MATI, Davao Oriental -- Governor Niño Uy recently joined fellow Regional Development Council (RDC) Chairpersons in the country to meet with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to discuss RDC Priority Programs and Projects (PAPs). The meeting took place in the State Dining Room of Malacañan Palace on April 30, 2024.

During the meeting, Governor Uy presented to the President Davao Region’s top Priority Programs and Projects. These projects are the following:

* Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge,

* Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), and

* Mindanao Railway Project Phase 1 (Tagum-Davao-Digos Segment)

The presentation aimed to obtain the President’s endorsement and the support of all relevant agencies to incorporate RDC’s initiatives into the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 or FY 2026 budget.

The proposed amendments included updates on membership, additional RDC functions, improved regional investment programming and budgeting, and Presidential appointments for the RDC Chairperson and Co-Chairperson, among other significant improvements.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged the Regional Development Councils to raise their needs and concerns as he rallied them to assume their role in developing the various regions in the country.

The President has conveyed at several events the need to reactivate RDCs’ role to ensure the inclusion of local inputs to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP).

The meeting concluded with an oath-taking ceremony of the Regional Development Council Chairpersons, administered by no less than President Marcos.

Governor Uy, who has rendered his services beyond the province of Davao Oriental, is optimistic and hopeful for more development in the Davao Region that would uplift the lives of people not only in his home province but throughout the entire region. (PIO DAVOR)