3 weeks ago
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MAYOR Jerry Treñas of Iloilo City, known for his alliance with Liberal Party candidates in the previous elections, expressed his support for the senatorial candidates endorsed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
"I am with the administration, so I will support the slate of the administration," declared Treñas during a press conference on Feb. 17.
The mayor made the statement when asked about his stance on the Senate bids of former senators Paolo Benigno "Bam' Aquino IV and Kiko Pangilinan.
Treñas acknowledged his friendship with Aquino and Pangilinan but said that the two would understand his endorsement of the administration-backed Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas candidates.
It can be noted that Treñas was briefly a political prisoner during the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
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He has spoken about his experiences under the regime, emphasizing the repression and injustices of that era.
The mayor emphasized that the results of the midterm elections would ultimately be decided by the voters.
He added that Iloilo City remains open to all political rallies and campaign activities, regardless of party affiliation.
"It's open to anyone. We will not stop them. That's part of the democratic process," he said.
On Feb. 13, the president and his complete senatorial lineup visited Iloilo City for the second leg of their provincial sorties.
The event drew an estimated 35,000 supporters, though it fell short of expectations.
The rally also saw the collection of around 400 kilograms of illegal campaign materials along Diversion Road, including posters nailed to trees.
While such postings violate Commission on Elections (Comelec) regulations, Treñas asserted that the candidates themselves should not be held responsible.
"You know, it's not their fault, I guess. Some of the over-enthusiastic supporters, when they see that others are also posting theirs, they follow suit," he said.
To address the issue, Treñas said he has directed the General Services Office to coordinate with Comelec in ensuring the removal and proper disposal of illegal campaign materials in future election activities in the city.
