Central Luzon regional dev't council assures full support to executive order

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Regional Development Council (RDC) assured its full support in the continued implementation of President Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 in Central Luzon.

This institutionalized the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, and created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC).

“EO 70 harmonizes the delivery of basic services and social development packages in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities in pursuit of the country’s peace and development agenda. The NTFELCAC had been effective and decisive in addressing the root causes of insurgency that will bring an end to the armed conflict and attain an inclusive and sustainable peace,” RDC Chairperson and Bataan Governor Albert Raymond Garcia said in a message delivered by RDC Co-Chairperson Reynato Arimbuyutan during the NTF-Regional Task Force ELCAC Summing Up FY 2018-2021 and Ways Forward for 2022 and beyond session.

One of the priorities in the 2017-2022 Philippine Development Plan (PDP) is the achievement of an inclusive and sustainable peace through intensified development and other peace-building initiatives in conflict affected and vulnerable communities.

“PDP 2017-2022, the first medium-term plan anchored on a long-term vision for the country AmBisyon Natin 2040 - was specifically designed to cultivate growth and reduce inequality between the regions. A critical strategy of the PDP is to direct development to key areas throughout the country and connect these growth areas,” Garcia explained.

Central Luzon Regional Development Plan (CLRDP) 2017-2022 is similarly anchored on Ambisyon Natin 2040. It is a regional translation of the thrusts and priorities of the PDP.

“RDP reflects the development agenda of the Duterte administration highlighting the role of the region in achieving the overall goal of inclusive

growth, a high trust society, and a competitive knowledge economy. Development strategies needed to sustain Central Luzon’s growth trajectory to advance the regional economy are embodied in the plan,” he added.

“We at the RDC welcome this strategic initiative that complements the recently completed study, the Integrated Infrastructure and Investment Development Plan for the Investment Corridors in Central Luzon,” Garcia said.

This strategy is set to expand the infrastructure base of the region, encourage local interactions, ensure food security, advance human capital, promote industrial growth and effect sound urban development.

“The remaining months leading up to the 2022 national and local elections in May represent a window of opportunity for our region to emerge stronger and resilient. The implementation of economic recovery programs will be pursued as we continually address the COVID-19 pandemic,” Garcia ended. (PIA 3)