Jonkie takes oath, thankful for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to serve Mandaue

Local

MAYOR-ELECT Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano and the rest of the victorious One Mandaue candidates have officially taken their oath of office, signaling the start of a new chapter in the city’s political leadership.

The oath-taking ceremony on Monday, June 9, was held at Mandani Bay and officiated by Court of Appeals–Visayas Associate Justice Mercedita Dadole-Ygnacio. The event was attended by family members, supporters, and political allies.

Jonkie was joined by his sister, re-elected Lone District Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon; his brother, newly elected Sixth District Provincial Board Member Alfred Francis “Alfie” Ouano; and their cousin, Miko Mark Ouano, who secured a seat as councilor in Consolacion town.

All are members of the influential Ouano political clan, tracing their roots to the late Thadeo “Teddy” Ouano, who served as Mandaue mayor from 1998 to 2007, and to former mayor Alfredo “Alfie” Ouano, their grandfather.

Several One Mandaue city councilors also took their oaths of office, including re-electionists Andreo “Anjong” Ouano-Icalina, Cesar “Ting Sol” Cabahug Jr., and Atty. Joel Seno.

There are also newcomers such as Ben Basiga, Eugene Andaya, and Fritz Villamor. Atty. Olin Seno also took his oath as Provincial Board Member representing Mandaue’s lone district.

The oath-taking was followed by a thanksgiving event organized by the coalition to honor supporters and stakeholders.

Mayor-elect Ouano and Congresswoman Dizon recognized Barangays Umapad, Pagsabungan, and Opao for delivering a 16-0 sweep for One Mandaue in the May 12 midterm elections.

In his address, Jonkie extended his gratitude to Mandauehanons for their support and trust.

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

He said Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Romualdez encouraged him to run for mayor and credited his family’s encouragement, especially his sister-in-law, for backing his return to local politics.

Now officially at the helm, Jonkie called for reconciliation and unity among leaders and residents.

“Let’s prioritize the development of Mandaue over politics,” he said. “Para ni sa kaayohan sa Mandaue. Panahon na nga magtinabangay ta.”

He urged his political rivals to set aside personal and political divisions, emphasizing that change requires collaboration and patience.

“We will do our best, step by step,” he added.

Among his initial plans are the construction of a modern Mandaue City Hospital and a new building for Mandaue City College.

He also promised to review the city’s tax assessment system and simplify business processes to support local economic growth.

“Ease of doing business is essential. It shouldn’t be difficult to run a business here,” he said.

Ouano-Dizon echoed her brother’s message, declaring the day as the start of a new chapter for Mandaue

She thanked their supporters for helping turn their “million dreams into life” and acknowledged all candidates under One Mandaue, including those who did not win.

“My victory is yours too. Jonkie and I will always be here for you," she said.

As the family’s political influence continued into the next term, Ouano emphasized their commitment to serve all Mandauehanons.

“We wanted to be complete before we begin our full term, so we can focus on the work ahead,” he said.

Jonkie said the oath-taking ceremony was strategically scheduled on June 9 to allow all officials to attend before officially assuming their posts on July 1.

“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.(MyTVCebu)