Abstract
This study has adopted a historical approach in tracing urban development of selected urban centers in Asian cities: Makati City, and Cebu City, Philippines; Taipei City, Taiwan; and Bangkok, Thailand. The study selects the certain time periods of each study area where rapid or intensive urban development was experienced. Focusing on the dynamic movements of the major urban areas, the study seeks factors which are necessary for and effective on the urban development in the Asian context. Through the study, followings were found out: i) transportation infrastructure development was basically the leading factor of the development where comprehensive planning system was existed; ii) “autocratic” planning system is also applicable approach to improve the planning system and functions of transportation infrastructure in urban development, and iii) initiatives of private sector in urban development enhance the output of investment as well as lighten the load of national and local government. (148)
