ILOILO CITY, Philippines – Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, once vocal against dictatorship and Martial Law, is facing backlash for defending the Marcos Jr. administration’s decision to downgrade the EDSA People Power anniversary to a special working holiday.

Social media erupted with resurfaced statements where Treñas warned against authoritarian rule, leading critics to question his changing stance. He argued that declaring a holiday was beyond his authority, citing legal and economic concerns.

However, some Ilonggos pointed out inconsistencies, noting that Treñas had previously suspended classes for political events. Others accused him of aligning with the administration for political gains, particularly in support of his daughter’s mayoral bid.

Despite his statements, universities in Iloilo chose to suspend classes to honor the EDSA Revolution.