Former Interior secretary and senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos Jr. is among the “Magic 12” chosen by the youth who participated in an election survey conducted by the Centre for Student Initiatives (CSI).
Abalos garnered 26.92% in the online poll held from February 25 to March 11, with 1,200 respondents from student partner organizations across the country — from the northern province of Cagayan to Lanao del Norte in the south.
The CSI is an independent, youth-led institution focused on research for development-oriented solutions in education and youth participation in governance.
Abalos is well-known for his extensive experience in both local and national governance.
As former Mayor of Mandaluyong, he spearheaded the city’s rapid urban development, earning it the moniker “Tiger City of the Philippines.” Under his leadership, he launched housing projects that awarded land titles to around 7,700 families.
He also implemented Project Teach, a pioneering program for children with disabilities, which was recognized by the United Nations Public Service Award.
Additionally, he established the Garden of Life Park, a dignified public cemetery for the poor, which received recognition from the Galing Pook Awards.
During his term as Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Abalos played a crucial role in the pandemic response in Metro Manila. He led the “Vax as One” initiative, which strengthened the region’s coordinated vaccination efforts and served as a model for other parts of the country.
As Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), he continued to advocate for more efficient governance and the strengthening of peace and order nationwide. PR
