MANILA

-the heart of the Philippines

What makes it a global city in the future?

1. Economic Growth
The Philippines is considered as one of the fastest growing economies in
Southeast Asia. Its GDP grew at 5.6% last year. Wherein, it ranked third among
ASEAN countries.
(Bugrov, D., Dhara, D., & Kamarudin, K. (2024, March 15). Southeast Asia quarterly economic review:
Proving resilient. McKinsey & Company.
https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-asia/southeast-asia-quarterly-economic-review)
2. Pivotal Location
The country is part of the ASEAN, which makes it ideal for businesses that want
to access wider Asian markets. Moreover, the country hosts free trade zones
providing tax incentives and advantages to international investors.
(Tolley, K. (2023, September 20). What makes the Philippines a strategic location in Asia? - TravelAsker.
TravelAsker.
https://travelasker.com/what-makes-the-philippines-a-strategic-location-in-asia/#:~:text=The%20country%20is
%20home%20to%20several%20free%20trade,businesses%20wishing%20to%20access%20the%20wider%20A
sian%20market. )

3. Rich in Culture
The country has a rich and diverse culture. This amplifies the recognition of
cultural diversity and inclusion practices. It is an essential step in attaining
sustainable development since it attracts tourism, creativity, innovation, and
promotes economic growth. Thus, it serves as a vital component of a city's
identity and competitiveness on the global stage.
(How culture shapes our Cities: The Global UNESCO Report. (n.d.).
https://www.culturepartnership.eu/en/article/how-culture-shapes-our-cities-the-global-unesco-report#:~:text=Inc
lusion%20practices%20and%20recognition%20of%20cultural%20identities%20are,areas%20using%20renovati
on%2C%20sustainable%20planning%2C%20design%20and%20building.)

4. Innovation and Developments

The Philippines maintains its status as an "innovation achiever," ranked 51st
globally in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2021. Spearheaded by the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the country implements the Innovation
for Inclusive Industrial Strategy (i3S) to enhance competitiveness in
manufacturing, agriculture, and services. Through various actions such as human
resource development, SME support, and infrastructure investments, the
Philippines aims to foster innovation and drive sustainable economic growth.

(Department of Trade and Industry [DTI]. (2023, February 15). PH continues as ‘innovation achiever’ for the
third straight year in the annual Global Innovation Index; ranks 51st among 132 economies. DTI
PHILIPPINES. Retrieved April 18, 2024, from
https://www.dti.gov.ph/archives/philippines-continues-as-innovation-achiever/)
What are the problems faced by this city?

● Traffic congestion
In Manila, traffic congestion poses a significant issue, with drivers anticipating
spending an additional 53 percent of travel time stuck in traffic. A study conducted by
GoShorty, a UK-based short-term car insurance company, reveals that Manila experiences
a traffic congestion level of 43 percent, resulting in 98 hours wasted annually on traffic.
Filipinos spend approximately four days in traffic each year. It is due to the inadequate
road infrastructure and public transportation , large vehicle population, and rapid
urbanization.
Rilloraza, B. (2022, September 10). Manila traffic is 8th worst in the world, study says. Technobaboy.
https://www.technobaboy.com/2022/09/10/manila-traffic-is-8th-worst-in-the-world-study-says/
Ruaseguridad. (2023, July 11). Road quality and traffic congestion in Metro Manila: causes and solutions. Rua Seguridad.
https://www.ruacorp.com/causes-of-philippines-traffic-congestion /

● Environmental issues
The country has experienced rapid economic growth following its destruction in
World War II and subsequent reconstruction. However, this progress has led to typical
urban challenges such as pollution, traffic congestion, and overpopulation. Ineffective
management has severely impacted the country's significant biodiversity and resulted in
water and air pollution levels surpassing accepted healthy standards.
Salita, D. C. (2024, April 17). Manila | Philippines, Luzon, Population, Map, Climate, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica.
https://www.britannica.com/place/Manila

● Unemployment
In December 2023, the unemployment rate decreased to an unprecedented 3.1
percent, marking the lowest level since 2005 when a new method of measuring
unemployment was implemented. This improvement was attributed to an increase in job
opportunities during the holiday season, surpassing the previous record low of 3.6 percent
recorded in November 2023.
Bugrov, D., Dhara, D., & Kamarudin, K. (2024, March 15). Southeast Asia quarterly economic review: Proving resilient.
McKinsey & Company.
https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-asia/southeast-asia-quarterly-economic-review

SOLUTIONS:

Enhancing public transportation infrastructure is essential for addressing traffic congestion,

promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering economic development. By investing in efficient
and accessible public transportation systems, cities can offer residents a viable alternative to private
vehicles, thereby reducing congestion and pollution. Moreover, the creation of job opportunities and the
stimulation of economic activity contribute to sustainable development, making countries more
competitive on the global stage. Thus, prioritizing public transportation improvements is key to achieving
a more sustainable and prosperous future.