Mabalacat City has once again been recognized for its strong commitment to population and development programs, securing third place in the Most Outstanding Local Government Unit category during the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao National Awarding Ceremony held on November 26 in Quezon City.

Under the leadership of Mayor Atty. Geld Aquino and POPGAD Department Head Charlo Costales, the city was commended for its initiatives against early teenage pregnancy, expanded family planning services, and the integration of the PopDev framework into local policies and services.

The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) praised Mabalacat City as a model of effective governance and political will, highlighting its dedication to building a progressive, safe, and inclusive community for youth, women, and families. As the leading city in Central Luzon in implementing population and development measures, Mabalacat was chosen to represent the region at the national level. Among the 16 finalists nationwide, it stood out for having the most recently established Population and Development Department, which quickly demonstrated effective implementation of the PopDev agenda.

Vice Mayor Jun Castro and City Administrator Geraldine Bernardino also attended the awarding ceremony, underscoring the united leadership behind Mabalacat City’s achievements.