Mayoral candidate Jim McGreevey welcomes Efrain Badilla Orleans Jr. to his slate as the prospective Ward B Councilman for Jersey City.

Orleans was born in the Philippines, where his uncle served as a city councilor in Iloilo City. Orleans received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics at San Agustin University (Iloilo City, Philippines), and immigrated to the United States in 1992. In 2016, he pursued higher education at Seton Hall University (South Orange, New Jersey), earning a Master of Arts in Theology.

Orleans stated, “My life’s ministry has been working with the faith community. I am honored to seek the Ward B Council position as it presents an opportunity to serve the entire neighborhood, families, seniors, and children. My hope is for Jersey City to be one community, where city services improve the quality of life for all of our neighbors.”

Orleans’ life of public service has been defined by his work with the faith community. Since 2017, Orleans has served as the Building Manager, Events Coordinator, and Acolyte of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish (Jersey City). Orleans has won the 2023 Hunger Free Service Award and received Recognition of Good Stewardship from the Archdiocese of Newark in 2018. He worked with St. John the Baptist Church (Jersey City).

McGreevey recognized the vital role of faith in Jersey City. McGreevey stated, “Efrain brings a wealth of experience and practice in the ministry. In working with the community throughout Ward B and Jersey City, Efrain has demonstrated his commitment to building healthy communities, which will be a tremendous asset as we seek to strengthen our neighborhoods and reach out to our neighbors in need.”

Orleans leads community outreach programs, organizes charitable events, and offers personal and spiritual guidance to churchgoers and those grieving. In addition to his work in church leadership, Orleans serves as the Filipino Delegate at Riotto Funeral Home and Cremation Company. 

Orlean’s entrance onto the McGreevey ticket comes shortly after Brandi Warren, Director of the New Jersey City University (NJCU) Center for Teacher Preparation, joined McGreevey’s slate as Ward A Councilwoman. McGreevey’s administration plans to address community issues alongside the community, promoting transparent governance and promising monthly Town Hall meetings to ensure that his administration is present and visible to citizens.