ILOILO City – God. Family. Country.
These words were given highlight in Ilonggo Supreme Court Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza’s message to newly elected provincial officials of Iloilo during an oath-taking ceremony last Friday.
“I have decided to give you a three-word message and these three words are God, family and country,” said Jardelaza in his speech during the ceremony held at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol lobby.
According to the Ilonggo High Court judge, there was no need to say much to the elected officials since most of them have been in public service for many years.
They already know their duties and functions, he added.
Jardeleza said public officials must not forget God while performing their duties, especially when making decisions.
Aside from God, officials must also remember their families.
“Do not forget your family. In fact, get help from your family,” Jardeleza said.
On top of these, the public officials must also not forget the country, since public office is a public trust.
“Public trust means you are accountable to the people,” Jardeleza said. “If you face difficult choices, look for what is the best for our country.”
Among those who took oath were Governor-elect Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. and members of the 13th Provincial Board of Iloilo led by reelected Vice Gov. Christine “Tingting” Garin with Board members-elect Marcelo Valentin Serag and Renee Valencia of 1st District; June Mondejar and Rolito Cajilig of 2nd District; Matt Palabrica and Jason Gonzales of 3rd District; Rolly Distura and Domingo Oso of 4th District; and Carol V. Espinosa and Darl Tupas of 5th District./PN
