Poll bet eyes Malabon as ‘food city’

If given a chance, Malabon City mayoralty candidate Jeannie Sandoval wants to make her locality the "food city" of Metro Manila to elevate the livelihood of its residents.

"Malabon is already known for its delectable seafoods, pancit, and various native delicacies," Sandoval said in a statement. "It’s high time to promote these delicacies to other cities and provinces."

Sandoval, wife of Malabon-Navotas Rep. Ricky Sandoval, disclosed that it is part of her plans to make Malabon a center of food festivals. She is seeking the city’s mayoral post under the Liberal Party.

"The fishing-related industry and makers of pancit Malabon and various kakanin will see their respective businesses flourish even more if we make every day seem like a food festival," she added.

Sandoval said that promoting Malabon as the "food city" of Metro Manila will not only create livelihood opportunities among the residents but would also perk up pride for the city known for its perennial flood problem.

Apart from food fests, Sandoval also plans to advance a positive image of Malabon through three connected programs, namely: cleanliness, beautification, and colorful festivals to encourage tourism.

Sandoval is the only female mayoralty candidate in Malabon. The two others are incumbent Mayor Jay-jay Yambao and retired police major and businessman Tito Oreta. – Pete Laude