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Caloocan: A Metropolis Forged in History and Progress

An academic exploration of Caloocan City's rich heritage, dynamic urban landscape, and socio-economic evolution within Metro Manila.

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Introduction to Caloocan

A Highly Urbanized Center

Caloocan, officially designated as the City of Caloocan, is a highly urbanized city situated within Metro Manila, Philippines. As of the 2024 census, it stands as the fourth-most populous city in the Philippines, reflecting its significant demographic and economic footprint in the National Capital Region.

Geographical Division

The city's unique geography is characterized by two non-contiguous areas, a consequence of territorial adjustments, particularly the 1949 expansion of Quezon City. This division results in a total combined area of 5,333.40 hectares (13,179.1 acres), each section possessing distinct characteristics and developmental trajectories.

Part of CAMANAVA

Caloocan is an integral component of the CAMANAVA area, an acronym representing the cities of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela. This regional grouping highlights interconnectedness in terms of urban development, infrastructure, and socio-economic dynamics.

Etymological Roots

Linguistic Derivations

The toponym "Caloocan" originates from several Tagalog words, each offering insight into the city's historical geographical context. It is linked to lo-ok, meaning "bay," and sulok, which translates to "corner," suggesting its location at the confluence of areas like present-day Malabon and Tondo, Manila. Another significant derivation is kalook-lookan or kaloob-looban, signifying "innermost area." Historically, the city was also referred to as "Kaloogan," meaning "interior territory," evolving from the old Tagalog word "loog" (synonymous with "loob," meaning "inside"). The phonetic shift from 'g' to 'k' in Tagalog phonetics likely contributed to its current pronunciation and spelling.

The Spelling Conundrum

A notable aspect of Caloocan's identity is the persistent debate over its preferred spelling. During the early 1970s, a municipal board resolution mandated the use of "Kalookan" by city departments. However, the implementation was disrupted by martial law in September 1972. A subsequent resolution in 1988 by Councilor Aurora Asistio-Henson to enforce "Kalookan" for nationalistic reasons faced considerable opposition from residents, businesses, and officials. Former representative and mayor Virgilio Robles argued that the city charter officially spells it as "Caloocan," rendering the proposed change illegal. Despite ongoing confusion, "Caloocan" remains the generally favored spelling, evident in official city branding, many local institutions, and media, though some entities still opt for "Kalookan."

Historical Trajectories

Spanish Colonial Era

Caloocan's origins trace back to the late 1700s as a meeting point between the old towns of Tondo and Tambobong, situated along the Dagat-Dagatan lagoon. The initial settlement, "Aromahan," expanded eastward to a stony hill named "Kaloogan" (interior territory), which became the community's new center by 1802, attracting those seeking refuge from Tondo. In 1815, Caloocan was formally established as a municipality, separating from Tondo. Its vast original territory stretched from the foothills of Marikina, San Mateo, and Montalban to the east, to the rivers of Tinajeros, Tanza, and Tala in the north, and encompassing areas like San Juan del Monte, Sampalok, and Santa Cruz in the south. The local government was established on a well-settled portion above Libis Espina, with a new church built opposite the municipal hall. The late 19th century saw infrastructure development with the introduction of steam tranvia in 1888 and a railway station by the Manila Railroad Company in 1891.

The Philippine Revolution

Caloocan holds profound historical significance as a pivotal center for the Katipunan, the clandestine militant society that ignited the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. Secret meetings led by Andrés Bonifacio and his compatriots were held within the city, and its perimeters witnessed the initial armed confrontations between the Katipunan and Spanish forces. The revolution formally erupted following the "Cry of Balintawak" on August 30, 1896, a landmark event led by Bonifacio against the oppressors.

American Invasion Era

In 1899, Caloocan's residents demonstrated fierce resistance against the American forces seeking to establish their dominion. A significant battle occurred on February 23, 1899, though local troops faced defeat partly due to internal conflicts within the Filipino leadership. The city was a site of intense combat during the Philippine–American War, notably the Battle of Caloocan and the Second Battle of Caloocan. Under American administration in 1901, Caloocan transitioned from being part of the province of Manila to a municipality within the newly formed province of Rizal. In 1903, Novaliches, an independent municipality, was annexed to Caloocan, significantly expanding its territory.

Japanese Occupation Era

During World War II, in 1942, Caloocan was temporarily merged with Manila and Quezon City to form the "City of Greater Manila" under President Manuel L. Quezon's emergency measures. This administrative consolidation was dissolved on August 1, 1945, after which Caloocan reverted to its pre-war status as a municipality of Rizal province.

Attainment of Cityhood

Caloocan achieved cityhood on February 16, 1962, following the approval of Republic Act No. 3278 by the Philippine Congress and a subsequent plebiscite. It remained a city within Rizal province until November 7, 1975, when Presidential Decree No. 824 integrated it into the newly established National Capital Region, or Metro Manila, solidifying its role as a major urban center.

Territorial Evolution

Historically, Caloocan encompassed a much larger, contiguous area, including districts like Balintawak, La Loma, and Novaliches. Balintawak is particularly noted as the original site of the "Cry of Pugad Lawin." During the American occupation, Novaliches was annexed in 1903, expanding Caloocan to approximately 1,500 hectares. However, the creation of Quezon City in 1939 led to Caloocan ceding 1,500 hectares of land, including significant barrios, to the new capital. Further redefinition in 1949 through Republic Act No. 392 excised about 8,100 hectares from Caloocan, primarily from the Novaliches area, leading to the current geographical split into a more urbanized southern section and a suburban-rural northern section.

Reorganization Efforts

Since the late 1980s, Caloocan has seen attempts to reorganize its barangays due to budgetary and governance issues. In 1989, Republic Act No. 6714, authored by Representative Virgilio Robles, proposed reducing the number of barangays from 188 to 60. However, a plebiscite held on March 10, with only a 10% voter turnout, saw a majority oppose the proposal. More recently, residents of Bagong Silang (Barangay 176), once the country's most populous barangay and a relocation site for informal settlers, advocated for its partition. On April 3, 2024, President Bongbong Marcos signed RA No. 11993, dividing Bagong Silang into six distinct barangays, a change ratified by voters on August 31.

Philippine Drug War Context

During Mayor Oscar Malapitan's tenure (2013-2022), the city reported decreased crime rates. However, the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (PRIF) noted a passive stance towards President Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs" in its initial years (2016-2017), with the mayor delegating crime control to the Philippine National Police (PNP). This period was marked by a significant increase in police violence and vigilantism. Caloocan became a focal point for high-profile incidents, including the murders of Luis Bonifacio and his son Gabriel (2016), Michael Lee (March 2017), and Kian delos Santos, Carl Arnaiz, and Reynaldo de Guzman (August 2017). Barangay 188, a known drug hotspot, saw its captain assassinated in 2016, followed by nearly all its councilors. City councilors were reportedly discouraged from assisting victims' families. In response to the violence, North Caloocan residents organized a protest in February 2017, marking the country's first organized resistance to the drug war. Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of the Diocese of Kalookan collaborated with city officials to establish the Caloocan Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CADAO/OCADA) and implement a minor's curfew ordinance. By mid-September 2017, Caloocan's entire police force was relieved, despite a recent "Best City Police Station" award, with only the new chief, Jemar Modequillo, retained. Modequillo, while attempting to instill discipline, maintained support for the drug war. A surge in "riding-in-tandem" drive-by shootings in March 2018 led to Modequillo's relief. An ordinance banning motorcycle-riding male tandems was proposed but faced protests. On May 1, 2024, the Dambana ng Paghilom columbarium was inaugurated in La Loma Cemetery as a memorial for drug war victims.

Geographical Landscape

Area and Borders

Caloocan is geographically segmented into two distinct, non-contiguous areas, collectively spanning 53.334 square kilometers (20.592 sq mi). South Caloocan, covering 13.625 square kilometers (5.261 sq mi), is strategically bordered by Manila to the south, Quezon City to the east, Navotas to the west, Malabon to the north-northwest, and Valenzuela to the north. This southern section is a hub for commercial and industrial activities, interspersed with residential zones, establishing it as a vital urban center within Metropolitan Manila's Northern District.

North Caloocan's Expanse

North Caloocan, significantly larger with an area of 39.709 square kilometers (15.332 sq mi), shares its southern-southeast border with Quezon City, its southwest with Valenzuela, and its northern boundaries with Marilao, Meycauayan, and San Jose del Monte in Bulacan province. To its northeast lies Rodriguez in Rizal province. This northern segment is predominantly characterized by residential subdivisions and extensive resettlement areas, with industrial estates strategically located near major road transit points and intersections.

Topographical Features

The topography of Caloocan varies across its two main sections. South Caloocan is largely flat and highly accessible, with gentle slopes (0–3%), making it ideal for commercial and industrial development. The terrain gradually transitions to moderately sloping (3–18%) near the North Luzon Expressway, reaching its highest point at 35.00 meters (114.83 ft) above sea level, while its lowest point is approximately 0.993 meters (3 ft 3.1 in) above mean sea level in Dagat-Dagatan. North Caloocan, conversely, features gently to steeply undulating and rolling topography (3–18%), particularly in its northern and central parts, gradually flattening southward. This near-level land has facilitated the development of numerous industrial and residential subdivisions.

Geological Composition

The geological formations within Caloocan are diverse, encompassing quaternary alluvium, tuff and tuffaceous sediment, pyroclastic flow deposits, and conglomerates. The eastern half of Metro Manila, including a substantial portion of South Caloocan, is characterized by quaternary alluvium—unconsolidated stream-deposited sediments comprising sand, silt, clay, and gravel. East of South Caloocan, extensive areas of tuff and tuffaceous sediment are found, extending across Metro Manila's eastern side. Pyroclastic flow deposits, or igneous rocks formed from lithified ash flow, are present in parts of northern South Caloocan and most of North Caloocan. Conglomerate rocks are traced along the northeast borders of North Caloocan, extending into Bulacan province and the La Mesa Watershed. The predominant soil type in both areas is the Novaliches Series, a reddish-brown, friable, granular soil with spherical concretions in the subsoil, overlying tuffaceous material.

Surface Drainage Systems

Caloocan's hydrological network includes both natural watercourses and constructed drainage systems. South Caloocan features approximately 5.0 kilometers (3.1 mi) of open drainage canals, primarily serving the Kaunlaran Village reclamation area, alongside nearly 11.3 kilometers (7.0 mi) of natural surface water systems. These include the Tinajeros-Tullahan River along the Caloocan–Valenzuela boundary, Maligaya Creek within La Loma Cemetery, Casili Creek terminating in Estero de Maypajo, and Cantarilla/Panaca Creek along the Caloocan–Malabon boundary. In North Caloocan, all surface waters are natural streams, with the Meycauayan-Marilao River forming a significant boundary with Bulacan. Other notable streams include the Bagong Silang River, Tala, Camarin, Pasong Malapad, and Bagumbong Creeks, collectively spanning 52.7 kilometers (32.7 mi) within the city's northern territory.

Climate Profile

Caloocan experiences a tropical savanna climate (Koppen: Aw). The city's climate is characterized by a distinct wet season, with the majority of rainfall occurring between May and October. While substantial, the precipitation levels do not meet the criteria for a tropical monsoon climate (Koppen: Am). The following table provides a summary of the climate data for Caloocan:

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 29 (84) 30 (86) 32 (90) 34 (93) 33 (91) 31 (88) 30 (86) 29 (84) 29 (84) 30 (86) 30 (86) 29 (84) 31 (87)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 20 (68) 20 (68) 21 (70) 23 (73) 24 (75) 25 (77) 24 (75) 24 (75) 24 (75) 23 (73) 22 (72) 21 (70) 23 (73)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 7 (0.3) 7 (0.3) 9 (0.4) 21 (0.8) 101 (4.0) 152 (6.0) 188 (7.4) 170 (6.7) 159 (6.3) 115 (4.5) 47 (1.9) 29 (1.1) 1,005 (39.7)
Average rainy days 3.3 3.5 11.1 8.1 18.9 23.5 26.4 25.5 24.5 19.6 10.4 6.4 181.2

Barangay Structure

Administrative Divisions

Caloocan is administratively divided into 193 barangays, which are further grouped into three legislative districts. The city employs a hybrid system that also categorizes these barangays into 16 zones. This "Zone System," also utilized by Manila and Pasay, serves primarily statistical purposes, as zone leaders are not popularly elected. While all barangays are numerically designated, only a minority, predominantly in North Caloocan, possess corresponding names. Southern Caloocan's barangays are generally smaller in area compared to their northern counterparts.

Notable Barangays

Barangay 176, historically known as Bagong Silang, was once the most populous barangay in the Philippines, with 261,729 residents, accounting for 15.75% of Caloocan's total population. This high density resulted from continuous relocation programs for informal settler families since the 1970s. Consequently, residents advocated for its subdivision, leading to a plebiscite on August 31, 2024, which approved its division into six distinct barangays: 176-A, 176-B, 176-C, 176-D, 176-E, and 176-F. Conversely, Barangay 76 holds the distinction of being the least populous barangay in Metro Manila, with only two residents. This 2.8-hectare (6.9-acre) area, formerly an informal settlement, is now predominantly occupied by retail buildings.

Territorial Contentions

Caloocan faces three ongoing boundary disputes. A dispute with San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, concerns portions of Pangarap Village and Bankers Village 2, once part of Tala Estate. The Supreme Court dismissed a case related to this, citing the Commission on Settlement of Land Problems' lack of jurisdiction and directing local resolution. Another dispute involves Quezon City's Barangay Baesa and boundary discrepancies near Andres Bonifacio Avenue and Caloocan's Barrio San Jose. The third dispute is with Malabon, concerning Caloocan’s Barangays 160 and 161 in Libis Baesa. Caloocan argued these were part of its territory since its city charter in 1962, with residents consistently voting in its elections. In 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed Caloocan’s petition challenging Malabon’s city charter, advising both cities to resolve the issue through the Local Government Code. Prior to this, in 2014, Caloocan and Malabon signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop 80 hectares of disputed land in Libis Baesa and Barangay Potrero, preempting court decisions on a dispute that began in 2001 when Malabon gained control over lands previously under Caloocan's jurisdiction.

Demographic Insights

Population Dynamics

As of the 2020 census, Caloocan recorded a population of 1,661,584 individuals, solidifying its position as the fourth-largest city in the Philippines by population. The city's population density is notably high, at approximately 30,000 inhabitants per square kilometer (78,000 inhabitants per square mile), exceeding the average for the National Capital Region. A breakdown reveals that Caloocan South (Barangays 1 to 164) had a population of 585,091, while Caloocan North (Barangays 165 to 188) accounted for 998,887 residents. If treated as separate entities, both sections would still rank among the country's largest cities, demonstrating their substantial demographic weight. The 1st legislative district of Caloocan was once the most populous in the country, with 1.19 million persons in 2015, prior to the creation of the 3rd district.

Year Population ±% p.a.
1903 7,847
1918 19,551 +6.27%
1939 38,820 +3.32%
1948 58,208 +4.60%
1960 145,523 +7.93%
1970 274,453 +6.54%
1975 397,201 +7.70%
1980 467,816 +3.33%
1990 763,415 +5.02%
1995 1,023,159 +5.64%
2000 1,177,604 +3.06%
2007 1,381,610 +2.23%
2010 1,489,040 +2.76%
2015 1,583,978 +1.18%
2020 1,661,584 +1.01%
2024 1,712,945 +0.73%

Languages and Culture

The majority of Caloocan's residents are proficient in Filipino (Tagalog) and English, reflecting the national linguistic landscape. Additionally, a significant number of inhabitants speak various other indigenous languages and dialects of the Philippines, contributing to the city's rich cultural tapestry. This linguistic diversity underscores the migratory patterns and regional origins of its populace.

Religious Landscape

Consistent with the broader Philippine context, Caloocan is predominantly Roman Catholic. The city hosts the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kalookan in its southern part, while its northern areas fall under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Novaliches. Beyond Catholicism, there is a notable presence of other Christian denominations, including Iglesia ni Cristo and various Protestant churches, reflecting a diverse religious adherence among its residents.

Poverty Incidence Trends

Understanding socio-economic indicators is crucial for urban planning and development. Caloocan has shown fluctuations in its poverty incidence over the years, as tracked by the Philippine Statistics Authority. These trends provide valuable data for assessing the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs and economic development strategies within the city.

Year Poverty Incidence (%)
2000 9.37
2003 5.16
2006 5.00
2009 3.09
2012 2.84
2015 4.44
2018 4.66
2021 4.20

Economic Vitality

Economic Dynamism

Caloocan demonstrates significant economic dynamism, a key indicator of its competitive standing among local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines. According to the Department of Trade and Industry's Cities & Municipalities Competitive Index, Caloocan achieved an economic dynamism score of 20% as of 2024, ranking 15th nationally. This reflects a robust and evolving economic environment, driven by various commercial and industrial activities.

Commercial Hubs

The city is a vibrant commercial center, particularly known for its specialized markets and numerous shopping destinations. The 10th Avenue area is renowned for its concentration of motorcycle and motorcycle spare parts dealers, forming a distinct commercial cluster. Major thoroughfares like P. Zamora Street and A. Mabini Street also serve as significant commercial arteries. Caloocan hosts a multitude of shopping malls, stand-alone supermarkets, and hypermarkets. Notable retail establishments in the southern part include SM City Grand Central, Puregold Monumento, Victory Central Mall, and SM Center Sangandaan. In North Caloocan, key commercial centers include Zabarte Town Center, Holiday Island Mall, and SM City Caloocan.

Industrial Landscape

Industrial development is a cornerstone of Caloocan's economy, with factories and industrial estates strategically located across the city. The northern part, particularly in areas like Bagumbong, Kaybiga, Llano, and Tala, is a hub for various manufacturers. The southern section, meanwhile, sees a concentration of plastic and steel industries. A significant industrial asset is the Victoria Wave Special Economic Zone in Tala, a 25-hectare (62-acre) area registered under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, attracting investments and fostering economic growth.

Corporate and Infrastructure Nexus

Caloocan serves as the headquarters for NLEX Corporation, the concession holder of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), underscoring its strategic importance in national infrastructure. Key expressway segments, such as the NLEX Harbor Link and NLEX Connector, traverse South Caloocan, facilitating crucial connectivity to Navotas and the Port of Manila, as well as linking to the Skyway system. Future infrastructure projects, including the North Luzon East Expressway and North Access Link Expressway, are planned to further enhance Caloocan's role as a vital transportation and economic corridor.

Governance Structure

Local Government Framework

As a city in the Philippines, Caloocan operates under the Local Government Code, which delineates the powers and functions of its local government unit. The city's executive branch is led by a mayor, while the legislative functions are overseen by a vice mayor, who presides over the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council). The City Council comprises eighteen councilors, with six representatives from each of Caloocan's three city council districts. For national representation, the city also elects three representatives to the House of Representatives.

City Halls

The primary seat of government for Caloocan is the current Caloocan City Hall, located in Grace Park East. This modern facility, situated between 8th and 9th Streets and 8th and 9th Avenues, replaced the older city hall built in 1952 on A. Mabini Street, which now houses the 999 Shopping Mall Caloocan. To better serve its expansive northern territories, the Caloocan City Hall North is located in Camarin along Zapote Street, and has been undergoing reconstruction since 2023, signifying ongoing efforts to enhance public service accessibility across the city.

Elected Officials (2022–2025)

The current leadership of Caloocan City, serving from 2022 to 2025, reflects the democratic process and political landscape of the region. The city's governance is a collaborative effort between its executive and legislative bodies, working to address the needs and aspirations of its diverse population.

City officials of Caloocan (2022–2025)
Designation First District Second District Third District
Representatives Oscar G. Malapitan (Nacionalista) Edgar R. Erice (Liberal) Dean Asistio (Lakas)
Mayor Dale Gonzalo R. Malapitan (Nacionalista)
Vice Mayor Anna Karina R. Teh-Limsico (Nacionalista)
Councilors Ray Christopher C. Adalem (Nacionalista) Jose Lorenzo T. Almeda (NUP) Merwyn Lennon D.C. Abel (Nacionalista)
Leah M. Bacolod (Nacionalista) James Kenneth A. Aruelo (PDP) Theresita M. Ceralde (Nacionalista)
Alexander M. Caralde (Nacionalista) Constalene Carmen N. Asistio (Lakas) Carliza May A. Del Rosario (Nacionalista)
Orvince Howard A. Hernandez (Nacionalista) Carolyn C. Cunanan (Nacionalista) Kingjohn Ericson M. Echiverri (Nacionalista)
Vincent Ryan R. Malapitan (Nacionalista) Alexander V. Mangasar (Liberal) Aurora A. Henson Jr. (Nacionalista)
Jacqueline Z. Nubla (Aksyon) Naomi Charmaine D. Quimpo (Liberal) Patrick L. Prado (Nacionalista)
ABC President Vergel J. De Vera (Barangay 67, Grace Park West)
SK President Bea C. Hedreyda (Barangay 35, Maypajo)

Transportation Network

Rail Transit Systems

Caloocan is well-integrated into Metro Manila's extensive rail transit network. The LRT Line 1 serves the southern part of the city with two stations: Monumento and 5th Avenue. The Philippine National Railways (PNR) also operates a line through Caloocan, featuring stations at Caloocan, 10th Avenue, and 5th Avenue, with its terminal located at Samson Road. Furthermore, the MRT Line 7, currently under construction, will extend rail access to North Caloocan with planned stations at Sacred Heart and Tala. The North–South Commuter Railway, another ongoing project, is set to replace the existing PNR Metro Commuter Line and will include a station in Caloocan, further enhancing regional connectivity.

Road Infrastructure

The city boasts a comprehensive road network, facilitating intra-city and inter-city travel. Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), a major arterial road, commences in the Monumento area, serving as a critical link within Metro Manila. Quirino Highway extends through North Caloocan, connecting Quezon City with eastern Bulacan. The North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) plays a vital role, with its Operations and Maintenance Center and the Balintawak toll barrier situated in southern Caloocan. Extensions like the NLEX Harbor Link and NLEX Connector traverse Caloocan, providing direct access to Navotas, the Port of Manila, and the Skyway system. The northern terminus of Skyway, linking the North and South Luzon Expressways, is also near NLEX's Balintawak toll plaza, with potential future connections to the Northern Access Link Expressway, which will serve the New Manila International Airport.

Bus Transportation

Long-distance bus services are also well-established in Caloocan. Victory Liner Incorporated, one of the Philippines' largest bus companies, maintains its headquarters and a major terminal along Rizal Avenue Extension, conveniently located near the Monumento station. This provides residents and commuters with extensive inter-provincial travel options, connecting Caloocan to various destinations across Luzon.

Cultural Landmarks

Bonifacio Monument

Caloocan's most iconic landmark is the monument dedicated to Andrés Bonifacio, a revered leader of the Philippine Revolution. This impressive structure stands at a prominent roundabout where EDSA, MacArthur Highway, Samson Road, and Rizal Avenue Extension converge. Erected in 1933, the monument features an obelisk adorned with sculptures by National Artist Guillermo Tolentino, commemorating the first battle of the Philippine Revolution on August 3, 1896. The surrounding area, known as 'Monumento,' has undergone significant renovations, including Bonifacio Circle and the Caloocan stretch of EDSA, enhancing its historical and civic importance.

Historical Churches and Sites

Beyond the Bonifacio Monument, Caloocan is home to several other sites of historical and cultural significance. These include a lot on P. Zamora Street, which was once the residence of Andrés Bonifacio's wife, and the heritage house of Gertrudes Sevilla, a relative of Gregoria de Jesús. Religious landmarks such as the Santa Quiteria Church in Baesa and Our Lady of Grace Parish on 11th Avenue contribute to the city's spiritual heritage. La Loma Cemetery, recognized as the oldest cemetery in Manila, also lies within Caloocan. The Thai To Taoist Temple along 6th Avenue represents the city's diverse religious landscape. Additionally, the city's District Office of the Bureau of Internal Revenue is located along EDSA, marking a key administrative presence.

Law Enforcement

Caloocan City Police Station

The Caloocan City Police Station operates under the Northern Police District, which is part of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Historically, the station received recognition as the best police station in Metro Manila for its contributions to the "drug war" during President Rodrigo Duterte's administration. This acknowledgment highlighted its active role in national law enforcement initiatives.

Challenges and Reorganization

Despite previous accolades, the entire Caloocan city police force faced a significant challenge when it was relieved from duty following a series of crimes, including killings and robberies, allegedly perpetrated by its members. In response, then-PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa announced that the implicated officers would undergo retraining rather than outright dismissal. This event underscored the complexities and issues within local law enforcement. Since 1993, the Northern Police District has maintained its headquarters in Caloocan, centralizing regional police operations within the city.

Educational Institutions

Tertiary Education

Caloocan is a hub for higher learning, hosting a variety of esteemed educational institutions. The city's sole public university is the University of Caloocan City, which evolved from the Caloocan City Community College (established in 1971) and the Caloocan City Polytechnic College (1975). Complementing this public offering are several private institutions providing tertiary education, including the University of the East Caloocan, Manila Central University, La Consolacion College-Caloocan, La Consolacion College – Novaliches, Access Computer College Caloocan, AMA Computer College-Caloocan, and STI Academic Center Caloocan, among others. These institutions collectively offer a broad spectrum of academic programs, catering to a diverse student population.

Basic and Secondary Education

The Schools Division Office (SDO) - Caloocan City is responsible for overseeing 89 public schools and numerous private schools within the city, spanning up to the secondary level. Among the notable public secondary schools are Caloocan National Science and Technology High School (the first science and technology high school in North Caloocan), Caloocan City Science High School, Caloocan City Business High School, and Caloocan High School. Prominent private educational institutions include the Philippine Cultural College (Annex), Saint Benedict School of Novaliches, St. Gabriel Academy (under the Diocese of Kalookan), St. Mary's Academy of Caloocan City, Notre Dame of Manila, and Santa Elena School of Novaliches, all contributing to a robust educational ecosystem within the city.

Twin Cities & Partnerships

Local Collaborations

Caloocan maintains strong ties with several local government units within the Philippines, fostering mutual development and cultural exchange. These partnerships include:

  • Calamba, Laguna
  • Malabon, Metro Manila
  • San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
These local twin city relationships facilitate cooperation on various fronts, from urban planning to public services, strengthening regional solidarity and progress.

International Sister City

Extending its reach beyond national borders, Caloocan has established an international sister city relationship with:

  • Incheon, South Korea
This international partnership promotes cultural understanding, economic collaboration, and the exchange of best practices in urban governance and development between the two cities.

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References

References

  1.  Philippine Commission of the Census, Census of the Philippines, 1939, vol. 1, part 4: Rizal (Manila: Bureau of Printing, 1940), p. 5
A full list of references for this article are available at the Caloocan Wikipedia page

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