Draft:Mayoralty of Severino "Binoy" J. Lajara

Severino "Binoy" Javier Lajara

Severino "Binoy" Javier Lajara is a significant figure in the political history of Calamba, Laguna. He began his career as a municipal councilor and served as the last mayor before Calamba was elevated to city status on March 5, 2001. Following this transition, he became the first city mayor and played a key role in implementing economic policies and tax incentives that contributed to the city's growth and development. Under his leadership, Calamba's revenue increased significantly over ten years. His administration focused on sustainable economic and infrastructural initiatives, including the construction of a new city hall. Lajara's leadership attracted investment and aimed to enhance local governance, fostering connections within the community. His approach combined intellectual leadership with an emphasis on addressing the needs of residents, promoting an environment of collaboration and support.

City College of Calamba

Lajara played a key role in the legislative process that facilitated Calamba's conversion from a municipality to a city. He served an uninterrupted term as mayor for ten years, comparable to the long tenures of historical leaders such as Roman Lazaro. His legacy includes effective governance, community engagement, and a strong commitment to the welfare of his constituents, which has contributed to his reputation as a transformative leader in the Calabarzon region.

Major acts and legislation

Lajara was a key figure in the development of Calamba, contributing to its elevation to city status. His tenure included the implementation of innovative economic and tax policies that significantly increased local revenue. By focusing on fiscal reforms and economic development, he addressed immediate financial challenges and established a framework for sustainable growth. His strategic initiatives attracted investment and stimulated business activity, enhancing the city's economic landscape. As a result of his efforts, Calamba met the essential requirements for cityhood, setting a precedent for future governance. Lajara's legacy is characterized by his ability to integrate sound economic theory with effective administrative practices, positioning Calamba as a model for urban development in the region.

Transition from a municipality to a city

Lajara played a significant role in advancing Calamba's cityhood. In 1994, he initiated a formal request for the Senate and House to co-sponsor a bill for the city's conversion. By 1996, he submitted another resolution urging Congress to support cityhood legislation and sought input from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. Progress accelerated in 2000, when Lajara endorsed House Bill No. 986 and Senate Bills Nos. 1630 and 1791, seeking support from local and provincial officials. Following public hearings and deliberations, these bills were passed in the Senate and House in early 2001. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Republic Act No. 9024 on March 5, 2001, formally establishing Calamba as a city.

Creation of the city hall

During his tenure, Lajara played a key role in the construction of the Calamba City Hall, recognized for its architectural significance and functional design. His leadership ensured that the building harmonized aesthetic appeal with civic pride, reflecting the cultural heritage of the city while serving as a contemporary center for governance. This initiative enriched the urban landscape and became a symbol of Calamba's progress and aspirations, reinforcing its identity as a thriving urban center. Lajara's commitment to creating an inspiring civic space has had a lasting impact on the community's sense of identity and place, illustrating the relationship between architecture and local culture in urban development.

The new Calamba City Hall is a four-story building (excluding a penthouse) with approximately 9,000 square meters of floor area. The basement was designed for rental use by private and public establishments, including space for the Philippine National Police Detachment Office. Now fully occupied by city departments and some regional offices, construction began in 2001. The building was inaugurated on August 16, 2005, close to Lajara's birthday, and in 2006, the Office of the Ombudsman for Luzon began operations there.

Educational development

Lajara prioritized the development of educational and public infrastructures. He established numerous schools and the construction of vital facilities, including auditoriums and various public establishments.

Early Life and Education

Lajara was born in Calamba, Laguna. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Far Eastern University - Manila (FEU). Lajara is the son of former Kapitan Seyong Javier Lajara. He has several siblings, including Saturnino "Turne" Javier Lajara, who served as a police colonel and councilor. His son, Christian Niño S. Lajara, has served as a councilor and provincial board member, recognized for his initiatives supporting agricultural communities, and disaster response programs.