Cordillera RDC private reps set plans for 2023

By Jocelyn Albao Nique

BAGUIO CITY -- Private sector representatives (PSRs) in the Cordillera Regional Development Council will be effective and responsive partners of the Council in regional development and autonomy. 
    This was reflected in their 2023 work program presented during the RDC planning conference held here Jan. 26.
    For this year and in support to the Council’s priorities, the PSRs will advocate for regional autonomy, push renewable energy, disaster risk reduction and climate enhancement, assist in peace and order, pursue good governance, culture–sensitive governance, establish networks and linkages and support socio-economic programs.
    As advocates and lobbyists for regional autonomy, they will participate in the training for speakers to build their capacities for IEC activities.
    They committed to gather manifestos of support for autonomy from civil society organizations. 
    Responding to the Council’s policy direction on the development of renewable energy, DRR and climate action, the PSRs will support initiatives of local governments, Cordillera lawmakers, academe and private sector.
    On peace and development, they will continue to engage in peace dialogues and consultations, anti-drug, anti-terrorism, peace and order campaigns and activities with concerned agencies.
    They plan to collaborate with stakeholders in the region in development monitoring and evaluation activities and capability building programs that will support livelihood development of women and other groups.
    The PSRs will be participating in the annual PSR national convention in Iloilo City in April this year to put forward regional concerns and strengthen and expand their networks.
    The 14 PSRs in the Council represent six development sectors, the labor sector endorsed by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, four provinces and Baguio City, and two basic sectors endorsed by the National Anti-Poverty Commission.
    Two geographic seats representing the provinces of Apayao and Kalinga remain vacant.
    Executive Order 325 which provides reorganization of RDCs in the country allows 25 percent private sector representation.
    The NEDA-CAR, led by Regional Director Susan A. Sumbeling, provides technical assistance to the PSRs in their efforts to be effective partners in regional development.