The Ghost in the Palace

The Office of the Mayor has only one occupant. Let it be so.

In Philippine politics, stepping down is rarely a clean exit. It is often a theatrical performance of succession — the resignation of a title, but not of power.

This week, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas added a new act to that familiar script.

As he prepares to leave City Hall after more than two decades of rule (with only a brief intermission), Treñas said he is open to becoming a “designated” political adviser to his daughter, incoming Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu.

He was quick to clarify: no official title, no salary, just guidance.

But to what extent can a former mayor — beloved, seasoned, politically entrenched — truly be “unofficial”?

Philippine history is filled with ghosts like these. Fathers, mothers, spouses, siblings — political figures who vacate positions but hover like shadows over the decisions of the next occupant, who is usually a relative.

From national palaces to barangay halls, we’ve seen how bloodlines blur the lines of power.

Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo stayed relevant as House Speaker, dealmaker, and now, again, a central figure in congressional maneuvering. Former President Duterte never fully left politics after 2022; his looming presence remains central to the actions of allies and the political fate of his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.

In local politics, dynasties operate the same way: by succession, suggestion, and silent handshakes.

Here in Iloilo City, the elder Treñas’ offer to “guide” his daughter is perhaps expected. But that should not make it acceptable.

Leadership is not inheritance. Advice is not always neutral. And designation — no matter how well-meaning — risks becoming a backdoor to influence without accountability.

Raisa Treñas-Chu is not a child. She is a mayor elected by the people. She brings credentials, education, and a different generation’s perspective. The burden of proof is now on her to govern as herself — not as her father’s proxy.

It is also on Mayor Jerry Treñas to let go. His legacy will not be protected by hovering over his daughter’s decisions. It will be secured by letting her succeed or fail on her own terms.

The truth is, even “no official role” is still a role if power is perceived. Influence does not need paperwork. Political gravity works in silence.

Voters may soon ask: if things go well, whose credit is it? If things go wrong, who gets the blame?

The public deserves clarity. They voted for Raisa, not Jerry. They deserve to see a mayor in command, not a dual image — one standing behind the desk, the other whispering behind the curtains.

There is dignity in departure. There is power in restraint. And there is integrity in knowing when your chapter has closed.

The Office of the Mayor has only one occupant. Iloilo City deserves no confusion about who that is.

Let it be so.