Cagayan de Oro Tops the 2024 CMCI Resiliency Rankings for Highly Urbanized Cities: A Blueprint for Urban Resilience

The 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) has revealed the most resilient cities in the Philippines, highlighting the remarkable strength of Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental as it secured the top spot in the Resiliency Pillar for Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs). As one of the core measures of the CMCI, the Resiliency Pillar evaluates the capacity of local government units (LGUs) to withstand shocks, recover quickly from disasters, and continue operations despite disruptions.

Understanding the CMCI Resiliency Pillar

The CMCI, an annual ranking spearheaded by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) and supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), gauges the performance of Philippine LGUs across five critical pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, Resiliency, and Innovation. Among these, the Resiliency Pillar has become increasingly vital in light of the country’s exposure to natural calamities and global health crises.

The Resiliency Pillar evaluates LGUs based on several key indicators:

• Land Use Plan – Effectiveness of zoning and land use strategies.
• Disaster Risk Reduction Plan (DRRM) – Implementation and coverage of disaster preparedness and mitigation plans.
• Annual Disaster Drill – Regularity and participation in community-wide drills.
• Early Warning System – Accessibility and reliability of early warning systems for various hazards.
• Emergency Infrastructure – Availability of infrastructure like evacuation centers and emergency response units.

Cagayan de Oro has consistently excelled in these areas, making it a formidable force in this category and solidifying its position as a top-tier resilient city.

Cagayan de Oro: A Model of Resilience

Cagayan de Oro, often referred to as the “Gateway to Northern Mindanao,” has undergone significant transformation over the years. The city's commitment to disaster preparedness and adaptability has made it a national benchmark in urban resilience. Below are some factors contributing to its outstanding performance in the 2024 CMCI Resiliency Pillar:

1. Comprehensive Land Use and Zoning Plan

Cagayan de Oro's comprehensive land use plan ensures that areas are appropriately zoned to reduce the risk of disasters such as floods and landslides. With flood-prone areas clearly delineated and continuous monitoring of environmental hazards, the city effectively mitigates the impact of potential disasters. Strategic infrastructure projects, including flood control systems and drainage enhancements, further strengthen this plan.

2. Robust Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Framework

The city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) is a key player in implementing its proactive disaster preparedness initiatives. The CDRRMO has institutionalized a dynamic framework that not only focuses on response but also emphasizes prevention, preparedness, and mitigation. This framework is consistently updated based on evolving risk factors, enabling the city to maintain a high state of readiness.

3. Extensive Community Involvement in Annual Drills

One of the standout features of Cagayan de Oro’s disaster preparedness is the wide participation of its residents in annual disaster drills. The city conducts regular earthquake and flood drills that engage schools, businesses, and community organizations, ensuring that the public remains aware and prepared. The strong culture of preparedness in the city allows for swift and coordinated responses when real emergencies occur.

4. Advanced Early Warning Systems

Cagayan de Oro’s investment in state-of-the-art early warning systems (EWS) has significantly boosted its ability to manage disasters. These systems are designed to provide timely alerts through multiple communication channels such as text messages, public announcements, and social media updates. The city also collaborates with local media to disseminate critical information efficiently.

5. State-of-the-Art Emergency Response Infrastructure

The city boasts well-established emergency response infrastructures such as evacuation centers equipped with essential supplies, medical facilities, and communication networks. These centers are strategically located to ensure accessibility for residents across all barangays. Additionally, the city has a well-trained team of responders capable of handling both natural and man-made disasters with precision and care.

Achievements and Future Directions

The recognition of Cagayan de Oro as the most resilient city under the HUC category underscores its continuous pursuit of excellence in governance and public service. The city has long been a strong contender in various CMCI pillars, but this latest achievement solidifies its place as a leader in resilience. With a forward-looking approach that integrates technological advancements, public participation, and sustainable practices, Cagayan de Oro sets the bar high for other cities aspiring to improve their resilience and overall competitiveness.

Moving forward, the city is focusing on further enhancing its adaptive capacity through:

• Smart City Initiatives: Leveraging technology for real-time disaster monitoring and management.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Integrating climate resilience strategies into urban planning.
• Sustainable Urban Development: Ensuring that growth aligns with environmental sustainability.

The Importance of the Resiliency Pillar in the CMCI

The growing emphasis on resiliency in the CMCI reflects the reality that cities must not only drive economic growth but also be capable of sustaining development in the face of adversity. The resilience of Cagayan de Oro serves as a blueprint for other cities aiming to balance progress with sustainability. Its ability to withstand and recover from disruptions—whether environmental, economic, or social—demonstrates the importance of forward-thinking governance and community engagement.

Conclusion

The 2024 CMCI cycle has once again proven that resilience is a cornerstone of competitive and sustainable urban growth. Cagayan de Oro’s top-ranking performance in the Resiliency Pillar for HUCs is a testament to its robust disaster preparedness, strong governance, and proactive community involvement. As the city continues to innovate and adapt to emerging challenges, it remains a shining example of what it means to be truly resilient.