The City of San Fernando was recognized as one of the Top Model Cities in the Philippines during The Manila Times Philippine Model Cities awards held May 11 at the New World Manila Bay Hotel.
Themed "Beyond the Most Livable Urban Centers", the awarding seeks to recognize cities that excels in different areas such as social service, livelihood and employment, among others.
Out of 37 model cities, the city also received the 'Business Friendly City' award for its initiatives on improving ease of doing business.
"San Fernando deserves this award for of its accountability, transparency, efficient quality management systems and free from red tape processes," Eleanor Roque, Head of Tax Advisory & Compliance Division (P&A Grant Thornton) said.
For his part, Mayor Edwin 'EdSa' Santiago said he is grateful that once again, the city was recognized with this prestigious award.
"We have been a recipient of the Most Business Friendly Award by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industries for six times, and now we are again recognized by a different award giving body. Rest assured that we will continue our best practices to better serve our constituents," he said.
Santiago also lauded the efforts and support of the people behind this success especially the Fernandinos. Thus, encouraging everyone to participate in his missions and advocacies towards development.
Meanwhile, other LGUs that received special awards were Bacolod City, Batangas City, Davao City, General Santos City, Laog City, Mandaluyong City, Naga City, Paranaque City, Quezon City, Sta Rosa City, Tagaytay City and Zamboaga City.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACADEMY
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE
BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION
PHILIPPINE PUBLIC SAFETY COLLEGE
NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION 
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