By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
With the historic election of three women to the city’s highest posts, Ilonggo voters have sent a strong message: Iloilo City embraces inclusive leadership.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said that while women winning elections is not unusual, having three women hold top positions reflects the city’s openness to diverse and capable leadership regardless of gender.
“I believe that it only shows that in Iloilo City, the Ilonggos are inclusive and there is always a place for everyone, even members of the LGBTQIA+ community,” he said in an interview on Tuesday, May 13.
He emphasized that, like in households, women in leadership are nurturing, detail-oriented and capable of multitasking.
“It will give them a chance to show that they can make it,” he added.
For Raisa Treñas-Chu, daughter of the incumbent mayor, becoming Iloilo City’s first woman mayor is both a challenge and an opportunity.
“To be elected as the first woman mayor of the city is a big responsibility,” she said.
“To get that number of votes is overwhelming […] Inday Raisa will be a mother for Iloilo City.”
Reelected lone district Rep. Jam-Jam Baronda echoed the sentiment, saying women bring a unique mix of strength and compassion to leadership.
“The advantage of being a woman is that we are meticulous,” she said.
“We want everything to be done according to plan.”
“We can be tough, but we can also be soft-hearted, and if there’s something that needs help, we will gladly extend our hands,” she added.
Baronda said their victory sends a message to other women who aspire to enter politics.
“To all women out there who also have a passion to serve, you can still do the same,” she said.
Newly elected Vice Mayor Love-Love Baronda said voters’ decision to elect women leaders shows their desire for innovation and inclusive governance.
“The public wants fresh ideas, fresh perspectives,” she said.
“Rest assured that we will work together not only for the betterment of specific offices but for the benefit of the whole of Iloilo City.”
