It was a great news, not only for the people in the city hall but also to the citywide citizens. This does not only means recognition but also opportunities. Yes, opportunities for its people. This news was shared by Congresswoman Robes during the inaugural speech of Congresswoman Robes at the inauguration of the San Jose del Monte Convention Center in Barangay Sapang Palay. She shared the news of the recognition received by the City of San Jose del Monte, which is proclaimed as one of the highly-urbanized city in the country. “I am very honored to announce that President Rodrigo Duterte has declared our beloved city a highly-urbanized city,” Robes said.

“We have long waited for this, and we will work more to make us truly deserving of this proclamation for the people of San Jose Del Monte,” she added. 

Congresswoman Robes continuesly shared about the recognition, Duterte issued Proclamation No. 1057 declaring San Jose Del Monte as a highly-urbanized city “subject to ratification in a plebiscite by qualified voters in the city.”

Congresswoman Robes shared that the President could declare a city highly-urbanized within 30 days after it had reached a population of 200,000 0r more, as certified by the Philippine Statistics Authority. It should also have an income of at least P50 million as certified by the city treasurer. And gladly the San Jose del Monte had achieved both qualifications – as “verified and attested to by the Philippine Statistics Authority and the Department of Finance – Bureau of Local Government Finance, as Duterte pointed out in his proclamation.

“[I]t is a declared policy of the government to support the initiatives of local governments to attain their fullest development as self-reliant communities, and make them effective partners in the attainment of national goals,” the President stated in the proclamation. 

Right before the end of the year and to say goodbye to 2020 a program was held at the heart of the city to show their appreciation and bring good vibes to its constituent. Even for a while let them feel the positive vibes of 2021.

Congratulations to the City of San Jose del Monte for achieving the status of being a highly-urbanized city. Looking forward for more developments in the city. And of course, a big congratulations to the great tandem of Mayor Arthur Robes and Congresswoman Florida Robes, for visioning the city to its achievements.