BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte -- The Planning and Development Officers of the various provinces, cities, and selected municipalities of Caraga Region recently joined their respective population officers in redirecting their local government units' Population and Development Plans and Policies, guided by the thrusts and direction of the Philippine Population and Development Program (PPDP) for 2023-2028.

In his assigned session, Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Caraga Director Alexander A. Makinano, emphasized the importance of the LGUs’ active participation in reshaping their plans and policies and be attuned with then national goals. PPDP direction largely depends on the effective management and implementation of POPDEV program by the LGUs.

POPCOM Caraga designed the activity for LGUs to identify their population-related issues and concerns, as well as to formulate strategic plans and policies that will address these challenges. The participants actively engaged in discussions and workshops, which allowed them to share experiences and good practices, as well as to exchange ideas on how to strengthen their population and development plans and policies.

The participating LGUs submitted their respective plans in strengthening their collaboration with the POPCOM Caraga to ensure the successful implementation of their POPDEV plans and policies. They thanked the commission for facilitating the said activity, which they believe will contribute to the region’s overall development.

The agency committed to provide appropriate support to LGUs to achieve their shared vision of a more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable POPDEV program in the region. POPCOM Caraga appreciated the participants for their contribution and commitment to work on the good cause of population and development. (May Ann O. Escobal, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)