Iloilo City Vibes in 2024: From Darkness to Dynasties

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

‘DARK LESSONS’ 

‘IT’S YOUR FAULT’: Marcos says NGCP accountable for Panay blackout; firm asserts innocence

Picture this: January 1, 2025, the sun is shining, and suddenly—BAM!—Panay Island plunges into darkness. For Ilonggos, the four-day blackout that welcomed our 2024 was an experience akin to surviving a disastrous typhoon or earthquake.

It was a blackout so dramatic that it is worthy of a FAMAS Awards nomination, complete with cliffhangers and frantic phone calls to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), power generators, distributors, and whatnot.

On a personal note, I just got back to Iloilo from a holiday celebration in Manila during the blackout bonanza and I must say it was my baptism of fire to cover the energy sector or beat. It was a grueling four days for us reporters — finding working spaces, searching for good internet, and breaking down the highly technical concepts of the energy industry.

Fast forward to 2025, and we can’t help but chuckle (or cringe) at the thought of Ilonggos bracing for another potential blackout. With the NGCP claiming innocence and everyone else pointing fingers, residents might want to stock up on candles and snacks — because nothing says “party” like sitting in the dark with your family while trying to remember how to play board games.

The completion of the Cebu-Negros-Panay Stage 3 backbone project by NGCP, sure, is a big help, but who knows when the same thing happens, or even worse.

The lesson here? Keep your phone charged and your flashlights handy because when it comes to power outages in Panay, it seems like history has a funny way of repeating itself!

So, as we look ahead to 2025, let’s embrace the spirit of preparedness with a touch of humor. Maybe we should start an annual “Power Outage Picnic” where everyone gathers with their favorite snacks and board games in case the lights go out again.

After all, the darker lesson is — if life gives you lemons (or in this case, darkness), you might as well make lemonade—or at least enjoy some snacks while waiting for the lights to come back on!

In hopes for a blackout-less 2025, *cue Cardi B’s message: “Ladies and gentlemen, it was lovely to have you this year. See you next year — or not!”

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HAUNTING LEGACY

‘MANO-A-MANO’: Treñas faces admin raps on Central Market’s demolition

Old and sick, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, is stepping away from politics after a 38-year run. But hold onto your hats, folks — his  “temporary” retirement is shaping up to be a political thriller worthy of a Netflix series—complete with drama, legal battles, and a dash of irony.

As Treñas prepares to exit stage left, he is leaving behind a legacy that might just haunt him like a ghost in an old mansion.

The main plot twist revolves around the demolition of the Iloilo Central Market’s iconic art deco façade, which has become the center of a legal showdown. Jose Nereo Lujan, the cultural heritage advocate who filed an administrative complaint against Treñas. If the Office of the Ombudsman rules against the mayor, we could see some serious consequences.

His 17-page complaint accuses Treñas of “grave misconduct” and “abuse of authority,” claiming that the mayor’s actions were akin to bulldozing history itself without so much as a polite nod from the National Historical Commission.

And let’s not forget the drama when reporters, particularly Daily Guardian’s very own Joey Marzan, kept on asking about whether the demolition was permitted by heritage agencies. You could practically hear the steam coming out of his ears!

As Treñas prepares for a “stress-free life” post-politics—where he can finally enjoy his grandkids and maybe even take up knitting—he’s also facing the reality that his legacy might not be as rosy as he hopes.

Sure, he’s looking forward to spending more time with his six granddaughters and practicing law again, but let’s be real: those legal complaints are going to be the party crashers at his retirement bash.

So, while Treñas may be looking forward to a quieter life filled with family and less stress, he should probably keep an eye over his shoulder. After all, in politics, just like in horror movies, you never know when the past and your supposed legacy will come back to haunt you!

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POLITICS 101

Treñas to ‘tutor’ Raisa if elected mayor

The political landscape of Iloilo City in 2025 and the years to come is set to be quite the family affair, thanks to Mayor Jerry Treñas’ decision to mentor his daughter, Raisa Treñas-Chu, whose win is right at her doorstep, with no formidable rival at her sight.

This situation is a delightful opportunity to reflect on the dynamics of political legacies and family ties — because what could be more entertaining than a grown daughter navigating the choppy waters of local governance?

Imagine Jerry Treñas, with a proud yet slightly nervous grin, sitting down with Raisa over cups of coffee and stacks of governance manuals. “Okay, Raisa, lesson one: how to dodge tough questions at press conferences,” he might say, all while trying not to spill his coffee.

After all, if there’s one thing politicians know, it’s how to pivot! The idea of a father-daughter tutoring session in the art of politics sounds like a sitcom waiting to happen—complete with awkward moments and unexpected plot twists.

Critics have raised eyebrows at Raisa’s limited experience, mainly her role as an executive assistant. But let’s be real: who needs extensive qualifications when you have a dad who’s been in the political game longer than some people have been alive? —- 38 years to be exact.

It’s like getting a crash course in governance from the ultimate insider. “Don’t worry about those critics, Raisa! Just remember: it’s not about what you know; it’s about who you know—and I know everyone!”

Whether it’s dynasties or mentorships, families are often at the heart of political narratives. In this case, Jerry is not just passing down his name but also his wisdom (and perhaps a few dad jokes). This dynamic could spark discussions on nepotism versus meritocracy—while also providing plenty of fodder for local comedians!

Here’s to 2025 being not just a year of heated elections but also one filled with laughter and learning in the world of local politics. May we all take a page from Jerry and Raisa’s City Hall podcast: “Politics 101: How to Keep Your Friends Close and Your Families Closer!”