Santa Rosa City in Laguna Tuesday marked its 20th year as a city with pomp and pageantry highlighted by the 25th Sikhayan Festival showcasing community pride, cultural appreciation, and socio-economic progress.
The Sikhayan Festival, derived from the phrase “Pagsisikhay sa Kabuhayan” (diligence for livelihood), symbolizes the spirit of Santa Rosa’s residents.
Celebrated annually, this festival honors the hardworking individuals who contribute to the city’s vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage. The festival’s rescheduling to coincide with the cityhood anniversary further strengthens the sense of unity and shared purpose among
On July 10, 2004, Santa Rosa was declared a chartered city under Republic Act No. 9264.
To date, Santa Rosa was considered a “beacon of progress and innovation in the Philippines, offering a high quality of life and a thriving economic landscape.”
Over the past twenty years, Santa Rosa was said to have undergone a profound transformation, characterized by significant advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development.
Its strategic location and business-friendly environment have made the city an ideal destination for investors, attracting numerous industries and becoming a hub for manufacturing and technology.
This industrial boom has created thousands of jobs, spurred the development of housing and commercial spaces, and enhanced public amenities, making Santa Rosa an attractive place to live and work.
Mayor Arlene Arcillas who initially served as councilor became the city’s first elected mayor of the city. Her administration has been described as “instrumental in driving the city’s growth, ensuring that progress is inclusive and sustainable.”
Arcilla’s “Four Pillars of Development” framework focuses on economic growth, social development, environmental sustainability, and good governance. This comprehensive approach has transformed the City of Santa Rosa into a model city, fostering unity and collective growth among its residents.
She rolled out various initiatives to boost the local economy, including business incentives, infrastructure projects to improve connectivity, and programs to support small and medium enterprises.
The establishment of the Santa Rosa Business Council was also credited for strengthening the partnership between the local government and the business community, driving economic growth and innovation.
Key infrastructure projects included the expansion of the City Government Center, enhancements to the Santa Rosa Community Hospital, and development of the City Plaza.
Additionally, the construction of medium-rise buildings for relocation, the Santa Rosa City College, and new school edifices reflected the city’s commitment to meet the growing needs of its population.
National government projects, such as the North-South Commuter Railway and the Super Health Center, further enhanced the city’s infrastructure, ensuring that Santa Rosa remains a vital link in the region’s economic network.
The city also placed a strong emphasis on social development and community welfare. It has been recognized for its child-friendly initiatives, health and nutrition programs, and efforts to combat drug abuse. These programs have not only improved the well-being of residents but also earned Santa Rosa numerous awards and accolades.
Santa Rosa’s commitment to global collaboration and sustainability is evident through its key partnerships. It forged sisterhood pacts with Silay City in Negros Occidental and partnership with Glendale, California that involved commitment to advancing technology and innovation.
Collaborations with the United Nations Economic & Social Commission for Asia & the Pacific through the Voluntary Local Review Workshop highlighted Santa Rosa’s dedication to the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
