Philippines' CMCI faces discontinuation, raising critical data concerns

Cities play a crucial role in driving a country's economy. They often have higher GDP, productivity, and innovation compared to the rest of their countries. This trend is seen in both developed and emerging nations. Cities attract people and resources, which can lead to efficient services and economic growth when managed well. However, cities also face many challenges. Issues like traffic, waste management, and crime can become serious problems. Effective solutions to these issues rely heavily on data. Data goes beyond just numbers; it helps in understanding problems and making informed decisions. In rapidly urbanizing areas like the Philippines, using data smartly is vital for improving public services and promoting sustainable growth. The Liveable Cities project in the Philippines focuses on how cities can use data to enhance their potential. Recently, they held a workshop on this topic titled “Sustain+Ability: Enabling Cities of the Future.” The Philippines has around 150 cities that are home to about 40 percent of the population. These cities, along with numerous municipalities, are critical for the country's economy. In 2012, the National Competitiveness Council introduced the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) to help local officials evaluate their cities. This index has gained importance over the years and now covers all local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines. Initially, many LGUs struggled to provide data, but now most can submit nearly all required information. However, the Department of Trade and Industry plans to discontinue the CMCI project. This decision is concerning, as it risks disrupting the habit of regular data collection that has been developed. Keeping this database active and accessible is crucial, especially in an age where data analysis is increasingly important. The cancellation of the CMCI could hinder progress in understanding urban challenges and making informed decisions for the future.