MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Monday has confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has granted executive clemency to former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Mabilog.

“Yes, that’s true,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said when asked for confirmation about the granting of executive clemency to Mabilog.

In a separate statement, Bersamin said that the granting of Mabilog’s executive clemency stemmed from his good governance and awards received by the city under his leadership.

“In view of former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog’s longstanding commitment to good governance, coupled with awards and recognition received by Iloilo City under his leadership, the President granted Mabilog’s petition for executive clemency in connection with his administrative case, thereby removing the penalties or disabilities resulting from such case,” Bersamin said.

In 2024, Mabilog expressed hope that he would find “justice” under the Marcos administration after being included in the drug watch list in 2016 by former President Rodrigo Duterte, who accused Mabilog of being a “major drug protector.”

Mabilog has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the drug allegations against him. He fled the Philippines in 2017 due to threats stemming from Duterte’s accusations. He sought asylum in the United States, which was granted in 2019.

“We observe under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos or BBM the balance and fair treatment for all. There is no abuse, as a matter of fact, he is welcomed all over in the international community,” he said.

Mabilog returned to the Philippines in September 2024 after seven years of self-imposed exile in the United States.

He has been charged for violations of Republic Act 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials.