By Mariela Angella Oladive
Six governors from Western Visayas, including Negros Occidental, have declared their support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through a signed manifesto during a “Unity Lunch” at the Cebu Provincial Capitol on Jan. 30.
The governors—Jose Enrique Miraflores of Aklan, JC Rahman Nava of Guimaras, Rhodora Cadiao of Antique, Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo, Fredenil Castro of Capiz, and Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental—joined 10 other governors from Cebu and the Visayas in endorsing the Marcos administration.
“We, the duly elected governors of the Visayas region, representing our respective provinces and the millions of Filipinos who call the Visayas home, stand united in our unwavering support for the administration of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.,” the manifesto read.
The manifesto was formally presented to the president at the event, which was organized by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, leader of the One Visayas Bloc.
Aside from the governors, the event was attended by mayors, vice mayors, councilors, provincial board members, and representatives from the Provincial Association of Barangay Councils in Cebu.
Other Visayan leaders also issued separate manifestos of support, recognizing Marcos’ commitment and achievements in nation-building.
President Marcos expressed gratitude for the endorsement, emphasizing that support from governors in Regions 6 (Western Visayas), 7 (Central Visayas), and 8 (Eastern Visayas) is crucial for the success of the government’s programs.
He noted that unity among local officials helps streamline governance and accelerate the implementation of projects.
The League of Municipalities in Cebu, PCL-Cebu Chapter, and the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation praised Marcos’ leadership, supporting his “Bagong Pilipinas” vision for governance anchored on justice, equality, and unity.
This show of support follows a similar event in August 2024, when First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos received manifestos of support from Cebu leaders on behalf of the president.
