Nograles vows to work to ensure all Dabawenyos benefit from local economy
“DAVAO City is one of the nation’s largest economies among highly urbanized cities (HUCs), yet our per capita GDP doesn’t reflect this prosperity for every Dabawenyo. It’s time we bridge this gap and ensure that the benefits of our economic growth are felt by all.”
This according to former congressman and Civil Service Commission Chair Karlo Nograles, who explained that while recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows that Davao City’s total economic output ranks among the top ten in the country, its per capita GDP lags behind other highly urbanized cities.
According to Nograles, “this means that while our city generates significant wealth, it is not translating into better incomes and opportunities for many of Davao City residents. For us, this is a challenge we must address.”
“Our goal should be clear: elevate Davao City’s per capita GDP into the top 10 nationwide. Achieving this means not just growing our economy but ensuring that every Dabawenyo benefits from this growth,” Nograles emphasized.
Nograles said that he envisions a Davao City that thrives not only as a commercial hub but as a city where economic success reaches every household.
To accomplish this, the longtime public servant is pushing for major reforms, including the full digitization of City Hall services to streamline government transactions, reduce red tape, and create a more business-friendly environment. Nograles has also advocated for modernizing Davao’s transport system to improve mobility and attract more investors. Additionally, he wants to position Davao as Mindanao’s leading e-commerce and tech hub, capitalizing on digital industries that generate high-value jobs and increased incomes.
Beyond infrastructure and economic policies, Nograles stressed that “we are also committed to investing in Davao’s youth. We should expand scholarship and training programs to equip young Dabawenyos with the skills needed for emerging industries. Sila ang susi dito.”
As a congressman, Nograles spearheaded scholarship initiatives in the first district, opening doors for thousands of students to pursue higher education and technical training. Nograles said he plans to scale up these efforts, ensuring that every young Dabawenyo has access to quality education and opportunities that will prepare them for high-paying jobs in technology, finance, healthcare, and other key sectors.
Nograles pointed out that “inclusive economic policies must be at the heart of Davao’s growth, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, not just a select few. We need stronger support for local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to drive job creation and sustain long-term development. Investments in education, healthcare, and housing are equally crucial to improving the quality of life and making sure that Dabawenyos are empowered to participate in and benefit from the city’s progress.”
He added that “the strength of Davao City lies in our people—their resilience, creativity, and determination. By working together and implementing these strategies, we can transform our economic landscape and ensure that prosperity is shared by all.”
“Let’s unite to make Davao City not only a leader in total economic output but also a beacon of inclusive growth and shared success. Sa Davao, pagdating sa ekonomiya at Kauswagan, kauban ta.”
