By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas vowed to mentor his daughter, Raisa Treñas-Chu, should she win as the city’s next mayor, despite criticisms of her limited governance experience.
“I will be a tutor to my daughter, Raisa. I will always be there and make sure she is guided,” Treñas said during a virtual press conference on Wednesday.
The mayor acknowledged that governance is challenging, particularly as Raisa’s bid has been criticized due to her background as an executive assistant, her only significant role in local governance.
Treñas pointed out that it took him years to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for effective public service.
He began his political career in 1986 as a city councilor in Iloilo City, a post he held until 1992, with a brief stint as mayor by succession in March 1992.
He returned as mayor in June 2001, serving three consecutive terms until June 2010.
Afterward, he served as the representative of the Lone District of Iloilo City from 2010 to 2019.
In June 2019, Treñas reclaimed the mayoralty after defeating his brother-in-law in the elections.
In October 2024, he announced he would not seek reelection in the 2025 midterm polls, citing health concerns, and formally endorsed Raisa as his successor.
Treñas noted that leadership takes time to cultivate, drawing from his experience.
“It takes time to develop leaders, which is why I am very happy that we have young councilors. It would be very different if all the leaders are of age,” he said.
He emphasized the need for young leaders in government, aligning this with the city’s “moving forward” direction.
As he steps away from politics, Treñas plans to focus on caring for his grandchildren while guiding Raisa in her potential new role.
