Infrastructure Development:

Upgrading and expanding infrastructure in Mangatarem can significantly improve the municipality's
competitiveness. This includes improving roads, bridges, ports, airports, and public transportation
systems. Good infrastructure facilitates the efficient movement of goods and people, attracting
businesses and investors. Additionally, it enhances connectivity with neighboring regions and
facilitates trade and commerce.

Economic Diversification:

To enhance competitiveness, LGU Mangatarem should focus on diversifying its economy. Relying
on a single industry or sector can make the region vulnerable to economic downturns. Encouraging
the growth of diverse industries, such as agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and technology, can
create a more stable and resilient local economy.

Human Capital Investment:

Investing in human capital is crucial for LGU Mangatarem's long-term competitiveness. This includes
improving education and skills training programs, promoting entrepreneurship, and attracting and
retaining skilled professionals. A well-educated and skilled workforce can support a wide range of
industries and attract businesses seeking talent.

Technology and Innovation:

Embracing technology and promoting innovation can give LGU Mangatarem a competitive edge.
Encouraging the establishment of technology parks, providing support for startups and research
institutions, and implementing smart city initiatives can attract technology-driven businesses and
create a conducive environment for innovation.

Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs):

SMEs are the backbone of any local economy. LGU Mangatarem can implement policies and
initiatives to support and nurture SMEs, such as providing financial assistance, access to markets,
and business development services. Supporting SMEs can lead to job creation, economic growth,
and increased competitiveness.

Sustainable Development and Environmental Conservation:

Promoting sustainable development practices and environmental conservation can enhance LGU's
attractiveness to investors and tourists. Eco-friendly initiatives, green energy projects, and
sustainable tourism practices not only contribute to the preservation of natural resources but also
improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):

LGU Mangatarem can explore opportunities for partnerships with private sector entities to leverage
expertise, resources, and funding for various projects. PPPs can help expedite infrastructure
development, enhance service delivery, and promote investments in the region.

Implementing these strategies will require effective planning, coordination, and execution by the
local government. By investing in infrastructure, diversifying the economy, nurturing human capital,
embracing technology, supporting SMEs, promoting sustainability, and leveraging partnerships, LGU
Mangatarem can become more competitive and attractive to businesses, investors, and residents
alike. A comprehensive approach that addresses these key areas will foster sustainable growth and
prosperity for the region.

What do you think would be the best strategy to take in making your LGU more
competitive? You may select the strategy that your LGU is using or the strategy that has
not been applied yet by your LGU. How can this strategy increase your LGU's
competitiveness?

Leaning more towards economic development as a priority, the municipality of Mangatarem has already
established some strategies for its competitiveness. But then again, improvement, consistency, and
adaptability in the new strategies on new media of economic development shall also be established. One
strategy that has yet to be applied to our municipality is the establishment of an Economic Database.
Data used to study or review our economic progress was from specific offices with the on-ground data
such as the Business Permit and Licensing Office, and Local Agriculture Office. A centralized database has
yet to be established. Hence, this would be beneficial, especially in assessing the problems in our
economic progress. In addition, this would also serve as a backbone for generating sustainable strategies
for the competitiveness of the municipality. Strategies for income generation of LGU, marketing, and
branding of the existing businesses, improvement and building more infrastructure, technological and
human resource advancement, and PPP with new investments will generally be a vital part of developing
the economic environment to invite more investors and sustain and eventually develop the existing
economy.

OCBBFCL 2023: My LGU's Competitive Advantage

Based on the competitive profile of your hometown, which industry or sector will your city
have the highest competitive advantage? This is an individual activity. Please do not forget to
indicate your name and LGU before submitting your response. Thank you.

Strategic location

Diverse industries

Skilled manpower

ECONOMIC DYNAMISM- Safety Compliant Business

GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY- Compliance to ARTA Citizens Charter; Getting Business Permits

INFRASTRUCTURE- Availability of Basic Utilities

RESILIENCY- Local Risk Assessment

INNOVATION- ICT Use: E-BPLS Software

On the basis of CMCI, the sector with highest competitive advantage in the Municipality of Mangatarem
are Resiliency and Government Efficiency. With its desire to good governance, the LGU continue its
mandate for common good and general welfare, by being transparent and implementation of the
services for the public. In addition Strategic Location, Diverse Industries and Skilled Manpower have also
been factors on our competitive advantage.

Hindrances such as the effects of the pandemic has somehow paralyzed the economic progress of
Mangatarem. With the adaption to “new normal”, we are gradually continuing the progress that has
been paused for a while.