It’s not easy being the mayor of one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, especially during a pandemic. Lino Cayetano, who was elected as mayor in 2019, is no stranger to Taguig governance and service, however. 

Starting his career as barangay captain of Fort Bonifacio, Cayetano has served Taguig constituents for more than a decade. When the pandemic struck just months into his first year, he focused his initiatives on the grassroots level guided by cut-throat governance. 

The former Taguig congressman had a simple strategy against COVID-19: the carrot and the stick. Through the enforcement of stringent health protocols mixed with accessible vaccination rollouts and contact tracing, Taguig City claimed herd immunity in October 2021. Beyond this, Cayetano also ensured citizens will receive aid such as free swab testing, learning materials, and entrepreneurial aid. 

In the upcoming elections, Lino will be making way for Lani Cayetano, his sister-in-law and previous Taguig mayor. Wishing to focus more on the city’s grassroot programs, Cayetano’s public service extends beyond his position.