Mabalacat City, Pampanga – Mayor Crisostomo Garbo successfully delivered an inspiring and visionary State of the City Address (SOCA) on Thursday, highlighting the remarkable progress and achievements of Mabalacat City in alignment with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the theme “MCG goes SDG” Mayor Garbo outlined the city’s accomplishments across the 12 pillars of government, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of its citizens.
Mabalacat City has embraced the United Nations’ SDGs as a guiding framework for its governance and development strategies. Mayor Garbo’s administration has diligently worked to align the city’s policies, programs, and initiatives with the SDGs, resulting in significant advancements in various areas crucial to sustainable progress.
Addressing the pillars one by one, Mayor Garbo emphasized the city’s commitment to excellent healthcare. In line with the SDG on good health and well-being, Mabalacat City has increased healthcare funding, enhanced medical services, and implemented preventive and responsive health programs, including the launching of ‘MCG Cares’ card. These efforts have led to improved overall health outcomes among citizens.
The pursuit of quality education has been another key focus for Mabalacat City. With the SDG on quality education as a guiding principle, the city has increased educational funding, and provided comprehensive teacher training programs. By integrating technology in classrooms and empowering students with essential skills, Mabalacat City is ensuring that every Mabalaquenian has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for the future.
“Our Mabalacat City College has been recognized as one of the best in the country. Isa sa mga ipinagmamalaki kong programa ay ang UNA kung saan lahat ng pamilya na walang diploma ay automatic admission sa ating kolehiyo. Gusto ko sa Mabalacat, bawat pamilya, may diploma,” said Garbo.
Aligning with the SDGs on decent work and economic growth, Mabalacat City has implemented initiatives to promote economic recovery, job opportunities, and support for small businesses. Mayor Garbo’s administration has attracted investments, established partnerships here and abroad, and provided an enabling environment for entrepreneurship. The first business club of Mabalacat was also formed during Garbo’s term. These efforts have resulted in a thriving local economy as Ayala’s Pampanga Technopark in Barangay Tabun, successfully held its groundbreaking which is expected to generate around 100,000 jobs, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Garbo added, “ilulunsad na rin natin ang barangay-PESO sa lahat ng 27 barangays upang mas mapadali ang pagbibigay ng hanapbuhay para sa ating mga kabalen.”
Recognizing the importance of sustainable tourism, Mabalacat City has positioned itself as an attractive destination in line with the SDG on sustainable cities and communities. The city has invested in preserving cultural heritage sites, improving infrastructure and road network in partnership with DPWH, and developing sustainable tourism practices. These endeavors aim to promote responsible tourism, economic growth, and the preservation of Mabalacat City’s rich cultural identity. The region also witnessed the birth of Balacat Festival wherein all 27 barangays participated in the events of that historic event.
Mayor Garbo also highlighted the city’s commitment to strong moral values and the SDGs on peace, justice, and strong institutions. Through character education programs of Population, Gender and Development office and City Social Welfare and Development Office, and collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies, Mabalacat City has fostered a culture of integrity, compassion, and respect, ensuring a safe and harmonious environment for its citizens.
Furthermore, Mabalacat City’s digitization initiatives, clean environment campaigns, and resilience building efforts align with various SDGs, including climate action, and industry, innovation, and infrastructure. By leveraging technology, preserving the environment, and enhancing disaster preparedness, the city is actively contributing to global sustainability targets.
Mayor Garbo’s SOCA also highlighted the city’s dedication to poverty alleviation, reduced inequalities, and partnership for the goals. Mabalacat City has implemented comprehensive poverty alleviation programs, scholarship grants, and subsidized healthcare to uplift the lives of the Mabalaquenians.
At the end of his speech, MCG thanked the whole city council headed by Vice Mayor Gerald Guttrie Aquino, and the barangay captains for their unwavering support to his administration.
The 2023 SOCA of Mabalacat was completely attended by the city council, barangay chairmen, department and unit heads, and other guests during a special session of the 4th Sangguniang Panlungsod.
