‘FINDING JERRY’: Ganzon is acting mayor amid Treñas absence, COC filing

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor and Mariela Angella Oladive

The whereabouts of Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas remain unclear as Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon has been acting mayor since Sept. 28.

City Administrator Melchor Tan signed an executive order (EO) on Sept. 27 designating Ganzon to assume mayoral duties temporarily.

The EO indicated that due to the “temporary absence” of Treñas, Ganzon will serve as acting mayor starting Sept. 28 “until the mayor’s return and formal resumption of office.”

The EO was shared with the media by Treñas’ spokesperson, Joy Fantilaga, after questions arose regarding the health of the 67-year-old mayor.

Speculation circulated that Treñas had been admitted to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, due to pneumonia. However, Fantilaga did not confirm whether the mayor is currently hospitalized or at City Hall.

Notably, the mayor’s regular Monday press conference did not take place this week.

In September, Treñas assured the public of his good health despite undergoing sinus surgery in August. He also mentioned losing 20 pounds (9 kilograms) due to taking Ozempic, a medication primarily prescribed for Type 2 diabetes.

The mayor has been monitoring his blood sugar regularly, carrying a glucometer to track his levels.

Treñas has faced several health challenges in recent years. He was hospitalized in October last year for overfatigue and suffered from severe sinusitis and body pains in September. In December, he underwent angioplasty to open blocked coronary arteries. In June, he was again hospitalized for pneumonia and had an executive check-up at St. Luke’s in July.

Open to Political ‘Configurations’

Amid speculation about his whereabouts, Treñas announced via Facebook that his administration is open to exploring any political configuration that prioritizes the welfare of Iloilo City and its residents.

In a statement released on Oct. 1, Treñas emphasized that the city’s welfare comes before political interests.

“The first consideration is always what is good for the city and the Ilonggo family. This is more important than power or political pragmatism,” the mayor said.

Treñas revealed that his team, Team Uswag, is conducting consultations to determine the best path forward.

“We are prepared for any configuration as long as it benefits our constituents and does not hinder the progress we’ve achieved,” he added.

The mayor’s openness comes amid speculation about potential political alliances in the city. Reports suggest discussions between Treñas and Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne “JamJam” Baronda’s camps aimed at reconciliation after a meeting with House Speaker Martin Romualdez, though no official statements have emerged.

Treñas has acknowledged the advice of Romualdez, whose insight he values. When asked about Treñas’ use of the term “configuration” in relation to potential alliances, Fantilaga said she could not confirm as of writing.

Previously, Treñas deferred to Romualdez regarding what transpired during the meeting. Through Fantilaga, Treñas confirmed that Team Uswag is prepared for political challenges leading up to the 2025 elections.

Fantilaga noted that while the party is open to reconciliation, they have a complete slate of candidates ready if coalition talks do not lead to an agreement.

Mabilog Factor

Adding to the political intrigue, rumors have surfaced about a possible alliance between Baronda and former Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog.

Supporters were recently seen wearing shirts featuring both Baronda and Mabilog’s images during a scholarship payout event at the University of San Agustin on Sept. 29.

The shirts displayed slogans like “Ipadayon ang Gugma” and “Sulong Iloilo,” suggesting a unifying message among their supporters.

When asked about Mabilog’s potential candidacy, Baronda did not provide a definitive answer but hinted at Mabilog’s continued commitment to the city.

On the same day Treñas released his statement, Mabilog said the public would have to wait for his decision on the 2025 elections.

“Pure love is shown through actions, not words. I ask everyone to patiently wait for my political decision, which I will announce soon. Please join me in praying and reflecting to make the best choice,” Mabilog stated.

Former Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO) head Jeck Conlu and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Sheen Marie Mabilog were also present at the payout event.

Both had initially expressed interest in running for city council positions under Mayor Treñas’ Team Uswag slate. While Conlu has since withdrawn, the status of Sheen Mabilog’s candidacy remains unclear.

Iloilo City COMELEC Officer II Jonathan Sayno noted that her name was not included in the latest candidate list submitted by Treñas for review.

Baronda declined to comment on whether Conlu and Sheen had shifted political allegiances, saying, “We will know at the right time.”

With the ongoing filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC), the final candidate list from Team Uswag is expected to be revealed soon.

Meanwhile, Baronda has already assembled her lineup for the 2025 midterm elections, although she has not yet formally announced her re-election bid.