Davao expands seawards by building four islands

Manila

IN the shadow of the Philippines' highest volcano, Davao city's reputation as one of the safest, most vibrant and best-run cities in the country is drawing migrants and business people in their thousands. But there's nowhere to put them.

Encompassed by hills to the north, the Celebes Sea to the south-east and the looming presence of Mt Apo to the west, Davao has become a victim of its own success, and an archetype of modern urbanisation in developing countries, where inward migration is outstripping governments' ability to supply infrastructure and services.

The economy of Davao region, which includes the city, expanded 9.4 per cent in 2014, the fastest in the country, and is expecte…