Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor, Jr. announced that the swearing-in of local government officials to the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) is a strategic move aimed at promoting economic progress at the grassroots level.
This decision aligns Iloilo with the political party of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a step Defensor describes as crucial for local development.
“This is a development decision,” Defensor explained during a press conference on June 3.
“Our alignment with the administration and the president in terms of political party is a development decision, which is why it is open and being offered to our local government officials.”
700 Execs Sworn In
On Sunday, at least 700 officials from Iloilo and Guimaras took their oath as PFP members in Iloilo City.
Governor Defensor, who serves as the regional chair of PFP, administered the oath to the punong barangays, while PFP National President and South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. swore in provincial board members, mayors, vice mayors, and councilors. Among them were 16 incumbent mayors and vice mayors from Iloilo.
Defensor emphasized that this political realignment is intended to accelerate developmental projects at the local level, including public markets and health facilities.
“It is one of the important reasons why this alignment is significant: to help us, to get support from the president and bring it to the local level,” he noted.
Strategic Move
Having joined PFP himself in August 2023, Defensor views this move as a strategic step for economic development in the province.
He reiterated during the ceremony that the mass recruitment of PFP members is not politically motivated but is focused on working for the party, the administration, and the country.
“We are here to work for the party, for the administration, and for the country,” he stated.
Tangible Benefits
Additionally, Governor Defensor revealed that he has submitted a request to Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Special Assistant to the President, to fast-track the proposed establishment of a regional government center in Zarraga.
“We want to have a government center for the province. Our pending request is now being prioritized by the administration […] It would be better if we could host the regional offices of the national government agencies,” he said.
This alignment with PFP aims to bring tangible benefits to Iloilo, fostering development and ensuring that local needs are met through stronger ties with the national government.
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