The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) has officially recognized Angeles City as the 5th Most Improved Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in the Philippines, as part of the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI). Under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., this recognition highlights the city’s remarkable progress and growth across various sectors, including infrastructure, economic development, and governance.
This accolade marks the third time that Mayor Lazatin’s administration has earned this prestigious title, further solidifying the city’s commitment to enhancing its competitiveness and improving the quality of life for its residents. The CMCI is a comprehensive tool used to measure the performance of cities and municipalities, evaluating factors such as economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, and resilience.
Mayor Lazatin expressed his gratitude for the recognition, noting that the achievement reflects the collective efforts of the city’s leadership, local government employees, and residents. He emphasized that the continued development of Angeles City is a result of strong collaboration and strategic planning aimed at addressing the growing needs of its urban population.
The city’s performance in the CMCI has been bolstered by a series of infrastructure projects, investments in public services, and initiatives to improve the business climate. These efforts have contributed to making Angeles City a more competitive and attractive location for both local and international investments, driving economic growth and job creation in the region.
Among the key factors that contributed to the city’s improved ranking were its advancements in infrastructure, particularly in transportation and public utilities. In addition, the city has made strides in enhancing its healthcare, education, and social welfare programs, ensuring that these services meet the needs of its rapidly growing population.
As part of his administration’s vision, Mayor Lazatin has focused on building a city that is not only economically vibrant but also resilient and inclusive. Through innovative governance and partnerships with the private sector, Angeles City has been able to address the challenges that come with rapid urbanization while promoting sustainability and improving the overall well-being of its citizens.
The recognition of Angeles City as the 5th Most Improved HUC serves as a testament to the effectiveness of Mayor Lazatin’s leadership and the city’s commitment to continuous improvement. With this latest achievement, Angeles City is poised to continue its upward trajectory, making strides toward becoming one of the most dynamic and progressive cities in the Philippines.
Source: The VoiceNewsweekly
