In last week’s column I mentioned that Tacloban City is a net out-migration city. You might, therefore, want to know what the figures are for the three other cities in Region VIII, namely: Calbayog, Ormoc and Maasin.

The figures are equally surprising as they were for Tacloban City. Both Calbayog and Ormoc are net out-migration areas, but Maasin is a net in-migration area.
For the period 1995-2000, 5,729 in-migrated to Ormoc City while 16,210 out-migrated, for a net out-migration of 10, 481.

For the same period 4,556 in-migrated to Calbayog City while 8,827 out-migrated, for a net out-migration of 4, 721.

On the other hand, for Maasin City the figures are: 3,045 in-migrated and 2, 631 out-migrated for a net in-migration of 414.

These data show that our cities (with the exception of Maasin) are not able to hold on to their populations. There are more residents who leave than those who come in.

Undoubtedly, urban problems discourage these out-migrants. Foremost would be lack of employment opportunities. A second reason could be the increasing cost of living. A third reason could be the quality of life which could include poor housing facilities and inadequate water supply.

Despite this out-migration, the populations of these cities keep on growing as the number of births exceeds net out-migration.

These trends lead us to think of possibilities such as the need to promote activities which directly provide employment opportunities.

Also, social services must be dramatically improved so that the quality of life can be better.
In all these, the national and local governments must work together and combine their resources.
Urban problems can be managed by starting from an accurate understanding of the situation.