ILOILO CITY – With deep gratitude and solemn recognition, the League of Municipalities of the Philippines – Iloilo Chapter (LMP-Iloilo) held a Despedida Ceremony on June 19, 2025, at Hotel del Rio, Iloilo City, to honor the unwavering dedication and years of service of Iloilo’s outgoing municipal mayors. The event stood as a poignant tribute to leadership, camaraderie, and the enduring impact of public service.
Carrying the theme “Moments of Honor. Memories of Service,” the gathering brought together incumbent and outgoing Local Chief Executives (LCEs), DILG officials, and partner stakeholders in a reflective and celebratory atmosphere. The program served not only as a farewell but also as a powerful affirmation of the legacy each mayor leaves behind in their respective municipalities.
Provincial Director Engr. Carmelo F. Orbista, CESO V, of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Iloilo Province, graced the event and delivered a heartfelt message. He commended the outgoing LCEs for their invaluable contributions, emphasizing that the impact of their leadership will continue to resonate in the lives of their constituents even after their term ends. “The true measure of leadership,” he noted, “is seen not only in achievements, but in the lasting change felt by the people we serve.”
LMP-Iloilo President and San Enrique Mayor Hon. Rosario Mediatrix P. Fernandez, who is herself transitioning to a new role as Vice Mayor of San Enrique, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the DILG, particularly to PD Orbista, for the agency’s steadfast support. She also extended her gratitude to her fellow mayors, commending their collective efforts in steering their municipalities toward progress and resilience amid various challenges.
The evening was filled with sincere messages of gratitude and shared memories from key local leaders, including:
- Hon. Suzette A. Mamon, Mayor of Badiangan
- Hon. Oscar S. Garin, Jr., Mayor of Miagao
- Hon. Nathalie Ann F. Debuque, Mayor of Anilao and Vice Governor-elect
- Hon. Ramon Sullano, President of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) – Iloilo and Vice Mayor-elect of Santa Barbara
- Hon. Arvin Losaria, Vice Mayor of Lambunao and President of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines (VMLP) – Iloilo
- Hon. Liecel M. Seville, Mayor of New Lucena and Sangguniang Bayan Member-elect
Their tributes echoed a shared sense of pride, mutual respect, and the special bond cultivated among Iloilo’s municipal leaders throughout their years of joint service.
The LMP-Iloilo capped the ceremony with the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to the outgoing mayors, each honored for their dedication, achievements, and integrity in public office. Among those recognized were:
- Mayor Ninfa S. Garin – San Joaquin
- Mayor Liecel M. Seville – New Lucena, now elected as SB Member
- Mayor Marina Luz S. Gorriceta – San Miguel
- Mayor Mark P. Palabrica – Bingawan, now elected as Board Member of the 3rd District
- Mayor Lydia E. Grabato – Mina
- Mayor Nathalie Ann F. Debuque – Anilao, now elected as Vice Governor of Iloilo
- Mayor Rosario Mediatrix P. Fernandez – San Enrique, now elected as Vice Mayor
- Mayor Jett C. Rojas – Ajuy, now elected as Vice Mayor
- Mayor Siegfredo Betita – Carles
- Mayor Roberto Belleza – San Rafael, now elected as Vice Mayor
- Mayor Darwin E. Bajada – San Dionisio
- Mayor Mary Lyn N. Mosqueda – Estancia
Each name represented a legacy marked by courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the people. Their leadership spanned a wide range of initiatives—from strengthening local economies and disaster resilience, to championing inclusive governance and empowering communities.
As these leaders embark on new chapters—some transitioning to other elective positions and others concluding their terms—their service remains etched in the progress of Iloilo’s municipalities and the hearts of the people they served.
The LMP-Iloilo Despedida served as a reminder that while terms may end, true public service leaves behind a lasting mark. The evening celebrated not just the closing of a chapter, but the continuing journey of servant-leaders whose lives have been defined by purpose, sacrifice, and the pursuit of the common good. /rjip
