Robredo’s Naga City Officially Declared as Philippines’ 34th Highly Urbanized City

NAGA CITY, Camarines Sur — Naga City has officially been declared the 34th Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in the Philippines following the signing of a presidential proclamation by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday.

The declaration marks a historic milestone for the city led by Mayor Leni Robredo, granting Naga greater administrative autonomy and expanded powers in governance and development.

According to the Naga City government, the new status will allow the city to operate with increased independence from the provincial government while improving its access to national government resources and funding opportunities.

City officials said the HUC classification is expected to strengthen urban governance, accelerate infrastructure projects, and improve public services for residents.

Prior to the declaration, Naga City formally sought national recognition as a Highly Urbanized City through a proposed resolution filed earlier this year. The resolution emphasized that the move would help the city achieve “greater administrative autonomy, improved access to national resources, and enhanced capacity for urban governance and development.”

Under the Local Government Code of the Philippines, cities may qualify for highly urbanized status if they meet specific income and population requirements set by law.

Residents and supporters welcomed the development online, calling it a major achievement for Naga City and its leadership.

The declaration also places Naga among the country’s key urban centers, opening new opportunities for economic growth, investments, and modernization in the Bicol Region.

Source: Official Naga City Government / Presidential Proclamation