Spatial Analysis of Local Competitiveness: Relationship of Economic Dynamism of Cities and Municipalities in Major Regional Metropolitan Areas in the Philippines

The measurement of cities and municipalities competitiveness in the Philippines has been put place by Department Trade Industry since 2013. However, its use as a spatial planning parameter is lacking literature. This paper reviewed factors that drive competitiveness. research revealed “economic dynamism” appeared at top contribute to influence regional development. Given urban theories, metropolitan areas were chosen most appropriate case study sites exhibit economic dynamism. “Economic Dynamism Index”, or EDi, are spatially correlated, indicative their clustering pattern space. was determined treating EDi attribute major areas. Using Moran’s I global autocorrelation analysis, observed through GIS map validated 99% significance statistics dataset. suggests “complementation” among exists rather than competition. Thus, sustainable spatial/economic development strategies can be reformulated, given interactions with higher less endowed cities/municipalities periphery.