Past Governors of Biliran
The Province of Biliran has a rich history shaped by visionary leaders dedicated to progress, development, and service. Each governor has contributed to Biliran's journey, leaving a lasting legacy in governance, infrastructure, and community empowerment. Explore the leadership and contributions of Biliran's past governors below.
Biliran Sub-Province of Leyte (1959-1992)
HON. ULDARICO R. REYES
Lieutenant Governor, 1959-1963,
Governor, 1967-1971
The First Lieutenant Governor of the Sub-Province, he opened the circumferential road and the cross-country road from a P100T fund given by President Garcia. He initiated the construction of school buildings and, as a sports enthusiast, introduced health and fitness consciousness within his Capitol family. He promoted social services by developing more rice paddies in municipalities other than Naval and developed potential tourist spots such as the Caibiran Swimming Pool and the Mainit Hot Spring.
HON. JORGE A. ZAMORA
1963-1967
Acquired a 9-hectare lot presently occupied by the Provincial Capitol and continued socio-economic programs started by the previous governor, which were much needed by the newly founded sub-province.
HON. TEOFILO D. SABONSOLIN
1971-1986
Initiated the construction and completion of the Provincial Capitol to promote agricultural development, he developed the Palayan ng Bayan and Busali Bangus Farm. Encouraged the donation of a lot from the Del Rosario family and developed the Masagongsong Swimming Pool. Facilitated the construction of Biliran Bridge, which connects the sub-province to Leyte. His final project was the concreting of Biliran-Naval-Almeria Highway.
HON. JOSE C. GONZALES
1986-1992
He is one of the main proponents of the Movement for the Provincehood of Biliran, and as an appointed Governor, he directed his efforts toward the conversion of Biliran into a fully pledged province.
Province of Biliran (1992–present)
HON. WAYNE M. JARO
1992-1995, 1995-1998
His governance is marked by a strict observance of the law and a campaign against illegal logging, gambling, and fishing. He implemented a corporate system of governance, focusing on the efficient and effective delivery of basic services as a primary outcome. He developed a 5-Year Master Plan to serve as a roadmap for the development of the young province and supported women’s empowerment through the founding of Women for Rural Development. Additionally, he encouraged entrepreneurship among the people of Biliran.
HON. DANILO M. PARILLA
1998-2001
The 1st Vice Governor of Biliran as a regular province, and the Governor to observe the passage of the Centennial Celebration of Philippine Independence, staked his political career on the principle of service with honor, emphasizing a commitment to truth, justice, and compassion. He launched the Clean and Green Program, earning Biliran the honor of being the Cleanest and Greenest Province in Region 8 for three consecutive years. As a sports enthusiast, he also introduced health and fitness awareness within his Capitol family.
HON. ROGELIO J. ESPINA, MD FPOA
2001-2004, 2004-2007, 2007-2010, 2019-2022
Governor Rogelio J. Espina’s dedicated public service has been marked by numerous national and regional awards recognizing his commitment to human development, education, health, and local governance. Notable achievements include the prestigious Gawad sa Makataong Pag-unlad award for significant human development improvements in Biliran, recognition as a Hall of Fame inductee for promoting blood donation, and multiple accolades from educational institutions and government agencies. His work has substantially impacted Biliran’s infrastructure, healthcare, and educational systems, reflecting his enduring dedication to community development and the welfare of Biliran’s residents.
HON. GERARDO J. ESPINA, JR.
2010-2013, 2013-2016, 2016-2019
Gerardo J. Espina, Jr., also known as Gerryboy, is a Filipino politician born on August 7, 1970, in Manila. He began his political journey as Mayor of Naval (1998–2004) and later represented Biliran’s Lone District in the 13th Congress (2004–2007). A member of Biliran’s longstanding political dynasty, his family’s influence spans decades, with his father, siblings, and niece, singer Gretchen Espina, all actively involved in public service. While in Congress, Espina served as Vice Chairman for the Committees on Agriculture and Youth Development and contributed to various others, including Education, Defense, and Tourism.
