The Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022, anchored on the 0-10 Socio-Economic Agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte geared towards the long-term vision or AmBisyon Natin 2040, was launched in Iloilo through the Aksyon Para sa Ambisyon: PDP 2017-2022 Roadshow on July 14 in SM Cinema 1, SM City, Iloilo City.
The main event was attended by more than 500 participants composed of members of the Regional Development Council in Western Visayas (RDC VI), heads and representatives of the different regional line agencies, local government units, private sector and nongovernment organizations, financial institutions, business groups and professional groups. It was also attended by students, teachers and professors of state universities and colleges and higher education institutions, and media practitioners from all over the region.
A Pledge of Commitment led by Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao of Antique who is also the chairperson of the RDC in Iloilo, was recited by the participants, who committed to help realize the PDP’s goals, objectives and strategies
The event started with a press conference held in Live Restaurant, SM City Southpoint and attended by representatives from the print and broadcast media in Western Visayas. The panel of resource persons included NEDA Assistant Secretary (Asec) Mercedita Sombilla, NEDA Regional Office in Western Visayas (NRO VI) Regional Director (RD) Ro-Ann Bacal, Assistant RD Raul Anlocotan and NRO VI Division Chiefs and staff. Questions from the media focused on the PDP 2017-2022, Ambisyon Natin 2040 and the proposed major infrastructure projects in Western Visayas.
At the main event, RD Bacal delivered the welcome message while Asec Sombilla discussed the overview of the PDP and Ambisyon Natin 2040. This was followed by messages delivered by the following resource persons: Mr. Jose Mari Oquiñena of Gawad Kalinga on Malasakit: Promoting Philippine Culture and Values; Engr. Victoria Harriette Ong–Banzon, Vice-Chairperson of Pueblo de Panay on Pagbabago: Increasing Access to Economic Opportunities; and Atty. Irene Mae B. Alcobilla, 2014 Bar Examinations topnotcher on Patuloy Na Pag-unlad: Reaching the Full Potential of the Demographic Dividend.
Intermission numbers were provided by Mr. Joey Ayala, renowned Filipino songwriter, singer, and staunch advocate for the Indigenous Peoples; Dagyaw Bayle Choristers of the School for the Arts of the Iloilo National High School; and Francine Kate Rusia, Palarong Pambansa Ribbon Gymnast from the Central Philippine University.
NEDA Western Visayas
Photos by NEDA Western Visayas