PDEA, VCPS Dismantle Drug Lab; Seized 6.6 billion-worth Meth in Valenzuela City

Through Mayor WES Gatchalian’s cooperation, the operation was carried out by PDEA operatives, in coordination with the Valenzuela City Police Station (VCPS). Acting on verified intelligence reports, authorities implemented a buy-bust operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspect and the neutralization of an illegal drug facility operating within the community.

Confiscated during the operation were approximately 500 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of PhP 3.4 million to an undercover operative disguised as a buyer. The transaction resulted in the discovery of a shabu laboratory that had been the subject of sustained intelligence monitoring stemming from earlier law-enforcement operations.

A follow-up raid inside the facility resulted in the seizure of 906 kilograms of shabu and 64.15 liters of liquid methamphetamine, valued at approximately ₱6.6 billion. Initial findings indicate that the facility may have been used for the manufacture and distribution of shabu within Valenzuela City and nearby areas. 

Authorities are currently conducting further investigation to determine the full extent of the suspect’s illegal activities, including possible links to larger drug networks. Efforts are also underway to identify and locate other individuals who may be involved in the operation. Follow-up operations and case build-up activities are being pursued to ensure that all responsible parties will be brought to justice.

The arrested suspect is presently under the custody of the arresting unit and will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Mayor WES, on the other hand, reaffirmed the city’s commitment to intensifying its anti-illegal drugs campaign and called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their communities. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities to proper authorities, highlighting that community cooperation remains vital in the ongoing fight against illegal drugs.

 

“Makakaasa po kayo na patuloy pa rin po [tayo] at hindi po rito nagtatapos ang ating trabaho. Ang joint task force po ng national/local at barangay, ipagpapatuloy pa rin po namin ang imbestigasyon ukol sa kaso,” Mayor WES stated.

The successful dismantling of the laboratory was a significant move to completely disrupt the supply chain of illegal drugs in the city.

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‎“YAKAP ng Kalusugan, Alaga ka sa Valenzuela!” Valenzuela City Forges Partnership with Philhealth, Generika Drugstore for the YAKAP-GAMOT Launch

The PhilHealth Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), formerly known as "Konsulta," is a Philippine national government initiative that aims to deliver preventive healthcare, provide medical support for out-of-pocket expenses, and closely monitor the health condition of all Filipinos. Through YAKAP, PhilHealth members may receive free health consultations and laboratory tests, and may also avail medical coverage for various diseases. 

‎Part of the PhilHealth YAKAP Program is the Guaranteed Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT), wherein PhilHealth beneficiaries are entitled to receive Php 20,000 worth of medicine each year for outpatient treatment. The YAKAP-GAMOT program strives to ease the financial burden of the patients and ensure accessible medication for all citizens. The overall goal of YAKAP-GAMOT is to shift from reactive or hospital-based treatment to a more proactive and preventive healthcare, leading to reduced medical costs. Beneficiaries can avail the YAKAP-GAMOT medication as prescribed by YAKAP-accredited clinics. The City of Valenzuela is designated as the first LGU in Metro Manila to form a partnership with PhilHealth in implementing the YAKAP-GAMOT initiative. 

‎Currently, the City of Valenzuela has a total of 47 YAKAP-accredited facilities, with 7 more clinics currently undergoing the accreditation process. Each accredited clinic has access to 21 types of medication under PhilHealth YAKAP that are available for dispensing. 

‎‎In addition, the City of Valenzuela embarked on a partnership with Generika Drugstore for dispensing medication for outpatients who are in need. Through this partnership with Generika Drugstore in the launch of YAKAP-GAMOT, beneficiaries may also avail 54 types of medication at 10 accredited Generika pharmacies, located in Barangays Gen. T. De Leon, Marulas, Veinte Reales, Malinta, Dalandanan, Parada, and Maysan. 

‎Types of medications under YAKAP-GAMOT are categorized with the following: anti-infectious, anti-hypertensive & cardiology, anti-asthma & COPD, anti-thrombotics, anti-dyslipidemia,  anti-diabetics, nervous system, and other supportive medications. 

‎‎During the launch, Valenzuelanos were guided through the process of PhilHealth registration, the first patient encounter (FPE), which determines their medical condition and prescription, and finally, the dispensing of YAKAP-GAMOT medication care of Generika Drugstore. 

‎‎In his message, Mayor WES Gatchalian emphasized the local government's mandate of ensuring that quality healthcare is able to reach several grassroots communities.  “Ang sakit po ay walang pinipiling oras; ang sakit ho ay walang pinipiling tao. Lahat po ay nagkakasakit. Kaya patuloy pong magiging prayoridad ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Valenzuela ang pagdadala ng libreng gamot sa ating mamamayan. Patuloy tayong mag-iisip at patuloy tayong makikipag-partner, at patuloy po tayong gagawa ng hakbang para mapagaan ang bulsa ng ating mga minamahal na kababayan dito sa Valenzuela.” 

‎Moving toward a livable and healthier Valenzuela City, the City Government places great importance on health and endeavors to provide accessible, effective, and inclusive healthcare for all — ensuring that no Valenzuelano is ever left behind. 

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Valenzuela City Celebrates 28th Charter Day with Inauguration of 336 Housing Units in Disiplina Village Arkong Bato

Initially groundbroken in March 2023, Phases 1 to 3 of the Disiplina Village Arkong Bato were officially opened, featuring seven (7) low-rise, four-storey residential buildings with a total of 336 housing units. During the ceremony, Certificates of Award were formally distributed to qualified beneficiaries, officially welcoming them as new homeowners under the city’s flagship housing initiative.

Implemented with the support of the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the Disiplina Village Arkong Bato served as the city’s fourth in-city housing relocation project, following Disiplina Village Ugong, Bignay, and Lingunan. The project primarily catered to fire victim families and Informal Settler Families (ISFs) who previously resided in danger-prone areas, including locations near waterways and beneath transmission lines.

Located on a 20,709-square-meter property along M.H. Del Pilar Street, Barangay Arkong Bato, the Disiplina Village Arkong Bato was designed as a safe, accessible, and sustainable community. The entire housing complex was envisioned to eventually consist of twenty (20) four-storey buildings with 960 housing units, strategically situated near the city proper and accessible to public utility vehicles and essential services.

In line with the city’s commitment to heritage preservation, the architectural façade of the housing buildings was inspired by the historic Arkong Bato, reflecting Valenzuela City’s balance of urban development and cultural identity. The nearby Arkong Bato Park, inaugurated in 2023, further enhanced the area as a livable and community-oriented space for residents.

In his message, Mayor WES said “Gusto nating makilala ang Valenzuela hindi lamang lugar kung saan nakikita ang mga naglalakihang mga pabrika, kundi makilala bilang isang liveable city. Ngayon ay matutunghayan natin ang isang panibagong kasaysayan sa pag inaugurate natin ng Disiplina Village Arkong Bato. Gusto natin maging isang lugar na hindi lamang trabaho ang meron, may pabahay, edukasyon, malakas na sistema ng gobyerno, healthcare, at peace and order para tayo ay matawag na ganap na liveable city.”

The blessing and inauguration of Phases 1 to 3 of the Disiplina Village Arkong Bato underscored the city government’s continuing mission to provide decent, affordable, and secure housing for Valenzuelanos, while empowering families to rebuild their lives and thrive in a disciplined, resilient, and inclusive community.

This milestone housing project reaffirmed Valenzuela City’s vision of becoming a truly livable city, where every Valenzuelano is given the opportunity to enjoy a safe home, dignified living conditions, and a better future.

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Valenzuela Speeds Up Med Response, Officially Turns Over 33 Barangay Ambulances

The newly deployed ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art emergency medical features, including stretcher beds with safety restraints, spinal boards, and trauma kits. Each unit also comes with interior LED medical lighting and a two-way radio communication system device to ensure efficient dispatch and coordination with the city’s central command center. The vehicles were also built with high-roof designs to allow paramedics to move comfortably while administering care and are fitted with sirens and high-visibility emergency lighting for safe and rapid transport through traffic.

In his remarks during the ceremony, Mayor WES emphasized that the initiative reflects the city’s proactive and people-centered governance. He noted that investing in emergency medical infrastructure is crucial in a rapidly growing urban center, where timely medical response can mean the difference between life and death. The mayor also highlighted that the deployment of dedicated ambulances per barangay empowers local officials and frontline responders to act swiftly and efficiently.

“Ito pong programa natin ay bilang suporta sa ating programang pangkalusugan, ang mabili at efficient po na service sa ating mga constituents sa pamamagitan po ng mga brand new ambulance natin. ‘Wag po kayong mag-alala, pinapaalam ko rin sa inyo na ang LGU rin po ay patuloy pong sumusuporta sa ating mga barangay… Kaya sa ating mga kapitan at barangay officials na nandito, suklian po natin ng magandang serbisyo ang ating mga mamamayan,” he stated. [This program is in support of our health programs, providing fast and efficient service to our constituents through our brand new ambulances… I also want to remind you that the LGU continues to support our barangays... So to our captains and barangay officials present here, let us reciprocate it with good service to our constituents]

On the other hand, Senator WIN, who supported the initiative, reaffirmed his commitment to helping local governments strengthen their healthcare capabilities. He commended Valenzuela City’s leadership for prioritizing public health and safety, especially in light of increasing demand for emergency services.

As Valenzuela City marks its 28th Cityhood Anniversary, the milestone serves not only as a celebration of progress but also a reaffirmation of its commitment to responsive governance. It is a unified effort to safeguard the health and well-being of every resident, reinforcing the city’s vision of delivering efficient, accessible, and compassionate public service at the grassroots level.

Also gracing the momentous event were Vice Mayor Marlon Alejandrino, 2nd District Congressman Gerald Galang, Councilors: Niña Lopez, Goyong Serrano, Lorie Natividad-Borja, Ghogho Deato-Lee, Atty. Bimbo Dela Cruz, Liga ng mga Barangay President Mario San Andres, and the City Barangay Captains and Council. 

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LOVE FILLED THE AIR: 178 Valenzuelano Couples Tie the knot on Valenzuela City’s 28th Charter Day

Couples from various barangays across the city have gathered to formally unite as husbands and wives in a ceremony that reflects not only their personal promises to one another, but also their shared hope for a brighter future. Coming from different communities, backgrounds, and life experiences, they stand together in one place, bound by a common desire to build lasting unions founded on love, respect, and commitment.

Moreover, to make the once-in-a-lifetime occasion even more special, the city government also provided a buffet for the newlyweds and their guests, a hotel gift certificate for their first night together as married couples, a photobooth with souvenir photos to capture and preserve the precious moments, and bridal bouquets for the brides. 

Mayor WES Gatchalian, who led the much-anticipated mass wedding ceremony and extended his warm greeting, believes that Kasalang Bayan is more than just a wedding event, but it also embodies the city government’s steadfast commitment to nurturing strong, stable families as the foundation of a progressive society. By making marriage more accessible and meaningful for its residents, the local government reaffirms its dedication to promoting unity, responsibility, and compassion among Valenzuelanos.

Through such programs, making it accessible to couples from all walks of life, the city affirms that marriage is not only a personal milestone but also a shared community celebration. It sends a powerful message that love deserves to be honored, that commitment deserves to be supported, and that every family matters.

On this Valentine’s Day, love was not just felt—it was chosen. And in that choice, 178 new chapters began.

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Valenzuela City Holds First Inclusive Summit, Highlights Decade of Inclusive Education and Services

The summit was held immediately after the blessing and inauguration of the Valenzuela Special Education (ValSPED) Center Extension and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Valenzuela Education Center, both located in Barangay Malinta, underscoring the city’s continued investments in inclusive and accessible education facilities.

Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Valenzuela Special Education Center, the Inclusive Summit served as a platform to discuss the city’s programs and projects on inclusivity, particularly in education, employment, health, and access to government services. Panel discussions focused on inclusive employment, health insurance provisions, and national government services supporting inclusivity, providing parents and stakeholders with vital information and direct access to service providers.

In his message, Mayor WES emphasized that inclusivity remains a core value of the city’s governance, noting that progress should be measured by how well every Valenzuelano is included in development. “Ang tunay na progresibong lungsod ay ‘yung walang iniiwan. Sa Valenzuela, malinaw ang ating paninindigan - bawat bata ay may kakayahan, may pangarap, at may lugar sa ating lungsod."

The Mayor highlighted the city’s Education 360 Degree Investment Program approach, which ensures that learners with special needs are supported not only academically but also through health, nutrition, and social services. Currently, ValSPED serves 1,120 learners with disabilities, supported by a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, speech language pathologists, and occupational therapists.

Mayor WES also underscored that inclusivity in Valenzuela goes beyond the classroom. Through a city ordinance promoting inclusive employment, Valenzuela has already empowered 285 persons with disabilities through wage and self-employment programs from 2018 to 2025, ensuring that PWDs are given fair opportunities to participate fully in the local workforce.

The Inclusive Summit featured speakers and panelists from PhilHealth, the Valenzuela Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the Department of Health, the Valenzuela City Nutrition Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection–Valenzuela, among others, who discussed available programs and services for persons with disabilities and their families.

The City Government of Valenzuela remains committed to building a community where respect, understanding, and care are practiced daily, ensuring that every Pamilyang Valenzuelano, regardless of ability, has dignity, opportunity, and a hopeful future.

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Valenzuela City Welcomes 2026 Business Renewal Season with Several Business One-Stop Shops (BOSS)

During the ceremony, Mayor WES led the awarding of Loyalty Awards to a total of 285 city government employees who have faithfully served the city for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 45 years. Also recognized were the rescue personnel of the Valenzuela City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (VCDRRMO) for their invaluable rescue and humanitarian assistance extended to Cebu and Catanduanes during Typhoons Tino and Uwan in late 2025.

Following the ceremony, the City Government formally launched several Business One-Stop Shops across Valenzuela, alongside the extensive promotion of the Paspas Permit Online system, to provide faster, safer, and more convenient services to business owners and taxpayers.

The city encourages all business entities and taxpayers to process their transactions online to ensure convenience and efficiency, and to further reduce the need for manual transactions at City Hall.

Paspas Permit can be accessed by visiting the official Valenzuela City website at www.valenzuela.gov.ph and clicking the Paspas Permit button. New users may create their accounts to transact various online services from the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), City Assessor’s Office, City Treasurer’s Office, Office of the Building Official (OBO), Local Civil Registry, City Health Office, and City Zoning Office.

 

Taxpayers are reminded to settle their obligations on time through the various payment channels offered by the city to avoid the 25% surcharge and 2% monthly interest. The payment deadlines for 2026 are as follows:

  • January 20, 2026 - First Quarter Deadline

  • April 20, 2026 - Second Quarter Deadline

  • July 20, 2026 - Third Quarter Deadline

  • October 20, 2026 - Fourth Quarter Deadline

For those who are unable to pay online, the City Government has established several Business One-Stop Shops (BOSS) in different areas of Valenzuela, operating on the following schedules:

  • January 5 - 20, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • January 10 and 17, 2026 (Saturdays), from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The BOSS locations are as follows:

  • ALERT Multi-purpose Center Hall, Brgy. Malinta

  • 3S Center Ugong

  • 3S Center Punturin

  • 3S Center Karuhatan

  • 3S Center Gen. T. De Leon

  • 3S Center Marulas

  • 3S Center Canumay West

Corporations in the city are likewise reminded of the mandatory use of the Paspas Permit system, as required under City Ordinance No. 726, Series of 2020, or the “Mandatory Use of Paspas Permit System for Corporations Ordinance.”

The City Government of Valenzuela remains committed to continuously improving its services and programs to ensure ease of doing business, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a business-friendly and forward-looking local government unit.

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Resilient & Future-ready: Valenzuela City Breaks New Ground for PANATAG Active Transport Park & Flood Catchment Facility

The City Government of Valenzuela recognizes that flooding prevails as a challenge for most cities in Metro Manila, especially during the rainy season. Additionally, the City Government not only addresses the flooding situation but also the lack of secure pathways for pedestrians and cyclists along Barangay Dalandanan. In this light, Valenzuela City has sought a long-term solution to prevent major thoroughfares from flooding while providing safer walkways for residents — by establishing a pedestrian-friendly lane with a floodwater catchment basin beneath.

Dubbed as “PANATAG Active Transport Park and Flood Catchment Facility”, this two-in-one infrastructure funded by the Department of Transportation is a 1.3-kilometer-long pedestrian and bike lane with a 230-meter floodwater catchment basin underneath.  In support of the Active Transport program, this facility paves the way for additional modes of transportation known as “active transportation” by constructing protected and dedicated lanes for walking and cycling. The Pamilyang Valenzuelano can benefit from comfortable and secure pathways where they can walk and ride their bikes safely away from major roads. Additionally, it will also house a modernized jeepney stop for easier transportation for commuters. Ultimately, the PANATAG Active Transport Park promotes wellness and a healthy lifestyle among Valenzuelanos through physical activity and reduces carbon emissions from their daily commute.

Below the PANATAG Active Transport Park, a flood catchment facility will be built. The catchment basin has a 5.6 meters x 3 meters depth with the capacity of storing 3,000 cubic meters of flood water. The first phase of the catchment basin will be structured near the major roadway, MacArthur Highway, which connects Metro Manila to Central Luzon. The strategic position of the floodwater catchment facility aims to prevent flooding on a crucial thoroughfare such as MacArthur Highway, and maintain a free-flowing traffic for motorists and business operators even in the midst of heavy rains.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Mayor WES Gatchalian was joined by the representative of the DOTR Secretary, Usec. Mark Steven Pastor, PNR Chairman, Richard Peralta, PNR Assistant General Manager, Atty. Celeste Lauta, Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay from UPRI, Vice Mayor Marlon Alejandrino, and Councilors Goyong Serrano, Mario San Andres, and Kisha Ancheta.

In his message, Mayor WES expressed the LGU’s strategies of making the most out of available lands to become efficient, beneficial, and sustainable structures, such as an active transport park and a flood catchment facility. Usec. Mark Steven Pastor of DOTr commended the City of Valenzuela for developing an innovative and novel infrastructure project, such as the PANATAG Active Transport Park and Flood Catchment Facility, that supports not only pedestrians and cyclists but also addresses the effects of climate change. He termed the project as the “first in the country” that serves a dual and “value-for-money” purpose, and he expressed DOTr’s extensive support of implementing such a facility in other parts of the country as well.

True to its name, the PANATAG Active Transport Park and Flood Catchment Facility project bears an assurance that the Pamilyang Valenzuelano can thrive in safer and resilient pathways established in a future-ready City of Valenzuela.

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Valenzuela City Wins Grand Champion at Maynilad's 2025 Oro Inodoro Awards

The Oro Inodoro Awards, formerly known as the Golden Kubeta Awards, is an annual search established by Maynilad to recognize the best and most responsibly managed public restrooms within its service area. The program highlights the importance of accessible, sanitary, and environmentally responsible comfort rooms, encouraging both public and private establishments to adopt higher standards in restroom management. Entries are evaluated based on aesthetics, cleanliness, maintenance practices, and proper wastewater management. Various categories are opened yearly for public offices, schools, malls, restaurants, hotels, and transport hubs, alongside special awards for inclusivity such as "Banyo Para sa Lahat" and the social-media-voted "Banyo ng Bayan".

As this year's Grand Winner, Valenzuela City Hall emerged from the 150 nominees nationwide and top among finalists from different sectors, reflecting the City Government's continuous efforts to provide citizens and visitors with functional, clean, and well-maintained facilities. The recognition stands as another testament to Mayor WES Gatchalian's initiatives that prioritize order, dignity, and comfort in public spaces.

In his message, Mayor WES expressed his gratitude saying "Oro Inodoro is equally important, and equal ang bigat nito compared to the other awards na natanggap ng Valenzuela City. Alam po ninyo bakit natin ito pinaghandaan, dahil unang una public spaces are an image of leader and the management. May it be a toilet, pantry, or bodega, it automatically reflects how the leaders manage. "

To honor the people behind the win, Mayor WES personally treated all City Hall maintenance staff following the awarding ceremony. He expressed his appreciation for their hard work, discipline, and consistency in maintaining the City Hall's facilities, efforts that directly contributed to securing the award. The mayor emphasized that the award belongs not only to the city but especially to the dedicated teams working daily to ensure that Valenzuelanos enjoy clean and pleasant government spaces.

Valenzuela City's victory in the 2025 Oro Inodoro Awards underscores its ongoing commitment to excellent public service and reinforces its reputation as a model LGU in hygiene, sanitation, and facility management, which once again proves to making Valenzuela a more liveable city for every Pamilyang Valenzuelano

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YAKAP in Valenzuela: Valenzuela Boosts PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) Program at Local Health Centers

Bridging the gap between comprehensive healthcare and every Filipino in need, PhilHealth has launched its upgraded and enhanced Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) Program; formerly known as Konsulta. Through the YAKAP program, accredited clinics will be able to provide preventive and outpatient health services for Philhealth members and dependents, while also actively monitoring each patient’s health status. 

The goal of this program is to continuously monitor and provide primary care to registered individuals, preventing any health condition from worsening. Philhealth members and their declared dependents registered to the program may select their preferred YAKAP clinics and avail themselves of their free primary check-ups and screenings, and undergo the First Patient Encounter (FPE) process. During FPE, the YAKAP healthcare providers will generate each patient’s health profile, which shall serve as the basis for monitoring their health condition and recommending specialized treatment through a referral system. The initiative advocates for immediate eligibility and access to primary care for every individual through several available consultations and laboratory services, and provides selected free preventive and maintenance medications under the Philhealth GAMOT program.

Pursuing the goal of spreading the benefits of the YAKAP program to its residents, the City of Valenzuela has accredited 52 health facilities: 47 health centers, 1 private hospital, 1 public hospital, and 3 private clinics were certified YAKAP healthcare providers.

As of writing, there were 186,484 registered Valenzuelano beneficiaries of the YAKAP program. These registered individuals are now partnered with their preferred accredited clinics, which will provide immediate consultations and primary care for the rest of the year. 

Supporting the cause of the Republic Act No. 11223, also known as the Universal Health Care Act, the City of Valenzuela strives to reach every Valenzuelano citizen and provide accessible, inclusive, and efficient healthcare services that they deserve —  leaving none behind.

For more information about the YAKAP program, visit their website at https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/yakap/

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