Rammy Parayno’s Leadership in Urdaneta: Achievements, Challenges, and Legacy

Early Life and Political Background

Julio “Rammy” F. Parayno III is the current Mayor of Urdaneta City, a key urban center in Pangasinan. Born and raised in Urdaneta, he comes from a political family—his father, Julio E. Parayno, Sr., previously served as the city’s vice mayor. This background has significantly shaped his commitment to public service.

Achievements and Contributions

Since taking office, Mayor Parayno has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare in Urdaneta City. Notably, his administration facilitated the construction of a new College of Engineering and Architecture building at Urdaneta City University in 2020. As the Board of Regents Chair of the university, he has also played a role in shaping its leadership and academic development.

Public perception of Mayor Parayno’s performance has generally been positive. In a 2022 “Boses ng Bayan” survey, he received an 85% approval rating, ranking among the top-performing city mayors in the Ilocos Region. A follow-up survey in early 2024 placed his approval rating at 78.7%, indicating continued public support.

Controversies and Challenges

Despite his accomplishments, Mayor Parayno’s tenure has been accompanied by legal and administrative challenges. In August 2024, he was suspended for 90 days by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for allegedly violating the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 by refusing to issue a business permit in 2021. During the service of this suspension order, reports from news sources indicated that Parayno was involved in a dispute with a provincial government videographer. While some reports suggest that a court later lifted the suspension, specific details of this ruling remain unclear.

More recently, in January 2025, Malacañang imposed a one-year suspension on both Mayor Parayno and Vice Mayor Jimmy Parayno for alleged grave misconduct and abuse of authority. The suspension was linked to their removal of a Liga ng mga Barangay president from the city council in 2022. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), with police assistance, enforced the suspension despite Parayno’s efforts to challenge its legality. As a result, First Councilor Franco Del Prado has been serving as Acting Mayor, with Second Councilor Warren Andrada as Acting Vice Mayor.

Leadership Style and Legacy

Mayor Parayno is known for his hands-on leadership style, emphasizing transparency, community engagement, and economic inclusivity. While his administration has achieved significant progress, the suspensions and allegations of misconduct raise concerns about governance and accountability.

As Urdaneta City moves forward, voters must carefully assess Mayor Parayno’s track record, balancing his achievements with the controversies that have defined his administration. His leadership will have a lasting impact on the city’s political landscape, making informed decision-making crucial for the electorate.