Malabon marks 24th cityhood anniversary

MANILA, Philippines — From a fishing town nestled along the waters off Manila Bay, Malabon has transformed into a thriving urban hub.

Malabon celebrated yesterday its 24th cityhood anniversary, a milestone in a journey that began with a collective vote of over 168,000 residents who envisioned a more progressive future for their community.

The city’s founding as a highly urbanized area was formalized with the passage of Republic Act 9019 in 2001, authored by then congressman Ricky Sandoval and supported by former mayor Amado Vicencio.

The law, which was ratified through a plebiscite, granted Malabon its status as a city and unlocked increased funding from the national government.

“That moment in our history was not just about changing a label,” Mayor Jeannie Sandoval said in her anniversary message. “It was a declaration of our collective aspiration for growth, better services and a stronger identity as a city.”

The change did not come without challenges. Critics at the time raised concern about potential tax hikes and the timing of the vote.

The proponents, however, assured residents that no additional taxes would be levied in the first five years of cityhood.

The Internal Revenue Allotment also increased by 160 percent, which paved the way for infrastructure development, education programs and health care services.

Malabon’s journey from a fishing and agricultural town to a highly urbanized city is rooted in its long and colorful history.

Established in the early 1600s as part of Tondo, Malabon was once known for its rich fisheries, rice fields and culinary heritage, famous for dishes such as pancit Malabon and puto sulot.

Over centuries, Malabon grew into a significant industrial and commercial district in northern Metro Manila.

Sandoval described the city’s transformation as a testament to the unity and perseverance of its residents.

“This anniversary is more than just a date. It is a celebration of our resilience, our determination and the strength of our community spirit,” she said.

Flood control systems, public housing, educational support and digitization efforts are part of the local government’s roadmap toward a “prosperous and modern Malabon,” Sandoval said.