The State of Competitiveness in Lipa City

Lipa City may have been a potential tourist destination in the Philippines because of its engaging tourist spots, cool climate, and recent developments that led to its ongoing progress. But when it comes to its state of competitiveness over other cities in the country, I can say that these are not enough for the city to keep up with those of the big ones like Manila, Makati City, Pasay City, and even those in the southern part of the country like Cebu and Davao.

According to the 2016 Competitiveness Index conducted recently by the National Competitiveness Council of the Philippines, Lipa City was number 19 out of 110 component and independent cities in different parts of the country, which is said to be lower than its 13th spot in last year's index. The major factor in the city's surprised status in the said index was its lower position in government efficiency, while it has gradually improved when it comes to economic dynamism and infrastructure.

I can see where the city all stands behind many of the most competitive cities in the country. On the other hand, let's just be proud of the developments that have been made over the past six months. More local and international brands starting to open their own branches in the city, while its two big shopping malls renovated some of their anchor stores that would further serve its customers inside and outside the city. Furthermore, the opening of Metro South Events Zone within the national highway provide residents and tourists with more food options that would savor their taste buds knowing that some of them don't need to go to Manila to find the best possible.

Lipa City maintains its position as one of the next wave cities in the Philippines in the field of business process outsourcing with the opening of a new major player in the call center industry, while commercial and residential developments (both ongoing and incoming) would continue to complement the city's ongoing development including its first premium condominium and hotel.

With these in mind, residents and netizens in the city are hopeful that they could see gradual changes, more particularly peace and order, traffic and enviromental concerns as Lipa City's state of competitiveness is far from being one of those to be reckoned with.