ILOILO CITY — Ilonggos highly criticized Mayor Jerry Treñas for downplaying EDSA People Power, especially when he boasted of his heroism during the Marcos dictatorship, including being imprisoned.

ILOILO City Mayor Jerry Treñas' statement during the 36th anniversary of EDSA People Power in 2022. (Mayor Jerry Treñas Facebook page)
“This is one great example of degradation of principled leadership,” said Vic G. on Facebook in reaction to the decision of Treñas to not suspend classes or work for the 39th anniversary of EDSA People Power.
“The duality of the 'trapo' (traditional politician),” added Cheska A.
Treñas claimed only President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has the prerogative to declare Feb. 25, 2025 as a holiday.
“Puppet ka ba ni Marcos? Last 2021, grabi ka mag birada sa iya. Nag-balimbing ka naman? (Are you the puppet of Marcos? Last 2021, you attacked him. Are you again a political butterfly?)” wrote Rony F.
Treñas campaiged against Marcos during the 2022 presidential elections and reminded Ilonggos of the dark days during the regime of the elder Marcos.
Statements made by Treñas about EDSA People Power and martial law also resurfaced.
“I remember all too well when I was captured and imprisoned after fighting for freedom and justice,” Treñas said during the 36th anniversary of EDSA People Power in 2022.
Among the claims of Treñas was that he was detained in Camp Crame, Camp Aguinaldo, and Camp Bagong Diwa during martial law.
Treñas repeatedly claimed that he and his father organized the Cory Aquino Movement for President in Iloilo City.
The mayor also credited then President Cory Aquino for starting his political career when she appointed him as OIC city councilor in 1986.
“He (Treñas) changes colors according to what is beneficial to him…The mayor is an expert in camouflage to protect his personal interests,” emphasized Cynia M.
Ilonggos also slammed Treñas for declaring class suspensions during the Feb. 13 rally of the administration Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas and the Jan. 13 peace rally of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).