The Malabon City government was recognized by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DSHUD) for its excellent efforts in implementing urban housing projects that provide safer homes for Malabuenos.

Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval received the plaque of commendation from the DSHUD during the national agency’s fifth anniversary celebration on Valentine’s Day.

“This accolade resonates with the understanding that true progress is a collective achievement, born out of the seamless collaboration between the national and local entities working hand in hand. It is a celebration of the shared vision, dedication, and concerted efforts that have propelled Malabon toward becoming a model for urban planning and design nationwide,” Sandoval said. 
 
The local government said that the award marks a significant milestone in Malabon's journey towards sustainable and inclusive urban development.

It added that the recognition from DHSUD serves as a validation of its past efforts and an inspiration for the city to pursue future endeavors.

Sandoval, in her speech, shared the city’s“ Disaster Resilient, Climate Change Adaptive, and Sustainable Socialized Housing Project" for St. Gregory Homes, an initiative that aims to provide safer and better homes for the residents.

St. Gregory Homes is an in-city housing project in Barangay Panghulo with 23 five-story buildings and 60 units each for Malabueno families who were victims of calamities and those who live near waterways and other danger zones.

The buildings were turned over to the city government by President Marcos in Mach 2023 as part of his “Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH).” The 4PH is the president’s flagship program that aims to eradicate informal settlement by 2028.

“We understand that housing goes beyond bricks and mortar; it is about providing our residents with a decent and dignified life,” Sandoval said.

She added that the project has various aspects that highlight the city’s adopted holistic approach in delivering services to Malabuenos which include community organizing (formation of home owners associations, leaders, and programs to empower the residents); a well-thought risk reduction plan during disasters and installation of CCTV cameras to ensure their safety; fostering economic development by forming cooperatives, conducting seminars,  livelihood training programs, and collaboration with various agencies; implementation of health, traffic, and environment-friendly programs; and increased police visibility to ensure peace and order.

As of Dec. 23, 2023, a total of 420 families living near waterways and danger zones, victims of fire and calamities, including those who were affected by the rehabilitation of pumping stations, were relocated to better and safer homes in the city, the local government said.

"As we receive this commendation, let us not only savor this moment but leverage it as a catalyst for contributing meaningfully to the broader goals set by DHSUD," the mayor said.

“The recognition ceremony not only celebrated Malabon's commitment to creating a sustainable city but also praised the city's initiative, the ‘Disaster Resilient, Climate Change Adaptive, and Sustainable Socialized Housing Project’ for St. Gregory Homes. This project was lauded as a manifestation of Malabon's vision for a better and more resilient community,” said Dr. Alexander Rosete, City Administrator and concurrent head of the City Housing and Urban Development Department.

The first Malabon lady mayor also emphasized the city's commitment to a future where the ideals of 4PH become tangible realities nationwide.

“May this recognition propel us forward and inspire us to work tirelessly and collaboratively, ensuring that the seeds of progress we've planted today flourish into a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive city for generations to come,” she added.