ILIGAN CITY (PIA) — Officers, policymakers, local chief executives, heads of line agencies, private sector representatives, non-voting members, and guests of the Northern Mindanao Regional Development Council (RDC)-10 discussed key initiatives during its 139th Full Council Meeting on 26 September 2024 at the Northern Highlands Resort in Mimbalot, this city.
Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, RDC-10 Chairperson and Lanao del Norte Provincial Governor, presided over the meeting, which focused on regional investment programming and sustainable development interventions.
“Our agenda for today is comprehensive and forward-looking, addressing critical aspects of regional development and sustainability,” said Dimaporo.
The Council adopted the FY 2026 Annual Investment Program and Updated the Regional Development Investment Program 2023-2028, setting the stage for long-term regional growth. It also endorsed the Northern Mindanao Regional Social Development Goals (SDGs) Catch-Up Plan 2024-2030, aligning efforts with the United Nations’ SDG targets.
Also endorsed was the request for the 19th Congress to immediately pass into law the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Bill, which proposed a significant reorganization of the National Economic and Development Authority and reinforcement of the functions of the Regional Development Councils.
Also approved was the revival of the Investment Assistance Center of Northern Mindanao to streamline support for investors, aiming to attract more businesses and stimulate the regional economy. The Council also supported the creation of the Credit Surety Fund Cooperatives in the provinces and cities to improve financial access for small and medium enterprises.
In addressing health and education sector challenges, the RDC-10 endorsed policy recommendations to resolve the shortage of developmental pediatricians, allied health professionals, and special needs educators in the region. This aims to enhance services for children with developmental disabilities.
Additionally, the RDC-10 backed climate action efforts through the Panahon ng Pagkilos: PH Locally-led Climate Action Project and endorsed the Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project.
Among others, the Council also supported the Green Energy Option Program, encouraging renewable energy adoption, and requested the Supreme Court to establish a Special Expropriation Court in Northern Mindanao to expedite land acquisition for road projects.
The meeting concluded with updates on the 2023 Poverty Statistics and preparations for the 2025 National and Local Elections. (NEDA-10/PIA-10)
