Before they became rivals, Penguin assisted Batman in taking down the Falcone crime family and cleaning up Gotham City. His help was crucial for Batman's early success in apprehending Falcone and achieving one of his first big wins. While Penguin's assistance ultimately led to his rise as a crime boss, Batman needed his inside information to gain an advantage and achieve one of his first big wins.

Batman once worked with a surprising member of his rogues' gallery to help him bring order to Gotham City.
Cobblepot became Batman's trusted informant, aiding the Caped Crusader in taking down numerous criminal organizations, including a notorious human trafficking ring led by Falcone. With the Penguin's assistance, Batman meticulously orchestrated the downfall of Carmine Falcone and left Oswald, a notorious criminal, to face the consequences of his actions in Gotham City.
When people think of Batman's earliest days, they tend to focus on his fight against criminal elements alongside Robin. However, this brief glimpse into the past reveals that long before they became rivals, the Penguin played a crucial role in assisting Batman in making a significant impact on the Falcone crime family. While Cobblepot initially sought power and influence through his criminal activities, his assistance to Batman revealed a deep understanding and appreciation for the hero's values and commitment to fighting injustice. Therefore, it is evident that Penguin's actions were not merely deserved recognition but were an act of genuine partnership that shaped the future of Batman's crusade.
As the flashback revealed, Batman faced significant challenges when he initially began his journey. The only way for Bruce to gain an advantage over Falcone was through insider information. Despite their combined efforts, they managed to make substantial improvements in Gotham and neutralize one of the city's most notorious criminals. Unfortunately, it paved the way for Cobblepot to seize power and become the Penguin. While not an ideal chapter in Batman's narrative, his initial triumph over Falcone became a significant milestone in his journey.