BAGUIO CITY – The Cordillera Regional Development Council (RDC-CAR) led the launching of the Cordillera Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023-2028 recently, 2023, at the BENECO Headquarters in Baguio City. Development partners from the public and private sectors joined the celebration while regional stakeholders, officials, and staff from the NEDA Headquarters and its regional offices participated through online platforms.
The event’s theme, “Together toward socioeconomic transformation for a prosperous, inclusive, resilient Cordillera Region”, embraces the importance of the Plan to the region.
Apayao Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr., Chairperson of the RDC, recognized and thanked everyone who participated in the series of plan formulation workshops. He encouraged all stakeholders to seize the opportunity to create a future that is brighter, more inclusive, and brimming with endless possibilities through the implementation of the Plan.
The event was graced by the presence of Asst. Secretary Ana Carmela Remigio, the Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon, who commended those who were involved in the crafting of the Plan, especially for considering the needs of the indigenous communities.
The event showcased the Plan’s goals and strategies to attain accelerated growth and development in the region emphasizing the region’s advocacy for regional autonomy. Mountain Province Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr., provincial governors, and a couple of mayors, with representatives from the private sector and the youth shared their messages of support for the Plan’s implementation.
Testimonials from participants of various government programs and projects contained in the previous RDP and the Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan underscored the importance of having a Plan that would guide agency actions and open opportunities for convergence.
Ms. Jocelyn Sagubo, a former Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) participant and now a licensed massage therapist through the massage therapy training under the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the DSWD, shared how the program helped her family improve their economic situation. She encouraged her fellow 4Ps participants to believe in themselves and strive to graduate from the program so that others will also have the chance to better their lives.
Farmer Mr. Ignacio Kalinggan testified that the farm-to-market road (FMR) program of the DA and DPWH shortened travel time and allowed suppliers to go directly to the farmers resulting in better quality products sold in the market. He shared that before the construction of the road, many of their products get damaged or spoiled before they get to the markets.
The Cordillera RDP 2023-2028 will serve as the region’s road map for the term of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. It was formulated in collaboration with various stakeholders such as regional line agencies, local government units, the academe, and the private sector. To access the Plan, please visit the link https://bit.ly/CARRDP2023-2028. By Victor Eugene Caccam
