Malabon City, Philippines

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

People of Malabon City

• As of the 2020 Census, Malabon City had a population of 380,522.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 365,525, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 4.1% over five years.
• Malabon was historically inhabited by Tagalog-speaking riverine communities and early settlers from the Kingdom of Tondo. The area was originally called “Tambobong,” named after the abundant tambo grass found in the wetlands.
• 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 Malabon City

• Malabon City is located in the northern part of Metro Manila, bordered by Navotas to the west, Valenzuela to the north, and Caloocan to the east and south. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.6686°N latitude and 120.9566°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 15.71 square kilometers and comprises 21 barangays. The terrain is low-lying and coastal, with estuaries and river systems that make it prone to flooding. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Malabon City Hall is located in Barangay San Agustin, near the Malabon People’s Park and the San Bartolome Church.
• Most people reach Malabon via land transport. It is accessible through major roads such as Gov. Pascual Avenue and Letre Road. The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 25 kilometers south, while the Port of Manila is reachable within 45 minutes by road.

Tourist Attractions of Malabon City

• San Bartolome Church: A Spanish-era church built in 1614, known for its baroque architecture and historical significance.
• Malabon Zoo: A privately owned zoo featuring exotic animals and educational exhibits.
• Dolores Paterno House: A heritage home showcasing colonial architecture and cultural artifacts.
• Pancit Malabon Festival: Celebrated every May, this festival honors the city’s iconic noodle dish with street parades, cooking contests, and cultural performances.

Economy of Malabon City

• Malabon’s economy is anchored in:
  • Food manufacturing: The city is known for its fish processing, noodle production, and traditional delicacies.
  • Retail and commerce: Local markets, sari-sari stores, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
  • Light industry: Warehousing, packaging, and small-scale manufacturing are present in several barangays.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and trade.
• Malabon is classified as a 1st-class highly urbanized city. While specific GDP data is limited, it plays a vital role in the CAMANAVA sub-region’s economy, alongside Caloocan, Navotas, and Valenzuela.

Educational Institutions of Malabon City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • City of Malabon University: A city-run institution offering programs in education, business, public administration, and technology.
  • De La Salle Araneta University: A private university offering programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and business.
  • Arellano University – Elisa Esguerra Campus: Offers programs in health sciences, education, and liberal arts.
  • Siebo College: A local college offering vocational and technical courses.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide training in electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Malabon City

• Malabon was established as a visita of Tondo by Augustinian friars on May 21, 1599. It was originally called “Tambobong,” derived from the tambo grass that grew abundantly in the area. The name evolved to “Malabong” and eventually “Malabon.”
• In the late 19th century, Malabon played a significant economic role with the founding of La Princesa Tabacalera in 1851 and the Malabon Sugar Company in 1878. It also became a literary center during the Philippine Revolution, where the newspaper La Independencia was printed.
• Malabon became a municipality of Rizal Province on June 11, 1901 through Philippine Act No. 137. It was briefly merged with Navotas before regaining independence in 1906. The city was later integrated into Metro Manila in 1975.
• Malabon was officially converted into a city on April 21, 2001 through Republic Act No. 9019. Today, it is known for its rich culinary heritage, historical landmarks, and resilient communities.

Elected Officials of Malabon City

• As of the 2025 elections, Malabon City is led by:
  • Mayor: Jeannie Sandoval (Nacionalista)
  • Vice Mayor: Edward Nolasco (Lakas)
  • Representative – Lone District: Lenlen Oreta (NUP)
  • City Councilors:
    • District I: Maricar Torres, Ian Emmanuel Borja, Yambao, Dela Cruz, and others
    • District II: Ricky Sandoval, Bem Lacson Noel, Ninong Dela Cruz, and others
• For full election results and updates, visit: Malabon City Election Results.

Featured News of the Philippines