12/03/2025
PRESS STATEMENT OF FORMER MAYOR JED PATRICK MABILOG
March 12, 2025
ILOILO CITY β Today, upon hearing the news of the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, I take a moment not to celebrate, but to reflect with a heart full of gratitude to God β for His justice, His mercy, and His unfailing love.
For years, my family and I have walked through a valley of trials and tears. My beloved wife and children have endured so much, standing beside me with silent strength and courage, despite living in fear for our safety and future. My late mother, who is now with our Creator, carried these pains in her heart. Though she is no longer with us, I know she is at peace in Godβs presence, her prayers answered in ways we are only beginning to see.
Throughout these painful years, I was never alone. Godβs hand carried me, and I am deeply grateful to Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose powerful intercession has been a source of strength, hope, and protection. She has embraced my family and me in her loving mantle, especially during the darkest nights.
As I look upon this moment in our nationβs history, I offer this prayer β a prayer that has carried me through every storm and continues to give me hope for what is to come:
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**"Heavenly Father, today I choose to let go of the past β to release every wound, every injustice, and every tear. I lift to You all the pain and suffering we have endured. I open my heart to the new and beautiful things You are doing in my life and in our country. Thank You for surrounding me with the right people and for removing those who sought to harm. Thank You for closing the doors of oppression and fear, and for opening new doors of hope, justice, and healing. Fill us, Lord, with strength, courage, and unwavering faith as we rise from the ashes of sorrow. In Jesusβ mighty name, I pray. Amen."**
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This is not only a moment for justice to be served, but a moment for our nation to heal β to confront the truth, to right the wrongs, and to choose love, compassion, and unity over hate and division.
To all those who, like me and my family, still live in fear but continue to hope and believe in justice β hold on. God has seen every tear, heard every cry, and His justice will always come in His perfect time.
May Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Philippines, continue to intercede for us, covering us with her love and protection. And may God bless and heal the Philippines, guiding us all to a future filled with truth, justice, and peace.
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Jed Patrick Mabilog
Former Mayor, Iloilo City