Binay vows honest Makati city government

MANILA, Philippines — The public should expect a local government in Makati that is honest and transparent as ever, focusing on making healthcare and other social services accessible to its constituents, Mayor Abigail Binay said yesterday.

Binay, in her first State of the City Address during her third term as mayor, vowed to continue her governance of the city with integrity.

“My government is determined to promote a strong government that is fair, honest and transparent,” she said in her address before members of the Rotary Club of Makati.

The local chief executive noted that for the past five years, the Makati government has been recognized by the Commission on Audit (COA) for its fairness in presenting the city’s financial statements.

For this year, Binay said they have “exciting things” planned for residents and businesses.

Binay said their health services will be more accessible to people by improving existing medical facilities and embarking on programs for the healthcare sector.

“Modern technology will be utilized to ensure everyone has access to quality care,” she said.

Binay announced that the Makati Life Medical Center in Barangay Bel-Air is expected to open next month, which elicited cheers from the audience.

The state-of-the-art hospital worth P9.77 billion has 360 beds, 190 doctor’s clinics and multiple specialty centers.

The hospital is a product of a public-private partnership venture between the city government and Life Nurture Inc.

Deserving students should also expect more scholarships and grants this year, Binay said.

For businesses to continue thriving in Makati, Binay said they will provide more resources and incentives for green building traders.

Recognizing that constituents need stability and security during difficult times, Binay said the city is expanding housing assistance, legal aid, mental health counseling centers and other support services.