Garin clan backs Defensor’s last reelection bid in 2025

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Garin clan will not contest the candidacy of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. for the gubernatorial seat in the 2025 midterm elections.

This follows Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin’s confirmation in an interview on Wednesday, July 10, that her family will fully support Defensor’s bid for a final term.

“Sure, we will support him (Defensor); that is why we are building alliances,” she said, clarifying that no one from her family will run against the governor’s reelection plans.

Janette and her husband, Miag-ao Mayor Richard Garin, met with Defensor on Wednesday morning to discuss the alliance between the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) and the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).

During their meeting, Janette mentioned that they discussed potential mayoral candidates for the 1st District and the possibility of collaborating at the provincial level to support the senatorial candidates of the PFP.

Defensor, who is the regional chairman of PFP, joined the president’s political party in August last year. Janette took her oath as a member of the Lakas-CMD earlier this year.

Defensor announced his intent to seek reelection in February. He is currently serving his second term.

Janette’s sister, Vice Governor Christine Garin, is currently serving her third term as vice governor. She has not yet announced any plans for the next elections.

Names being considered for Defensor’s political tandem include 2nd District Representative Michael Gorriceta, 5th District Representative Raul “Boboy” Tupas, and 4th District Board Member Domingo Oso Jr.

Janette has also expressed openness to the possibility of running for vice governor in previous interviews.

Defensor has clarified that the decision regarding his running mate will still be determined by the PFP.