Contents
Snapshot
Maria Josefina Tanya “Joy” Go Belmonte-Alimurung, commonly known as Joy Belmonte, is the 11th Mayor of Quezon City, Philippines. Assuming office in 2019, she has been instrumental in implementing progressive policies that emphasize environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, and economic development.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 15, 1970, Joy Belmonte is the daughter of former House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and Philippine Star founder Betty Go-Belmonte. She completed her elementary and high school education at Saint Pedro Poveda College. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ateneo de Manila University and pursued further studies at the University College London.
Career
Before her mayoral tenure, Belmonte served as Vice Mayor of Quezon City from 2010 to 2019. In 2019, she was elected as Mayor and re-elected in 2022 under the Serbisyo sa Bayan Party. Her administration has been recognized for fiscal transparency, achieving over PHP 20.3 billion in locally sourced revenues in 2023.
Sustainability Highlights and Focus
Environmental Initiatives:
Belmonte declared a state of climate emergency in Quezon City, allocating 11 to 13% of the annual city budget to environmental sustainability programs. Under her leadership, the city banned single-use plastics in hotels, restaurants, and fast-food chains, positioning Quezon City as a leader in sustainability efforts.
Recognition:
In 2023, the United Nations Environment Programme named her a “Champion of the Earth” for her innovative environmental initiatives. Forbes Magazine also listed her among the 50 sustainability leaders, acknowledging her contributions to environmental protection and fiscal management.
Advocacy for Inclusivity:
Belmonte has been a strong advocate for women’s rights, children, and the LGBTQIA+ community, organizing inclusive events like the Quezon City Pride Festival, which saw over 200,000 attendees in June 2024.
Vision for the Future Mayor Joy Belmonte continues to champion policies that integrate environmental sustainability with social inclusivity and economic growth, aiming to create a resilient and progressive Quezon City for future generations.
Dr. Alexander Tabibi is an entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for sustainable innovation with a deep commitment to leveraging technology for environmental and social good. As a thought leader at the intersection of business and sustainability, Dr. Tabibi brings a strategic vision to Green.org, helping guide its mission to inspire global climate awareness and actionable change.
With a background in both medicine and business, Dr. Tabibi combines analytical rigor with entrepreneurial insight.