After nearly four decades in public service, former Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas has turned the page to a more personal chapter—one that reflects not only his political journey, but the story of a life shaped by family, faith, and an enduring commitment to the Ilonggo people.
On Tuesday, March 17, Treñas formally launched his memoir, “Nobody but Jerry: A Memoir of Jerry P. Treñas,” in a gathering that brought together colleagues, supporters, friends, and family—many of whom had been part of the very story the book now tells.
Published by The Bookmark, Inc., the 272-page memoir offers a richly detailed narrative of Treñas’ life, complemented by around 150 photographs from the Treñas Family Archive and notable photographers. Available in both hardbound and softbound editions, the book is as much a visual journey as it is a deeply reflective account of leadership and legacy.
A Title Rooted in Iloilo’s Political History
The memoir’s title, “Nobody but Jerry,” traces back to a defining moment in 2010, when Treñas made a pivotal political move that reshaped his career. Supporters gathered outside his law office, chanting “Nobody but you, Jerry,” inspired by the hit song of the same name—a moment that symbolized both loyalty and a bold departure from established political alliances.
That phrase, once a campaign chant, now frames a lifetime of public service.
More Than Politics: A Life Story in Eight Chapters
Structured across eight chapters, the memoir moves beyond politics to paint a fuller portrait of the man behind the public figure.
It begins with his early years and formative influences, then follows his rise in public service—capturing both the ideals that guided him and the challenges that tested his leadership. From navigating crises like the pandemic to building long-term governance strategies under the banner of “Dream Iloilo,” the book offers insight into how vision, patience, and collaboration shaped the city’s progress.
Equally significant are the deeply personal chapters—those that celebrate his family life, highlight the role of his wife Rosalie and daughter Raisa, and reflect on the values that anchored his decisions both in office and at home.
The closing chapter, “What Outlasts Us,” ties these threads together, emphasizing legacy—not just in terms of infrastructure or programs, but in the lives touched and the community built.
A Vision Recognized Beyond Iloilo
The memoir is further enriched by contributions from respected figures. In the foreword, Jesus P. Estanislao describes Treñas as a visionary leader who translated national aspirations into local action through “Dream Iloilo,” helping position the city as a model for clean, modern, and competitive governance.
Meanwhile, in the endword, Vijay Jagannathan underscores Treñas’ broader impact on urban governance in the Asia-Pacific, highlighting his people-centered approach and commitment to sustainable development.
Together, these perspectives frame the memoir not just as a personal account, but as a case study in effective and compassionate leadership.
“Hidlaw gid ako sa inyo”: A Message from the Heart
In his speech during the launch, Treñas set aside formality and spoke with heartfelt sincerity—revealing how much he misses the very people he once served daily.
“Hidlaw gid ako sa inyo kag nalipay gid ako nga maka-upod kamo sa sining espesyal nga adlaw para sa akon,” he shared, expressing both nostalgia and gratitude.
For Treñas, the memoir is not merely a recounting of achievements. It is an offering—an attempt to inspire others to serve, persevere, and believe in the power of collective action.
He emphasized that the book tells not just his story, but the story of an Ilonggo entrusted by his people to lead.
“Nobody But Jerry is not just about my life in politics, but the journey of an Ilonggo who was given the chance by the people to serve the city he loves,” he said.
More importantly, he underscored a principle that defined his career:
“Public service is never about one person—it is about community, about commitment, and about believing that we can always make things better if we work together.”
A Shared Story of Iloilo
Throughout his speech, Treñas repeatedly returned to one idea: that whatever he accomplished was never his alone.
Every decision, every challenge, and every milestone, he said, was shaped by the people who trusted, supported, and even corrected him along the way.
“Madamo, madamo guid nga salamat sa inyo,” he told the audience—his gratitude as evident as his legacy.
Now retired from public office, Treñas leaves behind a transformed Iloilo City—one often cited for its governance reforms, livability, and forward-looking vision. Yet in his own words, the story is far from over.
“There is still so much about Iloilo that deserves to be told for future generations. Let us continue writing the story of Iloilo together.”
With “Nobody but Jerry,” Treñas does not close a chapter—he invites Ilonggos to remember, reflect, and carry the story forward.
