TUBOD, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--The Regional Development Council (RDC)-10 showcased the Northern Mindanao Regional Development Plan (NMRDP) for the years 2023–2028 here.

The NMRDP aims to uplift the living standards of the people in the Northern Mindanao region and marks a significant milestone in regional development.

According to National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 10 Regional Director and RDC-10 Vice Chairperson Mylah Faye Aurora Cariño, extensive consultations were conducted as part of the planning process for the development of NMRDP.

"Diri sa Region 10, consultative jud ang atong proseso sa paghimo sa RDP. We went to all the provinces—five provinces and two highly urbanized cities. Sa paglibot sa RDC, mga gobernador jud ang niapil, naghatag sila sa ilang thrusts for the next 3 years [Here in Region 10, our process to make the RDP is consultative; we went to all the provinces, five provinces, and two highly urbanized cities. As RDC went around, the governors participated; they gave their thrusts for the next 3 years]," she said.

This consultative approach reflects a commitment to engage with local communities and leaders to fully understand their needs and aspirations, ensuring that the NMRDP is a true reflection of the collective goals and priorities of the region.

Collaborative roadshow for development

Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda "Angging" Dela Cruz Quibranza emphasized the importance of the roadshow, highlighting the collaborative efforts of local government units.

"Maayo kaayo kay at least the mayors were here. Naa tay gihimo nga workshop last year, November 2022. At least naa na ang output, pwede pa nga naay madungang unya kay there’s a lot of mayors na gusto papondohan and yet wala sya muagi og Provincial Development Council so we can endorse it to RDC [It's really good because at least the mayors were here. We conducted a workshop last year in November 2022, and now we have some output. There's even a possibility of adding more because there are many mayors who want funding, but they haven't gone through the Provincial Development Council, so we can endorse it to the RDC]," she said.

Several big projects are anticipated in Lanao del Norte as part of the NMRDP, including the completion of the Panguil Bay Bridge, the establishment of an international port in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, improvements and expansions of hospitals, and the construction of alternate and diversion roads, among others. These projects are poised to have a significant impact on the province’s infrastructure and economic development.

Collaborative support

Additionally, various sectors have pledged their support for the successful implementation of the NMRDP.

League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP)-Lanao del Norte Chapter President and Nunungan Mayor Mamay underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among various sectors and agencies to achieve the goals and objectives, stressing that it is only through such partnerships that the NMRDP can be effectively implemented.

Meanwhile, Roseller Suico Fiel II, a representative from the business sector, emphasized the need for unified support from stakeholders in the province to ensure sustainable economic growth and development.

Department of Education-Division of Lanao del Norte Schools Division Superintendent Edwin Maribojoc also pledged strong support for the NMRDP, emphasizing the plan's importance in nurturing learners and producing graduates equipped with the skills and competencies necessary for building a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive society.

Moreover, Diodie Alota, the Federated Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) representative, commended the provincial government for its unwavering support for PWDs, including the provision of devices and improvements to benefit PWDs.

The NMRDP 2023–2028 aims to create positive changes in Northern Mindanao through teamwork, inclusivity, and the determination of its people and leaders. This development roadmap is not just a plan but a commitment to enhance the well-being of all residents in the region. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)