STO. TOMAS, BATANGAS – As this city, located south of Metro Manila, celebrated its fifth anniversary of cityhood, local officials are championing a vision “where everyone, regardless of their background, stands on equal ground,” in a bid to foster a more united community.
“The city’s administration believes that diversity enriches the community, and everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity,” Mayor Atty. Arth Jhun Aguilar Marasigan told the BusinessMirror.
To realize this vision, a series of initiatives and programs have been launched across various sectors, including education, employment, and community services, focused on uplifting all residents, including those who have recently made Sto. Tomas their home.
With health as the top priority for this administration, the Local Government Unit (LGU) is committed to enhancing access to quality healthcare and educational services. Marasigan believes this ensures that all residents have the opportunity to lead healthy, fulfilling lives while benefiting from lifelong learning opportunities.
Local officials, including Marasigan, underscored the importance of collaborating with various organizations to amplify marginalized voices. By connecting with local barangays, community leaders are able to articulate the concerns and aspirations of their constituents, fostering an approach that reveals specific needs and priorities from the ground up.
According to Marasigan, the local government ensures transparency by keeping communication channels open through social media and public announcements. He believes this openness builds trust and encourages residents to engage in civic discussions. To facilitate community involvement, committee meetings are conducted as needed to discuss proposed projects and policies. “As we continue to develop and grow, the City of Sto. Tomas will remain a sanctuary for all,” he stated, emphasizing that inclusivity nurtures a sense of belonging and community spirit.
In addition, Marasigan outlined a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes the needs of all stakeholders, focusing on large and small businesses particularly local entrepreneurs. Targeted programs aim to bolster small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through initiatives like microfinancing access, training workshops, and designated spaces at SM City.
“We offer training programs designed to enhance the skills of local entrepreneurs, covering essential topics such as business management, marketing, and financial literacy,” he explained.
“These workshops empower them to thrive in a competitive environment,” he said. Additionally, the LGU is said to be committed to creating platforms that promote and showcase local products. Events like the “Kadiwa ni AJAM” provide farmers and local entrepreneurs with valuable visibility and a chance to connect directly with consumers that foster a vibrant local economy.
These initiatives by the city government embody the spirit of “Mahal kami ng Lungsod ng Sto. Tomas.” Marasigan believes this phrase captures their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every resident can flourish. “Our city is a place where differences are celebrated, and all voices are heard,” he said.
FIVE YEARS OF CITYHOOD DRIVING GROWTH AND COMMUNITY PROSPERITY
Sto. Tomas, located on the western slope of the iconic Mount Makiling, recently held a two-week celebration filled with activities honoring its community members. This followed its designation as a component city of Batangas under Republic Act No. 11086 on September 7, 2019.
The events catered to various sectors, including students, working professionals, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Notable activities included the Ngiting Tomasino Icon Contest, Zumba Jam, AJAM Breakfast Ride for a Cause, Mutya ng Sto. Tomas, Taxpayers’ Night, Job Fair & Kwentong Tomasino Book Signing, Mobile Clinic, Thanksgiving Mass, AJAM Natin ‘To (Amazing Jam and Music 2.0), Farmers Week-Kadiwa, Kulayaan: Gabi ng Kulay at Kalayaan, September Fest, Healthy Sto. Tomas, Motorcade: Float Parade, Siglahan Street and Festival Dance Competition: Kultura, Barangay at Turismo, and Fireworks display.
“These activities not only celebrate local culture but also promote unity and inclusivity among residents,” Marasigan said.
In tandem with these celebrations, city officials highlighted the rapid industrialization of Sto. Tomas, positioning the city as a strategic business hub in Batangas. Marasigan emphasized that this transformation has attracted significant investments, particularly in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. “This transformation has spurred job creation, with opportunities expanding not just in manufacturing but also in retail, and services,” he said.
With its strategic location, the establishment of key industrial parks—First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP), Light Industry Science Park 3, and First Philippine Industrial Township— is attracting both local and foreign investments, which are believed to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
The local government has also implemented policies to foster a more business-friendly environment, improving infrastructure, transportation, and accessibility, and solidifying Sto. Tomas’s competitive position in the CALABARZON regional economy.
Based on the Commission on Audit (COA), the financial situation in the City of Sto. Tomas has experienced impressive growth between Calendar Year (CY) 2019 and CY 2022. In 2019, the city generated total revenue of approximately P937.26 million, sourced from various avenues, including local taxes and government allotments.
By 2022, a three-year gap later, the city’s revenue nearly doubled, reaching about P1.84 billion. This figure represents a significant increase, with 2022’s revenue showing a 26.22 percent rise compared to the previous year, which had already experienced growth. In recognition of these achievements, the Department of Finance (DOF), through its Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), acknowledged Sto. Tomas was one of the Top 2 National Performing Local Government Units for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023 in the collection of Locally Sourced Revenues, achieving an impressive ratio of 58.67 percent, up from 2.06 percent in 2021 to 2022.
According to a statement from the city government, this recognition highlighted the efficient and effective management of local revenues despite the economic challenges faced. The city has successfully grown its local income, which serves as funding for various essential projects and public services. “The increase in business activities has positively impacted public services, education, and health facilities, as more resources are generated from local taxes,” Marasigan said.
He also noted that the city’s success in attracting investments and creating jobs has improved the standard of living for its residents, signifying a substantial advancement in economic development since the city attained its cityhood.
To address the growing demand for skilled labor in response to this investment influx, the local government has initiated several programs aimed at upskilling the workforce, particularly in competitive industries.
Through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the city collaborates with academic institutions and training organizations like TESDA to develop curricula and training programs tailored to industry needs. These initiatives cover technical courses and certifications in fields such as electronics product assembly, computer system servicing, shielded metal arc welding, events management, hilot wellness, motorcycle engine, bread and pastry production, and driving courses. Marasigan emphasized that these efforts not only improve job prospects for residents but also enhance the overall quality of life in Sto. Tomas.
BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE
Marasigan, in line with the administration’s thrust, “Maningning na bukas natin mga Tomasino [A bright future for us, Tomasinos],” expressed his gratitude to all sectors, particularly senior citizens, whom he recognized as one of his key inspirations.
He also praised the dedication of local government employees and the collective efforts of Tomasinos, emphasizing that their unity and collaboration are the driving forces behind the city’s progress and success. Moreover, the city chief executive highlighted the administration’s strides in infrastructure and urban development, noting that these projects are not only improving public services but also fostering an environment conducive to business growth and community well-being.
Central to these developments is the construction of the new City Hall, which aims to enhance public service delivery and streamline local government operations, thereby supporting business activities throughout the city. Equally important is the establishment of the Ospital ng Lungsod ng Sto. Tomas. This new hospital will significantly elevate healthcare services in the city, providing Tomasinos with accessible, affordable, and quality medical care.
“A robust healthcare system is vital for any thriving community, as it directly impacts the workforce’s health and productivity,” Marasigan said.
In addition, the new City Health Office (RHU2) in Barangay Sta. Clara is already open and expanding healthcare services, particularly for residents in rural areas. This facility offers essential medical services, consultations, and vital health programs to ensure comprehensive community well-being. Furthermore, the construction of 4PH housing units is a critical initiative aimed at improving the quality of life for local residents. In partnership with national agencies, this project seeks to address the housing needs of Sto. Tomas’ growing population, especially for vulnerable groups, including those residents who have been relocated due to the effects of the PNR trains. Meanwhile, in an ambitious move to boost its appeal as a tourist destination, Sto. Tomas is set to develop and invest in crucial infrastructure projects. Local officials are prioritizing improvements to roads, public transport systems, and facilities that will enhance the overall visitor experience. By focusing on these enhancements, the city aims to attract both local and international tourists, positioning itself as a must-visit location in the region.
In tandem with these infrastructure initiatives, the local government plans to establish a training center dedicated to continuous skills training and education programs. This center will equip the workforce with the skills necessary for emerging industries, ensuring that residents are well-prepared to thrive in a competitive job market.
Through these strategic investments, Sto. Tomas not only seeks to elevate its tourism profile but also to empower its community, fostering a vibrant economy that benefits all residents.
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