deeply grateful to [the medical experts at St. Luke’s Medical Center] and to our prayer warriors who supported me with their unwavering faith and love,” he added.
Treñas’ expected return was also confirmed by his daughter, Raisa, who stated, “The good news is that his operation was successful, and hopefully, he can be home by December to celebrate his birthday in the city.”
The mayor will celebrate his 68th birthday on Dec. 4.
Treñas has been on medical leave since Sept. 26, with Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon serving as acting mayor and Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna assuming the role of vice mayor.
The mayor underwent two bile duct procedures: one in October and a major surgery this November.
In an interview in October, Treñas dispelled rumors that he has cancer, explaining that his primary issue was a blockage in his bile duct.
“Some are saying I have cancer. I don’t think I have cancer. My problem is a blockage in my bile duct,” he said.
Due to this blockage, doctors attempted an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), a procedure using an endoscope and X-rays to examine and treat the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Treñas added that the ERCP was unsuccessful, leading to an emergency room visit after he developed jaundice, a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Since October, Treñas has had a temporary tube in place to assist in bile drainage.
His health challenges have prompted him to forgo his plans for a third and final term as city mayor. His daughter, who has served as his executive assistant for about two years, will run for city mayor in his place.
