Outgoing Makati City Mayor Abigail “Abby” Binay leaves behind a formidable legacy that has shaped the premier business district into a model city of innovation, inclusivity, and efficient governance.

Her years as mayor may have concluded for now, but her impact on Makati and its people — affectionately known as “Makatizens” — will resonate for years to come.

Abby Binay took the helm of Makati in 2016, stepping into the shoes of her father, former Vice President Jejomar Binay, and continuing a political legacy that had long been rooted in the city.

Yet, while her family name gave her a platform, it was Abby's distinct leadership style — firm yet compassionate, modern yet pragmatic — that earned her the respect and trust of her constituents. She quickly proved that she was not merely carrying the torch of her predecessors but lighting her own path toward reform and progress.

Under her leadership, Makati embraced digital governance, pushing for smart city initiatives that streamlined public services and enhanced transparency. Her administration introduced the Makatizen Card, an all-in-one citizen ID that functioned as an ATM card with disabilities. Her commitment to accessible healthcare was evident in how quickly the city rolled out its vaccination campaign during the pandemic, achieving one of the highest vaccination rates in the country.

Infrastructure-wise, Makati under Abby Binay saw the revitalization of key city roads, the construction of new public buildings, and the promotion of green spaces. Her administration prioritized sustainability, with projects such as the “Greenhouse Project” that promoted urban agriculture and food security. These efforts earned the city accolades both locally and abroad, reaffirming its status as a progressive urban center.

What set Abby Binay apart was her managerial competence and no-nonsense approach to governance. She demonstrated fiscal discipline, ensured accountability among city officials, and promoted gender inclusivity in leadership roles.

Though often low-key compared to other traditional politicians, she let her work do the talking — earning her the trust not just of traditional supporters but of the younger, more progressive generation of Makatizens.

Mayor Abby Binay may have left Makati City Hall, but she leaves behind a city transformed: more inclusive, more efficient, and more resilient. The Makatizens whom she served with dedication for nearly a decade will remember her not just as a Binay, but as a leader who listened, who acted, and who delivered.