The Makati City government’s program in social services, health care, and education have greatly improved the lives of its residents and decreased poverty, Mayor Abigail Binay said.
“Makati’s poverty rate has reached a historic low of 0.6 percent, and we have achieved a Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.903—one of the highest in the country,” she said.
The programs initiated by Mayor Binay have transformed Makati into a model of inclusive governance, focused on long-term improvements to the quality of life for all residents.
During her final State of the City Address at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila on Tuesday, Binay emphasized the strategic actions that have propelled Makati forward.
“These results demonstrate that when we invest in people, we uplift entire communities. Makati’s success shows that governance is not just about managing resources; it’s about transforming lives,” the mayor remarked.
Health care has been a priority in Makati’s social programs. The city’s Makati Health Plus (Yellow Card) program provides free maintenance medications, while unlimited dialysis and chemotherapy programs have granted access to life-saving treatments for thousands since 2020. These initiatives have improved health outcomes and reduced financial burdens for families, playing a crucial role in poverty reduction.
“Access to quality health care is a right, not a privilege,” Mayor Binay asserted, adding, “When we remove barriers to essential services, we empower people to lead healthier, more productive lives.”
Binay’s emphasis on education, another vital aspect of Makati’s social strategy, has modernized the city’s public schools with smart classrooms, renewable energy, and initiatives like the Library Book Mobile.
Makati’s Benigno Aquino High School exceeded international proficiency standards in the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). The revitalized scholarship program and the University of Makati School of Law have also produced graduates who excel both locally and globally, the mayor noted.
“Sustainable growth begins with education. When we prepare our children for the future, we build a stronger, more resilient community,” Binay stated.
The city executive also highlighted initiatives that reflect the city’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance residents’ quality of life.
“Last year, the city deployed indoor and outdoor air quality sensors in all barangays. These IoT-powered devices provide real-time air quality data at the barangay level, allowing for a more targeted and proactive approach to environmental management,” she explained.
“It’s a commitment. Our city has demonstrated that we can achieve extraordinary results through vision, innovation, and compassion,” the mayor added.
As she approaches the end of her term in June 2025, Binay reflected on Makati’s legacy and its potential to serve as a blueprint for the nation. She announced her candidacy for senator in the May 2025 elections and expressed her vision for expanding Makati’s successful programs nationwide.
“With the right priorities and partnerships, the progress we’ve achieved in Makati can uplift communities across the Philippines,” she said.