Mabilog Named House Speaker’s Special Adviser

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Nearly three months after receiving executive clemency, former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has been appointed special adviser to House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, a first cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Mabilog’s appointment was announced during the Miting de Avance of Team Sulong Gugma on Saturday night, May 10, where he served as campaign manager for the local party led by lone district Rep. Julienne Baronda.

An official memorandum confirming the appointment, signed by House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, stated that the appointment took effect on May 1.

“Mabilog’s contributions and insights in his field of expertise will be crucial for enhancing our legislative agenda for the House of Representatives,” the memo read.

As special adviser, Mabilog is expected to provide expert advice, strategic guidance and support on legislative, political and administrative matters to Romualdez.

The House of Representatives has yet to disclose further details about Mabilog’s specific responsibilities.

Mabilog served as mayor of Iloilo City from 2010 to 2017.

He left the country in August 2017 and went into self-imposed exile in the United States due to threats against his life after then-President Rodrigo Duterte accused him of involvement in illegal drug activities.

Mabilog has consistently denied the allegations, and no formal drug-related charges were ever filed against him.

He returned to the Philippines in September 2024 after seven years abroad.

In January, President Marcos Jr. granted Mabilog executive clemency, lifting administrative penalties imposed in 2017.

The clemency restored Mabilog’s political rights, including eligibility to seek public office.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, on behalf of the Office of the President, announced the clemency and cited Mabilog’s “long-standing commitment to good governance” and the numerous awards received by Iloilo City during his term.

In October 2017, the Office of the Ombudsman dismissed Mabilog from service after finding him guilty of serious dishonesty for failing to explain an alleged PHP8.9 million increase in his wealth between 2012 and 2013.

During campaign rallies for Team Sulong Gugma, Mabilog hinted at a political comeback, particularly a return to City Hall in the 2028 elections.