The City of Naga has officially been declared a Highly Urbanized City (HUC), becoming the 34th in the Philippines following a proclamation signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday.
Former Vice President and Mayor Leni Robredo confirmed that the City Government of Naga initiated the city’s conversion through Resolution No. 2026-078 on January 27, 2026, citing that Naga had met the required standards in terms of income and population for HUC classification.
The proclamation coincided with activities marking the 68th birth anniversary of the late former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo, widely honored as the “Father of Good Governance.” The ceremony included a flag-raising and wreath-laying event attended by his family, including former Vice President Leni Robredo, alongside local officials, students, and representatives from national government agencies.
During the event, city officials formally announced Naga’s new status, drawing applause from residents and stakeholders present. Vice Mayor Gabriel Bordado Jr. highlighted the late Robredo’s legacy of participatory governance, which continues to shape local leadership practices in the country.
The former Interior Secretary served as mayor of Naga City for nearly two decades before he was appointed secretary of the DILG during the Aquino administration.
Mayor Robredo expressed gratitude to the Nagueños for their continued recognition of her late husband's contributions, noting the strong community support in commemorating his legacy.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is required to conduct a plebiscite within 120 days following a presidential declaration for city conversion.
The new status marks a significant milestone for Naga City, reflecting its sustained economic growth, institutional development, and continued legacy of public service-driven governance.
