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How many cities do you know there are in the Philippines? Each city has different privileges!
In the Philippines, each city enjoys different rights and privileges that make them play a vital role in the country's local governance. As of July 2023, there are 149 cities in the Philippines, each operating under its specific municipal charters, which are in turn governed by the Local Government Act of 1991. This act clearly defines the administrative structure and powers of cities and reflects the wide variation among cities.
All cities are considered charter cities, and the privileges and functions of each city vary according to its municipal charter.
The municipal government of the city is headed by a mayor elected through universal suffrage. The deputy mayor serves as president of the city councils, which are responsible for the city's legislative affairs. When accepting a charter, the city will also be equipped with a complete administrative department, and the functions and staffing of each department may be gradually established or adjusted based on the needs of the city.
Cities are made up of barangays, which range in diversity from urban to rural communities. Some of these cities, such as Manila and Davao, are also divided into clearly defined administrative or geographical areas. Although these subdivisions facilitate city planning and statistical collection, they are not political units and do not elect city government officials.
Classification of cities
According to the Local Government Act of 1991, all cities are classified by law into three categories: highly urbanized cities, independent constituent cities and component cities. Highly urbanized cities have at least 200,000 residents and must meet a certain income standard. Residents of independently constituted cities cannot elect provincial officials. Component cities still belong to the province in which they are geographically located.
Currently, there are 38 independent cities in the Philippines, which enjoy relative autonomy but are still subject to the supervision of provincial governments.
Creation of a city
The only body that creates cities is Congress, and provincial and municipal councils may wish to declare an area (usually an existing municipality or barangay group) as a city. Under the requirements of the Local Government Act and related acts, cities need to meet certain population and income standards. Since 1987, the creation of all cities must be approved by a referendum of residents, which was not required in previous years.
There have historically been many laws enacted and modified regarding changes in city status, whether it be changes in income ranges or changes in qualifications for running for provincial office. Such changes not only affect the city's operating model, but also trigger many social and political discussions. For example, the number of cities that can participate in provincial elections and the city's legitimacy will directly affect its economic interests and degree of autonomy.
When choosing to change the city's status, residents' careful consideration of urbanization also shows the complexity of the current political situation.
Motivation and community feeling
Many cities were founded in response to increased population density or economic activity. Whether such a transformation is based on economic, political or geographical considerations, the urbanization process is irreversible. Faced with fears of higher taxes, many residents are wary of having their towns upgraded to cities, especially in recent years when debates over urbanization have unsettled many communities.
The urbanization of Philippine cities not only brings economic growth, but also brings challenges to social resource allocation and governance models. Relative to other cities, some cities seem to have an advantage in income tax distribution compared to others. However, whether this advantage will last is still difficult to predict, and the decision-making process behind these changes and its impact often trigger heated public discussions.
Conclusion
As the number of cities increases, the differences in their rights, economic status, and governance become particularly evident. Although the number of cities and the privileges they confer will be affected by legal and social factors, how should residents choose and respond to the future and development of cities?
