Treñas Seeks Constructive End to Marcos-Duterte Rift

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed hope for a constructive resolution to the public feud between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, which has been marked by threats and accusations.

In a statement on Thursday, Nov. 28, Treñas emphasized that any resolution between the two highest elected officials, once political allies, should adhere to the 1987 Constitution and the rule of law.

“Let us all continue to lean on the strength of the administration’s commitment to progress and development for a better Philippines,” he said.

Treñas highlighted the importance of the country’s democratic framework in addressing political conflicts and called for unity and stability.

“In times of political differences at the national level, it is crucial to prioritize stability and unity for the welfare of the Filipino people,” he said.

He also urged local officials to focus on collaborating with the national administration to implement programs that uplift their constituents.

The mayor’s statement follows Vice President Duterte’s shocking revelation that she had instructed someone to assassinate President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if anything happened to her.

President Marcos denounced the assassination threats, describing them as “troubling” and underscoring that such “criminal plans should not be overlooked.”

Despite the escalating political tensions, Treñas expressed gratitude for the Marcos administration’s support of Iloilo City’s development.

“As I count the remainder of my days serving as your mayor of Iloilo City, I reflect on the transformative progress we have made together, thanks to the support of the Marcos administration,” he said.

Treñas highlighted key projects under the administration, including the completion of the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project II (JRMP II) and the advancement of the Panay-Guimaras-Negros (PGN) Bridge construction.

The PHP 19.7-billion JRMP II, inaugurated by Marcos in July, is the largest water reservoir project outside Luzon. It aims to enhance irrigation, environmental management, and institutional development in the region.

Additionally, the president directed the early completion of the detailed engineering design for Section A of the PGN Bridge by December 2024, allowing civil works to start in the second half of 2025.

“As I near the end of my term, I am proud to witness the lasting legacy of these big-ticket projects—initiatives that directly enhance the quality of life for every Ilonggo family. I assure every Ilonggo that these efforts will continue, and with your support and unity, we will keep moving forward together,” Treñas said.

The city mayor, currently in his second term, has opted not to seek a final term in the 2025 midterm elections due to health concerns. Instead, he has endorsed his daughter, Raisa Treñas-Chu, to run for mayor.