MANDAUE City Mayor-elect Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano on Monday, June 9, 2025, urged local leaders to unite and asked his political opponents to move forward from past divisions as he prepares to assume office.
During the oathtaking of the One Mandaue coalition on Monday, Ouano called for reconciliation and cooperation, saying it was time to “set aside personal and political conflicts” in favor of public service.
“Para ni sa kaayohan sa Mandaue. Panahon na nga magtinabangay ta (This is for the good of Mandaue. It’s time for us to work together),” he said.
Priorities
Ouano said his administration will prioritize improving services at the Mandaue City Hospital, citing shortages in basic medical supplies and diagnostic tools.
He also announced plans to review the City’s tax assessment structure and simplify business processes to promote economic growth.
“Ease of doing business is essential. It shouldn’t be difficult to run a business here,” he said.
The mayor-elect said one reason he returned to local politics was the encouragement and support of national allies, including Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Romualdez.
While One Mandaue candidates officially took their oath only on Monday, Ouano said the schedule was arranged to ensure full attendance, given the conflicting commitments of the coalition’s members.
“We wanted to be complete before we begin our full term, so we can focus on the work ahead,” he said.
Ouano was joined by Mandaue City Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon and the rest of the coalition’s winning candidates during the ceremony officiated by Court of Appeals Associate Justice Mercedita Dadole-Ygnacio at Mandani Bay.
Also sworn in under One Mandaue were incumbent Councilors Anjong Ouano Icalina, Ting Sol Cabahug and Joel Seno, and Councilors-elect Ben Basiga, Eugene Andaya and Fritz Villamor.
Consolacion Municipal Councilor-elect Miko Ouano, 6th District Provincial Board (PB) Member-elect Alfie Ouano and PB Member-elect Olin Seno also took their oath.
Ouano-Dizon, reelected to another term in Congress, thanked residents of Barangays Umapad, Opao and Pagsabungan, which delivered a 16-0 sweep for One Mandaue.
Ouano and Ouano-Dizon are the children of the late Thadeo “Teddy” Ouano, who served as Mandaue City mayor from 1998 to 2007, and later as PB member for the 6th District.
His return to City Hall marks the continuation of the Ouano family’s longstanding presence in Mandaue politics. / CAV