A Legacy of Service: Honoring Mayor Junaflor “Sweet” Cerilles

Kemberly Resentes | Mindanao People’s Press

"True leadership is not measured by position, but by the lives changed and the communities served."

Mayor Junaflor “Sweet” Cerilles may not have secured the gubernatorial seat in the 2025 elections, but her legacy as a genuine public servant remains deeply rooted in the hearts of many, especially in Dumalinao, where she served as mayor since 2016.

Her term was marked by transformative leadership, not just in local governance, but in championing education, health, disaster preparedness, social welfare, and notably, environmental protection. She launched sustainable programs focused on solid waste management, coastal resource conservation, and climate resilient agriculture. Under her leadership, Dumalinao was recognized as a top implementer of environmental policies across Region IX, with honors from DENR and other national bodies.

Mayor Sweet’s achievements began early. She was a consistent honor student in Houston, Texas; valedictorian at Saint Therese’s School in Cebu City; and a recipient of the Gerry Roxas Leadership Award. In 2004, she placed second nationwide in the Medical Technologist Licensure Exam a testament to her discipline and brilliance. She later earned a Master’s in Governance and Development from Ateneo de Zamboanga University, sharpening her knowledge to match her heart for service.

Internationally, she stood as a beacon of strong, compassionate leadership. She represented the Philippines in Indonesia (2018) for the Outstanding Leader in Community Development Award, and at the Women’s Political Leadership Awards in Kenya (2023) and Sweden (2024), highlighting her global influence in local governance.

Despite her electoral loss, the people remember more than just a campaign they remember years of tireless service. She was an ally of grassroots movements, youth organizations, and local artists. Her passion for inclusive development, especially for the marginalized, echoed through every barangay she served.

Her humility, even in power, and grace, even in loss, has only strengthened the respect she holds today. “You don’t need a title to serve, just a heart willing to lead.”

To many, Mayor Sweet Cerilles remains a public servant, with or without the position. Her efforts in the environment, in social service, in governance have left footprints that cannot be erased by results. She is a living reminder that true leadership means choosing to serve even when no one is watching, and standing for others even when it’s difficult.

Mayor Sweet, thank you for inspiring many, especially young leaders and women in public service. Ang imong paningkamot dili malimtan. Padayon lang gihapon, kay daghan pa ang nagtan-aw ug nagaampo sa imong padayong kalampusan. Thank you for your courage, your vision, and your heart for the people of Zamboanga del Sur. The seeds you planted in leadership and environmental stewardship will continue to grow for the next generation and beyond.

To the youth who supported her, voiced their sentiments online, and voted with hope in their hearts know that your vote was not wasted. Your support shows that leadership is not just about winning, but believing in the kind of leader who makes a difference. “Ang tinuod nga lider, dili masukod sa posisyon kundi sa katawhan nga iyang natabangan ug napalambo.”
(True leadership is not measured by position, but by the lives uplifted and empowered.)

We also extend our congratulations to the winners of Election 2025. The people have spoken, and we look forward to your service with integrity, commitment, and compassion.

From Dumalinao to the rest of the province, you are still our pride. Mayor Sweet, we’re waiting for your comeback.