“WE ran against all odds. We are underdogs, but we won.”
This was the pronouncement of Misamis Oriental Gov.-elect Juliette Uy today, June 20, during the mass oath-taking of the Unity Party’s elected officials, as she looked back on her struggles during the May 12 election.
She said she persevered because she believed she could give Misamisnons the victory they deserve.
Coinciding with her 63rd birthday, Uy and fellow Unity Party officials took their oath of office in Villanueva.
The event was graced by Abamin Rep. Maximo Rodriguez and former Bukidnon Rep. Malou Acosta-Alba. The full Unity Party slate and their supporters were also in attendance.
Uy shared how exhausted and distressed she felt during the campaign, recalling her and newly elected Congresswoman Karen Lagbas’ loss in the May 2022 elections.
She said that during this year’s election, few dared to support them — not even friends or relatives — saying, according to Uy, “dako kaayo among kontra.”
Uy admitted she was a businesswoman before entering politics but said her heart has always been in public service. That desire, she added, has kept her going all these years, even after losing in 2022.
“The real goal should always be what is good for the people of Misamis Oriental, especially those who are not privileged,” she said.
She emphasized her commitment to ending poverty and political division, and vowed to prioritize improvements in agriculture and infrastructure.
With her business background, Uy also promised to boost the province’s financial standing and push for anti-corruption measures.
In her speech, outgoing Villanueva Mayor Jennie Uy-Mendez said the Unity Party’s victory was an answered prayer.
She thanked supporters, acknowledging that their hard work and perseverance would not have mattered without the people’s trust.
“It was my prayer that the people of Misamis Oriental, their hearts, their minds, our hearts will be align nga magkahiusa,” Mendez said.
