NEDA Board okays P70.6-B for infra and economic dev’t

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has approved P70.6 billion worth of projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and economic development across the country.

Among the approved projects is the P56.7-billion Panahon ng Pagkilos: Philippine Community Resilience Project (PCRP) by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Supported by the World Bank, this initiative will benefit 4.13 million households in 500 municipalities, focusing on strengthening community resilience and improving access to critical investments in vulnerable areas.

Targeted locations include those with high poverty rates, severe climate hazards, and indigenous populations.

The Board also greenlit the PHP13.9-billion Tumauini River Multipurpose Project in Isabela, led by the National Irrigation Administration.

Set for implementation from September 2025 to September 2030, this project aims to irrigate 8,200 hectares across multiple barangays in Tumauini, Cabagan, and Ilagan, benefiting 5,860 farmers.

Additionally, the NEDA Board approved modifications to the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project’s scope, cost, and timeline.

This project features a 105.5-meter-high dam and reservoir in Zambales, designed to irrigate 21,935 hectares of new service areas while stabilizing irrigation for another 12,475 hectares under its first phase.

Another project receiving approval involves changes to the scope and funding allocation for the Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project, which focuses on enhancing road and bridge infrastructure to spur economic growth in the region.

NEDA Secretary and Board Vice Chair Arsenio Balisacan emphasized that these projects reinforce the government’s commitment to inclusive economic development.

“By prioritizing regional growth, we are not only enhancing infrastructure but also creating sustainable economic opportunities throughout the country. These initiatives reflect our vision of a nation where every region thrives and plays a significant role in driving national progress,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center reported ongoing implementation of 224 projects, including major infrastructure developments such as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Bulacan International Airport, Laguindingan and Bohol International Airports, and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 7. Another 175 projects are in the pipeline, including the Iloilo International Airport, Boracay Bridge Project, and the PPP for School Infrastructure Project (Phase 3).

Balisacan stressed the need for stronger coordination and streamlined processes to prevent project delays.

“To address issues in project implementation, we must strengthen our coordination and streamline processes across all levels of government and among stakeholders. This includes proactively managing issues such as site conditions, funding, and approvals,” he said.