Cavite City on the Rise

For the first time in over two decades, Cavite City has been declared debt-free and has earned the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). This significant milestone was achieved under the leadership of Mayor Denver Chua.

Cavite City, known as the hometown of notable Filipino national leaders, has been rekindling its historic glory through various local government initiatives, starting with strengthening the city’s financial standing. Living up to the legacy of Caviteño leaders, Chua has demonstrated true leadership from day one of his term. Under his leadership, the city has made remarkable progress in financial management, enhancing public services, and boosting its potential as an economic hub.

LEADERSHIP RUNS IN THE BLOOD

Politics is not new to the 38-year-old mayor. His two siblings are also involved in politics, and the three of them are collectively known as the Chua Brothers of Cavite. However, being from a family of politicians did not guarantee Chua an easy path to his position in local government. He worked diligently for it, earning his place through perseverance, hard work, and a deep-seated passion for uplifting his beloved hometown.

Chua’s political journey began at the young age of 25 when he ran for a seat in the sangguniang panlungsod (city council) of Cavite City in 2010. “I was actually in law school at the time and had plans to finish my degree,” recalls Chua. “The opportunity to enter politics came when my brother Dino, then Cavite City vice mayor, decided to run for provincial board member. He convinced me to run for city councilor. I took the chance and paused my law studies, but the short time I spent in law school has greatly benefited me as a public servant,” he shares.

In 2013, Chua ran for reelection and garnered the highest number of votes in the history of local elections in the city.

As city councilor, Chua headed the Committee for the Urban Poor Sector and initiated projects to improve their living and health conditions. One notable project was the Chua-ter Patubig Program, a free water connection initiative that provided clean water supply to 4,196 households in cooperation with Maynilad Water Services, Inc. Chua then sought a higher position as Cavite City vice mayor and was elected for two consecutive terms spanning the years 2016 to 2022. In the May 2022 polls, Chua ran for city mayor under the Lakas-CMD party. “The clamor for change was strong. For the longest time, the city had been left behind. The people wanted a new face to lead them,” says Chua.

Drawing on his extensive experience as councilor and vice mayor, Chua was resolute in translating his team’s 2022 campaign tagline, May Bagong Umagang Parating (A New Day is Dawning), into reality. With his track record as a dedicated public servant, Chua once again gained the trust of the people of Cavite City. He claimed the mayoralty with a clear mandate, garnering a lead of 8,000 votes in the electoral race.

BALANCE BETWEEN FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE

Chua began his tenure with a clean slate, understanding the importance of responsible debt management in local governance. Recognizing that addressing his locality’s debts head-on could generate savings and add financial value, he prioritized debt repayment alongside other essential projects. In just over a year, the city settled its PhP270 million debt to the Land Bank of the Philippines. "No corruption means that more programs can be implemented. Ang pera ng taong bayan ay para sa taong bayan (The people’s money should be used for their benefit)," says Chua, underscoring his commitment to transparency and good governance. By implementing sound financial management strategies, Chua ensured that tackling a significant debt did not hinder the implementation of important projects for his constituents.

He also credits Team Unlad, a unified lineup of Cavite City officials, with successfully managing operations and delivering essential services to Caviteños. “It is hard to bring about change if the team doesn't share the same vision for the city. I am very happy and proud to say that up until now, we are united as a team. Through this unity, people can see how genuine we are in our fight for change,” Chua says. The mayor’s first years in office were filled with victories for the people of Cavite City. In public health services, the availability of ambulances and emergency response services improved, and an Anti-Rabies Treatment Center was established, offering free animal vaccination and spaying/ neutering services, alongside COVID-19 vaccination efforts. The newly constructed 100-bed Cavite City MeDCare Mega Health Center was inaugurated, providing more efficient healthcare services to Caviteños. Work opportunities and livelihood development were also major foci. The city made significant improvements to the public market, established a one-stop shop for services, and assisted with late birth registrations. Livelihood assistance programs, such as those for overseas Filipino workers from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and Tulong Puhunan from the City Welfare and Development Office were introduced. Job opportunities expanded through local and overseas job fairs, free training programs, and regular job appointments for contractual employees. The mayor also sought better business opportunities by partnering with companies like Puregold, SM, and Robinsons.

Community services and public safety received a boost through improvements to the PNP Cavite City Police Station and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Community services included a water program and waste management initiatives. Social services were enhanced to support underprivileged, disadvantaged, and vulnerable sectors, with notable assistance such as PhP100,000 cash gifts for centenarians. In education and sports, 20 desktop computers were provided to Cavite National High School, and support was extended to Cavite City College. Sports development programs were also initiated.

To boost tourism, efforts were made to promote Corregidor Island, restore Heroes’ Arch, and revitalize public spaces such as Samonte Park, Muralla, and Unlad Park. All these projects can continue with adequate funding, which Chua is confident Cavite City will maintain, having reported a significant increase in tax collection. "Good performance is equal to earning the trust of the people. Hence, they are willingly paying their taxes. As long as we continue this, there’s no doubt the people will also continue doing their part," shares Chua.

VISION FOR CAVITE CITY

Marked by tangible projects and excellent public service, Chua’s leadership has earned widespread recognition from the people. This is reflected in his outstanding score of 88.85 percent in the Voice of the People survey conducted by RPMission and Development Foundation Inc. Chua emerged as a top local chief executive in Region 4A (Calabarzon) based on key parameters such as service delivery, financial management, economic development, governance, and leadership.

Recognitions aside, Chua considers his projects as just the beginning of his vision for Cavite City. He envisions transforming it into the histo-cultural and logistic/transport hub of the province, fostering an environment where history and innovation converge to promote inclusive growth.

“Through continuous effort and the dedication of Team Unlad, I envision Cavite City as an economic powerhouse, providing first-class services to its people,” Chua says.

Drawing inspiration from the leadership legacy of Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, he is committed to elevating the city through robust leadership, pragmatic policies, and programs for economic development.

To boost the local economy and promote tourism, Chua launched Cavite City’s Unlad Pier in September 2023. Unlad Pier connects the city to nearby destinations like Corregidor Island and the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. The introduction of a ferry service is expected to increase passenger traffic, enhancing transportation options for commuters. Additionally, the pier features an amphitheater for cultural shows, enriching its role as a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub for residents and visitors alike.

“To improve tourism and provide people with more jobs are some of my major goals for the city. I am working on making use of the island of Corregidor for that. I am also planning on setting up a technohub or an export processing zone within the city,” Chua proudly shares. Another significant project on the horizon for Cavite City is the Sangley Point International Airport Project. This ambitious initiative involves developing a new international airport and associated infrastructure, including integrated road access and a cargo logistics hub in Sangley Point and its adjacent areas. “This project will significantly impact our economy by attracting more businesses and investors to partner with us, thereby creating more job opportunities for our residents. It will also firmly establish Cavite City on the national and international map,” Chua emphasizes.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF THE COUNTRY

As a proud family man, Chua understands the importance of nurturing the next generation. Just as he is a devoted father to his daughter, he acts as a responsible leader for Caviteños by prioritizing initiatives that enhance education and shape the youth of today.

In September 2023, Cavite City inaugurated the Unlad Science Laboratory at Julian Felipe Elementary School, providing students with a dedicated space to conduct scientific experiments and explore concepts hands-on. “The Unlad Science Laboratory offers students an opportunity to learn through practical experience, not just theory. This project underscores our commitment to prioritizing the education of our youth. Hopefully, it will inspire our students to pursue careers in science in the future,” remarks Chua.

Beyond education, revitalizing the younger generation's connection with Cavite City is also a key focus for Chua. He places a high value on projects that promote local culture and arts. In 2023, the city government organized the inaugural Chavacano de Cavite Spoken Poetry Competition at Montano Gymnasium. “There has been a decline in the number of people speaking Chavacano. I want today's children to use and appreciate this language, as it is an integral part of Caviteños' cultural heritage,” Chua emphasizes. Further initiatives in arts and culture include the National Sculpture Competition and the Bangenge Festival, aimed at celebrating and preserving the rich cultural tapestry of Cavite City.

COMMITMENT AS PUBLIC SERVANT

Reflecting on his journey as a public servant, Chua stresses the profound dedication required of those occupying public office. Chua ensures he dedicates ample time to his work and constituents, patiently listening to and addressing the concerns of the people who queue up to meet him. "Being a politician is not just a show-your-face-during-election thing. It is a commitment that requires you to make huge sacrifices in other aspects of your life," he remarks. With the numerous successful projects and tangible outcomes he has so far achieved as mayor, there is no doubt he is living up to his words. As Cavite City continues to develop under his leadership, Mayor Denver Chua heralds a new dawn for the city. With each visionary initiative he champions, Cavite City moves closer to becoming a beacon of progress and prosperity, promising a sustainable future for generations to come.