Mabalacat City has been identified as a potential Local Economic Development (LED) Model City in Central Luzon, spotlighting its dedication to economic recovery and sustainability. This recognition comes as part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region III’s initiative to select model cities under its Recovery Initiative towards Sustained Local Economy (RISE) program, aimed at helping LGUs advance economic recovery and resilience.



Mayor Crisostomo Garbo welcomed DILG officials and other key stakeholders for an onsite documentation event titled “Empowering Exponential Recovery and Sustainability Efforts: Replicating Initiatives for Sustained Economy.” Accompanied by Councilor Roland Peña, Mayor Garbo led a focused group discussion with representatives from multiple city offices, including City Planning and Development, Information, Business Permits and Licensing, Public Employment and Service Office (PESO), Tourism and Promotions, and Agriculture.
“This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our local government and community to overcome pandemic-related challenges,” Mayor Garbo shared in his remarks. “Our commitment extends beyond recovery. We’re working toward thriving in a new normal where sustainability and economic resilience are paramount.”
Mabalacat City’s proactive pandemic response has allowed it to rebound strongly, gaining attention as a leader in Central Luzon’s economic revitalization efforts. The documentation event further highlighted Mabalacat’s collaborations with the Departments of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, Tourism, the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA), and Bulacan State University—partnerships that promote knowledge-sharing and innovative solutions to build a sustainable economy.
Visiting officials expressed optimism about Mabalacat City’s approach, noting it could inspire other LGUs in Central Luzon to adopt similar strategies for economic resilience and sustainability.
Moving forward, Mabalacat City remains committed to community engagement and strategic planning, aiming to ensure that its recovery and growth initiatives benefit all residents inclusively and equitably.