Maria Laarni “Lani” Lopez Cayetano (born Maria Laarni Clariño Lopez; December 11, 1981) is a Filipina politician currently serving as the Mayor of Taguig. She first held the position from 2010 to 2019 and was re-elected in 2022. Before her tenure as mayor, she represented the 1st district of Taguig-Pateros in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2010 and later served as the representative of Taguig’s 2nd district from 2019 to 2022.
Early Life and Education
Cayetano was born in Caloocan, Philippines. She pursued higher education at Centro Escolar University, where she obtained a degree in Mass Communication. She furthered her studies by completing a special course in Innovative and Developmental Local Governance and Policy Making for Local Chief Executives and Legislators at the University of the Philippines Diliman.
Political Career
House of Representatives (2007–2010, 2019–2022)
At the age of 25, Cayetano was elected as the first female representative of Taguig-Pateros and the first of its newly established 1st congressional district in 2007. She became actively involved in legislation focused on social welfare, women’s rights, and livelihood programs. She returned to the House of Representatives in 2019, this time as the representative of Taguig’s 2nd district, where she continued her advocacy for grassroots development and education initiatives.
Mayor of Taguig (2010–2019, 2022–Present)
Cayetano made history as the first female mayor of Taguig in 2010. Under her leadership, Taguig experienced significant economic growth, urban development, and improvements in public services. Her administration focused on healthcare, education, and infrastructure, leading to the city’s recognition as one of the most progressive urban centers in Metro Manila.
After completing her three consecutive terms as mayor in 2019, she returned to the position in 2022. Her current administration continues to emphasize her signature “Transformative, Lively, and Caring” (TLC) governance approach.
Notable Programs and Initiatives
- Education: Strengthened scholarship programs, constructed new school buildings, and improved learning facilities.
- Healthcare: Expanded medical services, established barangay health centers, and improved hospital facilities.
- Infrastructure: Spearheaded the development of major roads, bridges, and urban renewal projects.
- Social Services: Initiated livelihood programs, women empowerment projects, and support for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Personal Life
Lani Cayetano is married to Alan Peter Cayetano, former House Speaker and Senator of the Philippines. Their partnership extends beyond family life into public service, where they both advocate for governance reforms and community development.
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