LONE CITY FROM WV: Bacolod among ‘best cities to live’ – Oxford study

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor  

Bacolod is the sole city from Western Visayas included among eight others from the Philippines in the Oxford Economics’ Global Cities Index 2024.

Bacolod was ranked 538th by the United Kingdom-based think tank.

It trailed behind Manila, which claimed the top spot for the country and ranked 256th overall. Cebu City followed at 436, Cagayan de Oro at 487, Davao at 500, Angeles at 502, Dagupan at 604, Zamboanga at 695, and General Santos at 723.

The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index assesses the 1,000 largest cities in the world, located in 163 countries, based on 27 indicators in five categories: Economics, Human Capital, Quality of Life, Environment, and Governance.

Bacolod has been recognized as one of the top 30 cities globally committed to environmental sustainability, securing the 12th position.

Regarding Human Capital, which measures the population’s knowledge and skills, Bacolod attained the 739th rank.

Bacolod claimed the 695th spot in the Quality of Life category, which covers life expectancy, housing expenditure, income per person, recreation and cultural sites, income equality, and internet speed.

In terms of economics, Bacolod secured the 546th position, which includes economic size, structure, and growth, considering historical performance and future potentials.

“By analyzing these five dimensions in depth, the Global Cities Index provides a nuanced understanding of each city’s strengths and areas for improvement, empowering policymakers, investors, employers, and residents to make informed decisions,” the think tank said.

The think tank underscored the index’s value for business leaders, policymakers, and academics, not only in assessing a city’s current performance but also in facilitating informed decision-making processes.

“The Global Cities Index scores cities based on how they are performing today,” it added.