Joy Belmonte

Elected to a third and final term with a record-breaking mandate, Joy Belmonte continues to shape Quezon City through a model of consultative, data-led governance. Her leadership of the country’s most populous city is grounded in a 14-point agenda that balances economic development with social welfare, environmental stewardship and transparent public service. In her latest State of the City Address, she reaffirmed a commitment to participatory governance, a principle that underpins many of the city’s current programmes.

Her influence now extends nationwide as National Chairperson of the League of Cities of the Philippines, where she works with fellow mayors to advance sustainable development and strengthen local government systems. She also co-convenes Mayors for Good Governance, a collective that champions integrity and collaboration among city leaders. In October 2025, her administration secured Quezon City’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Film, expanded social services through the full operation of the Baesa Crematorium and Columbarium, and launched new infrastructure projects including the redevelopment of the Barangay Kamuning Public Market.

Belmonte’s long-standing environmental agenda continues through initiatives such as Trash to Cashback and Kuha sa Tingi refill hubs, building on her earlier UN recognition for eliminating plastic pollution. Her digital transformation efforts have been acknowledged by USAID and the Makati Business Club, positioning the city as a benchmark for digital governance. Multiple awards from the Civil Service Commission and national organisations reflect the consistent impact of her ethical, replicable and community-focused leadership.