Malabon City Celebrates 426th Tambobong Festival
Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval urged residents to actively support local food and products during the city’s 426th Tambobong Festival on May 21. She highlighted the importance of cherishing homegrown items as a reflection of the city’s identity and heritage. “Sa ating pagdiriwang ng ika-426 na Anibersaryo ng Pagkakatatag ng Malabon, ating pong itangkilik ang sariling atin. Ang mga pagkain at mga produktong gawang Malabon ang nagbibigay sa atin ng pagkakakilanlan hindi lang sa ating lungsod, kundi sa buong Pilipinas at sa mundo. Gaya ng Pansit Malabon, na kamakailan lang ay ating itinampok upang hirangin ang ating lungsod bilang isang World Record holder,” she said.
Sandoval emphasized that local products embody the creativity, culture, and rich history of Malabon’s people. She encouraged everyone to promote these unique goods to showcase the community’s talents and heritage. “By promoting our unique products, we show the creativity and strength of our communities. Happy Tambobong Festival, Malabueños!” she added.
Unity and Progress Through Bayanihan
The mayor described the annual celebration as more than a festival; it is a chance to strengthen unity and work together with compassion and bayanihan spirit. “These values will guide our city toward a more progressive, inclusive, and thriving future—with a vibrant culture and growing economy,” Sandoval said. She noted that the festival highlights the strong community spirit that continues to drive Malabon forward.
Residents were encouraged to sustain this unity by supporting local businesses and products. Malabon, known as the “City of Flavors and Heritage,” prides itself on a history deeply rooted in fishing and farming. Its culture is preserved through heritage homes, longstanding traditions, and signature dishes such as lechon, sapin-sapin, okoy, kikiam, and especially the famous Pancit Malabon.
World Record and Local Pride
In March 2025, Malabon made headlines by setting a Guinness World Record for the longest line of noodle bowls, featuring 6,549 bowls of Pancit Malabon. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by China, which was 3,988 bowls. The event was a community effort supported by students and volunteers, showcasing the city’s pride and teamwork.
The city also marked its founding anniversary with a grand float parade on March 27. Twenty vibrant floats displayed Malabon’s rich traditions, history, and pride, further emphasizing the community’s strong cultural identity.
One Barangay, One Product Initiative
To promote local goods, Malabon launched the “One Barangay, One Product” program in 2023. Each barangay highlights its best food and crafts. Popular items include Kangkong Chips from Barangay Acacia, fermented shrimp paste (bagoong) from Bayan Bayanan, peach-flavored treats from Baritan, and suman rice cakes from Catmon.
Other well-loved products feature lechon from Hulong Duhat, crispy pata from Ibaba, peanut butter from Barangay Muzon, fish crackers from Santulan, and halo-halo from Tinajeros. Non-food items such as medals from Barangay Tugatog, sampaguita flowers from Barangay Maysilo, and woven bayong bags from Barangay Potrero also represent the city’s craftsmanship.
Leadership and Legacy
City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete praised Mayor Sandoval’s leadership, highlighting how it has united the city in pursuing progress. “Under the leadership of Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, we will continue to grow as one community with a clear goal. As we celebrate our anniversary, let us remember what it means to be a Malabueno — strong, humble, caring, and united for a better city. Let’s support our own products,” he said.
Malabon, formerly known as Tambobong, is among Metro Manila’s oldest communities, established in 1599 by Augustinian missionaries. The name Tambobong is believed to come from “tambo,” a type of reed plant that once thrived there. Its location near Manila Bay and the Navotas River made it a vital center for fishing and trade.
The city officially gained its status as a highly urbanized city on April 21, 2001, under Republic Act No. 9019. As Malabon honors 426 years of history and culture, Mayor Sandoval reminded everyone to remain united, take pride in their heritage, and continue working together toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.
For more news and updates on Malabon City local food, visit Filipinokami.com.