First woman mayor of Quezon City dies

MANILA, Philippines — Adelina Santos-Rodriguez, the first woman mayor of Quezon City, passed away last Sept. 30 at the age of 101.

Mayor Joy Belmonte yesterday confirmed the death of the former local chief executive, whom she said paved the way for her and more women in the political and civic arena.

Considered a strong yet compassionate leader, Santos-Rodriguez was the city’s sixth mayor from 1976 to 1986.

She was appointed by then president Ferdinand Marcos following the resignation of long-time mayor Norberto Amoranto.

Santos-Rodriguez prioritized healthcare and established health centers across the city. She was also progressive in addressing the needs of many families by promoting family planning and birth control.

According to Belmonte, the former mayor also focused on culture, arts and tourism.

“To her, these contribute to strengthening the city’s development. As a tribute to the city’s forefather, she instructed the installment of the Manuel Quezon monument,” she said.

“Boosting the local economy was also one of her priorities, especially for the benefit of marginalized sectors. She established an economic development council to encourage more businesses, jobs, investments and livelihood in the city,” Belmonte added.

In 2016, Santos-Rodriguez was recognized as the city’s Tandang Sora awardee “for sustaining the stability and progress of the city even during the martial law years and for preserving the status of Quezon City as the then capital city of the Philippines.”

During the celebration of women’s month last year, the city also featured her as among the Iconic Women of Quezon City.

“Ultimately, beyond her public life, she will be remembered by her family and friends for her warmth and sincerity. We are blessed to have been part of her fruitful 101 years,” Belmonte said.