Iloilo’s 5 congressional districts remain under political clans

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Political dynasties in Iloilo province tighten their grip, turning a democratic exercise into a reaffirmation of old loyalties and family affairs

ILOILO CITY, Philippines – Power didn’t change hands and stayed exactly where it’s been for years in Iloilo province. 

In all five congressional districts, political dynasties tightened their grip, turning a democratic exercise into a reaffirmation of old loyalties and family affairs. At the center of it all: rivalries within clans, recycled surnames on the ballots, and a political landscape where losing means just waiting for the next round.

In the 5th District, Provincial Board Member Binky Tupas won the congressional seat, defeating her brother-in-law, former congressman Niel “Junjun” Tupas Jr. Binky received 145,283 votes, while Niel garnered 113,313, based on official results.

It was Niel’s third consecutive electoral defeat. He lost the vice gubernatorial race to Christine Garin in 2016, and was also defeated by his younger brother, Raul Tupas, in the 2019 and 2022 congressional races.

Niel previously served as 5th District representative from 2007 to 2016, following a term on the Iloilo Provincial Board from 2004 to 2007.

In the 4th District, Representative Ferjenel Biron was reelected to a second term, securing 139,202 votes against former police major Charlie Sustento Jr., who received 79,236.

Iloilo 3rd District Representative Lorenz Defensor won a final term with 194,791 votes, or 98.64% of the total votes cast. His opponent received only 2,679 votes.

Defensor is among 11 lawmakers serving on the House prosecution panel in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

In the 2nd District, Kathy Gorriceta won unopposed, receiving 143,184 votes. She will succeed her husband, outgoing congressman Michael Gorriceta.

Former Health secretary Janette Loreto-Garin was reelected in the 1st District, obtaining 154,031 votes. Her rivals, independent candidate Rosendo Langusta and PDP-Laban’s Victor Tabaquirao, received 3,900 and 19,929 votes, respectively.

The Board of Canvassers proclaimed the five district representatives-elect on Tuesday night, May 13. – Rappler.com