Valenzuela City, Philippines

Valenzuela City is within the National Capital Region, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Valenzuela City

• As of the 2020 Census, Valenzuela City had a population of 714,978.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 620,422, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 15.2% over five years.
• Valenzuela was historically inhabited by Tagalog-speaking riverine communities and early settlers from the Kingdom of Tondo. The area’s original name, “Polo,” was derived from “puló,” meaning island, due to its separation by rivers and estuaries.
• The major dialect spoken today is Tagalog, with English widely used in education, government, and commerce. As in all Philippine cities, English is the official medium of instruction in schools, supporting national integration and global engagement.

Location of Valenzuela City

• Valenzuela City is located in the northern part of Metro Manila, bordered by Caloocan to the south, Quezon City to the east, and Bulacan Province to the north. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.7077°N latitude and 120.9462°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 47.02 square kilometers and comprises 33 barangays. The terrain is mostly flat and urbanized, with a tropical climate marked by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Valenzuela City Hall is located in Barangay Karuhatan, along MacArthur Highway, near the Valenzuela City People’s Park and the WES Arena.
• Most people reach Valenzuela via land transport. It is accessible through major roads such as North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), MacArthur Highway, and Mindanao Avenue. The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 26 kilometers south, while the Port of Manila is reachable within 1 hour by road or bus.

Tourist Attractions of Valenzuela City

• Valenzuela City Museum: A cultural hub showcasing the city’s history, art, and contributions to Filipino heritage.
• San Diego de Alcala Church: One of the oldest churches in Metro Manila, built in 1632, with a restored belfry and colonial architecture.
• Arkong Bato: A historic stone arch built in 1910, marking the boundary between Valenzuela and Malabon.
• Valenzuela People’s Park: A modern civic space with fountains, gardens, and recreational facilities.
• Valenzuela Day: Celebrated every February 14, commemorating the city’s conversion into a highly urbanized city in 1998.
• Valenzuela Foundation Day: Held every November 7, marking the founding of the town of Polo in 1621.

Economy of Valenzuela City

• Valenzuela’s economy is anchored in:
  • Manufacturing and industry: The city hosts over 2,000 factories and industrial establishments, producing textiles, plastics, rubber, and food products.
  • Retail and commerce: Malls, markets, and commercial centers support consumer activity and employment.
  • Professional services: Business services, healthcare, and financial institutions are growing sectors.
• In 2023, Valenzuela’s GDP was estimated at ₱168.86 billion, with a per capita GDP of ₱236,000. The city posted a 2.3% growth rate, with strong performance in professional services, health, and finance.

Educational Institutions of Valenzuela City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Our Lady of Fatima University – Valenzuela Campus: A private university offering programs in health sciences, business, and engineering.
  • Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela: A city-run university offering affordable programs in education, public administration, and technology.
  • St. Louis College Valenzuela: Offers programs in accountancy, computer science, and hotel management.
  • Children of Mary Immaculate College: Offers programs in education, business, and liberal arts.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Valenzuela City

• Valenzuela’s history dates back to the early 1600s when it was known as “Polo,” a settlement surrounded by rivers and estuaries. The name was derived from “puló,” meaning island. In 1621, Polo became an independent parish under the Augustinian friars.
• During the Spanish colonial period, Polo thrived as an agricultural and fishing town. It played a role in the Philippine Revolution, with Dr. Pío Valenzuela—one of the leaders of the Katipunan—serving as its first presidente municipal. In honor of his legacy, the town was renamed Valenzuela in 1960.
• Valenzuela was part of Bulacan Province until 1975, when it was integrated into Metro Manila under Presidential Decree No. 824. The city underwent rapid industrialization, becoming one of the most economically active areas in the region.
• On February 14, 1998, Valenzuela was officially converted into a highly urbanized city through Republic Act No. 8526. Today, it is known as the “City of Discipline,” celebrated for its efficient governance, industrial strength, and cultural pride.

Elected Officials of Valenzuela City

• As of the 2025 elections, Valenzuela City is led by:
  • Mayor: Wes Gatchalian (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Marlon Alejandrino (NPC)
  • Representative – 1st District: Rex Gatchalian (NPC)
  • Representative – 2nd District: Eric Martinez (PDP–Laban)
  • City Councilors:
    • District I: Rovin Feliciano, Ricci Yambao, Lorie Natividad-Borja, Gerald Galang, and others
    • District II: Chiqui Carreon, Tony Espiritu, Renz Gatchalian, and others
• For full election results and updates, visit: Valenzuela City Election Results.

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