FOR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR: Naga leads way again

By Jason B. Neola

Setting the standard for success

THE city government of Naga once again leads the way among the country’s 116 component cities and municipalities, capturing the top rank in promoting a culture of competitiveness and excellence during the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Congress 2024 in Manila.

Naga City has been recognized as the Overall Most Competitive Component City in the Philippines since 2021, maintaining this title through 2022, 2023, and now, 2024. Naga achieved the top position in the overall ranking and consistently remained within the top three across all five pillars of competitiveness.

The city was ranked 1st in the Infrastructure Category, 2nd in both Resiliency and Economic Dynamism Categories (improving from 4th), 3rd in Innovation, and advanced to 3rd in Government Efficiency from the 5th position the previous year.

The Philippine Creative Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CCMCI), released by the Department of Trade and Industry on August 23 this year, also placed Naga 2nd among 1,642 competing cities and municipalities, including 33 highly urbanized cities, after calculating the scores of each contestant-local government unit.

Mayor Nelson Legacion expressed that the prestige and honor accorded to the city government were overwhelming. He said, “I am extremely happy that for the fourth consecutive time, our city has been named the country’s Top Overall Most Competitive Component City, and second among all cities and municipalities, including highly urbanized ones. Quezon City achieved the highest score.”

Highly urbanized Quezon City scored 60.7516, while Naga City, as a component city, scored 58.2084. Naga’s closest rival among the component cities was Digos in Davao del Sur, with a score of 50.5589.

Mayor Legacion shared the success with Vice Mayor Cecilia De Asis, the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and the employees of the city government of Naga. Naga’s consistent performance in these categories showcases its commitment to progressive development and good governance. It’s a significant achievement for the city and its residents.

Legacion expressed optimism that the city would continue to achieve similar honors in the future, noting the wide gap between Naga and Digos City in Davao del Sur. He emphasized the need to maintain or even improve the city’s programs and projects for the betterment and welfare of the Nagueños.

He mentioned the importance of revisiting the factors for the Innovation category to identify areas for improvement, as well as other aspects that might need enhancement.

The mayor quoted the Department of Trade and Industry and its partners in the private sector, saying that the awards are the result of thorough validation, proving that local officials have been effectively performing their mandated tasks to promote the wellbeing of their constituents.

The city mayor also addressed critics of his leadership who seem to downplay the achievements of the city government. He urged them not to resent the awards received under his administration but to feel proud and joyful as fellow Nagueños.

Looking ahead, Legacion stated that if given the opportunity to serve the third district of the province, he is committed to helping the municipalities of Magarao, Canaman, Calabanga, Pili, Ocampo, Bombon, and Camaligan develop facilities that can boost livelihood projects and socio-economic growth.

He believes that his experience and achievements in Naga City position him well to bring similar success to these municipalities. Legacion emphasized that his plan is not just a promise but an ongoing effort.

The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Congress (CMCC) offers several advantages for local governments and communities:

Enhanced Local Competitiveness –The congress offers a platform for cities and municipalities to showcase their strengths and learn from one another. It helps identify best practices and strategies that can boost local competitiveness.

Networking Opportunities – By bringing together leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and community advocates, the congress fosters collaborations and partnerships, paving the way for innovative projects and initiatives.

Recognition and Motivation –The CMCC acknowledges the most competitive cities and municipalities, inspiring local governments to pursue excellence and continuous improvement.

Knowledge Sharing – Participants engage in dynamic discussions, exchanging innovative ideas that can help transform communities into vibrant centers of creativity and innovation.

Focus on Key Areas – The congress addresses critical topics such as economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, and resilience, providing a holistic approach to local development.

Support for Sustainable Development –By emphasizing creativity and competitiveness, the CMCC promotes sustainable economic growth and development at the local level.

Overall, the CMCC plays a vital role in driving economic growth, supporting sustainable development, and enhancing the quality of life in cities and municipalities across the Philippines.