The government is committed to developing the Ilocos Region through key infrastructure projects, the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with officials from the Regional Development Council (RDC) I May 23, in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. The meeting, held at the CSI Stadia, aimed to assess project status and discuss critical development issues, emphasizing a national-local approach to address regional vulnerabilities and foster long-term growth.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who joined the President at the meeting, cited the importance of sustained national government support, particularly in bolstering the region’s resilience.
“The President’s continued support for development efforts in the Ilocos Region is vital as we work to address vulnerabilities to natural hazards, potable water scarcity, and the need for improved road network redundancy,” Balisacan said.
“This meeting highlights the essential role of RDCs as direct conduits to the national government, centered on improving the quality of life for Ilocanos and Pangasinenses,” he said.
DEPDev Undersecretary Carlos Abad Santos presented updates on major infrastructure projects, development challenges, and interventions, briefing President Marcos on the progress of key initiatives in Northern Luzon.
President Marcos highlighted the crucial role of several regional projects in achieving the government’s growth targets. These include the Tarlac-Pangasinan-Laoag Expressway (TPLEX) Extension, the Ilocos Norte-Ilocos Sur-Abra Irrigation Project (INISAIP), the Bauang-San Fernando-San Juan Bypass Road and the Dagupan-Mangaldan-Calasiao Circumferential Road. These initiatives are expected to stimulate economic activity, improve mobility, and enhance food security in Region I.
Presidential Management Staff Undersecretary Rodolfo John Robert Palattao IV underscored ongoing efforts led by the Office of the President and national agencies, noting advancements in areas such as boosting agricultural productivity, expanding airport and seaport capacities, and addressing gaps in basic education resources.
RDC I members affirmed their full support for the Marcos administration’s infrastructure and development agenda, recognizing its role in accelerating progress and fostering long-term, inclusive resilience in the region.
Local leaders and private sector stakeholders voiced concerns about the impact of climate-related disasters like typhoons, floods, and droughts, which continue to damage infrastructure, disrupt water supply, and undermine agricultural productivity. They also cited the need for stronger interventions in the health and education sectors.
