The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) presented Mayor REX Gatchalian with a Plaque of Recognition for his efforts in making Valenzuela City one of the "Most Peaceful and Safest Spots in Southeast Asia".

PCCI President, Ms. Alegria S. Limjoco lead the awarding ceremonies today, May 16, as one of the highlights of the PCCI and associate business organization's Second Joint General Membership Meeting held at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel.

As the citation reads, the award was bestowed for “exemplifying commendable initiatives towards good governance reforms that promote trade and investments, and significantly contribute to local economic development.”

Recently, online database Numbeo cited Valenzuela City as the second Safest City in Southeast Asia, next only to Singapore.  The City also figured on the site's ranking back in the year 2015, placing third.

Aside from peace and order programs, the Local Government also actively maintains initiatives on economic development.  Valenzuela City is in the Hall of Fame of the PCCI's Most Business Friendly City Award after bagging the accolade three times in the span of four years. Two of which, for the years 2014 and 2015, and the Hall of Fame trophy were earned under Mayor REX's helm.