Manila’s Sustainability Report: We May Be 93rd, But At Least We’re Consistent

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo

IN WHAT can only be described as a triumphant moment of near-adequacy, Manila has heroically claimed the 93rd spot out of 100 in the Sustainable Cities Index for 2024. That’s right, baroks—while other cities are out there basking in their green energy initiatives, world-class public transportation, and pristine air quality, Manila has managed to stay true to its roots by keeping sustainability at arm’s length.

The Backstory: Manila’s Grand Strategy

Let’s take a step back and appreciate the genius behind Manila’s sustainability approach. For years, Manila has been steadfast in its commitment to “do just enough,” avoiding the pitfalls of overachievement that can plague more “ambitious” cities like Amsterdam or Copenhagen. Why rush into progress when you can stroll, nay, dawdle toward it at a leisurely pace? After all, who wants to be in the top 10 when the bottom 10 has so much more character?

Manila’s ranking of 93rd, nestled comfortably between the bustling metropolises of Bogota and Cairo, is a testament to the city’s creative interpretations of “sustainability.” Why aim for social equity, robust waste management, or a vibrant business environment when you can master the delicate art of not-quite-there-yet?

Manila’s Pillar Power: A Balanced Approach

Now, let’s talk about those four pillars—Planet, People, Profit, and Progress. Manila shone brightest in the Planet category, coming in at a stellar 77th place. That’s right, our air is only partially unbreathable, and our waste management is a masterclass in selective efficiency. As for renewable energy? We’re definitely considering it—just as soon as we finish installing that last coal-fired power plant.

In the Profit pillar, Manila dazzled at 84th place. We may not be a global business hub, but we sure know how to keep things interesting. Social equity, ranked at 91st, reflects our unwavering dedication to the time-honored tradition of maintaining the widest possible income gap. And as for the Progress pillar—where we’ve been categorized as “Cities lacking momentum”—well, let’s just say we’re taking our sweet time. Sustainability is a marathon, not a sprint, and Manila is currently enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Manila’s Path to Sustainable Supremacy

Keep the Bar Low: Why aim for the top when you can revel in the glory of 93rd place? Manila should continue to set realistic, easily achievable goals like “less than catastrophic flooding” or “minimally functional public transport.”
Celebrate the Status Quo: Who needs radical change when you can have small, incremental improvements? Manila should take pride in its ability to change just enough to avoid a complete collapse, but not so much that anyone gets too comfortable.
Embrace the Chaos: Manila’s unique charm lies in its unpredictability. Instead of rigid sustainability plans, the city could adopt a more spontaneous approach, addressing issues as they arise—or not. After all, flexibility is key.
Forget Progress, Focus on Preservation: Manila could pioneer a new kind of sustainability—sustaining the current levels of mediocrity. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations experience the same frustrations and challenges we do today.
Expand the Definition of ‘Sustainability’: Manila should push to redefine what it means to be sustainable. Why should sustainability be about clean energy and social equity when it could just as easily be about maintaining our historical commitment to traffic jams and air pollution?

In conclusion, let’s raise a glass (preferably filled with clean water from a more sustainable city) to Manila’s remarkable achievement. While the rest of the world hurtles toward a sustainable future, Manila is perfectly content to meander its way there—eventually.