ILOILO Mayor-elect Raisa Treñas and incumbent Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed a unified and heartfelt call for reconciliation on June 6, 2025, stressing that their message of unity was not for show but a genuine effort to move past political division in Iloilo City.
“Our message of unity was never meant to be for show. It came from the heart, as a sincere step toward healing and moving forward from the divisions we've seen in Iloilo City politics,” Mayor-elect Raisa Treñas said.
“If meeting face-to-face is what’s needed, we are open to that. We believe in setting aside personal pride so we can put the people of Iloilo City first,” she added.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas echoed the same sentiment, underscoring their shared willingness to bridge political gaps for the good of all Ilonggos.
“Our commitment to unity in Iloilo City is sincere and comes from the deepest part of my heart. Together with Mayor-elect Raisa Treñas, we both want what is best for our city and our people,” Treñas said.
“If a face-to-face meeting with the Barondas is what it takes to heal wounds and build a stronger Iloilo City, I am open to doing so, if and when it becomes necessary,” he added.
“I believe that putting aside personal pride and differences is the first step toward genuine progress. At the end of the day, what matters most is how we move forward, together, for the love and future of Iloilo City. That’s the unity we owe to every Ilonggo family,” Treñas said.
The statements came after a highly divisive campaign season, with the 2025 elections marked by deep political rifts, particularly between the Treñas and Baronda political camps.
Despite political tensions, both leaders emphasized that healing and collaboration will define their administration’s next steps.
The Treñases’ call for unity signals a shift in tone after months of electoral tension. Their openness to reconciliation, including a face-to-face dialogue with their political rivals, is a significant step toward bridging differences in local governance.
For many residents of Iloilo City, the call for peace, cooperation, and a people-first approach is a welcome message after a season of division. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)