New Marinduque gov vows break from past

A decade-long political reign has ended in Marinduque as Governor-elect Melecio “Mel” Go decisively claimed victory in the closely contested May 2025 gubernatorial elections, signaling a fresh chapter for the island province.

Go, a seasoned public servant affiliated with PDP Laban and a former Sangguniang Panlalawigan member from Marinduque’s first district, returned to politics after a 10-year hiatus with a singular mission — to address longstanding governance issues many felt were neglected under the previous administration.

In one of the tightest races in recent history, Go narrowly defeated Lord Allan Jay Velasco, scion of the powerful Velasco political family, by just 389 votes — 66,115 to 65,726. This stunning upset effectively ended the Velasco family’s 15-year political dominance over the province.

Go succeeds outgoing Governor Presbitero J. Velasco Jr., who held the post from 2019 to 2025. Velasco’s term was marred by unfulfilled promises and growing criticism over his administration’s failure to address the province’s basic needs.

In his 2020 State of the Province Address, Velasco himself acknowledged widespread issues — unreliable water and electricity, poor healthcare, inadequate job opportunities and a budget that relied almost entirely (90 percent) on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). Rather than rallying support, the speech underscored the administration’s inability to deliver real progress, fueling further public frustration.

Controversy also surrounded the 2024 decision by the elder Velasco to swap electoral positions with his son, Lord Allan Velasco — then a sitting congressman — in what was widely seen as an effort to retain political control.

“God’s will and the voice of the people is the voice of God,” said Governor-elect Go in an exclusive interview in the DAILY TRIBUNE online show Spotlight. 

“Honestly, I could hardly believe this moment had come and that we won. It’s clear our fellow citizens made their feelings known through their votes, and with their support, I am confident we can achieve what previous administrations could not.”

Tackling the challenges ahead

Governor Go laid out his key priorities, focusing on healthcare, electricity and education — issues that resonated deeply with voters.

“Our people have been clear about what they want resolved. First, our hospitals: many still have to travel to Lucena for proper medical care. Second is the frequent brownouts — I will never forget the power outages during voting day. Third, our schools desperately need improvement. Even something as simple as proper insulation in classrooms can make a big difference for our students,” Go said.

He emphasized that improving these basic services is vital not only for residents’ quality of life but also for boosting Marinduque’s tourism potential.

“Reliable electricity is key. We can’t have good tourism without it,” he added.

On tourism and transportation, Go pledged a community-driven approach. 

“We will encourage barangays near tourist spots to protect and promote their own attractions, with provincial support,” he explained. 

Regarding the slow transport system, Go said, “While I cannot promise immediate solutions since we do not operate the vehicles, I will talk with operators to improve schedules and travel times.”

He also mentioned efforts to revive air travel connections to Marinduque, referencing discussions with the Department of Transportation.

Addressing infrastructure and healthcare

Go promised a pragmatic and evidence-based approach to infrastructure projects, drawing lessons from past mistakes.

“I will not allow infrastructure projects to proceed without proper consultation with barangays and the provincial government. We’ve seen sea walls built without considering environmental impact —the UN even recommends mangrove forests as the best natural coastal protection,” he noted.

He cited the flood control structures in Mogpog as examples of poorly planned interventions that worsened flooding instead of preventing it. 

“We will require thorough feasibility studies before any project starts,” Go said.

On healthcare, Go revealed that the Department of Health will send experts to assess the province’s needs.

“I’m not a doctor, so we will rely on experts to identify the root problems. We can’t solve what we don’t understand. This time, we will do it right,” he assured.

A new dawn for Marinduque

Governor Go’s victory is more than a political upset — it reflects a broader desire among Marinduqueños for independent leadership and improved governance after years of political stagnation.

As the province moves beyond the shadow of a dominant political dynasty, many are hopeful that Go’s administration will deliver the accountability and progress long overdue.

“The people have spoken clearly,” Go concluded. “It’s time for change, and we will answer that call.”