In a notable display of global representation and progressive leadership, four dynamic mayors from the Province of Iloilo recently took center stage at the prestigious Asia Pacific Mayors Forum, held in Brisbane, Australia. This high-level gathering brought together over 400 mayors and city leaders from diverse regions across Asia and Oceania, all united by a common goal: to foster collaboration, share innovative solutions, and shape a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for their respective communities.
Representing the Province of Iloilo with distinction and pride were Mayor Elvira Alarcon of Batad, Mayor Jennifer Garin-Colada of Guimbal, Mayor Malin Cabana-Holipas of Leon, and Mayor Luigi Gorriceta of Pavia. Each of these local chief executives carried with them a wealth of experience, bold initiatives, and a deep commitment to public service. Their collective participation served not only as a testament to Iloilo’s rising influence in the regional governance landscape but also as an embodiment of the province’s proactive stance on global engagement.
Throughout the multi-day forum, the Iloilo mayors actively engaged in thematic plenary sessions, policy dialogues, and capacity-building workshops that addressed pressing issues such as climate resilience, digital transformation, inclusive urban planning, and post-pandemic recovery. Their voices contributed meaningfully to conversations that highlighted both the shared challenges and the unique innovations present within the Asia-Pacific region.
Mayor Alarcon emphasized the importance of community-driven governance and rural sustainability during her interactions with other municipal leaders. Mayor Garin-Colada shared insights from Guimbal’s coastal protection and disaster preparedness initiatives. Mayor Cabana-Holipas brought attention to Leon’s agricultural advancements and eco-tourism strategies, while Mayor Gorriceta highlighted Pavia’s success in local economic development and public-private partnerships.
The Asia Pacific Mayors Forum provided a rare and valuable opportunity for Iloilo’s local leaders to learn from and collaborate with counterparts from metropolitan cities and small municipalities alike. It also enabled them to build strategic alliances that could pave the way for future joint programs, technical support exchanges, and potential funding partnerships for infrastructure and community development projects.
Beyond the professional exchange, the event also served as a cultural diplomacy platform, where Iloilo’s heritage, values, and governance philosophies were proudly showcased to an international audience. The delegation’s presence demonstrated how local government units from the Philippines can play a key role in shaping regional narratives around sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth.
As the Iloilo mayors returned home, their participation marked more than just attendance at a global forum—it signaled a renewed commitment to excellence in public service and a strengthened resolve to elevate their municipalities to meet global standards. The knowledge gained, networks established, and inspiration drawn from the forum are expected to translate into more effective, forward-looking policies and community-focused programs.
Their attendance not only elevated the Province of Iloilo’s profile on the international stage but also affirmed the leadership capacity of Filipino local government officials in today’s interconnected world. The long-term impact of their involvement in the Asia Pacific Mayors Forum will undoubtedly ripple through their respective LGUs, benefiting constituents through improved governance and expanded global perspectives.
As Iloilo continues to champion development that is both people-centered and future-proof, this milestone serves as a proud reminder that local leadership, when empowered and engaged, can resonate well beyond borders. /rjip
