The Department of the Interior and Local Government–National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) formally recognized the City of Malabon for its notable achievements in strengthening barangay governance during the Ulat sa Malabueño 2026 held on January 27, 2026, at the Malabon Sports Center.

In the barangay governance performance assessment, the City of Malabon awarded barangays Flores, Hulong-Duhat, and Niugan emerged as the City’s top performers, reflecting strong local leadership and institutional functionality. Meanwhile, barangays Baritan, Catmon, Hulong-Duhat, Santulan, and Concepcion, were awarded for its exemplary performance in the Barangays Councils for the Protection of Children (BCPC). The said barangays continued efforts to uphold children’s rights, reinforce child protection systems, and implement programs that advance the holistic well-being of children.

Building on this recognition of governance excellence, DILG-NCR also led the ceremonial turnover of a Women in Especially Difficult Circumstances (WEDC) Rescue Vehicle, marking another milestone in Malabon City’s continuing efforts to strengthen protective services for women and children. The rescue vehicle, provided under the Seal of Good Local Governance–Incentive Fund (SGLG-IF), is expected to significantly enhance the City’s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to cases involving women and children in need of protection and assistance.

Representing the Department were DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes Agustin, DILG Malabon City Director Jess Marie Acoba, CESO V, LGCDD Chief Luigi D.C. Pilarta, and personnel from the DILG Malabon Field Office. The vehicle was formally received by Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, symbolizing the City Government’s strong commitment to safeguarding vulnerable sectors and institutionalizing mechanisms that promote dignity, safety, and welfare at the community level.

In her message, Regional Director Agustin lauded Malabon City’s unwavering pursuit of good governance, noting that both the recognition for barangay governance and the provision of the WEDC rescue vehicle reflect the national government’s trust and confidence in local government units that exemplify transparency, accountability, and service excellence.

“Like the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child, I believe that it also takes a city to uplift a woman. When vulnerable women seek help, the WEDC rescue vehicle stands as a beacon of hope—delivering immediate relief to those in need of safety, dignity, and support. The DILG-NCR will always be your partner in creating a safe, progressive, and gender-centered environment in Metro Manila,” RD Agustin said.

The DILG National Capital Region reiterated its commitment to continue working closely with local government units in advancing good local governance and in building safer, more resilient, and inclusive communities across the National Capital Region.