Iloilo City has achieved another milestone, earning the title of the Overall Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in Western Visayas for 2024. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6, underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable development, exemplary governance, and robust public-private partnerships (PPP). Mayor Jerry P. Treñas attributed this accolade to the collective effort of the city government, private sector contributors, and community members, praising the dedication of the City Council, various department heads, employees, and private sector partners who have played indispensable roles in the city’s progress.
The city’s achievement is reflected in its top performance across all five pillars of competitiveness: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Resiliency, Infrastructure, and Innovation. This comprehensive success highlights Iloilo City’s dedication to continuous improvement in key areas essential for maintaining a thriving urban environment. Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon and Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO) head Velma Jane Lao received the honor on behalf of Mayor Treñas, who was on medical leave, marking a heartfelt community effort and unity in governance.
Governance and Public-Private Partnerships
This latest recognition of Iloilo City as the most competitive HUC in Western Visayas stands as a testament to the fruitful collaboration between the local government and private organizations. Mayor Treñas highlighted how crucial these partnerships have been in driving the city’s development forward. The active participation of private sector stakeholders and community members has led to a more resilient and cohesive urban community that prioritizes long-term sustainability and economic growth.
Iloilo City has consistently ranked high in the Government Efficiency pillar, which evaluates indicators such as transparency, regulatory quality, and the presence of effective public services. This efficiency is not merely a result of improved bureaucratic processes but also the result of strategic partnerships with non-governmental entities that bolster the effectiveness of local initiatives. By fostering an environment where public and private sectors can thrive together, Iloilo City has set a benchmark in efficient and inclusive governance.
Performance Across Competitiveness Pillars
Iloilo City’s distinction in the five pillars of competitiveness—Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Resiliency, Infrastructure, and Innovation—stands as a reflection of its holistic approach to urban management. Winning first place in each of these categories demonstrates the city’s comprehensive strategy for sustainable development and resilience against challenges. Economic Dynamism, for instance, highlights the vibrant business environment and investment opportunities that illuminate Iloilo’s capacity for growth and attractiveness to investors.
In terms of Infrastructure, the city’s top ranking is a testament to its well-planned urban development, which includes cutting-edge transportation systems, utility services, and other essential amenities that cater to both residents and businesses. Moreover, the pillar of Innovation showcases Iloilo’s ability to embrace new technologies and forward-thinking policies, creating a dynamic and future-ready urban atmosphere. Resiliency, the ability to withstand and recover from disruptions, further underlines the city’s preparedness and adaptive strategies in various emergency situations.
National Rankings and Future Outlook
Iloilo City’s performance at the national level has also been outstanding. In 2023, it was named the most competitive and most improved HUC in Region 6, capturing first place in all five pillars. Nationally, it leaped from seventh place in 2022 to fourth overall in 2023, and it continues to rank first outside the National Capital Region (NCR). These accolades not only reflect the city’s existing strengths but also its continuous efforts to enhance its policies and infrastructure, aiming for even greater heights in national ranking systems.
For 2024, the city maintained its impressive status, ranking as the fifth most competitive HUC in the Philippines, reaffirming its position as the leading city outside the NCR. This consistent upward trajectory illustrates the city’s unwavering commitment to improving its overall performance. The remarkable achievement in Government Efficiency particularly stood out, exemplifying the city’s quality of public services and its proactive regulatory framework.
Conclusion
Iloilo City has reached a significant milestone by being named the Overall Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in Western Visayas for 2024. This honor, bestowed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6, highlights the city’s dedication to sustainable development, outstanding governance, and strong public-private partnerships (PPPs). Mayor Jerry P. Treñas attributed this recognition to the collective efforts of the city government, private sector contributors, and community members. He praised the dedication of the City Council, various department heads, employees, and private sector partners for their essential roles in the city’s growth.
Iloilo City’s achievement is demonstrated by its top performance in all five pillars of competitiveness: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Resiliency, Infrastructure, and Innovation. This comprehensive success underscores the city’s commitment to continuous improvement in vital areas necessary for a thriving urban environment. Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon and LEDIPO head Velma Jane Lao accepted the award on behalf of Mayor Treñas, who was on medical leave, symbolizing a heartfelt community effort and unity in governance.
