HON. BENJAMIN C. ABALOS, JR.

Mayor Mandaluyong City

A s the local chief executive of Mandaluyong City from 1998 to 2004 and 2007 to the present, Mayor Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr. has played a major role in the transformation of his hometown into the “Tiger City of the Philippines.”

Under his watch, the city has become a vibrant business and financial district with high- rise buildings, shopping centers, and other commercial establishments. While companies and developers are welcome to do business in Mandaluyong, Abalos has remained focused on uplifting the lives of his constituents as well, especially the indigent, through social projects in housing and education.

His leadership style emphasizes on taking action, hence the slogan “Gawa, Hindi Salita.” Among the life-changing projects he initiated or supported are Project TEACH (Project Therapy, Education and Assimilation of Children with Handicap) that teaches self- care and integration to youth with special needs; the redevelopment of the congested Mandaluyong City Cemetery into a one-stop facility for bereaved families called the Garden of Life Park; the implementation of Pamahalaan sa Pamayanan program, where city hall services are delivered to constituents at the barangay level; and various pro-environment projects, such as the use of electric tricycle and the first-ever green building program among local government units.

Abalos has also adjusted well with the times, utilizing social media, among other communication tools, to spread the word on his programs for the local community. One of the more innovative initiatives he spearheaded is the creation of a comprehensive citizens’ data-base through the Efficient and Ethical Good Governance system. Through this data base, they are able to deliver appropriate services needed by Mandaleños, especially children.