Robredo, Pangilinan gets rousing welcome from Ilonggos during caravan

FILE PHOTO: Senator Kiko Pangilinan (left) and Vice President Leni Robredo. INQUIRER

ILOILO CITY — Thousands of Ilonggos, mostly wearing pink, gave a rousing welcome to Vice President and presidential aspirant Leni Robredo and running mate Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan in their first visit here after declaring their candidacies for next year’s elections.

Many waited for hours in their vehicles or on foot along the route of the tandem’s motorcade from the Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan town in Iloilo province to Iloilo City for a stationary caravan.

Waving pink flaglets, posters, and streamers, they cheered, danced, called out her name, and jumped up and down as her caravan passed along the main streets. Some danced and cried.

Ati-Atihan drum beats echoed along the streets as many struggled to shake her hand or take her photo.

“I have never in my political career since 1986 (seen) such energy, such love, and such volunteerism as I have seen today. I am overwhelmed by the love and welcome by the Ilonggos for VP Leni,” Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said in a statement.

Treñas, who was among the first local government officials to openly endorse Robredo’s candidacy, said many Ilonggos are showing their support for Robredo because “she did not waver from the challenges of the pandemic but continues to strive to help the people.”

The mayor along with Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and Senator Franklin Drilon met Robredo and Pangilinan at the airport.

Robredo’s motorcade passed along the city’s main streets before she and Pangilinan met with Iloilo City officials including barangay captains. They proceeded to the Iloilo City Hall where they were mobbed by supporters.

Robredo and Pangilinan also visited the Iloilo provincial capitol where she met with Defensor and his father and namesake, former Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor, mayors and congressmen of Iloilo province, and other provincial officials and employees. Drilon and Treñas also joined the opposition tandem.

Robredo and Pangilinan were accompanied by members of their senatorial slate, lawyers Jose “Chel” Diokno and Alex Lacson.

Speaking at a program at the provincial capitol, Robredo said they were “overwhelmed” by the reception they received from Ilonggos.

She joked that she was at first concerned when she heard those waiting for her along the streets shouting: “Daug na, daug na.”

“Daug” means “lose” in Bicolano but “win” in Hiligaynon, she explained.

She said Iloilo leaders are fortunate because the voters here are wise voters.