by Ernest Ian Jagorin 
Iloilo City has once again cemented its position as a leading urban center in the Philippines, clinching the top spot in the “Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City outside the National Capital Region” category for the year 2024. This remarkable achievement underscores the city’s unwavering commitment to progress, innovation, and efficient governance.
The prestigious award was bestowed upon Iloilo City during the Philippine Creative Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Congress, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry-Competitiveness Bureau (DTI-CB) on August 23, 2024, in Manila. The recognition is a testament to the city’s exceptional performance across various key indicators of competitiveness, including Government Efficiency, Resiliency, Innovation, and more.
Iloilo City’s ascent to the top of the rankings is a result of its strategic initiatives and proactive approach to development. The city government has consistently prioritized enhancing public services, fostering a conducive business environment, and promoting sustainable growth. These efforts have paid off handsomely, as evidenced by the city’s thriving economy, vibrant cultural scene, and high quality of life.
One of the standout achievements of Iloilo City is its government efficiency. The city has streamlined its processes, improved transparency, and invested in technology to deliver efficient and responsive services to its constituents. This commitment to good governance has fostered trust and confidence among the citizenry, creating a positive environment for investment and development.
Moreover, Iloilo City has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of challenges. The city has implemented disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures to mitigate the impact of natural calamities. These efforts have helped to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of its residents and ensure the city’s continued progress.
Innovation is another key driver of Iloilo City’s success. The city has embraced technology and encouraged creativity to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. This has led to the development of new industries, job creation, and improved competitiveness.
Iloilo City’s recognition as the Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City outside the National Capital Region is a testament to its unwavering commitment to progress and excellence. The city’s success serves as an inspiration to other urban centers in the Philippines, demonstrating that with effective leadership, strategic planning, and a focus on innovation, it is possible to achieve remarkable results.
As Iloilo City continues to evolve and thrive, it is poised to play an even more significant role in the Philippines’ economic and social development. The city’s unwavering commitment to progress, innovation, and good governance will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for its residents and the nation as a whole.
