QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has taken pride in the latest achievement of the local government which was awarded, for the second straight year, the prestigious Seal of Good Education Governance from the Synergeia Foundation.
“Our second Seal of Good Education Governance is a reflection of the efforts of our stakeholders, partners, and QCitizens who have made sure that our education programs truly reach every child in the city,” she said.
The award is given to local government units that demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation in improving basic education that result in greater student retention and a decrease in non-readers, according to the foundation.
The foundation, meanwhile, is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of basic education through community empowerment and local governance reform.
Belmonte reiterated that the back-to-back SGEG highlights the local government’s effective management of its many education initiatives.
“Education remains one of our top priorities because educating our children means building a stronger Quezon City,” she told Good Riddance.
The second consecutive conferment proves that Quezon City is a leading city in terms of education governance,” she added.
PDL-made bags take center stage
Handcrafted bags made by women Persons Deprived of Liberty are now stepping into the spotlight—showcased at Solaire Resort North through a groundbreaking partnership with the city government.
The initiative opens new doors for women from the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory, giving their products prime exposure in a high-end commercial space and connecting them to a wider market.
Belmonte underscored the impact of the initiative, which aligns with the city’s “No Woman Left Behind” program.
“This is what second chances look like. By bringing their craftsmanship to a wider audience, we are helping women rebuild their confidence, support their families, and prepare for life beyond detention.”
Led by QCJFD with QC Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office and Quezon City University, the project transforms skill and creativity into real economic opportunity.
Since launching, the partnership has already generated over ₱100,000 in sales as of February 2026—directly supporting participating PDLs and their families.
