WEEK'S MAIL
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| The city’s competitiveness ranking |
| by Atty. Faustino A. Olowan, Lucnab, Baguio City |
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Now that Baguio City has fallen behind – ranked 18th among 25 medium-sized cities in the Philippines, in particular, (Baguio ranks 18th in AIM’s study of 25 RP medium cities, Baguio Midland Courier, Sept. 28) it is necessary to have a real alternative so that the negative repercussion can be mitigated at the soonest possible time. In the meantime, the question, “What is the economic prospect for Baguio City if its ‘competitiveness’ status is in dismal state?” persists.
If one is wondering why the nation’s summer capital ended up among the bottom rankers, it could be explained by the fact that for one, transparency of the city government in its dealings has been cited as one of the weaknesses of the city. For so long, this has been a thorny issue on the City Hall’s side. And yet, there is an eerie silence among city government officials on this matter. This may well reflect the irresponsiveness of the city government to citizen’s concerns. Responsiveness of the local government unit to business needs and quality of life — a major competitiveness driver of the AIM Policy Center, should be a major concern of all those who call the shots at City Hall. Again, this is really about good governance.
It is only but proper for concerned residents and well-meaning barangay officials to take the lead in reinvigorating all the thrusts to make our city competitive. The consequences of not doing so are utterly unthinkable. Come to think of it, Baguio City reportedly scored high because of the citizenry’s and businessmen’s access to an airport. Yet Tarlac City, without an airport, outranked Baguio.
A further slide in the city’s ranking is unimaginable while the Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Program (PCCRP), a flagship research undertaking of the AIM Policy Center, is well within reach by LGU executives, it seems that its import is hardly felt by most of our officials. Over the years, PCCRP results have served as benchmarks for LGU executives, city planners, and economic and development managers in improving the development studies in their cities. So why the inaction on inadequate social services and high electricity and water rates? |
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| MORE ON WEEK'S MAIL |
:: Thanks for lighting up LT barangay
Last Nov. 10 and 11, Barangay Cruz saw their request for street lights rehabilitation with a total of 37 units realized. |
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:: Some questions on the street lighting offer
The provision or delivery of basic services to the people is a fundamental responsibility of the government. This holds true in our beloved city. Thus, the LGUs play a major role in ensuring that fundamental needs of the citizenry are addressed at all times. |
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:: Safeguarding our children
Are Baguio City’s barangay council officials still carrying out their duties with zeal and thoroughness insofar as safeguarding the wellbeing of our children is concerned? |
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:: Ifugaos believe in governor’s integrity
I have been an avid reader of the Philippine Daily Inquirer for many years now, believing that it delivers the most credible and unbiased news reports in the country. |
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:: On reckless drivers
Time and again, the health department has warned that road accidents may become the leading cause of deaths in our country in the years to come. This scenario is alarming. |
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:: BeGH’s treatment of senior citizens
I went for a medical check up in what I considered one of the most modern hospitals in the region, the Benguet General Hospital. |
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:: ‘Were we taken for a ride?’
Your last issue invited my attention to the killing of SLU student Jude Wal II. Before this, I said a short prayer for the repose of his soul. |
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:: Putting the students first
The exceptional academic accomplishments of the Department of Nursing of Easter College is a testament to the unparalleled commitment, leadership, and exceptional abilities of Dean Ruth Tingda and the dedicated work of the talented faculty of the College of Nursing, and of course there are the diligent students who have to commit long hours studying and working to complete their designated hours of duty in the hospitals to develop their nursing skills. |
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:: Looking after the welfare of the students
It is probably common knowledge at this point that there have been and continue to be, unsettling incidents in the College of Nursing of Easter College. |
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