Defender Debuque Officially Appointed as Iloilo Governor, Vice Governor Post Fills Up
In the bustling heart of Iloilo, the Provincial Capitol witnessed a momentous occasion on May 13, 2025. Governor Arthur "Toto" Defensor Jr., a seasoned leader, and Anilao Mayor Lee Ann Debuque, a rising star, were officially proclaimed as the Province's new governing duo following the 2025 midterm elections.
The proclamation, held in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, was a culmination of the official canvassing of votes by the Provincial Board of Canvassers. Debuque, in her heartfelt gratitude, called the overwhelming support a vote of trust in Iloilo's future leadership.
Defensor, on the other hand, declared that this victory wasn't a personal triumph but a clear mandate from the Ilonggos who value good governance, continuity, and progress. With this third term, Defensor takes the reins for the final time, while Debuque steps up to succeed outgoing Vice Governor Christine "Tingting" Garin.
Running under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, Defensor and Debuque bagged a strong mandate from the electorate. Surrounded by family, supporters, local officials, and provincial employees, both leaders pledged to work together to sustain Iloilo's development programs, improve public services, and foster inclusive growth.
Defensor emphasized the importance of forging partnerships with local government units and national agencies, while Debuque committed to acting as the liaison between the executive and the legislative branches of the provincial government.
The election also saw the proclamation of 15 other candidates as congressional representatives and board members. With the new leaders in place, Iloilo prepares to embrace a prosperous future under their guidance.
The newly elected Governor Defensor and Vice Governor Debuque, from Iloilo, were proclaimed following the 2025 midterm elections in the Philippines. The proclamation took place in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, and both leaders expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, viewing it as a vote of trust in Iloilo's future leadership.
Defensor, a seasoned leader, and Debuque, a rising star, ran under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and bagged a strong mandate from the electorate. Besides working together to sustain Iloilo's development programs, they pledged to improve public services and promote inclusive growth.
Defensor emphasized the importance of forging partnerships with local government units and national agencies, while Debuque committed to acting as the liaison between the executive and the legislative branches of the provincial government.
As other candidates were proclaimed as congressional representatives and board members in the elections, Iloilo prepares to embrace a prosperous future under the guidance of its new leaders who prioritize good governance, continuity, and progress.
