PBBM meets with Bicol RDC, discusses dev’t challenges

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday met with members of the Bicol Regional Development Council (RDC) to discuss regional development accomplishments, challenges, and ongoing initiatives.

In a media release, the National Economic and Development Authority in Bicol (NEDA-5) said the meeting with the President at the Digital Transformation Center in Pili town, Camarines Sur province was attended by provincial leaders, mayors, national and regional government officials, and private sector representatives.

The discussions centered on significant progress across various sectors, focusing on key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting economic and social growth in the region.

NEDA Undersecretary Joseph Capuno shared updates on ongoing projects and the actions being taken to address critical issues.

While the presentation of accomplishments is encouraging, the meeting also addressed several ongoing challenges.

Among the top priorities were infrastructure issues, particularly in the wake of perennial flooding, poor inter- and intra-regional connectivity, and deteriorating highways like the Andaya and Daang Maharlika.

The President was briefed on these challenges, and discussions focused on how national and local governments can collaborate effectively to resolve them.

Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte Padilla, Bicol RDC chairperson, took the opportunity to share specific issues facing their province and sought presidential support and action.

They raised concerns ranging from inadequate infrastructure and limited education and healthcare facilities, among others.

President Marcos emphasized the importance of crafting a new masterplan to mitigate flooding risks and enhance the resilience of local communities.

“The most critical issue in your region is the flooding in the Bicol River Basin. We really have to find a solution, through the upgraded Master Plan of the Bicol River Basin. We have to make more adjustments. We have to do it differently,” he said.

The President also highlighted the need to improve healthcare services through amendments to existing healthcare policies.

He said enhancing healthcare access and quality would be essential in responding to the needs of the Bicolanos, particularly in light of ongoing public health challenges.

He underscored the importance of a strong partnership between local government units and national agencies to efficiently address regional challenges.

The President’s proactive stance, exemplified by his recent issuance of Executive Order No. 82, s. 2025, aims to empower the RDCs to take a stronger role in shaping their development agendas.

The Bicol RDC members expressed their appreciation for the President’s support, emphasizing that these efforts would lead to more sustainable and inclusive growth across the region. (PNA)

RDC MEETING. Members of the Regional Development Council in Bicol (RDC-5) pose for a photo opportunity with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Digital Transformation Center in Pili town, Camarines Sur province on Friday (March 7, 2025). President Marcos discussed regional development accomplishments, challenges, and ongoing initiatives with the RDC members. (Photo courtesy of Roberto Layones, Provincial Government of Camarines Norte via NEDA-5 Facebook page)