The Philippines has long prided itself on its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic urban centers. However, the recent 2025 list of the world’s best cities, published by Canadian advisory firm Resonance Consultancy, paints a sobering picture of how its cities compare on a global scale.

In the rankings, Manila placed 53rd, while Davao and Cebu ranked 91st and 92nd, respectively. This puts all three below the median of the 100 cities evaluated, a stark contrast to the rankings of other Southeast Asian nations, some of which had cities in the top 10 and top 50.

Singapore, in particular, emerged as the best city in the Asia-Pacific region and secured the 5th spot globally, behind London, New York, Paris, and Tokyo.

The rankings took into account various factors, including livability, economic prosperity, infrastructure, cultural vibrancy, and global reputation. The Philippines’ placement suggests that, while its cities have undeniable charm and potential, they continue to lag behind their regional and global counterparts in key developmental aspects.

Manila, the capital and economic hub of the country, managed to secure the highest ranking among Philippine cities, but at 53rd place, it still falls short of being considered a world-class metropolis.

While Manila offers a rich historical and cultural landscape, including Intramuros, Rizal Park, and a growing culinary scene, its challenges are well-documented. Traffic congestion remains among the worst in the world, air pollution levels are high, and urban planning issues persist.

Despite significant investments in infrastructure, such as new railway projects and road expansions, the city still struggles with inefficiencies that impact the quality of life.

Moreover, Manila’s economic performance is inconsistent. While the city is home to the country’s financial institutions and a booming business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, income inequality remains pronounced. Luxury malls and high-end condominiums stand in stark contrast to slums and informal settlements. For Manila to climb up the rankings, it must address these disparities and implement more sustainable urban development policies.

Davao and Cebu, two of the most prominent cities outside Metro Manila, also failed to make a significant impact on the global rankings. Davao, often praised for its cleanliness, safety, and local governance, ranked 91st. While it boasts economic growth and environmental policies that are better than many other Philippine cities, it still lacks the global influence and connectivity that top-ranked cities possess.

Cebu, the “Queen City of the South,” ranked just below Davao at 92nd. Despite being a major tourist destination with stunning beaches, historical sites, and a rapidly growing IT and BPO industry, it faces similar urban problems as Manila — traffic congestion, inadequate public transportation, and environmental concerns.

The stark contrast between Philippine cities and their regional counterparts highlights the urgent need for better governance, urban planning, and economic policies. Singapore’s 5th-place ranking serves as a clear benchmark for success. The city-state is known for its efficient public transportation, sustainable urban planning, economic stability, and strong global presence.

Other Southeast Asian cities, such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, also managed to secure spots within the top 50, showcasing their improvements in infrastructure, business environment, and cultural appeal.

The Philippines must address fundamental issues that hinder its cities’ progress. Urban congestion, inadequate public transportation, environmental degradation, and inconsistent policies must be tackled head-on. Investments in sustainable infrastructure, better city management, and policies that promote a higher quality of life will be crucial if the country wishes to elevate its cities on the global stage.