‘OPEN BUT VIGILANT’: Bayan Panay Issues Challenge to New Iloilo City Mayor

By Juliane Judilla

As Raisa Treñas-Chua formally takes office as the new mayor of Iloilo City on June 30, progressive groups express cautious optimism for renewed dialogue and accountability in local governance.

The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) – Panay issued a statement urging the new mayor to break away from controversial policies associated with outgoing Mayor Jerry Treñas.

“We remain open—but let it be clear: we will not bargain away the interests of the Ilonggo people,” said Elmer Forro, secretary general of Bayan Panay.

The group described the transition as a pivotal moment in the city’s political landscape.

Bayan acknowledged that Jerry Treñas, long considered a political titan, initially garnered praise for his pandemic-era leadership.

“Treñas’ leadership arc was complex,” the group noted, citing his 2019 return to city hall and early initiatives centered on health, food security, and social welfare during the COVID-19 crisis.

Despite national-level militarized enforcement under then-President Rodrigo Duterte, Treñas was praised for preserving local autonomy and allowing civil society engagement.

“He was one of the few local executives who gave us space during the pandemic,” Forro said.

Forro also recalled that when Bayan Muna coordinator Jory Porquia was killed in 2020 and human rights lawyer Angelo Karlo Guillen was attacked in 2021, Treñas publicly condemned the acts and removed red-tagging tarpaulins.

“That counted for something,” Forro added.

However, the group said Treñas’ second term marked a shift toward closed-door governance.

They criticized the privatization of Iloilo’s Central and Terminal Markets through a partnership with SM Prime Holdings, which drew sustained opposition from vendors and civil society.

Concerns about displacement, reduced public access, and job loss were reportedly ignored.

The group also opposed the local implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program and the Local Public Transport Route Plan, citing displacement of drivers and disrupted commuter routines.

“These were seen as top-down policies lacking genuine consultation,” Bayan said.

A flashpoint came in early 2023 when labor leaders, including Forro—then recently released from detention—visited Treñas’ office during consultations with the International Labour Organization.

The meeting ended abruptly after Treñas allegedly accused Forro of sabotaging the market redevelopment.

“That moment marked a clear shift—from openness to outright hostility,” Forro said.

As Treñas-Chua assumes the post, Bayan said she inherits a city burdened with unresolved issues: displaced vendors, flawed transport policies, and controversial development projects like the proposed Barangay Ingore incinerator and coastal reclamation in Villa Arevalo and other areas.

Bayan questioned whether the new mayor’s rise was based on merit or political lineage.

“Is this a case of leadership by merit, or a political coronation by bloodline?” Forro asked.

Despite doubts, Bayan remains open to engagement.

“We are hopeful that the new mayor recognizes the importance of dialogue and transparency,” Forro said.

“We are ready to work with any administration that listens and serves the people,” he added.

“But we will not hesitate to resist any policy that undermines public welfare, democratic rights, or environmental integrity,” Forro emphasized.