Charisse follows in the footsteps of her father, 5-term City Mayor “Benhur” and her mother, newly elected City Mayor Carmelita Abalos. Serving as City Councilor of the 1st District of Mandaluyong City for the second term now (both times elected number one in the ballots), Charisse spearheads programs that alleviates poverty and promotes a sustainable way of life. For example, her initiative to set up the Tiger City Negosyo Centre, which functions as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs, benefits a growing economy that does not have to be disrupted at the city’s borders, facilitating an easier process to start and grow a business. Additionally, she has authored ordinances, including the landmark Code of Parental Responsibility, and continues to create people-oriented and livelihood projects such as Zumba Caravan and Kitchen Yummies to benefit the ordinary citizens. Naturally, Charisse’s good will, paired with business acumen (not to mention an authentic charm and polished fashion sense), constantly wins her votes well beyond her political career. Mandaluyong is her source of pride; she’s seen it grow from a municipality to the thriving city it is now. For her efforts, Mandaluyong has just recieved it’s several consecutive Seal of Good Local Governance Award.