Sweeter the second time around: Nava back as Guimaras governor after 15 years


GOV. JC Rahman Nava delivers his inaugural speech in a ceremony in Jordan, Guimaras. (Province of Guimaras PIO)
ILOILO CITY – After 15 years, JC Rahman Nava is once again the governor of the island province of Guimaras.

“It’s sweeter the second time around. I have to admit it seems like the feeling is different now compared to before,” Nava said.

Nava first served as Guimaras governor from 1998 to 2007. He succeeded Samuel Gumarin who once again assumed as mayor of Buenavista.

In his inaugural speech Thursday, June 30, Nava disclosed he asked legislators in the Guimaras provincial board to review the property tax valuation and assessment.

“The last time we did it was way back in 2005. I hope we can do this in a more progressive way,” Nava said as he assured the people he will closely work with provincial legislators.

With his return, Nava assured that more projects and services will be done under his administration.

“I’ll guarantee that all resources of the provincial government would be responsive to the needs of every Guimarasnon and will be inclusive enough to guarantee our general welfare,” Nava said.

Aside from the governor, two other Navas assumed their elective posts. His wife is reelected Rep. Ma. Lucille Nava while brother Felipe “Nene” Nava won a seat in the Guimaras Provincial Board.

This is the first time in almost 10 years that the Nava brothers are again holding elective posts after a long political rift.