Ouanos, One Mandaue winners take oath of office

CEBU, Philippines — The Ouano political legacy continues as family members who emerged victorious in the May 12 midterm elections officially took their oath of office yesterday.

Mandaue City Mayor-elect Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, re-elected Lone District Representative Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon, and Sixth District Provincial Board Member-elect Alfred Francis “Alfie” Ouano were sworn in by Associate Justice Mercedita Dadole-Ygnacio of the Court of Appeals – Visayas Station.

Also taking their oaths were winning councilors under the One Mandaue slate: re-electionists Andreo “Anjong” Ouano-Icalina, Cesar “Ting Sol” Cabahug Jr., and Atty. Joel Seno.

Other councilors who took their oath were Ben Basiga, Eugene Andaya, and Fritz Villamor.

In addition, Atty. Olin Seno was officially sworn in as Provincial Board Member for Mandaue’s Lone District.

In neighboring Consolacion, Councilor-elect Miko Mark Ouano — son of Sixth District Provincial Board Member-elect Alfie Ouano — also took his oath. All officials were joined by their families and loved ones during the ceremony.

The oathtaking was followed by a thanksgiving celebration hosted by the party to honor supporters and stakeholders who stood by them throughout the campaign and election season.

As a gesture of gratitude, Mayor-elect Ouano and Congresswoman Dizon recognized three barangays that delivered a 16-0 sweep for One Mandaue during the May 12 elections--- Barangay Umapad, Barangay Pagsabungan, and Barangay Opao, the Ouano family’s home barangay.

For Congresswoman Dizon, the ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter in Mandaue’s leadership.

“This is our new beginning; this is our new era,” said Dizon.

She reiterated their commitment to transform Mandaue into a “better and prouder city” and thanked residents for helping turn their “million dreams into life.”

Dizon also extended her gratitude to all One Mandaue candidates, including those who did not win. “My victory is yours too,” she said. “Jonkie and I will always be here for you.”

She pledged full support for her brother as they prepare to lead the city together over the next three years.

“You step up with courage, and you embrace your new role with grace,” Dizon said.

Jonkie also expressed heartfelt thanks to his supporters.

“I am truly thankful to the people of Mandaue for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve them,” he said.

He shared that Congresswoman Yedda Romualdez of the Tingog Party-list encouraged him to run for mayor, playing a significant role in his decision. He also noted the constant support of his sister-in-law during the campaign.

Now officially in office, Jonkie called for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders in Mandaue.

“Let us work together,” he said.

Among his key promises are the construction of a state-of-the-art City Hospital and a dedicated building for Mandaue City College. He also appealed for public patience, emphasizing that such plans will take time to implement.

In an interview after the ceremony, the incoming mayor explained why he chose June 9 for his oath-taking.

“Ako nalang gihurot tanan nakong mga bakasyon kay from July 1, seryoso naman ang atoang trabaho, focus na gyud ta being the local chief executive,” he said.

To his political rivals, he offered a message of reconciliation, urging them to set aside differences and support the city’s progress.

Rather than engaging in political rivalry, he emphasized unity: “Let’s prioritize the development of Mandaue over politics.” — (FREEMAN)