DEPDev Regional Office I - Ilocos

𝗥𝗗𝗖-𝟭 𝗣𝗨𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗕𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟𝗢𝗣𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗔 𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘, 𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡, 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗖𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗘

The Regional Development Council-I (RDC-1), led by Chairperson Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, strengthened its role as the Ilocos Region’s top policy-making and development -coordinating body during its 2nd Quarter Full Council Meeting on June 17, 2026, in San Fernando City, La Union, as it supported key investments such as the proposed Poro Point Deepwater Project and promoted stronger collaboration to support a resilient, inclusive, competitive, and sustainable regional future.

A major highlight of the meeting was the Council’s strong support for the proposed PhP 2-billion Poro Point Deepwater Project, which aims to develop Poro Point into a key economic gateway in Northern Luzon by building a deepwater port that can handle larger vessels, improve cargo movement, and support fisheries, trade, logistics, and maritime activities, while creating around 1,095 to over 1,450 jobs for local communities.

In line with its mandate to support transformative investments, RDC-1 endorsed seven high-impact development initiatives across education, agriculture, innovation, enterprise development, and institutional strengthening. These include the Supporting Innovation in Philippine Technical Vocational Education and Training Systems (SIPTVETS) Project, which aims to modernize technical-vocational education in Region I; the Project for Learning Upgrade Support and Decentralization (PLUS-D), which seeks to improve learners’ literacy and numeracy; and the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Investment Portfolio (RAFIP), which will serve as a framework for increasing agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.

The Council also endorsed the Advancing Skills, Competitiveness, and Enterprise Development (ASCEND) Project, to be implemented through Mariano Marcos State University, which focuses on renewable energy research and green transition technologies; the Inclusive Partnerships for Agrarian Reform Communities (IPARC) Project, which aims to help agrarian reform beneficiaries improve productivity and market participation; and the Promoting Sustainability and Productivity for Enterprise Resilience and Upscaling (PROSPER) Project, which seeks to modernize agro-fishery enterprises and cooperatives through innovation, technology upgrading, and capacity development. RDC-1 also approved the inclusion of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) as a special non-voting member to strengthen policy feedback, project monitoring, and implementation support.

Alongside these economic priorities, RDC-1 also emphasized the importance of preserving the region’s culture and identity through the strengthening and institutionalization of the Region I Inabel Industry as a flagship cultural and economic product. By promoting Inabel, the Council aims to protect traditional weaving practices, support local artisans and cooperatives, strengthen regional branding, and create sustainable livelihoods rooted in cultural preservation, ensuring that Region I’s development remains anchored in heritage, authenticity, and identity for future generations. 𝒇𝒔𝒂

𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗦𝗘𝗡 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜’𝗦 𝗚𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦, 𝗚𝗔𝗣𝗦, 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗨𝗦𝗛 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗣𝗘𝗢𝗣𝗟𝗘-𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟𝗢𝗣𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧

The Regional Development Council-I (RDC-1) approved the 2025 Regional Development Report (RDR), a key report that measures how far Region I has progressed in carrying out the Ilocos Regional Development Plan (RDP). Presented during the State of the Region Address by RDC-1 Vice Chairperson and DEPDev Regional Director Stephanie F. Christiansen, the report emphasized that development should not be measured by numbers alone, but by how much it improves the daily lives of people and communities.

Christiansen described the report as “not a ceremony of numbers but an accounting of a promise,” stressing that government must always ask whether its programs and services are truly reaching people on the ground. She said economic growth only becomes meaningful when it results in better public services, more opportunities, safer communities, quality education, accessible health care, dignified work, and stronger protection for vulnerable sectors.

The 2025 RDR showed that Region I grew by 4.5 percent, the fastest among Northern Luzon regions, supported by gains in services, manufacturing, agriculture support, and innovation. The region also improved in employment, food sufficiency, irrigation, digital connectivity, financial inclusion, and disaster risk reduction. The report pointed to urgent gaps in health, education, livelihood, housing, and food production, including rising maternal mortality, more deaths from non-communicable diseases, declining school enrollment and cohort survival rates, increasing child labor, housing delays, and production shortfalls in corn, fish, poultry, and livestock.

Christiansen called for stronger teamwork among government agencies, local leaders, and development partners to make growth more inclusive and more deeply felt by ordinary citizens. She emphasized that “Region 1 is strong, but it must become stronger. It is growing, but growth must be felt more deeply. It is moving forward, but those at the margins must move with us.” The 2025 RDR will serve as an important guide for future policies, programs, and investments anchored on evidence-based, inclusive, and people-centered development. The 2025 RDR was developed in close collaboration with regional government agencies, and vetted by the RDC Sectoral Committees to ensure that the region’s agenda remains accurate and actionable. The full RDR report will be available on the DEPDev RO1 website soon. 𝒇𝒔𝒂

📌 See related post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HGj4HgzuE/

𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗗𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗦𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: 𝗥𝗣𝗠𝗖 𝗜 𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗦 𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗧’𝗦 𝗡𝗕𝗣-𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗡𝗘𝗧 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗦
𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦

The Regional Project Monitoring Committee I (RPMC I), chaired by Director Stephanie F. Christiansen of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region I, inspected the infrastructure facilities and operations of the San Fernando Government Network (GovNet) under the National Broadband Program (NBP) of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region I. The NBP is an Infrastructure Flagship Project monitored by the RPMC as part of its mandate to facilitate implementation of the region’s priority government programs and projects and ensure their contribution to improved service delivery and enhanced digital connectivity, and inclusive socio- economic development in the region.

Before the field visit, DICT Region 1 provided updates on the implementation of GovNet, a key component of the NBP that provides secure, reliable, and high-speed internet connectivity to government agencies and public institutions. Through enhanced digital connectivity, the project aims to improve inter-agency coordination, facilitate the delivery of government services, and support the country’s broader digital transformation agenda.

The RPMC I members visited selected GovNet sites in San Fernando City, La Union, including the Provincial Government of La Union, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Land Transportation Office, and Social Security System. The visits enabled the monitoring team to validate project accomplishments, assess operational status, and gather feedback from beneficiary institutions regarding the project’s implementation and utilization.

The team also visited the Cable Landing Station in Poro, City of San Fernando, La Union, which was established in 2023. The facility forms part of the country’s digital infrastructure and provides internet bandwidth through its direct submarine cable link to the United States.

The monitoring activity underscored the importance of sustained investments in digital infrastructure as a key driver of expanded access to reliable internet services, improved government efficiency, and socio-economic development. Through regular project monitoring and coordination with implementing agencies, RPMC I continues to support the timely and effective implementation of strategic infrastructure projects, helping advance a more connected and digitally-enabled Region I.

Members of the RPMC 1 present during the visit were representatives from the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Interior and Local Government, Office of the President - Presidential Management Staff, and the RDC Private Sector Representative for Infrastructure Development. 𝒋𝒑𝒑

𝗜𝗗𝗖-𝟭 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗖 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦
𝗧𝗢 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗧𝗛

The Infrastructure Development Committee 1 (IDC-1) of the Regional Development Council 1 advanced key infrastructure initiatives aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, enhancing economic competitiveness, and supporting sustainable development in Region 1 during its 2nd Quarter Regular Meeting on June 3, 2026, held at the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Regional Office 1 and via online platform.

Chaired by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office 1 and co-chaired by Arch. Dwayne Gaius R. Japson, Private Sector Representative for Infrastructure, the meeting convened regional government agencies, local government units, and private-sector members to address priority infrastructure needs and initiatives for the region’s long-term development objectives.

Key highlights of the meeting include the presentation of the proposed Poro Point Deepwater Port Project of the Department of Agriculture- Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (DA-PFDA). The project seeks to modernize and expand port facilities in the Poro Point Freeport Zone, strengthening Northern Luzon’s role as a strategic hub for trade, logistics, and investment. The Committee urged the fast-tracking of all requirements and institutional arrangements between the Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC) and the DA-PFDA to ensure the seamless collaboration and swift implementation of the project.Once implemented, the project is expected to improve the movement of goods, enhance agricultural and fisheries trade, and expand opportunities for both domestic and international market access.

The committee also endorsed the Region 1 component of the Pang-Agraryong Tulay para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka or PBBM Bridges Project of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). This vital program constructs modular steel bridges to connect remote agrarian reform communities with town centers, markets, schools, and health facilities.
The committee also discussed updates in the Energy Development Sector, emphasizing the need to meet growing electricity demand through greater use of renewable energy sources. Consequently, the committee approved the Infrastructure Component of the Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES) Monitoring Plan and 1st Quarter Report for 2026, as it supports the region’s goals of expanding renewable energy, improving electricity access, strengthening energy security, and promoting sustainable economic growth in Region 1.

In support of evidence-based planning and effective infrastructure governance, IDC-1 approved the Infrastructure Sector Chapter of the 2025 Ilocos Regional Development Report, which provides an assessment of the region’s infrastructure sector performance and development outcomes as well as approved the Infrastructure Component of the Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES) Monitoring Plan and 1st Quarter Report for 2026, reinforcing efforts to strengthen project monitoring, implementation, and accountability across infrastructure programs and projects.

Through these actions, the IDC-1 continues to drive regional infrastructure planning and coordination, promote strategic investments, and support the development of resilient and efficient infrastructure systems that will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life of communities across the Ilocos Region. 𝒋𝒑𝒑

𝗥𝗚𝗔𝗗𝗖 𝗜 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗡𝗦 𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗘𝗙𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦, 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗦 𝗘𝗫𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗦

The Regional Gender and Development Council 1 (RGADC 1) reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender-sensitive governance and strengthening gender mainstreaming efforts across Region 1 during its 2nd Quarter Regular Meeting held on June 4, 2026 at Ynad’s Resort, City of San Fernando, La Union and via online platform. The meeting highlighted key initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and enhancing the integration of gender perspectives in regional development planning and implementation.

Chaired by Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology Region 1, the meeting was attended by representatives from local government units, regional government agencies, state universities and colleges, and development partners, to discuss priority gender and development (GAD) concerns and identify strategies to further advance gender-responsive policies and programs in the region.

A major highlight of the meeting was the preparation for the Executive Briefing on Gender and Development scheduled on July 23, 2026, in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women. The Executive Briefing aims to enhance the appreciation and understanding of agency heads, local chief executives, regional directors, and other institutional leaders on GAD principles and to guide effective gender mainstreaming in the formulation and implementation of policies, programs, and projects. Dr. Tabaog emphasized that meaningful gender mainstreaming requires sustained collaboration, strong institutional support, and committed leadership across all levels of governance. She noted that support from agency heads and local chief executives is crucial in translating GAD policies into concrete actions that promote gender equality, address gender-based violence, and ensure that development initiatives benefit all sectors of society.

Other key agenda items tackled during the meeting included the updates on the activities of the different Technical Working Groups relative to the Regional GAD Communication Plan, Region 1 GAD Resource Pool and certification, GAD incentive Award, and Dayaw ti Agimanman Award. The highlights of the 2026 GAD Convention cm Women’s Month Celebration were also presented.

Through these initiatives, RGADC 1 continues to strengthen institutional mechanisms for gender mainstreaming, promote the use of gender-responsive data and evidence-based planning, and foster a more inclusive and equitable development environment throughout Region 1. 𝒋𝒑𝒑

In compliance with Section 50 of the IRR of Republic Act No. 12009 or the New Government Procurement Act, the DEPDev Regional Office 1 through its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) publishes its procurement project announcements through this social media platform and agency website:
https://dro1.depdev.gov.ph/bid-announcements/

Dir. Stephanie F. Christiansen, RDC-1 Vice-Chairperson and DEPDev RO1 Regional Director, delivered the 𝗖𝗬 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 during the CY 2026 Second Quarter Meeting of the RDC-1 Full Council last 17 June 2026 at the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center, Sevilla, San Fernando City, La Union.

What factors affect the reliability and cost of electricity supply?

A PIDS study points to delays in grid expansion, regulatory gaps, and coordination failures that cause transmission congestion and raise system-wide costs. The study urges reforms to strengthen regulatory capacity, accelerate permitting and right-of-way acquisition, improve cost-recovery rules, and enhance coordination to deliver reliable and affordable electricity.

Click here to read the full article:
https://www.pids.gov.ph/publication/development-research-news/institutional-weaknesses-governance-risks-could-weigh-on-ph-economic-momentum-pids-study-warns

Download the full study here:
https://doi.org/10.62986/dp2025.57