INSIDETHISISSUE
RGADC empowers local leaders, GADvocates in
Nueva Vizcaya Guv hosts anti-overloading dialogue
conducts maiden meeting for
bags Philippine Quality Award Regional Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management
First
leads TechBridge 2025, inaugurates Philippine Citrus Resources Development Center
Quirino
Isabela farmers prepare to study
ManagingEditor
AssociateEditor&Lay-out ANGELICAU CABADING
Contributors
RDCCommitteeSecretariats RDCMember-Agencies
News and feature articles are welcome and may be submitted to the RDC2 Secretariat c/o DEPDev Cagayan Valley However, the RDC2 reserves the right to choose articles for publication. Comments and suggestions are also accepted
CY 2024 REPORT
Inflation settled at 3.4 percent duringtheyear,slowingdownfrom 46 percent experienced in 2023 This was driven by the heavily weighted food and non-alcoholic beverage group as rice and corn prices surged due to El Niño Price hikes in vegetables also contributed to food inflation as typhoons and heavy rains in the fourth quarter affected their production
Employment in the region averaged at 96.7 percent, above the national level at 957 percent However, underemployment remained high, increasing to 19.6 percent from 16.2 percent in 2023. The uptick was partly due to inclementweatheraffectingjobsin the agriculture sector and forcing businesssuspensions
Palayproductiondeclinedbythree percentduetotheadverseeffects of El Niño and La Niña, and the series of typhoons during the last quarter of the year. Despite the decline in production, the region remained the second palay producer in the country next to Central Luzon, contributing 15 percent of the total national palay output
Corn production was estimated at twomillionmetrictons(mt)orless than one percent (035%) lower than the previous year’s production despite the setbacks facedbytheagriculturesector The region maintained its position as the top corn-producing region in the country, with a 24 percent share of the total national corn output This was followed by Northern Mindanao, contributing 19 percent, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanaoat15percent.
Poultry production in the region increased across all categories except for turkey Chicken and duck production increased by three and four percent, respectively. Goose production increased significantly by 55 percent, and quail production by 165 percent Turkey production contractedby25percent,resulting ina45mtproduction
Fisheries production contracted by seven percent due to the reduced production across all categories Municipal fisheries contributed the largest share of the total regional fisheryoutputat59percent
The number of vehicles registered withtheLandTransportationOffice (LTO) increased by 52 percent, driven by the 72 and 48 percent increase in new registrations and renewals,respectively
The BIR reported a PHP14.88 billion revenue collection, representing a growth of 143 percent from last year This was fueled by the substantial increases in income taxes by 102 percent and valueadded taxes by 27.6 percent. Only the collection of other taxes experiencedaminordecline.
Approved investments reported by the investment promotion agencies reached PHP169 billion, with 80.3 percent thereof pledged by Filipino investors. Foreign investments jumped from PHP200 million in 2023 to PHP33 billion in 2024 However, this increase failed to offset the 510 percent decline in investment pledges from Filipino nationals.
Total crime incidents increased slightly by 09 percent compared tothe7,328incidentsin2023 While peace and order indicator dropped, the public safety indicatorincreasedby13percent.
ed by the Regional Development Council2(RDC2)Co-Chair Christian R Guzman and Vice Chair Regional Director Dionisio C Ledres, Jr, nine Private Sector Representatives (PSRs) from the region joined the RDC-PSRs National Convention (NatCon) held on February 20-21 at the Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay City, Cavite
The annual national convention serves as a platform among PSRs to addresssectoralanddevelopmental concerns in the RDCs that require national attention and strengthen linkages and collaboration between andamongthegovernmentandthe privatesector
In his welcome message, RDC CALABARZON Co-Chair and PSR Richard Albert I Osmond highlighted that the PSR National Convention serves as a learning session where issues and concerns among the private and public sectors are translated into regional policy reforms. He encouraged the delegates to take advantage of the opportunitytoexpandtheirnetworks and forge new business relationships.
Industry leaders, namely; Mr Karl Kendrick Chua, Managing Director of Ayala Corporation, and Mr. Shigeru Shimoda, President and CEO of Marubeni Corporation, shared their experiences on how private organizations contribute to economic growth Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Assistant
Secretary Agnes E Tolentino, and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs
Secretary Frederick D Go articulated the importance of public-private collaboration towards a resilient and inclusiveeconomy.
This year, the adopted theme was "Pagsulong at Pagtutulungan Tungo sa Bagong Bayan" . It encapsulates the spirit of collective action and shared responsibility in building a progressiveandinclusivenation.RDC CALABARZON hosted this year’s celebration More than 200 PSRs, DEPDev executives and representatives, and guests attendedtheactivity.DEPDev2-DRD
The IWM Celebration highlighted the region’s major initiatives on mainstreaming GAD in development. Cross-border participation of women leaders, local community members, and international GAD experts across the ASEAN Region gathered together for meaningful crosscultural dialogue and collaboration.
RGADC empowers local leaders, GADvocates in IWMC 2025
The Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) successfully conducted the International Women’sMonthCelebrationinCagayanValley(IWMCCV) from March 25 to 26 at the Palazzo Marcelino, BarangayBalintocatoc,SantiagoCity
With the theme “Empower All: Celebrating Rights, Equality, and Empowerment for All Women and Girls,” the IWMC-CV brought together local women leaders, community members, and gender and development (GAD) advocates to expand opportunities for collaboration, celebrate local heritage and diversity, and establish networks while showcasing unique culturalperformances
"Sa ating mga kababaihan, magpatuloy tayong magkaisa at magtulungan upang maitaguyod ang ating mga karapatan at maipakita ang ating halaga sa lipunan, " Councilor Ressie Turingan-Ponce declared inheropeningremarks,speakingonbehalfofSantiago City Mayor Atty Alyssa Sheena Tan [To our esteemed women, let us remain united and supportive of one another as we uphold our rights and demonstrate our valuetothesociety.]
The event’s learning exchange centered on leveraging opportunities for women ' s empowerment and inclusivity, featured foreign and local speakers, namely; Dr Suttisak Jantavongso of the International College Rangsit University Thailand, Professor Rania Lampou of the Ministry of Education in Greece, DOST Assistant Secretary Dr. Diana L. Ignacio, and DOST2 Regional DirectorandRGADCChairpersonVirginiaG Bilgera The speakers shared adaptation and transformational leadership strategies that unlock women’s professional andentrepreneurialpotentials
Delegates from the Philippine Commission on Women Mr. Kim Harold Peji and Ms. Danielle Alexandria Anteola also presented the overview of the Gender Responsive LGU (GeRL) Assessment Tool and the GAD Local Learning Hub, encouraging the local government units toimplementinclusiveneeds-basedprograms
“Let us reaffirm our shared commitment to women’s empowerment.Thisisnotjustaboutbreakingbarriers it is about building a future where women thrive, lead, and shape the world through innovation and progress,” ChairBilgeraemphasizedduringherpresentation
The IWMC-CV serves as the region’s major event in support of the celebration of the 2025 National Women’sMonth.DEPDev2-PDIPBD
Nueva Vizcaya Guv hosts antioverloading dialogue
Nueva Vizcaya Governor Jose V Gambitohostedandpresidedover a dialogue with the truckers and haulers group regarding the restriction of overloaded motor vehicles plying in the region’s nationalhighwaysonJanuary17at the Ammungan Hall, Provincial Capitol, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. Representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Agriculture (DA), National Food Authority (NFA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Provincial Government of Isabela (PGI)attendedtheactivity
In 2023, the Regional Development Council 2 (RDC2) passed various resolutions urging the concerned national government agencies and local government units to strictly implement RA 8794, otherwise known as the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge(MVUC)Law.Thecomposite team,composedofDPWH,LTO,and PNP, apprehended 3,161 violators from 2023 to 2024 at the Calitlitan Weighbridge Station in Nueva Vizcaya
The truckers and haulers group, represented by Mr Randy S Ting and Mr Kervin Francis G Uy, expressed support for ensuring a safer and more reliable road infrastructure However, they raised concerns about the possible shortage of agricultural food suppliestoandfromtheregiondue to heightened apprehensions They proposed revisiting the implementingrulesandregulations (IRR) of RA 8794 particularly on allowing the gross vehicle weight (GVW)upto60tons.
EDCconductsmaidenmeetingfor2025
The Economic Development Committee (EDC) conducted its first quarter joint meeting with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Technical Working Group (TWG) for the Economic Sector on March 11 via Zoom
Videoconference EDC Chair and Nueva Vizcaya Governor JoseV
The committee approved the 2024 Regional Development Report particularly its economic chapters, namely: 1) promoting trade and investments, 2) revitalizing industry, 3) reinvigorating services, 4) modernizing agriculture and agribusiness, and 5) ensuring food securityandpropernutrition
TheDepartmentofAgriculture (DA) presented updates on the prevalence of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the region. As of March 7, there are three municipalities with active ASF cases while 44
DPWH Assistant Regional Director Editha R Babaran reiterated the need to comply with the 45-ton maximum allowable GVW as prescribed under the IRR “The GVW limit was studied and conforms with internationalstandards.Forinstance, bridges exposed to overloading will haveashortenedlifespanfrom50to 15 years,” she said She emphasized that any proposed increase in the GVW must be anchored on an indepth study, which will serve as basisforamendingthelaw.
Atty EduardoCabantacstressedthe position of RDC2 Chair and Isabela Governor Rodolfo T Albano III on the strict implementation of the law unless amended. Hence, the monitoring and enforcement activities will continue in the Calitlitan Weighbridge Station The request, though of the truckers allowing the GVW up to 60 tons will be further discussed in the Infrastructure Development Committee for onward action of the RDC2.DEPDev2-PDIPBD
municipalities were upgraded from redzone(infected)topinkzone(buffer zone).
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also discussed the actions taken to address traffic congestioninNuevaVizcaya
Likewise, the status of the SDG Catchup Plan implementation for the economic sector was presented The Catch-upPlanservesasaguideinthe overall implementation, resource mobilization, coordination, and advocacy for the SDGs in the region. The DA and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) shared their 2024 SDG accomplishments and next steps DEPDev2-PFPDwithDRD
Gambito presided over the meeting
Enrile-Tuguegarao Bridge and Approaches Project
Enrile-TuguegaraoBridgeand ApproachesProject
RPMCMonitoringTeamconducts onsitevisittoinfrastructure flagshipprojectsinRegion2
TheRegionalProjectMonitoringCommittee–ProjectMonitoring Team (RPMC-PMT) conducted a field monitoring visit to five infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) in Cagayan and Isabela onMarch18-19.
The projects visited include the Water District Development Sector Project implemented by the Metro Tuguegarao Water District, the Tuguegarao-Enrile Bridge Project, the three bridge projects under the Cagayan Bridge Projects for Economic Development (Alcala Bridge, Pinacanauan Bridge, and Tuguegarao-Solana Bridge), and Alicia-Angadanan-San Guillermo-CauayanCity-NaguilianAlternateRoute TheIFPsare the priority projects for implementation under the AdministrationofPresidentFerdinand“Bongbong”R.Marcos,Jr.
Following the site visits, a problem-solving session was conducted to discuss and resolve project implementation issuesandconcerns.Theteamobservedthatroadright-of-way (RROW) issues and inclement weather conditions are the primarycausesofprojectdelays
TheRPMC-PMTwasledbytheProjectMonitoringandEvaluation Division of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), formerly NEDA. They were joined by representatives from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Office ofthePresident–PresidentialManagementStaff(OP-PMS),and Atty. Robin James A. Gunnacao from the private sector. DEPDev2-PMED
The FY 2026 Regional Budget Review and Consultation Process
DEPDev2 guides key agencies on 2026 investment programming, budgetalignment
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Cagayan Valley (DEPDev2) convened key infrastructure agencies for a two-day dialogue on the preparation of Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget proposals on February11-12inTuguegaraoCity
The dialogue focused on the region's commitment to infrastructure development under the Build-Better-More program of the current administration and the long-term goal, the Ambisyon Natin 2040 The dialogue also highlighted the importance of aligning the proposed budgets
withtheregion’sdevelopmentplan and investment program, identifying and prioritizing implementation-ready programs, and projects (PAPs), and increasingthelikelihoodoffunding the proposed PAPs under the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Participating agencies include the Departmentsof Agriculture, Health, Public Works and Highways, and Transportation; the National Irrigation Administration; and the Philippine Ports Authority Northern Luzon Office They were briefed on the Cagayan Valley Regional Development Plan (RDP) and Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) 2023-2028, which outline the region's development framework, strategies, programs,
and projects. The participating agencies also provided updates on their respective approved budget in the 2025 GAA and their FY2026budgetproposals
Key outcomes of the meeting include a reiteration of agencies’ commitment to regional priorities, an agreement to ensure equitable allocation of PAPs to all congressional districts, and secure enrollment of the same in the RDIP andthePublicInvestmentProgram OnlineSystem.
Bridging the gap between agencies and legislators for 2026 budget
To foster collaboration, transparency, and support in the budgeting process for FY 2026, the Regional Budget Review Committee (RBRC) convened the region's legislators and select agencies for a dialogue on February18.
The dialogue, presided over by RBRC Chair through DBM Acting Assistant Director Macario C Gumabay, Jr, emphasized the importance of stakeholders’ participation in driving regional development. Director Gumabay
reiterated the need to communicate and develop a collaborativeapproachtoensure effectiveresourcemobilization
RBRC Co-Chair and DEPDev2 Regional Director Dionisio C. Ledres, Jr. urged the participants to prioritize "implementationready" projects and integrate them into the existing programs to maximize efficiency and avoid duplication of efforts He encouraged the region’s legislators to support the vetted list of RDC-endorsed projects proposedforfunding
The selected heads of agencies highlighted their thrusts on infrastructure development, agricultural support, environment, health, and education vis-à-vis their FY 2026 budget proposals The dialogue served as an open communication platform, allowing legislators to directly engage with agencies and discusstheirthrustsandpriorities and respective budgetary requirements
Among those present include technical staff from the offices of Honorable Ciriaco B. Gato, Jr., Baby Aline Vargas-Alfonso, Antonio T Albano, Ed Christopher S Go, Ian Paul L Dy, Joseph S Tan,FaustinoMichaelCarlosT Dy III, and Faustino A. Dy V; and the agency heads, technical, and administrativestaff.
RBRC completes deliberation of 38 agency budget proposals for 2026
TheRBRCsuccessfullyconducted the annual budget review and consultation from March 11 to 14 inTuguegaraoCity
The four-day activity reviewed the FY 2026 budget proposals of 38 regional line agencies, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs)
ThisinitiativeadheredtoExecutive Order 82, series of 2025, National BudgetMemorandumNo 153,and Corporate Budget Memorandum No 47-1, which mandate a judicious review of the proposed budgetsforFY2026.
RBRC Chair and DBM Acting Director Cherry W Bravo underscored the activity’s goal of influencing the strategic allocation of the region’s limited resources. She highlighted the importance of aligning budget proposalswiththeregion’sthrusts such as enhancing agricultural productivity, improving infrastructure connectivity, promoting environmental sustainability, and strengthening theregion’sdisasterresilience.
The review examined several key aspects, including: a) alignment of proposed programs and projects (PAPs) with the priorities of the PDP and CVRDP 2023-2028; b) implementation readiness and absorptive capacity of agencies; c) inclusion of commitments to full devolution and other sectoral plans; d) incorporation of PAPs into critical national and regional investment programming documents; and e) adherence to a complementation and convergence approach to programming,amongothers
The event brought together representatives of the RDC sectoral committee officials, ProvincialLocalGovernmentUnits, Bureau of Local Government Finance,DBM,DEPDev,andprivate sector representatives as members of the budget review panel. The budget proposals will be endorsed to the RDC2 for its onward endorsement to the Agency Central Offices and Commission on Higher Education Central Office in the case of SUCs for support, and to the DBM Central Office for inclusion in the FY 2026 National Expenditure Program DEPDev2-PDIPBD with DRD
RDC2 endorses 2 38 budget proposals
he Regional Development Council 2 (RDC2) held its first meeting for the year on March 26, 2025 at the Go Hotels Plus, Tuguegarao City The Council endorsed 47 resolutions, that include the 28 farm-to-market bridges, 38 budget proposals for Fiscal Year 2026, social and environmental concerns, among others. RDC2 Co-Chair Christian R. Guzman presided over the meeting
Farm-to-MarketBridges DevelopmentProgramendorsed
The Farm-to-Market Bridges Development Program (FMBDP) of the Department of Agriculture seeks to enhance the connectivity of beneficiary farming communities through the construction of climate-resilient bridge infrastructure across 300 priority sites nationwide over a four-yearperiod
The FMBDP has a total cost of PHP 27.69 billion, of which 80 percent will be financed through a loan from the French government and the remaining 20 percent will be funded by the Philippine government.
Intheregion,atotalof28farm-tomarket bridges were selected, wherein seven are located in Cagayan, five in Isabela, six in Quirino, and 10 in Nueva Vizcaya TheseFMBsareexpectedtobolster supply chain efficiency and stimulate economic growth in remotefarmingcommunities
FY2026budgetproposalsof38 agenciesendorsed
The Council endorsed the FY 2026 budget proposals of 29 regional lineagencies,fivestateuniversities and colleges, and four government-owned and/ or controlledcorporations(GOCCs)
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Director Cherry W Bravo emphasized that the Regional Budget Review Committee meticulously assessed these proposals during the pre-budget review activities with the agencies in February and the budget consultation in March The committeeensuredalignmentwith theguidelinesoutlinedinNational
Budget Memorandum No 153, Corporate Budget Memorandum No.47-1,theregion’s prioritiesand policy directions under the Cagayan Valley Regional Development Plan, and compliancewiththefulldevolution of certain functions from the executive branch to the local governmentunits.
The budget proposals were endorsed to DBM Central Office and respective agency central officesforsupport
Socialprojectsaddressing education,communityresilience OK’d
The Council also endorsed two social projects, namely, the Project for Learning Upgrade Support and Decentralization (PLUS-D) of the Department of Education and the Philippines Community Resilience Project (Pagkilos) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development
The PLUS-D project aims to improve the foundational literacy and numeracy of Kindergarten to Grade 6 learners, and the learning outcomes in reading and mathematics of Grades 7 to 10 learners nationwide The project will be implemented for sixyears,
withatotalcostofPHP38billion
The Pagkilos project, initially endorsed by the RDC on March 26, 2024, was expanded to cover community resilience from economic, social, and environmental risks and strengthen community capacities for participatory resilience planning
OtherResolutionsPassed
The total project cost is estimated at PHP56706 billion covering four components, namely, community grants for resilient planning and investment,institutionalsupportfor local resilience, project monitoring and management, and contingent emergency response It will be implementedfrom2025to2030
Otherresolutionspassedinclude:1) Requesting the DBM to revisit the guidelines on the implementation ofthemodifiedsalaryschedulefor LGUs, 2) Encouraging the LGUs to implement the Electronic Business One-Stop Shop (eBOSS), 3) Endorsing the Inititial Protected Area Plan of the Dipaniong Natural Park, 4) Creating the Regional Public-Private Partnership Committee, 5) Confirming the RDC2 representatives to the Luzon Sub-National Committee for the 2025 Filipinnovation Awards, and 6) Approving and adopting the 2024 Cagayan Valley Regional Development Report DEPDev2DRD
DEPDev2 bags Philippine Quality Award Regional Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Cagayan Valley (DEPDev2), formerly National Economic and Development AuthorityCagayan Valley (NEDA2), was recognized as one of the recipients of the Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Regional Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management (Level 2) for CY 2024.
Under Republic Act No 9013, the PQA uses a performance excellence framework, patterned after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award of the United States, to assess its candidates in the private and public sectors. It serves as the highest level of national recognition for exemplary organizational performance, where the President annually confers the award to qualified organizations
DEPDev2, through its PQA Team, conducted a series of workshops since June 2024 to complete the PQA SelfAssessment Tool, which consists of the following: (1) Organizational Profile Revisit, (2)OrganizationalAssessment basedonthePQACoreValues, and (3) Comprehensive AssessmentbasedonthePQA Criteria. On November 28, 2024, the PQA Team defended its output during the Assessment Evaluation Scoring with the Department ofTradeandIndustryRegion2 focalpersonanditsassessors
This conferment shows DEPDev2’s commitment to achievingserviceexcellenceand significant progress in building soundprocesses.DEPDev2-FAD
TheRDC2recognizedtheCagayan Valley awardees for the 2024 PhilippineQualityAwardduringits first quarter meeting. DEPDev2 RD DionisioC Ledres,Jr withDEPDev2 top management and staff receivedtheaward.
The PQA was established through Executive Order No 448, issued by former President Fidel V Ramos on October 3, 1997 The award is given to organizations in the private and public sectors that excel in quality, productivity and business performance
It was institutionalized through the signing of Republic Act No 9013 on February 28, 2001, otherwise known as the Philippine Quality Award Act The PQA provides an internationally comparable framework and criteria for assessing organizational performance It is a template for competitiveness based on the principles of Total Quality Management (TQM)
The Award focuses on results, including customer satisfaction It is not an award for product quality or service quality but for a quality management system which hinges on continuous improvement in the delivery of products and/ or services, and provides a way of satisfying and responding to customers' needs and requirements
DEPDev joins Tree Hugging Movemen
DEPDev2 Regional Director
Dionisio C Ledres, Jr and the members of the Management Committee and staff joined the Tree Hugging Movement of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources from February10to14
The personnel hugged trees within the DEPDev2 grounds, a worthy activity that manifests the concerted and passionate action of the Cagayan Valley Region in protecting and
conservingitsforests Theactivity alsoservedasanalternativeand eco-friendly celebration of Valentine’sDay.
The Tree Hugging Movement, inspired by the 1970s Chipko Movement in Northern India, also promotes health and wellness It is scientifically observed to increase the level of oxytocin, a hormone associated with boosting the calmness and emotionalwell-beingofaperson DEPDev2-FAD
DEPDev2 conducts Gender and Development Forum
In celebration of the 2025 National Women’s Month, DEPDev2 conducted a Gender and Development (GAD) Forum on March 19 at the Pamegafanan Hall, DEPDev Office, Regional Government Center, Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City
The forum focused on the Magna Carta of Women and related laws, GAD planning and budgeting, women empowerment, and gender diversityandinclusion
TheRPFGPSoftheregion,namely: Atty Cess Lazaro of the Civil Service Commission and Ms Ludivina Potot of the Department of Budget and Management led thediscussions.
This year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas, ” highlights the significance of women in all sectors by ensuring that no woman is left behind on the journey toward equal opportunitiesandempowerment DEPDev2-FAD
DSWD2 trains LGUs in Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya on humanitarian supply chain
management
The Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 2 (DSWD2), through its DisasterResponseManagement Division (DRMD), conducted the Training on Humanitarian Supply Chain Management (HSCM) from March 11 to 14 at the JAPI Hotel, Cauayan City, Isabela
The HSCM training plays a vital role in strengthening disaster response capabilities of the local government units (LGUs) The activity was attended by 17 Quick Response Team (QRT) members and 20 representatives from various LGUs of Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya.
The participants were equipped with skills on how to manage and deliver relief goods efficiently and ensure timely andorganizedaiddistributionto affected communities. The topics presented focused on supply chain management, warehouseoperations,inventory tracking, and inter-agency coordination all essential for effective disaster preparedness andresponse.DSWD2
First Regional Pancit Festival wraps up with flavorful success
The Department of Tourism Region 2 (DOT2), in partnership with the local government unit (LGU) of Cabagan, concluded the first-ever Regional Pancit Festival at the Cabagan Squarepark, Cabagan, Isabela on January 23. This groundbreaking event broughttogetherlocalpanciterias and food enthusiasts in a vibrant showcase of innovation, tradition, culinary excellence, and communityspirit.
The festival highlighted pancit cabagan as the culinary pride of the region It provided a platform to showcase its versatility and cultural significance, further cementing its status as a hallmark of Isabela's heritage. Knownforitsrich,savoryflavors,it is a unique combination of miki noodles, pork, quail eggs, and freshvegetables
Cabagan Vice Mayor Lovier Masigan also led a special pancit cooking demonstration, which further enriched the experience of guests, visitors, and the locals Likewise, a cooking competition dubbed as the ”Pansi Cabagan with a Twist 2025”, one of the festival’s highlights, illustrated the innovative takes of local panciterias on the dish Jo-Chel’s Panciteriaemergedasthewinner, followed by Mariloi’s Panciteria in second place, and Manggahan
Panciteriainthirdplace
The festival also unveiled the “2025 Biggest Bilao Pansi Cabagan,” a record-breaking bilao measuring a staggering 12 feet in diameter. It features 104 kilos of miki noodles, 150 kilos of pork, 800 pieces of quail eggs, 7 bales of chicharon, and 25 kilos eachofcabbageandcarrots
The colossal bilao not only celebrated the rich flavors of Cabaganbutalsosymbolizedthe unity and dedication of the community in promoting the region’s culinary heritage and pride. DOT2 RD Troy Alexander Miano expressed his gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and attendees who made the festival a success “This event is a testament to the vibrant culinary culture of Cagayan Valley We look forward to making the RegionalPancitFestivalanannual tradition that elevates our local cuisine on the national and internationalstage,”heremarked
The event was participated in by Cagayan Valley Tourism Council Chair Ruth R. Padilla, DTI Regional Director Sofia Narag, the Provincial Tourism Officers from Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quirino, and some national and local vloggers and media representatives.DOT2
DENR2 spearheads multisector dialogue on hazardous waste management
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 2 (DENR2) convened 200 representatives from hospitals, mining industries, and banking institutions on February 24 to enhance strategies for hazardous wastemanagement.
The consultation meeting aimed to uphold environmental and human safety, open up investment opportunities,andcreatemorejobs toboostthelocaleconomy
Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent Environmental ManagementBureau(EMB)Director Jacqueline Caancan graced the event She commended DENR2 for initiatingtheconsultativemeeting
“By collaborating, we are establishing systematic oversight, compliance, enforcement, and risk mitigation to ensure public health and protect the environment We can create waste management systems that adhere to environmental laws, and are also efficient,sustainable,andbeneficial
to all stakeholders,” the Assistant Secretarysaid Shealsoemphasized the importance of collective efforts in improving waste management in line with the Ecological Solid Waste ManagementAct(RA9003)andthe Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act (RA 6969)
DENR Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn C Bambalan underscored the creation of investment opportunities in waste managementinfrastructurethrough loan programs offered byfinancial entities.“Ourgoalis to establish at least one Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF) to reduce
the need for industries to transport hazardous wastes,” she said The Directorsoughtthecooperationand compliance of these institutions to environmental laws concerning infectiousandusedoilwastes
Speakers from the EMB discussed the regional situation on hazardous waste management, proper handling and transport requirements, and guidelines and requirements in establishing TSDF A representativefromSafeWastes,Inc also shared their processes on the treatment, storage, and disposition of infectious and pathological wastes.DENR2
BFAR equips resource managers with modern tools for coral survey
TheBureauofFisheriesandAquatic Resources Region 2 (BFAR2) equippedresourcemanagersinthe region through the conduct of a coralassessmentusingdigitaltools to ensure that coral covers are surveyed and monitored by streamlining data collection,
improving accuracy, and enabling long-term management of coral ecosystem during a Training Workshop on Coral Identification through Coral Point Countextension (CPCe) on March 12-13 in TuguegaraoCity
Recognized for his expertise in the CPCe software, Mr Jhessie R Lagundino, Forest Ranger from the Department of Environment and NaturalResourcesRegion2(DENR2) served as resource person during the two-day training He shared his knowledge and insights on effectively navigating the system and facilitated hands-on workshop activities where a specified numberofspatially random points
were distributed on a transect image and the features underlying the points were identified by the participants individually along with data interpretation and report writing.
The training is part of the Bureau’s resource conservation and management initiatives to promote biodiversity and ensure sustainable use of resources in terrestrial and aquatic environments. The CPCe, a Windows-based software, is a tool for the determination of coral cover using transect photographs A. Cristobal,PROCA,BFAR2
DOST Secretary leads TechBridge 2025, inaugurates Philippine Citrus Resources Development Center
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr Renato U. Solidum, Jr. led the opening of TechBridge 2025: Connecting Innovation with Industry and inaugurated the Philippine Citrus Resources Development Center (PCRDC) at theNuevaVizcayaStateUniversity (NVSU) on March 12 in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, together with Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr Sancho A Mabborang, Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr Leah J Buendia, and Regional DirectorDr.VirginiaG.Bilgera.
In his keynote speech, Secretary Solidum underscored the importance of science-driven innovation in strengthening the country's citrus industry “At the PCRDC, we take it a step further we make citrus (serious) decisions. We squeeze out innovation and ensure that every drop of research bear fruit Citrus is one of the top high-value crops in the country, with Cagayan Valley being a key player in its production. Today, we celebrate the unveiling of this state-of-theart facility, a symbol of our dedication to strengthening the citrus industry in the Philippines” hesaid
The Secretary also emphasized the role of the Cagayan Valley Regionasamajorcitrusproducer
He said that the new center is a testament of the government’s commitment to agricultural advancement. He challenged the stakeholders and industry partners to maximize the center’s capabilities, and translate research intoreal-worldsolutionsthatbenefit farmersandindustryplayers
USec Mabborang, in his message, stressedthattheprojectaspirations are to eliminate citrus diseases, enhance production, and ultimately provetofarmersthatthereismoney incitrusfarming
USec Buendia, on the one hand, urged the NVSU to address criticalgapsinthecitrusindustry as the lead of the new inauguratedcenter.
During the Secretary’s visit, he also toured several Small EnterpriseTechnologyUpgrading Program (SETUP)-assisted projects, including Honeybuns Bakeshop in Bambang, Llorenz EnterprisesinAritao,andtheTBM Food Products in Cabatuan, Isabela DOST2
President Marcos visits Rice Processing System in Isabela
President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr visited the Rice Processing System II (RPS II) in Echague, Isabela on March 6 The RPS ll was funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Mechanization Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) with a total investment of PHP6748 million It includes a state-of-the-art multi-stage rice mill and five recirculating dryers Currently, it is operated by the Provincial Government of Isabela (PGI)
The program aims to reduce production costs and postharvest losses, and enhance
value addition for farmers to increase income As a way forward,thePGIwillrequestsilos, dryers, and fortified rice machines The PGI also plans to establish more satellite buying stations in different municipalities and cities and ensure the distribution of affordablericetodisadvantaged sectors
AgricultureSecretaryFranciscoP. Tiu Laurel, Jr., Isabela Governor Rodito Albano III, PHILMECH Dir Dionisio Alvindia and other regionalandlocalofficialsjoined thePresidentialvisit DA2,Photos viaErwinCachero
DPWH completes Magat River Flood Control Project in Reina Mercedes
The Department of Public Works and Highways – Isabela 3rd DistrictEngineeringOffice(DPWHITDEO) completed the Magat River Flood Control Project in Barangay Mallalatang Grande, Reina Mercedes, Isabela, strengthening flood protection measures for surrounding communities.
The flood control project was implemented in three phases, withatotal contract cost of PHP
2421 million under the General AppropriationsAct(GAA)2024.
The flood control project consists of concrete revetments on steel sheet piles, designed to prevent river overflow and protect nearby residential areas, farmlands, and infrastructure. It has a length of 1,294linearmeters.
“As we continue our commitment to disaster risk reduction, this project stands as a vital stepin
safeguarding communities and promoting sustainable development,” District Engineer AdonisA Asissaid
By fortifying the riverbanks, the project is expected to reduce the impact of heavy rainfall andtyphoonsinthearea,thus, enhancing the community’s resilience against natural calamities, and securing lives and livelihoods KBR/RQT, DPWH-ITDEO
Region 2 HEIs commit to strengthen global presence, aim for internationalization breakthroughs
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the region took a bold step towards strengthening their global presence and achieving internationalization breakthroughs through the conduct of the Building Resilience and Innovation in Developing Global Engagements (BRIDGE): Capacity Building and Strategic Internationalization Planning Workshop held on March 10 at the University of Cagayan Valley in Tuguegarao City This initiative aims to enhance the internationalization (IZN) strategies of HEIs and foster regional collaboration for a unified Strategic InternationalizationPlan(SIP)
Distinguished pool of experts from theNueva Vizcaya StateUniversity,
Saint Mary’s University, Cagayan State University, and Saint Paul University Philippines shared their internationalization journey and bestpracticesandpreparationsfor the international university rankings. Among the topics discussedincludetheIZNjourneyof NVSU, IZN Strategies and Strategic Plan Sharing of SMU, the Times Higher Education (THE) Ranking Methodologies, the World University Rankings for Innovation, the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Ranking Methodologies, and the prospects and challenges of curriculuminternationalization
Dr Jocelyn Carag, IZN Focal Person and Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education
Region 2 (CHED2), emphasized the crucial role of HEIs in complying with the Internationalization Scoping Survey, an essential step in identifying and addressing key gaps She underscored the importanceofcraftingSIPsaligned with the CHED-IAS Output & Outcome Indicators and CHED’s Strategic Plan. This will ensure that HEIs integrate internationalization into their academic systems effectively
CHED2 Regional Director Julieta M Paras stressed IZN as a shared responsibility amongst HEIs. “Let us commit, as a unified force, to building resilient and innovative higher education systems that transcendborders Letusempower institutions to rise together, ensuringthatnoHEIintheregionis leftbehind,”shesaid.
As part of the event, CHED2’s internationalization initiatives will be reinforced through the newly elected officers of the Internationalization Association in Region 2. They are tasked with supporting CHED2’s IZN mainstreaming efforts and are set to draft its bylaws This marks a significant milestone in fostering a sustainable, region-wide internationalization network. JDF, CHED2
UK grants PHP43.7 million aid for fisheries development in Cagayan
The United Kingdom (UK) government, through the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), granted PHP437 million for the implementation of the “Karayan Ket Biag (River is Life)” Project in the municipalities of Alcala, Baggao, and Peñablanca in Cagayanprovince
UK Ambassador to the Philippines LaureBeaufilssaidtheinitiativeisa freshwater ecosystem protection and sustainable management project that aims to develop and manage the rivers in said municipalities ShesaidthattheUK is committed to supporting environment and biodiversity conservation and management programs, especially in the Philippines, which is rich in biodiversity She lauded the strong partnership of communities in Cagayan, the local government units, and partner agencies in advancing biodiversity management
Beaufils also said the British government opened its doors to interested research groups and institutions for any biodiversitybased programs and projects for possiblefundingandsupport
Lloyd Cameron, economic and climate counselor of the British Embassy, stressed that understanding the environment and biodiversity including its impactoneconomicdevelopment,
the key challenges, and the opportunities for diversity conservation, will help the communities pour their effort into it.
The project, which runs from 2024 to 2027, aims to establish an effective and sustainable network of community-based freshwaterprotected areas and collectively manage and conserve riverine resources in said towns. It also benefits biodiversity while improving the resilience and wellbeingofstakeholders
The project includes an assessment of the Pared River in Alcala, the establishment of a fish sanctuary network, sustainable threat mitigation, and fish sanctuary network effectiveness monitoring
The ZSL has been in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 2 and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 2, which resulted in the establishment of 12 freshwater sanctuariesintheregion.
These efforts led to the conservation and rehabilitation of freshwater ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and sustainable fisheries, and encouraging community participation and support. Gene V. Baquiran, PIACagayan
Batanes is PH’s fastest-growing province, says PSA
Batanes emerged as the Philippines’ fastest-growing province according to the 2023 Economic Performance Report releasedbythePhilippineStatistics Authority(PSA).
The report showed that Batanes recorded an impressive 145 percent economic growth, leading the nation’s provinces Also included in the top 10 are the provinces of Camiguin at 11 percent, Aklan at 9.5 percent, Nueva Vizcaya at 87 percent, Ilocos Norte at 86 percent, Ilocos Sur at 85 percent, Eastern Samar at 81 percent, Guimaras at 79 percent, Catanduanes at 7.6 percent, and Romblon at 7.3 percent.
BatanesGovernorMarilouH Cayco attributed the province’s rapid economic growth to the full reopening of its doors to visitors, significantly boosting its tourism sector. “The provincial government has implemented various reforms and initiatives to foster the continuous growth of tourism The post-pandemic interventions include robust marketing efforts, support for tourism stakeholders, and capacity-building programs for tour guides, operators, accommodation providers, and otherworkers,”theGovernorsaid
She also credited the province’s success to the collective efforts of localofficials,nationalgovernment agencies, the private sector, and thecommunity
Governor Cayco prided that Batanescontinuestothrivedespite being located in a typhoon-belt and the smallest province in the Philippines a testament to the resilience of the Ivatan people Oliver T. Baccay, PIA2, with reports from the Office of Gov. Cayco
Parents of child laborers in NVizcaya get
PHP7M worth of livelihood kits
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) awarded more than PHP7 million worth of livelihood kits to the parents of child laborers in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya The livelihood kits, worth PHP30,000 each, were funded through the DOLE Integrated LivelihoodorKabuhayanProgram
The beneficiaries will use the livelihood kits for their chosen ventures, such as vegetable crop productionandselling,autorepair services, welding and furniture services,andhandicraftmaking
Elizabeth Martinez, DOLE Provincial Head, said that the program is part
of the government’s efforts to address the issue of child laborintheprovince. “By giving them livelihood kit packages, the parents of child laborers will have theirownbusinessto supporttheneedsof their children and ensure their proper growth and development,” she said
Harisson Dadhoc, a beneficiary from Barangay Capisaan, said that the DOLE assistance will help them start anew with a business to support their children’s education andotherneeds “Restassuredthat we will manage well and sustain this livelihood for the welfare of our children,”hesaid
Quirino launches bakeshop to aid PDLs’ reintegration into society
The Cabarroguis District Jail in Quirino province opened the “Bread of HOPE” (Honing PDL Skills Towards Excellence) bakeshop, an initiativedesignedtoequipPersons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) with valuable baking skills while generatingincometosupporttheir personalneedsandfamiliesduring theirincarceration
JailSeniorInspectorJanosF Taeza, the district jail warden, explained that the project is a key step in preparing PDLs for their eventual reintegration into society, aside from equipping them with baking skills “Thebakeshopistheresultof a strong collaboration among various partner agencies, all of which contributed their time, effort, andresourcestomakethisproject areality,”Taezasaid
The warden expressed gratitude to the Provincial Government of Quirino and the Department of
Labor and Employment (DOLE) for their financial contribution to the construction of the bakeshop He also acknowledged the Quirino State University – Cabarroguis for facilitating the training of the PDLs who will work as bakers in the facility; the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for offering tile-setting skills training to the PDLs, which was applied in the construction of the bakeshop’s floor; and the Rural Health Unit of Cabarroguis for helping secure the necessary health certifications to qualify the PDLsasbakers
This initiative underscores the importance of providing PDLs with opportunities for skills development and income generation, supporting their rehabilitation and future reintegration into society Thelma Bicarme,PIA2
Mr Dadhocandotherbeneficiaries were given orientation through the Business and Work Improvement Course that covered the following lessons: entrepreneurship, work values development, simple bookkeeping, occupational safety and health, and emergency first aid Benjamin Moses Ebreo, PIANuevaVizcaya
Isabela farmers prepare to study modern farming in South Korea
Local farmers from Isabela will be sent to South Korea to study advanced farming techniques through a farmer internship program between the Provincial Government of Isabela and the JinanCountryofSouthKorea
This initiative aims to enhance the technical know-how of Isabela farmers on modern technologies and, ultimately, boost agricultural production in the province. The program will provide participants with hands-on experience in modern agricultural methods, while also allowing them to earn andsupporttheirfamilies.
The PGI and Jinan County already began the screening of qualified local farmers For this year, more than 200 farmers from Isabela are targeted to participate as scholars in the internship program. Merlito G.EdaleJr.,PIAIsabela
Number Title
RDC2 02-01-2025
RDC2 02-02-2025
RDC2 02-03-2025
RDC2 02-04-2025
RDC2 02-05-2025
RDC2 Resolutions (First Quarter, 2025)
RDC2 02-06-2025
RDC2 02-07-2025
RDC2 02-08-2025
RDC2 02-09-2025
RDC2 02-10-2025 to 02-47-2025
Endorsing the Farm-To-Market Bridges Development Program for Approval of the Investment Coordination Committee and the NEDA Board
Endorsing the Philippines Community Resilience Project (Panahon Ng Pagkilos) to the Investment Coordination Committee of the NEDA Board for Approval
Supporting and Endorsing the Project For Learning Upgrade Support and Decentralization (Plus-D) of the Department of Education to the Investment Coordination Committee of the NEDA Board for Approval
Requesting the Department of Budget and Management to Revisit the Guidelines on the Implementation of the Modified Salary Schedule for Local Government Units, and Consider the Implementation of the Second, Third, and Fourth Tranches of Salary Schedule to Take Effect Every January 1 of Fiscal Years 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively, subject to availability of Local Funds
Encouraging the City and Municipal Local Government Units in Region 2 to Fully Comply with the Requirement to Establish an Electronic Business One-Stop Shop
Endorsing the Initial Protected Area Plan of the Dipaniong Natural Park
REGIONALDEVELOPMENTCOUNCIL02 DEPDevCagayanValleyBldg,RGC,CarigSur, TuguegaraoCity,Cagayan
Phone:(078)304-9300;Fax:(078)304-1243
E-mail:neda ro2@yahoocom RDCSecretariat:neda2 drd@yahoo.com
Approving the Creation of a Regional Public-Private Partnership Committee under the Regional Development Council 2
Adopting the Cagayan Valley Regional Development Report 2024
Confirming the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of Region 2 as the Representatives of the Regional Development Council (RDC2) to the Luzon Sub-National Committee (LSNC) for the Filipinnovation Awards 2025
*Endorsing the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Proposal of 37 Regional Line Agencies, State Universities and Colleges, and Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations
*BSC, CSU, ISU, NVSU, QSU, BFAR, BIR, BJMP, BLGF, CHED, CPD, DAR, DA, DepEd, DENR, DOH, DHSUD, DICT, DOLE, DPWH, DOST, DSWD, DILG, DOT, DTI, EMB, LTO, MGB, NFA, NIA, NIA-MARIIS, NLRC, PPA, PCG-NL, PCA, PNP, PSA, TESDA
