BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
SAN JOSE, Antique – Former Antique congressman Paolo Javier has declared his candidacy for the governorship in the 2025 elections, signaling a return to political leadership with an aim to extend his family’s legacy of public service.
Javier, the son of former governor Atty. Exequiel B. Javier, announced his bid yesterday, July 23, vowing to enhance public service throughout the province.
“Kauswagan” for the people of Antique is what Javier envisions to focus on.
In an exclusive interview with Panay News, Javier articulated his plans for Antique’s future.
“Even during my three-term tenure as congressman, totaling nine years of service, our focus has always been on delivering improved services. Our plans include continuing initiatives on food security, health security, and education for our youth,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey from being an average student to a dedicated public servant, Javier emphasized his belief that anyone, regardless of academic accolades, can contribute significantly to public welfare.
“As an average student, I focused on delivering services and infrastructure to our people in Antique during my nine years as congressman,” he said. “We provided extensive educational assistance, free hospitalizations and operations, and even free blood services.”
Citing the specific needs of Antique, Javier outlined key priorities for his governorship bid. “Given Antique’s demographics, with a majority residing in upland areas, access to education, irrigation, and healthcare are paramount,” he said. “We plan to enhance access to healthcare services by funding hospitals and ensuring free medical procedures and blood services.”
Javier also stressed the importance of food security through investments in irrigation and subsidies for farmers.
“Our irrigation projects aim to bolster food security by providing reliable water sources to farmers,” he noted. “This not only supports agricultural livelihoods but also strengthens the province’s economic resilience.”
When asked about his decision to run for governor instead of seeking re-election as congressman, Javier cited the opportunity to provide more localized and effective governance.
“While my experience as a congressman was invaluable, I believe serving as governor allows me to be closer to our people and deliver more focused service,” he stressed.
Javier expressed willingness to continue successful programs initiated by current local officials.
“Our current Governor is doing commendable work, and I intend to build upon existing initiatives,” he said.
Javier described his relationship with incumbent Gov. Rhodora Cadiao as “very casual.”
“Okay naman kami ni Tita. Nagkikita naman kami, ga-storya man kami. Wala namang problema. Very civil kami. She’s doing her job, I am doing my job also,” said Javier.
Javier affirmed his readiness for the challenges ahead: “I am very prepared for the upcoming elections.”
Paolo Javier served three consecutive terms as congressman of Antique from 2010 to 2019 and is widely recognized for his dedication to public service and development in the province.
With his experience and vision, Javier aims to usher in a new era of progress and prosperity for Antique under his leadership./PN
