TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The city government, through the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), recently joined the provincial government for their mandated hearing and consultation on the draft of the 2023-2028 Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP).
This collaboration aims to ensure the synchronization of the city’s development plans with the overall development framework of the province.
The PDPFP serves as a blueprint designed by the province to enhance the quality of life for its residents by establishing an enabling environment that brings social and economic services closer to the people. It addresses vital developmental concerns such as environmental preservation, urban expansion, informal settlements, climate change and disaster risks, water and sanitation issues, efficient solid waste management, traffic congestion, and other impacts of human activities.
The plan will guide component cities and municipalities, including Tabuk City, in formulating their respective comprehensive land use plans (CLUPs) to align with proposed projects and activities.
During the consultation, Provincial Planning and Development Officer Flor Moldero presented data that highlighted Tabuk City’s additional plans for the upcoming six years.
As outlined in the PDPFP draft, the city is envisioned to become a Primary Urban Service Center/Large Town, acting as a primary service hub for eco-tourism, housing hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The plan also includes various eco-tourism attractions and activities, such as Matambong Falls, white-water rafting, and the Matagoan Festival.
Additionally, designated areas for governance, commerce, private institutions, healthcare services, tertiary and vocational education, and recreational amenities are incorporated. The city’s vision further encompasses becoming a primary agri-industrial center for rice, corn, coffee, and fruit production and processing, with aspirations of transforming into a SMART CITY.
The public hearing serves as a crucial step in collecting valuable input and additional proposals from all sectors involved. Following the public hearing, the framework will be presented to the Provincial Development Council before seeking approval from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.
The event was attended by esteemed provincial officials, led by Governor James Edduba, with Vice Governor Jocel Baac, District Representative Allen Jesse Mangaoang represented by Reginald Wacas, various local governments, government agencies, the business sector, civil society, and sectoral groups. Additionally, staff from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-Cordillera were present to witness the public hearing. By Ruth Cupang
