Davao City has once again proven itself as a leader in urban development, ranking first in both economic dynamism and infrastructure among highly urbanized cities in the Visayas and Mindanao. This recognition comes from the recent Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI), an annual competition organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which assesses cities and municipalities across the country based on five key indicators: economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, resilience, and innovation.
The 2024 CMCI results show that Davao City earned the highest score of 7.5468 in economic dynamism and 8.4445 in infrastructure, solidifying its position as the most competitive city in these categories outside Luzon. Davao City has been consistently ranked among the top 10 most competitive highly urbanized cities in the country since 2015. This year, the city ranked 7th overall out of 33 highly urbanized cities, improving its score from 49.08 in 2023 to 49.83 in 2024.
Economic Dynamism and Business Growth
Christian Cambaya, Head of the Investors Assistance and Servicing Unit of the Davao City Investment Promotions Center (DCIPC), attributed the city’s strong economic performance to the increase in business establishments from 2023 to 2024. “The increase of business establishments can be attributed to the initiatives of the city government to simplify the business process, including the automation of permit applications,” Cambaya said in an interview with the City Information Office.
The ease of doing business, streamlined through automated processes, has made Davao City a preferred location for businesses. Investors applying for incentives can now do so online, further enhancing the city’s business-friendly environment. The report from the Davao City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) highlighted that active business establishments, competitive costs, and compliance with safety standards significantly contributed to the city’s economic dynamism.
Infrastructure Excellence
In terms of infrastructure, Davao City excelled due to its strategic investments and modern facilities. The city’s proximity to ports, availability of essential utilities, and robust healthcare and education infrastructures have made it a hub of development. The local government’s investment in these areas has fueled growth and improved the quality of life for residents and businesses alike.
“Davao City’s ranking is a reflection of the continuous efforts of the city government to push for the growth and development of the city,” Cambaya said. The city’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development is evident in its top ranks for Information Communication Technology (ICT) Plan, ICT Use-BPLS Software, online payment facilities, and land use planning.
A City of Innovation and Resilience
Beyond its economic and infrastructure achievements, Davao City is a model of resilience and innovation. The city ranked first in key areas such as Disaster Risk Reduction Plan, Local Risk Assessments, and compliance with National Directives and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Citizens Charter. These factors underscore the city’s proactive approach to governance, ensuring that it is not only economically competitive but also prepared for future challenges.
Davao City’s commitment to innovation is also seen in its Information and Communication Technology initiatives, which have positioned it as a leader in the digital space, particularly in its use of online services for business permits and payments. This forward-thinking approach not only attracts investors but also enhances public service delivery, further contributing to the city’s overall competitiveness.
A Bright Future for Davao City
The CMCI rankings confirm that Davao City’s steady growth is a result of well-coordinated efforts from the local government to boost economic activity, improve infrastructure, and foster innovation. With these achievements, Davao City continues to be a shining example of urban development, attracting investors, tourists, and residents who seek a dynamic and forward-looking environment.
As the city continues to thrive, its leaders and stakeholders remain committed to fostering sustainable growth, ensuring that Davao City remains a powerhouse in both Visayas and Mindanao, and a key player in the nation’s economic landscape.
