20/04/2026
MerNel’s Cakehouse Recognized as Top Taxpayer in Calamba City for 2025
CALAMBA CITY, LAGUNA — MerNel’s Cakehouse and Variety Shop has earned a significant milestone after being recognized as one of the Top Taxpayers in Calamba City for 2025.Ranking Top 9 for the Single Proprietorship category. The award was presented during the city’s 25th anniversary celebration, highlighting not only the city’s progress but also the businesses that continue to help drive its growth.
Representing MerNel’s at the ceremony were Marketing Manager Ronald Calibo and Senior Sales Supervisor Ms. Maria Elizabeth Guico, who proudly received the award on behalf of the company. Their presence reflected the collective effort and dedication of the entire MerNel’s team.
For Ms. Merle Balicao, Proprietress of MerNel’s Cakehouse and Variety shop at SM City, Calamba City, the recognition holds deep meaning. She expressed her gratitude and shared that this achievement is a testament to the hard work, passion, and commitment of their people, as well as the continued support of their loyal customers.
The celebration took place at the Jose Rizal Coliseum and was led by Mayor Roseller “Ross” H. Rizal, alongside Vice Mayor Atty. Totie Lazaro, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and Congresswoman Cha Hernandez-Alcantara. One of the highlights of the event was the tribute to past city leaders, honoring their contributions to Calamba’s development through the years.
In his message, Mayor Rizal emphasized the importance of remembering those who helped shape the city. He noted that the progress Calamba enjoys today is built on the dedication and service of its former leaders.
Alongside the recognition of past officials, the city also honored outstanding businesses, companies, and individuals who have played a vital role in strengthening the local economy—among them, MerNel’s Cakehouse and Variety Shop.
The mayor also shared that Calamba’s cityhood has opened doors to greater opportunities, from economic and tourism growth to advancements in education, infrastructure, and public services for its people.
Laguna Governor Sol Aragones expressed her continued support for initiatives that uplift the province, while Congresswoman Cha Hernandez-Alcantara and Vice Mayor Lazaro also extended their messages of appreciation and encouragement.
Calamba officially became a city through Republic Act No. 9024, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and ratified by a local plebiscite on April 21, 2001.
As Calamba continues to move forward, recognitions like this highlight the important role of businesses such as MerNel’s. Their contribution goes beyond products and services—they help build a stronger, more vibrant, and progressive community for every Calambeño.
