Karmila Rose A. Dimamay: Forging a Legacy in Antique Politics

Antique Province, Philippines – In the vibrant political landscape of Antique, a new generation of leaders is emerging, blending traditional governance with fresh perspectives. Among them is Karmila Rose A. Dimamay, an independent Provincial Board Member who has quickly carved out a significant role for herself, while simultaneously carrying forward a distinguished family legacy.

Born into a family deeply entrenched in the public service of Antique, Karmila Rose A. Dimamay is not merely a politician by lineage but a dedicated public servant with a distinct vision.

A Legacy of Service: The Dimamay Political Lineage

Karmila's journey into politics is inextricably linked to her mother, Rosie Dimamay, a well-respected figure in Antique's recent history. Rosie Dimamay served as the Vice Governor of Antique from 2010 to 2013, and previously as a Provincial Board Member, showcasing a long-standing commitment to local governance.

Crucially, during her mother's tenure as Vice Governor, Rosie Dimamay served alongside Governor Exequiel "Boy Ex" Javier, the patriarch of another prominent political family in Antique. This alliance between the Dimamay and Javier families laid the groundwork for a formidable political partnership that continues to shape the province's leadership.

Karmila's Ascent: Seniority and Influence

Karmila Rose A. Dimamay chose to run as an Independent candidate, a testament to her desire to prioritize the welfare of Antiqueños above strict party affiliations. She successfully secured her seat as a Provincial Board Member for the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Antique, and was recently re-elected for her third and final term, underscoring her consistent popularity and effectiveness.

Her seniority and leadership within the legislature were publicly demonstrated on July 28, 2025, during the SP's 3rd regular session, where she officially served as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Vice Governor. In this capacity, she temporarily assumed the role of Presiding Officer of the provincial legislature, highlighting the level of trust and ranking she holds within the provincial government.

Beyond these temporary executive duties, her legislative focus is wide-ranging and impactful. She championed the creation of the Provincial Indigenous Peoples Office (PIPO) and is a passionate advocate for environmental protection, having successfully pushed for a landmark provincial ordinance banning the construction of new coal-fired power plants in Antique. She also runs the commendable "Milay's Garden" initiative and a recycling program that transforms old tarpaulins into reusable bags.

Navigating the Political Landscape: Legal Contexts

While Karmila Rose A. Dimamay herself has not faced personal legal troubles or corruption charges, her mother, Rosie Dimamay, as a former Vice Governor, was a respondent in graft charges filed in 2012. These charges, which also named then-Governor Exequiel Javier and other board members, concerned the alleged withholding of salary increases for provincial employees. This historical context highlights the challenges and scrutiny inherent in high-level public office within the province.

Karmila's political standing was notably reinforced in March 2025 when she was among the few Provincial Board members who remained active following a one-year suspension order issued by the Office of the Ombudsman against eight of her colleagues. This implicitly attests to her clean record in that particular administrative action.

The Second-Generation Tandem: Javier and Dimamay in 2028?

The enduring alliance between the Javier and Dimamay families points toward a compelling future for Antique politics. With Paolo Everardo S. Javier, son of Exequiel Javier, now serving as the incumbent Governor of Antique (assuming office in June 2025), and Karmila Rose A. Dimamay holding a senior and influential position on the Provincial Board, the stage is set for a continued partnership.

Karmila’s confirmed role as OIC Vice Governor, the second-highest executive post in the provincial government, demonstrates a robust working relationship with the current administration. This close collaboration between the children of former political allies strongly suggests the possibility of a Javier/Dimamay second-generation tandem in future elections, potentially for the Governor and Vice Governor slots in 2028. Such a pairing would leverage established family names, shared political experience, and a demonstrated capacity for effective governance.

As Karmila Rose A. Dimamay concludes her final term as Provincial Board Member, all eyes will be on her next move, anticipating how she will further contribute to the political landscape of Antique, potentially alongside her long-standing allies from the Javier family. Her blend of independent spirit, environmental advocacy, and family legacy positions her as a formidable and promising figure in Philippine politics.