Mayor Joy Belmonte – Political Career in Quezon City
Maria Josefina “Joy” Belmonte-Alimurung is the current mayor of Quezon City, known for her progressive leadership, inclusive policies, and strong stance on environmental sustainability. She is the daughter of former House Speaker and Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. Before entering public office, she was active in civic work, heritage conservation, and cultural preservation.
Political Timeline and Positions Held
| Position | Term Duration |
|---|---|
| Vice Mayor, Quezon City | 2010 – 2019 |
| Mayor, Quezon City | 2019 – present |
Vice Mayor of Quezon City
Joy Belmonte served as Vice Mayor for three consecutive terms starting in 2010. During this time, she presided over the Quezon City Council and introduced initiatives focused on gender equality, urban farming, social housing, and youth engagement. Her tenure as vice mayor helped modernize legislative processes in the city and expand access to local services.
Mayor of Quezon City
First elected as mayor in 2019, she secured re-election in 2022 and began her third term in 2025. As mayor, she leads efforts to strengthen disaster resilience, reduce poverty, modernize infrastructure, and address climate change. She also serves as chairperson of the Metro Manila Council.
Leadership Highlights and Programs
1. Climate and Environmental Action
- Declared a climate emergency and realigned city funding toward sustainability efforts.
- Promoted plastic-free initiatives, clean energy use in public buildings, and electric vehicles.
- Expanded green spaces and led the creation of climate-resilient barangays.
2. Inclusive Governance and Healthcare
- Launched the “Right to Care Card” for LGBTQIA+ couples, enabling medical decision-making rights.
- Expanded community-based healthcare services.
- Increased financial aid, housing support, and social programs for senior citizens, PWDs, solo parents, and informal workers.
3. Digital Transformation and Ease of Doing Business
- Streamlined local business permit applications through digital platforms.
- Strengthened the Anti-Red Tape Unit and introduced “Business One-Stop Shops.”
- Invested in data-driven governance and community feedback systems.
4. Urban Planning and Housing
- Introduced the “15-Minute City” model to improve walkability and decentralize essential services.
- Oversaw major socialized housing projects for underprivileged residents and informal settlers.
- Implemented zoning reforms and improved disaster response infrastructure.
5. Education and Learning Access
- Boosted scholarship funding and distributed digital learning tools for public school students.
- Partnered with organizations to support out-of-school youth and adult learning.
- Integrated education and livelihood programs for long-term community development.
6. Public Safety and Women’s Rights
- Established gender and development desks in police stations.
- Strengthened the Quezon City Protection Center for women, children, and LGBTQIA+ victims of abuse.
- Intensified campaigns against domestic violence and online exploitation.
