Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval received a plaque of commendation from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DSHUD) for the city government’s excellent urban housing initiatives that improved the quality of lives of the Malabuenos.
DSHUD conferred the prestigious award to the city government during its fifth anniversary celebration, themed “Ligtas at Matibay na Masisilungan para sa Bawat Pilipino” held on Valentine’s Day.
In her acceptance speech, Mayor Jeannie said that DHSUD’s recognition is a profound acknowledgment of the collective achievements, highlighting the synergy between the city and the national government.
“This accolade resonates with the understanding that true progress is a collective achievement, born out of the seamless collaboration between the national and local entities working hand in hand. It is a celebration of the shared vision, dedication, and concerted efforts that have propelled Malabon toward becoming a model for urban planning and design nationwide,” Sandoval said.
The award marks a significant milestone in Malabon’s journey towards sustainable and inclusive urban development.
The first lady mayor shared the city’s initiative called “ Disaster Resilient, Climate Change Adaptive, and Sustainable Socialized Housing Project” for St. Gregory Homes, that aims to provide safer and better homes for the residents in the area.
St. Gregory Homes is an in-city housing project of the city government in Barangay Panghulo, with about 23 five-story buildings (60 units each.) It is also under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos’ Jr.’s “Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH).”
“We understand that housing goes beyond bricks and mortar; it is about providing our residents with a decent and dignified life,” Sandoval said.
Mayor Jeannie added that the project has various aspects that highlight the city’s adopted holistic approach in delivering services to the Malabuenos. These include community organizing (formation of home owners associations, leaders, and programs to empower the residents); a well-thought risk reduction plan during disasters and installation of CCTV cameras to ensure their safety; fostering economic development by forming cooperatives, conducting seminars, livelihood training programs, and collaboration with various agencies; implementation of health, traffic, and environment-friendly programs; and increased police visibility to ensure peace and order.
As of Dec. 23, 2023, a total of 420 families living near waterways and danger zones, victims of fire and calamities, including those who were affected by the rehabilitation of pumping stations, were relocated to better and safer homes in the city. About 90% of those relocated were reported to have shown improvement on their ways of living following the livelihood trainings they participated in, as well as other local government programs.
“The recognition ceremony not only celebrated Malabon’s commitment to creating a sustainable city but also praised the city’s initiative, the ‘Disaster Resilient, Climate Change Adaptive, and Sustainable Socialized Housing Project’ for St. Gregory Homes. This project was lauded as a manifestation of Malabon’s vision for a better and more resilient community,” said Dr. Alexander Rosete, City Administrator and concurrent head of the City Housing and Urban Development Department.
“As we receive this commendation, let us not only savor this moment but leverage it as a catalyst for contributing meaningfully to the broader goals set by DHSUD,” the mayor said.
She also expressed hope for Malabon to play a vital role in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s “Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH),” that aim to eradicate informal settlements by 2028.
In her closing remarks, Mayor Sandoval emphasized the city’s commitment to a future where the ideals of 4PH become tangible realities nationwide.
As Malabon continues its path toward sustainable development, the recognition from DHSUD serves as both a validation of past efforts and an inspiration for future endeavors.
The City of Malabon, under the leadership of Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, remains dedicated to working collaboratively towards a brighter, more sustainable future for its residents, contributing to the nationwide vision of inclusive and resilient communities.
