SINCE 2017, dozens of local government units (LGUs) have been the recipients of The Manila Times (TMT) Model Cities and Municipalities Awards in recognition of their steadfast commitment to sustainability and good governance. These LGUs have achieved social development, improvement of livelihood, economic growth, and expansion through innovation.

Bacolod City won the Best Model City award in 2017 and 2019, while Davao City was the 2018 winner. There were no awardees from 2020 to 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and when it resumed in 2023, the Best Model City awardee was Calamba City, Laguna.