Top 10 Best Cities in the Philippines

The Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, has cities that each tell their own unique stories, shaped by centuries of influences from various cultures and eras.

The history of cities in the Philippines is deeply rooted in pre-colonial times when various indigenous groups and kingdoms thrived. Trade with neighboring Asian regions was flourishing, with the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture setting the stage for the dynamic urban centers that would later develop. The arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century brought about significant changes, leading to the establishment of some of the earliest cities. These cities became the centers of governance, religion, and commerce, marked by iconic structures like churches, forts, and schools that still stand today.

Following Spanish rule, the American period in the early 20th century introduced new elements of urban planning and architecture, further shaping the city's landscapes. Post-World War II reconstruction and subsequent rapid urbanization during the latter half of the century contributed to the modern cities we see today, characterized by skyscrapers, bustling business districts, and vibrant cultural scenes.

Exploring the best cities in the Philippines means immersing yourself in a variety of experiences. Each city offers something unique, from the heritage-rich streets of old towns to the lively nightlife and burgeoning culinary scenes of modern metropolises. Whether you're drawn to historical landmarks, stunning natural attractions, or the pulse of contemporary city life, the cities of the Philippines provide endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
The Top Ten
1 Iloilo

It's a renaissance city. After a standstill during the late 20th century, it has reinvented itself coming into the 21st century. Its bustling economy is bringing back the glory of the sugar baron days. The city is a melting pot of the old and the new, as modern development exists side by side with heritage conservation. Its efforts on environmental protection and preservation are unequaled by any other highly urbanized cities, with initiatives like the Iloilo River Conservation and the protection of mangrove sites.

Development is also designed to embrace the environment, such as the Iloilo Esplanade along the Iloilo River and the upcoming Senator Benigno Aquino Avenue widening, where wide open spaces with lots of greens are in place. It's the next big thing in the Philippines. A wonder city. It's Iloilo City.

2 Metro Cebu

Cebu is a city on Cebu Island in the Philippines. It is known as the Queen City of the South and is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines for foreign tourists. It has the largest seaport in the Philippines, the second-largest air hub, and is the second-largest city in the country.

Cebu is the fastest-growing large city in the nation, with an annual growth rate of over 5% per year. It is a booming metropolitan area with all the conveniences of a modern city. At the same time, it boasts natural resources like countless white sand beaches (both commercial and untouched), as well as historical sites that reflect its cosmopolitan past. These range from the birth of Christianity in Asia to early commercial trade with Mexico and China, and even vestiges of the American colonization of the Philippines.

3 Davao

Davao has a low crime rate, at less than 1%. Current revenue statistics rank Davao City as the fifth-richest city in the Philippines in terms of local income and Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). It is the only city outside Greater Manila in the top five. The city government also maintains a 24-hour emergency response system, patterned after the 9-1-1 system used in the United States. A curfew for minors is observed in the city as well. All business establishments, particularly bars and discos, are mandated by a city ordinance to refrain from selling alcoholic drinks beyond 2:00 a.m.

Motorcycle drivers without helmets and motorists with defective lights are not allowed to enter or drive in the city. Regular checkpoints in key parts of Davao City and at the city boundaries are conducted 24 hours a day to ensure the strict implementation of traffic rules. The use of fireworks and other similar pyrotechnics, as well as smoking, is strictly prohibited in most of the city. Even outdoors, if you are under a roof of any kind, smoking is prohibited. Violators are subject to hefty fines, community service, jail time, or a combination of the three. Littering is also prohibited.

4 Roxas

It has fresh air and is pollution-free. The countryside ambiance, the security, and, most of all, its seafood products thrive, I think, because of its clean water. Its seafood products taste better than the seafood from other areas. I think this is the gift that God gave Capiz.

Even experts could not seem to explain why seafood grown in Capiz tastes better. Of course, the famous Capiz and Diwal shells are best grown in Capiz, notwithstanding its oyster.

Roxas City is the most livable and lovable city in the Philippines, known as the seafood capital of the Philippines. Many upcoming malls are here in Roxas City. Experience the fresh seafood here.

Roxas City is the cleanest and greenest city in Western Visayas. Here, you can relax on the clean beaches and enjoy the fresh air.

5 Batangas

The City of Batangas is ramping up activities in trade, finance, education, and medical services for most parts of the province. As a center for trade and commerce, it hosts one of the largest oil refineries in the country, Pilipinas Shell, as well as three natural gas power plants: Kielco, First Gas, and Malampaya On-Shore Gas Plant. Other major industries include San Miguel Food Corporation, JG Summit PetroChemical Corp., Universal Robina Corp., Himmel Industries Inc., Chemphil Bulk Terminal, San Lorenzo Power Plant, and First Philippine Industrial Corp.

It is also an educational hub, home to three of the largest universities in the province. Recently, more international schools have chosen the city as their campus site.

The city attracts thousands of transient migratory workers and has 46 banking and other financial institutions, five major hospitals, three major hotels, and various government agencies.

Sister Cities:
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil;
Cologne, Germany;
Lhangenfeld, Rhineland, Germany;
Guadalajara, Mexico;
Barcelona, Spain;
Tawau, Malaysia.

6 Baguio

Probably one of the most diverse cities in the country, this city is where both local and international cultures meet in harmony. Coffee lovers and party-goers would love this place because hundreds of creative cafes are literally everywhere. They even have a unique alcohol mix called C2GIN, which is surprisingly very cheap.

People are also very friendly in the place. I always experience strangers striking up conversations and asking how I am doing. You'd love it here.

Baguio City is a multicultural city because it has been a settlement for Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and even the natives of Cordillera. Baguio City is also great because it has the cruise-ship-shaped mall (SM Baguio), the Panagbenga (Flower Festival), where floats are made out of natural flowers, one of the Texas Instruments factories, and the only Philippine Military Academy.

We could also make our city look like New York because we have Abanao Square, Malcolm Square, and our very own business street: Session Road.

7 Manila The capital city of the Philippines, Manila is located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a rich history influenced by various cultures including Spanish, American, and indigenous influences. As a center for commerce, education, and... read more

Metro Manila is the total urban area composed of different cities and the surrounding urban fringe. The proper city of Manila is only one of the big cities of this urban agglomeration. Metro Manila, or the 'National Capital Region', as they say in the Philippines, is a significant area.

Metro Manila is the business and cultural center of the Philippines, and as the face of our country and its capital, Manila's development means the whole country develops too.

Dear Dirty Manila. Always my first port of call. Ideal for stocking up on supplies and aimless shopping: if you can't find it in Manila, then it just doesn't exist.

8 Bacolod

The famed city on a hill, or a "bakulod," started its beginnings as a small riverside community in the 1770s and later became a city of more than 500,000 people in 2010. It is now every Filipino's favorite vacation destination, convention destination, gastronomic adventure, or business opportunity.

Well-designed streets and city blocks, as well as well-zoned areas of development, efficient traffic management, and an outstanding peace and order system.

Home of famous filmmakers, directors, performers, and beauty titlists.

It's the city that's famous for having the latest car models driven by rich hacienderos. It's the city that has the most number of registered motor vehicles in Western Visayas.

9 Cagayan de Oro

Dubbed locally as the "City of Golden Friendship" (Dakbayan sa Bulawanong Panaghigala-ay in Cebuano, as the phrase appears on the city's seal), Cagayan de Oro is known for the camaraderie and hospitality that are inherent and traditional traits of its people. Cagayan de Oro is considered a melting pot in Mindanao and is on its way to being classified as a first-class city. Serving as the regional center, it is the most populous highly-urbanized city in Northern Mindanao, a region noted for its accessibility, business growth, and tourism attractions.

Cagayan de Oro is often called the "Melting Pot of Mindanao" because of its accessibility, business growth, and attractions, as well as its warm and hospitable people. It is also a business hub of the Northern Mindanao region and is considered one of the most progressive and competitive cities in the country. As of the fiscal year 2006, it was recorded to have reached an annual income of 1.345 billion pesos. The city's economy is largely based on industry, commerce, trade, services, and tourism. These are the major financial sources that have been sufficient for the city's economic growth and development.

10 Digos

Digos City is truly a Filipino spot for those who want to find happiness. People in Digos are jokers, lovable, and caring. Digos is known as the city of the lion. In other words, Digos residents are warriors. They're not afraid of danger. Their only fear is of God.

Yes, I really love Digos City, especially for its natural way of living.

One of the progressive cities in Davao Del Sur, where people dedicate their time to farming and minimal industrial and retail activity.

The Contenders
11 ParaƱaque

The best place to live in the Philippines is a city that offers urban living while maintaining less pollution, less traffic congestion, and a clean and green environment. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in this part of the country.

It is the best place to buy a condo as an investment.

This is a city of dreams and a peaceful place to live.

12 Angeles

In 1991, Angeles City was tagged as the "City of Ghost" due to the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Many real estate owners sold their properties at very affordable or lowest prices because they thought that the city would never recover. Some even said that Angeles City would be wiped off the map of the Philippines, along with the entire province of Pampanga. However, the people didn't let these rumors define them. They ensured that they used their last resources in a timely manner.

Eventually, they began rebuilding the city and its tourism assets. Tigtigan Terakan King Dalan started a couple of years after Pinatubo erupted. It was a sign to everyone - to the entire country and the world at large - that Angeles City was beginning a new chapter in its history. Today, Angeles City is one of the highly urbanized cities, not only in the province but also in the whole region.

There are a lot of things to do in Angeles City now. If you visit the city in October, you'll surely be mesmerized by its heritage sites, festivals, culinary offerings, and most especially, by the hospitality of the Angelenos.

13 Camalig
14 Tacloban

Tacloban is one of the most scenic and picturesque cities in the Philippines. It is a charming, peaceful, and idyllic town with all the conveniences and amenities of a modern city.

The city offers a variety of good hotels, resorts, malls, and restaurants. There are also several reputable schools and universities within the city, including U.P. Tacloban is ideal for families, retirees, and tourists alike.

Tacloban, dubbed as "The Queen City of the Orient Seas" and "The Gateway to Central East Philippines," is establishing itself as one of the important cities in the Philippines. Economic development is accelerating as businesses are rising, including high-end malls, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, and others. Tourism also plays an important role, attracting more visitors to the city via Tacloban City International Airport (formerly Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport), which is currently undergoing massive repair and improvement.

Historically, Tacloban was a former capital and seat of the commonwealth government of the Philippines. It is a good place to live because all the necessities for living, including basic services, are accessible and easily reached by its residents. Live life easy and healthy - welcome to the Queen City of the Orient Seas, the City of Tacloban - your gateway to Central East Philippines!

15 Dagupan

The Independent component city is small but excellent. It is one of the 12 metros of the Philippines. It is the Bangus Capital of the world, I should say. A central hub of Commercial, Financial, Education, Medical activities, and more in north Manila.

It is the meeting place for everyone because there are lots of things to do. Center of Fun, Enjoyments, and Momentum. For me, this is the place of energetic people. Inspired city.

Most proactive and humble people in Northern Luzon. Proactive people take responsibility. They never blame the government because they are responsible for their lives.

They use excellent language to communicate with each other to serve either the locals or the needs of the tourists as an indicator of how they see and respect themselves. Small but excellent city to be proud of.

16 Makati

Makati City is the business capital of the Philippines and is highly comparable to New York City. It offers several types of professions related to ABM and STEM, including Computer Science and Engineering, as well as lower-level jobs like carpentry and police work. The first thing to note is that Makati is eco-friendly. It is home to numerous trees and encourages malls to be eco-friendly by featuring mini gardens, such as those in the heart of the Greenbelt Mall Chain by Ayala Corporation.

The second thing to note is that the city houses the main contributors to national financial security, as well as the stock exchange. Thirdly, Makati offers a considerable number of entertainment options, usually modern ones like museums. Lastly, educational offerings in the city focus on Computer Science, Mathematics, and technology (e.g., Makati Science High School). All these features are maintained and promoted by the cooperative "rogue" dynasty of Makati.

*The Binay Dynasty is called rogue because they devise ways to steal from the rich and distribute or spend it for the older generation's benefits, and sometimes, for the sake of helping the poor at all costs (still, please limit the corruption).*

17 Taguig

Taguig City's programs have greatly assisted many of its citizens. While the local government focuses on improving the city's physical features, they have also provided numerous programs to help the citizens.

They have bridged the gap that prevents people from receiving aid in their various aspirations. Educational, health, and employment assistance have been distributed closely and fairly, offering an opportunity for all. Good governance is a significant factor in a city's improvement.

The Philippines' Premier City 2020.

A global city (also called a world city or sometimes an alpha city or world center) is a city generally considered to be an important node in the global economic system.

No wonder, in every country, there can only be one city called Global City, and that is in the City of Taguig.

18 New Washington, Aklan
19 Legazpi

If Legazpi City fully develops, it will no doubt be the most beautiful city not just in the Philippines, but in Asia and the world. This city has lots of potential that other cities don't have. Nature's beauty is already there. What it needs are wider roads, high-rise buildings, and industrial parks. Additionally, Legazpi needs to develop its international seaport, as it is the largest city in the country facing the Pacific Ocean, aside from the new international airport that will be operational in a few years.

It should also develop its beautiful black sand beaches and the white sand beaches in nearby neighboring municipalities and islands that are waiting for big-time investors, both local and international. The Philippines is going to have a developed city on the Pacific. I hope the government will do its best for Legazpi City's great future and for the country as a whole.

20 Tarlac

The next big thing in Central Luzon sooner will be called "The Gateway City of the North" since Tarlac City provides all the routes from South to North and from East to West of Luzon. It ignites all the Culture of Central Luzon that makes it well known to be the Melting Pot of Central Luzon where Kapampangan, Ilocano, and Tagalog are the main inhabitants of the city. Known as the Cradle of People Power Icons "The Aquinos," the home of the True Cross of Jesus Christ (at Monasterio de Tarlac), Tarlac City has tremendous growth in commercial buildings. Right now, Tarlac City has four established malls (Robinsons Place Luisita, SM City Tarlac, Metrotown Mall, and Magic Star Mall) and two are under construction (Palm Plaza and Citiwalk Tarlac).

21 Tabaco
22 Puerto Princesa

As a Canadian, I have lived in and traveled a large part of the Philippines. When I arrived in Puerto Princesa for the first time, I decided within the first three hours that I wanted to live there when I retire (early, I hope)! I purchased a house in the excellent Camella subdivision. The area boasts amazing waters, history, nature, wildlife, and the kindest locals I have ever had the honor to meet.

Geologically, it also has no earthquakes, volcanoes, or typhoons, except at the very tip in Coron during the largest one a couple of years ago. It sits on a different tectonic plate than the rest of the Philippines. See you in a couple of weeks!

23 General Santos

I'm originally from Quezon City, but I have been living and working in GenSan for a decade now. My son was born here. The city is rapidly progressing in terms of economic activities and booming population. People from all over the country are attracted to its unique combination of urban amenities and rural flavor.

Its exotic multicultural mix, adventurous history as a settlement, and the visionary legacy of its founder and namesake, General Santos, are evident in its well-planned zones, wide avenues, and broad boulevards. All of these factors testify to its potential as the future gateway of the south, given its position as the Philippines' southernmost tip city.

24 Vigan

It is a World Heritage Site, as it is one of the few Hispanic towns left in the Philippines. The city is well-known for its cobblestone streets and unique architecture that blends Philippine and Oriental building designs and construction with colonial European architecture.

It is one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the Philippines and truly a child-friendly city. No wonder this beautiful city is loved by tourists. This is not only for its remarkable structures but also because of its good people.

25 Zamboanga

One of the highly urbanized cities in Mindanao, the City of Flowers is the third-largest city in terms of land area and the sixth most populous city in the Philippines. Known for its unique Creole Spanish, known as Chavacano, the city has a strong Hispanic influence, earning it the name of Asia's Latin City. Despite having been a city since 1936, locals still refer to the city center as "pueblo" due to its significance during the American colonial period.

The city has many "firsts" to its name: it was the site of the first Catholic diocese in Mindanao and, in the pre-WWII period, was the center of all Mindanao. The city is on the path to rise from lagging behind other cities in Mindanao to becoming one of the most prosperous cities in the region.

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