Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has been named as one of the 2024 Kaya Natin! Champions of Good Governance and Ethical Leadership, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and dedication to fostering excellence in public service.
Defensor received the recognition from KN Chairperson Bam Aquino during the launching of the New Kaya Natin Champions on August 8, 2024 at B Hotel in Quezon City. The governor was accompanied by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias.
The Kaya Natin! Movement, founded in 2008, honors exceptional public officials, both in the local and national level who embody ethical, effective, and empowering leadership or the “Three E’s Leadership” principles.
Defensor is the only governor to receive the award for this year. He is celebrated for his transformative work in Iloilo, driving them towards development and progress.
Defensor became the governor of Iloilo in 2019 and is now on his second term. He also served as board member and congressman of the Third District.
As a lawmaker, he has authored various laws such as the Tax Amnesty Act of 2019, Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization Act, Career Guidance and Counseling Act, and the Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act.
Defensor’s flagship programs include the Purok Resilience Program which aims to create a resilient community that is responsive to climate change and natural disasters.
His Zero to Limpyo Iloilo movement, which aimed at eliminating open defecation to improve sanitation and public health, received the Galing Pook Award.
Under his development thrust MoRProGRes ILOILO or a Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo, Defensor has been pushing for advancements in various sectors including healthcare, education, and infrastructure to boost the province’s economy.
Apart from the Iloilo governor, other KN Champions include Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong of Baguio City; Mayor Victor Ma. Regis “Vico” Sotto of Pasig City; Mayor Trina-Firmalo-Fabic of Odiongan, Romblon; and Board Member Kerby Javier Salazar of Cavite Province. (Capitol news)
