Bicol RDP 2023 2028

Bicol Regional
Development Plan
2023-2028
Table of Contents
Message xix
Preface xxi
PART I: INTRODUCTION 2
Chapter 1 : Overview of the Regional Economy, Development 4

Context and Trends
Economic Trends 6
Demographic Trends 8
Employment 14
Environmental Trends 14
Peace and Order 18
Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework 22

Physical Characteristics of the Region 24
Production Areas 31
Impact of Disasters on the Economy 36
Assessment and Challenges 37
Regional Spatial Development Framework 39
Spatial Development Strategies 40
Network of Growth Centers 42
Functional Role of the Bicol Region 44
Composite Land Use and Infrastructure Development (2021 to 2050) 44
and Link to RDP Chapters
Chapter 3: Overview of the Regional Development Plan 50

2023-2028 Strategic Framework
Four Future Scenarios 52
Headline Targets 54
Strategic Framework 54
PART II: DEVELOP AND PROTECT CAPABILITIES OF INDIVIDUALS 58

AND FAMILIES
Chapter 4: Promote Human and Social Development 60
Subchapter 4.1: Boost Health 62
Targets 64
Strategy Framework 66
Legislative Agenda 69
Subchapter 4.2: Improved Education and Lifelong Learning 70
Targets 72
Subchapter 4.3: Establish Livable Communities 77
Targets 80
Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing 86

Power
Subchapter 5.1: Ensure Food Security and Proper Nutrition 88
Targets 91
Subchapter 5.2: Strengthen Social Protection 96
Targets 99
Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability 106

Targets 111
PART III: TRANSFORM PRODUCTIVE SECTORS TO GENERATE 120

MORE QUALITY JOBS AND COMPETITIVE PRODUCTS
Chapter 7: Modernize Agriculture and Agribusiness 121
Targets 127
Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry 134

Targets 139
Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services 144

Targets 148
Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development, 154

Technology, and Innovation
Targets 159
Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments 170

Targets 173
PART IV: ENABLING ENVIRONMENT 178
Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public 180

Financial Management
Targets 184
Chapter 13: Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure 192
Targets 201
Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance 214

Administration of Justice
Subchapter 14.1: Ensure Peace and Security 216
Targets 218
Subchapter 14.2: Enhance Administration of Justice 226
Targets 228
Chapter 15: Practice Good Governance and Improve 236

Bureaucratic Efficiency
Targets 240
Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen 250

Ecosystem and Disaster Resilience
Targets 256
PART V: PLAN IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING, AND 266

EVALUATION
Chapter 17: Plan Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation 268

Implementation Arrangements 271
Monitoring and Evaluation 272
List of Acronyms 276
Bicol RDP 2023-2028 Planning Committees 288

Bicol RDP 2023-2028 Secretariat 294
List of Tables
Chapter 1 : Overview of the Regional Economy, Development
Context and Trends
Table 1.1 Population Size, Distribution, and Growth Rate, Percentage by 8
Province in the Bicol Region, 2000, 2010, and 2020
Table 1.2 Per Capita Poverty Threshold, and Poverty Incidence among 12
Families, and Population in the Bicol Region by Province, 2012, 2015,
2018, and 2021
Table 1.3 Area of Agricultural Lands Converted to Other Purposes in 16
the Bicol Region by Province, in Hectares, 2000-2021
Table 1.4 Land Area Exposed to Volcanic-Related Hazards, By Type of 17
Hazards, for Mayon and Bulusan Volcanoes, in Square Kilometers, 2021
Table 1.5 Area Susceptible to Flooding in the Bicol Region, by Category 18
of Flood, by Province, in Square Kilometers, 2021
Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework

Table 2.1 Land Area by Province and City, Bicol Region 27
Table 2.2 Mineral Commodities by Province and Municipalities in the 35
Bicol Region
Table 2.3 Operating Special Economic Zones by Location and Total 36
Area in the Bicol Region, in Square Meters, 2021
Table 2.4 Cost of Damages due to TCs in the Bicol Region, 2014-2020, 36
at Current Prices
Table 2.5 Centrality Index and Rank of Each LGU in the Bicol Region 41
Chapter 4: Promote Human and Social Development

Table 4.1.1 Number of Hospitals, Infirmaries, RHUs, and BHS by 63
Province in Bicol Region, 2019
Table 4.1.2 Core Indicators to Boost Health 65
Table 4.1.3 Projected Needs and Supply Gaps for the Bicol Region, 68
2025-2040
Table 4.1.4 Legislative Agenda to Boost Health 69
Table 4.2.1 Core Indicators to Improve Education and Lifelong 72
Learning
Table 4.2.2 Net Enrollment Rate by Level and Type of School in the 74
Bicol Region, SY 2020-2021
Table 4.2.3 Legislative Agenda to Improve Education and Lifelong 77
Learning
Table 4.3.1 Core Indicators to Establish Livable Communities 80
Table 4.3.2 Legislative Agenda to Establish Livable Communities 84
Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing

Power
Table 5.1.1 Core Indicators to Ensure Food Security and Proper 91
Nutrition
Table 5.1.2 Legislative Agenda to Ensure Food Security and Proper 96
Nutrition
Table 5.2.1 Core Indicators to Strengthen Social Protection 99
Table 5.2.2 Legislative Agenda to Strengthen Social Protection 104
Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability

Table 6.1 Core Indicators to Increase Income-earning Ability 111
Table 6.2 Legislative Agenda to Increase Income-earning Ability 118
Chapter 7: Modernize Agriculture and Agribusiness

Table 7.1 Core Indicators to Modernize Agri-Fishery and 127
Agribusiness
Table 7.2 Legislative Agenda to Modernize Agri-Fishery and Agri- 133
Business
Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry

Table 8.1 Growth Rates by Major Industry in the Bicol Region, 2017- 136
2021, at Constant 2018 Prices
Table 8.2 Core Indicators to Revitalize Industry 139
Table 8.3 Legislative Agenda to Revitalize Industry 143
Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services

Table 9.1 Core Indicators to Reinvigorate Services 148
Table 9.2 Legislative Agenda to Reinvigorate Services 153
Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development,

Table 10.1 Core Indicators to Advance R&D, Technology, and 159
Innovation
Table 10.2 Potential Investment Areas by Locality in Albay 165
Table 10.3 Legislative Agenda to Advance R&D, Technology, and 169
Innovation
Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments

Table 11.1 Core Indicators to Promote Trade and Investments 174
Table 11.2 Legislative Agenda to Promote Trade and Investments 177
Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public

Table 12.1 Core Indicators to Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve 184
Public Financial Management
Table 12.2 Legislative Agenda to Promote Financial Inclusion and 189
Improve Public Financial Management Promote Trade and Investments
Chapter 13: Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

Table 13.1 Level and Status of Sanitation in the Bicol Region, CY 2022 197
Table 13.2. Status of Irrigation Development in the Bicol Region, 2017 197
to 2022
Table 13.3 Core Indicators to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure 202
Table 13.4 Legislative Agenda to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure 213
Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance

Table 14.1.1 Core Indicators on Ensuring Peace and Security 219
Table 14.1.2 Legislative Agenda to Ensure Peace and Security 225
Table 14.2.1 Core Indicators to Enhance Administration of Justice 228
Table 14.2.2 Legislative Agenda to Enhance Administration of Justice 234
Chapter 15: Practice Good Governance and Improve

Table 15.1 Core Indicators to Practice Good Governance and Improve 241
Bureaucratic and Regulatory Efficiency
Table 15.2 Legislative Agenda to Practice Good Governance and 248
Improve Bureaucratic and Regulatory Efficiency  
Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen

Table 16.1 Core Indicators to Enhance Adaptive Capacity and 256
Resilience of Communities and Ecosystems to Climate Change and
Natural Hazards
Table 16.2 Legislative Agenda to Accelerate Climate Action and 263
Strengthen Ecosystem and Disaster Resilience
List of Figures
Context and Trends
Figure 1.1 GRDP in the Bicol Region, 2015-2021, in Million Pesos, at 7
Constant 2018 Prices
Figure 1.2 GRDP in the Bicol Region by Industry of Origin, 2000-2021, 7
in Billion Pesos, at Constant 2018 Prices

Figure 2.1 Volume of Fisheries Production in the Bicol Region, 31
2010-2020
Figure 2.2 Visitors Arrival in the Bicol Region, Domestic and Foreign, 33
2011-2019
Chapter 3: Overview of the Regional Development Plan

2023-2028 Strategic Framework
Figure 3.1 Four Future Scenarios 53
Figure 3.2 Strategic Framework of the RDP 2023-2028 54
Chapter 4: Promote Human and Social Development

Figure 4.1.1 Strategy Framework to Boost Health 66
Figure 4.2.1 Strategy Framework to Improve Education and Lifelong 73
Learning
Figure 4.3.1 Solid Waste Management Plans, by Province in the Bicol 79
Region, 2022
Figure 4.3.2 Strategy Framework to Establish Livable Communities 81
Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing

Power
Figure 5.1.1 Strategy Framework to Ensure Food Security and Proper 92
Nutrition
Figure 5.2.1 Strategy Framework to Establish Livable Communities 100
Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability

Figure 6.1 Labor and Employment Situation in the Bicol Region, 111
2017-2022
Figure 6.2 Strategy Framework to Increase Income-earning Ability 112
Chapter 7: Modernize Agriculture and Agribusiness
Figure 7.1 Performance of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Sector, 124
2016-2021
Figure 7.2 Strategy Framework to Modernize Agri-Fishery and 128
Agribusiness
Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry

Figure 8.1 Growth Rates by Major Industry in the Bicol Region, 2017- 137
2021, at Constant 2018 Prices
Figure 8.2 Strategy Framework for Revitalize Industry 140
Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services

Figure 9.1 Growth Rates, Services, 2017-2021 at Constant 2018 Prices 146
Figure 9.2 Strategy Framework to Reinvigorate Services 148
Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development,

Figure 10.1 Strategy Framework to Advance Research and 160
Development, Technology, and Innovation
Figure 10.2 National Innovation Ecosystem Framework 168
Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments

Figure 11.1 Strategy Framework to Promote Trade and Investments 174
Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public

Figure 12.1 Strategy Framework to Promote Financial Inclusion and 185
Improve Public Financial Management

Figure 13.1 Strategy Framework to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure 204
Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance

Figure 14.1.1 Strategy Framework to Ensure Peace and Security 220
Figure 14.2.1 Jail Congestion Rate, Bicol Region, CY 2017-2022 227
Figure 14.2.2 Strategy Framework to Enhance Administration of Justice 229
Chapter 15: Practice Good Governance and Improve
Figure 15.1 Strategy Framework to Practice Good Governance and 242
Improve Bureaucratic and Regulatory Efficiency
Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen

Figure 16.1 Strategy Framework to Enhance Adaptive Capacity and 257
Resilience of Communities and Ecosystems to Climate Change and
Natural Hazards
List of Maps
Context and Trends
Map 1.1 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas in the Bicol 13
Region, 2020
Map 1.2 Land Cover in the Bicol Region 15
Map 1.3 Conflict Affected and Vulnerable Areas in the Bicol Region 20
Map 1.4 Geographic Focus Areas in the Bicol Region 21

Map 2.1 Location Map of the Bicol Region 25
Map 2.2 Administrative Map of the Bicol Region 26
Map 2.3 Integrated Transportation Map of the Bicol Region 30
Map 2.4 Strategic Agriculture and Fisheries Development Zone in the 32
Bicol Region
Map 2.5 Tourism Map of the Bicol Region 34
Map 2.6 Network of Growth Centers in the Bicol Region 43
Map 2.7 Composite Land Use of the Bicol Region 45
Map 2.8 Major Infrastructure Programs and Projects in the Bicol 48
Region

Map 13.1 Inter and Intra-Regional Connectivity 206
Message
The National Economic and
Development Authority or NEDA,
in close coordination with other
government agencies, sectoral experts,
development partners, and stakeholders,
completed the Philippine Development
Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 in December
2022. The PDP serves as the country’s
medium-term blueprint to reinvigorate
job creation and accelerate poverty
reduction by steering the economy back
to its high-growth path.
The formulation of the PDP 2023-

2028 took place in a socioeconomic
landscape that presented several
setbacks, including the scarring effects
of the COVID-19 pandemic as well
as the impacts of other global trends
and challenges such as geopolitical
conflict, increasing use of automation
and accelerating digitalization, and
greater weather volatility and uncertainty owing to climate change. These challenges
shaped the formulation of the Plan we have today. Now, as we move forward from our
focus on post-pandemic recovery, the challenges at hand are on enabling economic
transformation and inclusive development.
In the short term, these challenges include addressing inflationary pressures and
protecting the vulnerable sections of society, especially people experiencing poverty,
from economic shocks and natural hazards. For the medium term, the Plan contains
strategies focused on addressing the binding constraints to economic growth and
inclusion by generating more higher-quality jobs. The Plan is aligned with the AmBisyon
Natin 2040 or our long-term vision for a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay for
all Filipinos.
In turn, the Regional Development Plans (RDPs) are expected to cascade and lay out
the strategies for attaining our development objectives at the local levels of governance,
especially as we aim to transform the lives of our people and ensure that economic
growth is inclusive. The RDPs, in line with our country’s long-term vision and the
goals of the PDP 2023-2028, shall address the challenges specific to each region’s
socioeconomic context.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has recognized the need to strengthen NEDA’s
presence and role in local government units (LGUs). Proactive engagement requires
aligning national and local policies to ensure that government plans and programs
Messages | xix
appropriately reflect local development priorities. With this in mind, the RDPs 2023-
2028 are formulated with a comprehensive perspective of critical LGU attributes that
would inform regional sectoral strategies. The RDPs highlight major local initiatives
that can significantly contribute to attaining regional development objectives and
targets. This approach enhances the connection between regional and local planning,
promotes greater local ownership of the RDPs, and provides guidance to the LGUs in
formulating their local development strategies and programs.
I thank the Regional Development Council of Bicol Region for its commitment to
formulating the RDP 2023-2028 and directing various regional development initiatives
to achieve our desired socioeconomic outcomes.
Finally, we call for the cooperation of our LGUs, regional agencies, private institutions,
non-government organizations, and members of civil society to participate in this joint
effort. Together, let us work hard towards achieving a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient
society in Bicol Region and throughout the country.
ARSENIO M. BALISACAN
Secretary
National Economic and Development Authority
xx | Regional Development Plan 2023-2028

Preface
Under Executive Order No. 5 s. 2016, the
country adopted the AmBisyon Natin 2040
which represents the collective aspirations
for ourselves and the country, that by 2040,
the Philippines will be a “prosperous,
predominantly middle-class society where
no one is poor; people enjoy long and healthy
lives, are smart and innovative, and live in a
high-trust society.”
The predecessor RDP 2017-2022 aimed to lay
down the foundation for inclusive growth,
a high-trust and resilient society, and a
globally-competitive knowledge economy.
The Bicol Region has been moving in that
direction with all key indicators set to be
achieved such as poverty, gross regional
domestic product (GRDP), and employment
targets. This positive performance was disrupted due to the occurrence of calamities and the
COVID-19 pandemic.
The successor RDP 2023-2028, containing 17 chapters, focuses on economic and social
transformation, with the end goal of a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society. It is grounded
on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 8-point socioeconomic agenda that will address short
and medium-term issues impeding the country’s inclusive and sustainable growth, and aligned
with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
As the second medium-term plan anchored on the AmBisyon Natin 2040, the Bicol RDP 2023-
2028 will serve as the region’s blueprint for socioeconomic development and will be the basis
for the region’s priority policies, programs, and projects over the next six years. The Regional
Development Council (RDC) 5, through its Sectoral Committees as the RDP Planning
Committees, adopted a participatory planning process in the formulation of the Plan to gain
ownership and commitment from stakeholders. Various consultations were conducted to
ensure that local aspirations and inclusivity of development are considered.
I enjoin everyone’s cooperation in implementing strategies that are supportive of the Plan. Let
us strive and work together to attain a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society, and reclaim
the pre-COVID-19 pandemic status as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.
I also would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the members of the RDC 5 and
its committees, the regional line agencies, local government units, private sector, non-
governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academe, and other stakeholders for
the collective effort and invaluable contributions, and to the NEDA Regional Development
Group and Policy and Planning Group for their guidance.
Let us continue to work together in realizing our vision for the country, for ourselves and our
children, and for future generations towards a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay!
LUIS G. BANUA
NEDA 5 Regional Director and
RDC 5 Vice Chairperson
Preface||xxi
Preface
Preface xxi
CHAPTER 1
Overview of the Regional

Economy, Development
Context and Trends
The Bicol Region is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country which
resulted in a significant improvement in the poverty situation because of the
better employment opportunities available in the region. These developments
were realized through the implementation of economic reforms by the national
government, the upgrading of infrastructure facilities, and the provision of social
services. However, due to resource limitations from 2020 to 2021, the region was not
able to cope with the many issues and challenges that must be confronted resulting
in a decline in the GRDP.
This chapter provides the highlights of the regional situation, trends on key
socioeconomic indicators, and other information relevant to the socioeconomic
development of the region.
Economic Trends
For the past 13 years, the Bicol economy Tropical Depression (TD) Usman, and the
almost doubled from a Gross Value Added eruption of Mt. Mayon in 2018; Tropical
(GVA) of PHP277.46 billion to PHP540.14 Cyclones (TC) Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses
billion (at constant 2018 prices) and (QRU) in 2019.
an increased share of Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) from 2.7 percent in 2009 In 2019, the Bicol economy accelerated
to 3.0 percent in 2021. The Bicol economy to 8.2 percent from 7.2 percent in 2016
is developing but mimics a mature (Figure 1.1), exceeding the RDP 2017-
economic structure of high-income and 2022 target of 6-7 percent and outpacing
developed economies where it is driven 17 other regions in the country. However,
by the Services sector. Because of its large because of the COVID-19 pandemic and
population, the per capita GRDP of the TCs QRU in 2020, the region’s GRDP
region has remained one of the lowest, plunged to negative 8.3 percent in 2021.
second to the Bangsamoro Autonomous The GRDP rebounded to 4.3 percent in the
Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), same year despite the challenges brought
at PHP87,219.00 in 2021 at constant 2018 by the pandemic, the impacts of TCs QRU
prices. that occurred in 2020, the African Swine
Fever (ASF), and other diseases and pests
Under the RDP 2017-2022, the region which affected some parts of the region.
managed accelerated growth despite
the effects of various disasters, such as The Bicol economy is predominantly
Typhoon Nina in 2016; Typhoon Ompong, Services-driven consisting of about 47.73
Chapter 1 Overview of the Regional Economy, Development Context and Trends | 6

percent, followed by Industry (35.66 sluggish growth, the AFF sector was
percent), and Agriculture, Forestry, and overtaken by the Industry sector starting
Fishing (AFF) (16.61 percent). For the in 2008 (Figure 1.2).
past two decades, the AFF sector was
second to Services, but because of its Over the past decade, the Services sector
Figure 1.1 GRDP in the Bicol Region, 2015-2021, in Million Pesos,
at Constant 2018 Prices
25,000.00
20,000.00
+8.2%
15,000.00 +6.9%
+5.5%
+7.2%
+4.3%
-8.3%
10,000.00
5,000.00
0.00
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Source: Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA)
Figure 1.2 GRDP in the Bicol Region by Industry of Origin, 2000-2021, in Billion Pesos,
at Constant 2018 Prices
300.00
250.00
200.00
150.00
100.00
Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing

50.00 Industry
Services
-
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
Source: PSA
expanded mainly because of the more more tourism destinations were developed
vibrant tourism activities under the Other as better access to these destinations
Services subsector. Consequent to the significantly improved which contributed
increase in the construction industry, to the influx of both domestic and foreign
7 | Regional Development Plan 2023-2028

tourists. Other Services subsectors lending institutions), and real estate. The
correspondingly increased such as AFF sector, though increasing, continued
transportation and communication, trade, with a slow performance.
financial intermediation (banks and other
Demographic Trends
Population Size
Based on the 2020 Census of Population of the year 2000 population. Among the
and Housing (CPH), the Bicol population provinces, Camarines Sur has remained
already reached 6.08 million (Table 1.1). It with the biggest population comprising
accounts for 5.58 percent of the country’s one-third of the region’s overall population
population, ranks 6th among the 17 at 34.01 percent, while Catanduanes has
administrative regions in the country, and the least population share at 4.47 percent.
ranked 4th among the Luzon regions. For All provinces, except Camarines Sur and
the past 20 years, the region’s population Camarines Norte, have decreased share of
grew by 1.4 million or by almost 30 percent the total regional population.
Table 1.1. Population Size, Distribution, and Growth Rate, Percentage by Province
Bicol Region: 2000, 2010, and 2020
2000 2010 2020

REGION/ ANNUAL ANNUAL ANNUAL
PROVINCE % % %
POP’N SIZE R GR (1990 POP’N SIZE R GR (1990 POP’N SIZE R GR (1990
SHARE SHARE SHARE
TO 2000) TO 2000) TO 2000)
Region V 4,686,669 1.83 5,420,411 1.46 6,082,165 1.16
Camarines Sur 1,551,549 33.11 1 1.74 1,822,371 33.62 1 1.62 2,068,244 34.01 1 1.27
Albay 1,090,907 23.28 2 1.90 1,233,432 22.76 2 1.23 1,374,768 22.60 2 1.09
Masbate 707,668 15.10 3 1.67 834,650 15.40 3 1.66 908,920 14.94 3 0.86
Sorsogon 650,535 13.88 4 2.21 740,743 13.67 4 1.31 828,655 13.62 4 1.13
Camarines Norte 470,654 10.04 5 1.87 542,915 10.02 5 1.44 629,699 10.35 5 1.49
Catanduanes 215,356 4.60 6 1.42 246,300 4.54 6 1.35 271,879 4.47 6 0.99
Legend:
GR - Growth Rate R - Ranking
Source: PSA
Based on the three censal periods (2000, annual growth rates of less than one
2010, and 2020), the region’s population percent, from 2010 to 2020. On average, for
continued to decelerate. From 2010 the past 30 years, the region’s population
to 2020, the population grew by 1.16 declined by 0.34 percent annually. The
percent annually, lower than the annual province of Sorsogon recorded the fastest
population growth rates from 2000 to deceleration at 0.54 percent annually.
2010, and 1990 to 2000, at 1.46 and 1.83 Despite the deceleration, population
percent, respectively. The island provinces doubling time is expected by the year
of Masbate and Catanduanes recorded 2080.

Birth and Death Rates, and Migration
The decelerating population growth in the years but slightly decreased in 2020. The
region may be attributed to the low birth province of Masbate recorded a steady
rate, high death rate, and high migration. increase in the death rate.
The Bicol Region recorded a declining
birth rate from 22.2 per 1,000 population Based on the 2018 National Migration
in 2010 to 14.4 per 1,000 population Survey (NMS), Bicol placed second in
in 2020. For the provinces, the biggest having the most lifetime out-migrants or
decline in the birth rate was recorded people transferring to other regions. It is
in Masbate at 4.6 per 1,000 population the top-losing region with 1.42 million
between 2010 to 2020, while for the cities, migrants, while the top two gaining
Naga City recorded the biggest decline at regions are Cavite-Laguna-Batangas-
13.7 per 1,000 population. Rizal-Quezon (CALABARZON) and
National Capital Region (NCR) with
The Bicol Region also recorded a steady 2.99 million and 1.77 million migrants,
rise in the number of registered deaths respectively. According to the NMS, the
(31,000 to 37,000 registered deaths) from top reason for internal migration is due to
2010 to 2017, except in 2015. However, in employment/ job change/ job relocation.
2018, registered deaths escalated by nearly Other causes are housing-related, school,
7,000, equivalent to a crude death rate of living with parents, and living with a
7.4, or about seven per 1,000 population. spouse/ partner.
This continued to increase in the following
Population Density
In 2020, the population density was province at 557 persons per sq. km. higher
recorded at 350 persons per square than the regional average of 350 persons.
kilometer (sq. km.), or an increase of The provinces of Camarines Norte,
about 80 persons per sq. km. for the past Masbate, and Catanduanes recorded
20 years, or four persons per sq. km. per population densities below the regional
year. Albay is the most densely populated population density.
Urban Distribution
The urban population in the region was recorded the lowest at 6.8 percent. For
recorded at 23.2 percent of the total the cities Naga, Legazpi, Iriga, and
population in 2015. A total of 1.34 million Masbate had more than 50 percent urban
urban population was recorded in the population. For the municipalities, Daet,
region, higher by 513,523 or 38.18 percent Pili, and Pamplona had more than half the
compared to 2010. Camarines Norte urban population in 2015. A total of seven
posted the highest level of urbanization cities and municipalities had an urban
at 30.2 percent. Conversely, Catanduanes population exceeding 50 percent in 2015.
Sex Distribution
The Bicol Region has almost a balanced percent, followed by children aged 10-14
population among males and females, years at 11.43 percent. During the same
with a sex ratio of 103 males for every 100 period, 538,124 or 8.87 percent of the
females. In 2020, children aged 5-9 years total population were senior citizens, of
covered the largest bracket with 11.50 which 56.43 percent are females.

Age Distribution
The productive population (ages 15-64) 66, which indicates that for every 100
comprised 3.64 million persons. The working-age population, they have to
young dependents (ages 0-14) constituted support 57 young dependents and 9 old
2.07 million persons, while the old dependents. However, it was observed
dependents (ages 65 years old and over) that over the four decades dependency
have a population of 352,165. The overall ratio in the region is decreasing, from 83
dependency ratio of Bicol in 2020 was in 2000 to 66 in the year 2020.
Ethnic Population
As of 2022, there are 135,000 ethnic such as wavy hair, fair complexion, and
population in the region composed taller structure. The Agta-Cimaron are
of the following ethnic communities: the offspring of the nomadic Agta who
Agta, Agta-Tabangnon, Agta-Cimaron, intermarried foreigners. They differ from
Dumagat, and the Kabihug/Manide. The their parent Agta in terms of facial and
Agta tribe is characterized by being short, physical features of foreign lineage mostly
and stocky, with thick lips, flat nose, Spanish or other foreign bloodlines.
black curly hair, and black complexion.
The Agta originally dominated the entire Of the 28,987 ethnic families, 69,048
region and is sporadically located in the (51.15%) are male, and 65,952 (48.85%)
provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, Camarines are female. Of the four provinces
Sur, Masbate, and Catanduanes. The with residing indigenous peoples (IP)
Kabihug/ Manide live in remote areas in communities, Camarines Norte is the
Camarines Norte. The term “Manide” or province with an IP population with a
“Mamanide” is likewise the name of their greater number of females than males.
language. The Agta-Tabangnon is a result The province of Camarines Sur hosts the
of intermarriage between a lowlander and largest land area declared as an ancestral
an agta, who are nomadic, very dependent, domain. Among the municipalities, Buhi,
and traverse the entire region. They differ Camarines Sur has the greatest ethnic
from their parent agta in physical features population with 30,025 individuals.
Population Affected by Natural Hazards

and Disasters
For the past 15 years, various disasters The TCs also caused the largest number
have been experienced by the Bicolanos of evacuees with 81.79 percent and 82.99
affecting a total of 3.23 million families percent of the total evacuated families and
consisting of 14.25 million individuals. persons, respectively. A total of 2.3 million
Among the hazards, TCs affected the families and 10.78 million individuals
greatest number of both families and were evacuated due to the hazards that
persons comprising 87.46 percent of the struck the region.
total number of families and persons.

Population Exposed to Hazards
• Landslides. Exposure assessment cities/municipalities in the region,
using landslide and population data Tabaco City in Albay and Daet and
showed that of the region’s total Vinzons in Camarines Norte have
population, around 1.5 million the highest number of populations
individuals are exposed to areas exposed to high flooding, with a total
with high landslide susceptibility. of 106,221 individuals at risk.
The cities of Legazpi and Tabaco in
Albay have the largest populations • Lahar. For Bulusan Volcano, the
exposed to areas with high landslide municipality of Irosin has the highest
susceptibility, reaching around number of exposed populations to
160,000 individuals, wherein 52 lahar with 7,062 individuals at-risk.
percent of Tabaco City’s population The municipalities of Juban and
is exposed to high landslide Bulusan have a total of 3,140 persons
susceptibility. or 9.18 percent of the total population
at risk. For Mayon Volcano, about
• Floods. Of the region’s total 10.43 percent of the total population
population, around 631,000 are in Tabaco City is highly exposed to
exposed to areas with a high flood. lahar. Around 43,000 individuals
This means that more than half who live in the city of Legazpi
a million Bicolanos are likely to and municipalities of Daraga,
experience flood heights of more than Guinobatan, Sto. Domingo, Malilipot,
1.0 meter and/or flood duration of and Camalig, are also exposed to
more than three days. Among the 114 high lahar.
Poverty and Marginalized Communities

• Poverty. Poverty incidence among because of the sustained economic
the population significantly declined growth that translated to an increase
by 14.1 percentage points, from 41.1 in employment opportunities.
percent in 2012 to 27 percent in However, due to the impacts of
2018, while poverty incidence among COVID-19 and TCs QRU (spell out
families reduced from 32.3 percent before using an acronym), poverty
to 20 percent in 2012 and 2018, incidence among the population
respectively (Table 1.2). All provinces increased to 29.3 percent, or 29 out
registered a reduction in poverty of every 100 Bicolanos are considered
incidence. During this period, more poor.
Bicolanos were lifted out of poverty

Table 1.2 Per Capita Poverty Threshold, and Poverty Incidence among Families, and
Population in the Bicol Region by Province, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2021
PER CAPITA POVERTY THRESHOLD (IN POVERTY INCIDENCE AMONG POVERTY INCIDENCE AMONG
AREA PHP) FAMILIES (%) POPULATION (%)
2021 2018 2015 2012 2021 2018 2015 2012 2021 2018 2015 2012
Philippines 28,871 25,813 22,747 18,935 13.2 12.1 18.0 19.7 18.1 16.7 23.5 25.2
Bicol Region 27,675 24,461 22,503 18,257 21.9 20.0 31.0 32.3 29.3 27.0 39.8 41.1
Albay 27,346 24,902 22,328 18,610 15.4 15.0 18.5 33.9 20.4 21.2 26.2 41.0
Camarines Norte 27,571 25,051 23,940 18,390 16.6 22.4 35.1 21.7 22.2 30.5 43.6 28.7
Camarines Sur 28,651 24,271 22,874 18,717 29.8 21.0 28.5 31.7 38.7 28.4 36.8 41.2
Catanduanes 28,014 24,380 21,668 18,303 16.8 14.4 33.6 27.1 23.5 20.3 43.4 33.8
Masbate 25,545 22,911 20,406 17,487 20.2   25.8 35.5 40.6 27.7 33.0 45.4 51.3
Sorsogon 27,133 26,069 23,268 17,535 21.7 19.6 46.2 31.3 30.0 26.1 56.9 40.7
Source: PSA Region 5
• Geographically Isolated and as GIDAs, next to BARMM. In

Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs). terms of the percentage of GIDA
As of 2020, there were 489 out of barangays to the total number of
the 3,471 barangays in the region barangays, the Bicol region ranked
classified as GIDAs. These are eighth with 14.09 percent. Masbate
communities with marginalized registered the highest number with
populations that are physically 142 GIDA barangays, or 29.04
and socio-economically separated percent of the total GIDAs in the
from mainstream society. Among region. Catanduanes registered the
the regions in the country, Bicol least with 24 GIDA barangays. All
placed second with the highest cities except Naga City have GIDA
number of barangays classified barangays (Map 1.1).

Map 1.1:

Employment
For the past nine years, Labor Force 27.6 percent in 2020, which indicates
Participation Rate (LFPR) slowly declined that the quality of work in the region is
from 67.2 percent in 2011 to 59.5 percent improving.
in 2020. The decrease in the LFPR can be
attributed to the prolonged stay of students The Agriculture and Services sectors are
in school due to the implementation of the major job generators in the Bicol
the K to 12 Program of the Department of Region. The shift from an agri-based
Education (DepEd) under Republic Act economy to a Services-led economy
No. 10533 or Enhanced Basic Education also resulted in declining employment
Act of 2013, which extends the number of in the agriculture sector, which can be
years of students in secondary education seen starting in 2009. Some factors that
(Cabegin, Gaddi, 2019). contributed to the decline in employment
are the aging farmers and the lack of
The employment rate was highest in 2016 interest among the younger generations
at 95.7 percent and lowest in 2020 at 90.4 in agricultural-related jobs. More people
percent. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, are now engaged in jobs related to the
the employment rate for the past nine tourism, transportation, wholesale and
years averaged at 94.7 percent. Over the retail, education, health, and social work
years, the underemployment rate has sectors.
decreased from 35.4 percent in 2011 to
Environmental Trends
Land Classification: Alienable and Disposable,
Forest and Timberland
About 69 percent of the region’s total Forests and timberlands comprise about
land area is A&D lands wherein around 31 percent of the total land area where the
22 percent are found in the province of majority (nine percent) are also found in
Camarines Sur, and 15 percent in Masbate. Camarines Sur.
Land Cover
Majority of the region’s land area is forest and timberland covering an area
utilized for agriculture, with annual and of about seven sq. kms., observed in the
perennial crops covering approximately municipalities of Aroroy in Masbate, Pilar
10,347 sq. km. (Map 1.2), while the built- in Sorsogon, Vinzons in Camarines Norte,
up areas covered about 358 sq. km. There and Ocampo in Camarines Sur.
is the encroachment of built-up areas in

Map 1.2:

Data from the Department of Agrarian approved converted land comprising
Reform (DAR) Region 5 showed that 43 percent of the total approved land
around 640 hectares (ha) of agricultural conversion. Most of these agricultural
lands were converted to various land uses lands were converted to residential land
from the year 2000 to 2021. The province (Table 1.3).
of Camarines Sur recorded the highest
Table 1.3. Area of Agricultural Lands Converted to Other Purposes in the Bicol Region
by Province, in Hectares, 2000-2021
AREA RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTIONAL OTHERS

Bicol 368.12 107.83 66.51 78.72 17.48
Albay 52.42   41.00   6.26   10.75   0.73  
Camarines Norte 99.69   6.25   -     17.20   3.63  
Camarines Sur 153.87   36.15   45.93   29.39   9.81  
Catanduanes 10.65   -     -     9.48   -    
Masbate 4.44   -     2.07   4.98   -    
Sorsogon 47.05   24.43   12.25   6.92   3.31  
Source: DAR
Protected Areas
There are 19 protected areas in the administration of all designated protected
region covering a total of approximately areas to: (a) maintain essential ecological
1,103.41 sq. km, wherein 11 of these are processes and life-support systems; (b)
proclaimed through RA 11038 or the preserve genetic diversity; (c) ensure
Expanded National Integrated Protected sustainable use of resources found therein;
Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018. The and (d) maintain their natural conditions
NIPAS provides the classification and to the greatest extent possible.
Ancestral Domain
In the Bicol Region, the ancestral domain Camarines provinces, and Sorsogon. RA
covers an area of around 264 sq. km. 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights
occupied by six main groups of Indigenous Act (IPRA) of 1997 acknowledges the
Cultural Communities/ Indigenous ICCs/IPs’ rights to ancestral domain,
Peoples (ICCs/IPs) namely: (a) Kabihug/ but various issues are experienced by
Manide; (b) Dumagat; (c) Agta-Cimaron; these minority groups including land
(d) Agta-Tabangon; (e) Agta-Taboy; and dispute and loss of ancestral lands due to
(f) Agta/Agta-Tabangon. These ICCs/ displacement.
IPs occupy portions of land in Albay,
Hazards
• Landslides. Around 27 percent or land area has high to very high
4,632 sq. km. of the region’s total susceptibility to landslides and

debris flow. Among the provinces, are Calabanga and Garchitorena
Catanduanes has the highest landslide in Camarines Sur, Prieto Diaz in
susceptibility with approximately 80 Sorsogon, and Viga in Catanduanes.
percent of its total land area having
very high to moderate exposure. • Volcanic Hazards. The Bulusan
and Mayon Volcanoes provide
• Liquefaction. Around 1,274 sq. volcanic hazards consisting of lava
km. of the region’s land area is flows, pyroclastic density currents
high to moderately susceptible to (PDCs), lahar, volcanic gas, volcanic
liquefaction. tsunami, and debris avalanche,
among others. For Bulusan Volcano,
• Tsunami. It is estimated that around the municipalities of Casiguran,
315 sq. km. of the region’s coastal area Bulusan, Juban, Barcelona, and Irosin
is prone to a tsunami with inundation are exposed to the lava flow, while
depths of five meters and above. These for Mayon Volcano, there are nine
areas are located along the eastern municipalities in Albay covering an
seaboard, directly facing the open area of approximately 123 sq. km.
sea. Among the municipalities with exposed to the lava flow in case of
high tsunami exposure (with more eruption (Table 1.4).
than 6 meters’ inundation depth)
Table 1.4 Land Area Exposed to Volcanic-Related Hazards, By Type of Hazards, for
Mayon and Bulusan Volcanoes, in Square Kilometers, 2021
AREA EXPOSED TO HAZARDS (IN SQ. KM)

VOLCANO
LAVA FLOW PDC LAHAR
Bulusan 73.74 209.62   124.19
Mayon 123.44 163.03 317.02
Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)
• Tropical Cyclones. From 1945-2020, 275 kilometers per hour (km/h), 260
a total of 161 TCs crossed the Bicol km/h, and 248 km/h, respectively.
Region wherein 55.3 percent of these
TCs occurred in the last quarter of • There are no complete records of
each year and 21 percent occurred damage and loss assessment reports of
in the second quarter. Based on the previous single TC events except for
classification, 4.3 percent of these TC Nina (International Name: Nock-
TCs fall under the typhoon category, Ten) which affected the Bicol Region
followed by tropical storms at 37.9 in December 2016. The TC Nina
percent. Historical data from the packed with maximum sustained
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical winds of 185 km/h and having a
and Astronomical Services frequency of occurrence of a 20-year
Administration (PAGASA) showed return period affected most parts of
that the top three strongest recorded the region. Based on the Post Disaster
TCs that crossed the Bicol Region Needs Assessment (PDNA) Report
occurred in 1970 (TC Sening), 1987 prepared by the Regional Disaster Risk
(TC Herming), and 1981 (TC Anding) Reduction and Management Council
with a maximum sustained wind of (RDRRMC), TC Nina resulted in

economic and social disruption with • Flooding. Another hydro-
340 recorded casualties (14 dead meteorological hazard that poses
and 326 injured). It also resulted in a threat to the region affecting
a total of PHP24.17 billion (at 2016 approximately 1,405.72 sq. km. or
price levels) in damages and losses eight percent of the region’s total land
(PHP9.20 billion in damages and area which is categorized as very high
PHP14.97 billion in losses). In the and highly susceptible to flooding.
last quarter of 2020, TCs QRU caused Most of these areas are found within
widespread destruction to Bicol in the Bicol River Basin area. Camarines
a span of three weeks. Based on the Sur is the most prone to flooding
PDNA report of the RDRRMC, the where 8.2 percent of its land area rises
total combined estimated damages high and highly susceptible to floods
and losses amounted to PHP80.40 (Table 1.5).
billion (at 2020 price levels).
Table 1.5. Area Susceptible to Flooding in the Bicol Region, by Category of Flood, by
Province, in Square Kilometers, 2021
AREA SUSCEPTIBLE TO FLOODING (IN SQ KM)

AREA
VERY HIGH FLOOD HIGH FLOOD MODERATE FLOOD LOW FLOOD
Bicol 704.65 701.07 792.38 853.28

Albay 44.75 201.32 104.85 40.33
Camarines Norte 96.25 110.37 101.23 88.76
Camarines Sur 258.34 179.29 378.60 459.57
Catanduanes 36.77 9.61 27.71 60.66
Masbate 162.09 33.09 112.16 182.57
Sorsogon 106.45 167.39 67.83 21.40
Source: MGB
Peace and Order

Conflict Affected and Conflict Vulnerable Areas
As of March 2022, the provinces of The issues experienced in the CAA-
Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon CVAs were the lack of facilities and
are areas classified as conflict-affected services which include: (a) infrastructure
and conflict-vulnerable areas (CAA- such as farm-to-market roads (FMRs),
CVAs) in the region. Among these, flood control, seawalls, drainage canals,
Masbate province has the highest number spillways; irrigation, water supply,
with 60 CAA-CVA barangays, followed electrification, and telecommunication
by Camarines Sur with 28 barangays, facilities; (b) social facilities/services
and Sorsogon with nine barangays. Of such as health and sanitation facilities, (c)
the 97 CAA-CVAs, the municipality of evacuation centers; and (d) educational
Caramoan has the highest number of facilities such as schools and daycare
barangays with 15, Cawayan and Uson centers. Other issues are the following:
with 12 and 11 barangays, respectively. (a) high cost of farm inputs and low price
of farm outputs; (b) lack of alternative

livelihood and unemployment; and (c) (Influenced), 29 barangays as
land tenure. Ekspansyon (Expansion), 23 barangays
as Kinokonsolida (Less Influenced), and
Of the 97 barangays considered as CAA- eight barangays as Rekoberi (Recovery)
CVAs, 37 barangays are Konsolidado (Map 1.3).   
Conflict Affected and Conflict Vulnerable Areas

Geographic focus areas (GFAs) are areas Sixty percent of the municipalities
classified as GIDAs and/ CAA-CVA. The (Garchitorena, Presentacion, Esperanza,
majority of GFAs categorized as Focus Area Palanas, Pio V. Corpuz, and Uson)
A (GIDAs and CAA-CVAs) are located in classified as Focus Area A have poverty
Masbate and Camarines Sur (Map 1.4). incidence above 20 percent. It shows that
These barangays are the highest priority the series of conflicts aggravate poverty
areas for development. The establishment in these areas by causing incapacity
of essential infrastructure creates a to access goods, opportunities, and
link to markets, provides employment resources, increasing unemployment,
opportunities, and improves access to and displacement of families. As a result
social services. On Focus Area B or the of the conflict, the displaced individuals
CAA-CVAs consisted of 71 barangays, and families are more vulnerable and the
more than half of which were located in areas where they are from are lagging,
the province of Masbate, whereas 21 and hence undermining development in
nine barangays are located in Camarines these communities. This calls for a more
Sur and Sorsogon, respectively. Camarines unified approach to combat insurgency
Sur and Masbate got the highest number and poverty in CAA-CVAs.  
of barangays classified as Focus Area C or
the GIDAs, with 27 percent each.  

Map 1.3:

Map 1.4:

CHAPTER 2
Regional Spatial
Development Framework
The Bicol Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) 2021-2050 provides the spatial
development framework to guide sub-regional areas in the utilization of the region’s
land and other physical resources. It is designed to guide the direction and growth
of the sub-regional areas and the entire region in the long term. The Bicol RPFP is a
Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation (DRR-CCA) enhanced RPFP
which is anchored on the AmBisyon Natin 2040, the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), and the National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework (NDRRF). It also adopts
the core strategies of the Luzon Spatial Development Framework (LSDF) which
serves as the integrating framework of the various regional physical plans in Luzon.
The RDP 2023-2028 will be implemented consistent with the DRR-CCA enhanced
RPFP 2021-2050 over the medium term.
The overall spatial development framework is a combination of the core strategies

espoused under the LSDF and the spatial development strategies.
Physical Characteristics of the Region

Location
The Bicol Region lies within the by Quezon Province to the north, the
coordinates 12° to 14° north latitude and Philippine Sea to the east, the Samar Sea
122° to 124° east longitude, located at the to the south, and the Sibuyan Sea to the
southern tip of Luzon (Map 2.1: Location west.
Map). The Bicol Peninsula is bounded
Administrative Boundary and Land Area

The Bicol Region is composed of six about six percent of the total land area
provinces, of which four are contiguous of the Philippines. Camarines Sur is the
mainland provinces, namely Albay, largest province with a land area of 5,327
Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and sq. km. or 31 percent of the regional
Sorsogon, and two are island provinces: area, while Catanduanes is the smallest
Catanduanes and Masbate (Map 2.2: with an area of 1,454.6 sq. km or eight
Administrative Map). It has a total land percent of the regional area (Table 2.1).
area of approximately 17,366 sq. km. or
Chapter 2 Regional Spatial Development Framework | 24

Map 2.1:

Map 2.2:

Table 2.1. Land Area by Province and City, Bicol Region
PROVINCE TOTAL AREA (IN SQ KM) % OF REGIONAL TOTAL

Bicol 17,365.53 100%
Albay 2,468.09 14.2%
Camarines Norte 2,158.82 12.4%
Camarines Sur 5,327.00 30.7%
Catanduanes 1,454.62 8.4%
Masbate 3,984.35 22.9%
Sorsogon 1,972.64 11.4%
Source: DENR
The region is composed of 7 cities five in Camarines Sur, three in Albay,

(1 independent, 6 component), 107 three in Masbate, two in Camarines Norte,
municipalities, and 3,471 barangays. It is two in Sorsogon, and the lone district of
subdivided into 16 congressional districts: Catanduanes.
Demographic Characteristics and Physical

Environment (See Chapter 1)
Transportation Network
The region’s transportation network (ICC) in 2015 is also yet to commence
(Map 2.3: Integrated Transportation physical construction.
Map) consists of road transport, railways,
ports, and airports. The most heavily used • Road Transport. The AH26
means of transport are the roads and (Maharlika Highway) is the only
ports. However, these facilities require means of land transport to Manila and
upgrading and need to be more resilient to other parts of Luzon. The country’s
meet the increasing demand. Some major participation in the Asian Highway
projects were not implemented, hindering Agreement paved the way for the
the development of the Bicol Region. The upgrading of the Maharlika Highway
Matnog Port in Sorsogon needs immediate into a four-lane road.  The AH26 also
improvement as current port conditions provides linkages to Luzon, Visayas,
cause inconvenience to motorists and Mindanao.
traveling to Visayas and Mindanao. For
several decades, the Philippine National • Of the region’s total national road
Railways (PNR) Mainline South has been length of 2,417.71 km in 2020,
non-operational. The Bicol International about 60.14 percent (1,454.08 km)
Airport (BIA) despite taking two decades are concrete paved, 38.74 percent
to complete, is still plagued with issues (936.63 km) are asphalt surfaced, and
such as the obstruction by the National the remaining 1.11 percent (23.77
Grid Corporation’s power transmission km) are gravel (23.77 km) and earth
line, and the leaking roof in the passenger roads (3.23 km). Among the regions,
terminal building. The New Naga Airport Bicol ranked fifth with high road
Development Project already approved by densities at 13.35 km per sq. km., but
the Investment Coordination Committee is far from the road densities in NCR

(188.24 km per sq. km.) and almost roads in Gubat and Juban, Sorsogon
only half of the densities in Regions consist of 21.4 km (70.6%) and 11.6
6 and 7. Over the last ten years, the km (45.4%) flood susceptibility,
region’s density only increased by respectively. The national roads in
0.60 km per sq. km., much less than the municipalities of Oas, Libon, and
the 1.04 increase in the NCR. The Tabaco City in Albay, Nabua, Milaor,
road network in the region is unable Minalabac, San Fernando, Calabanga,
to cope with the increasing number and Canaman in Camarines Sur; Viga
of registered motor vehicles, which in Catanduanes; and Capalonga in
almost doubled from 2013 to 2019. In Camarines Norte are all susceptible to
2020, the total number of registered flooding.
motor vehicles in the region was
recorded at 455,474, wherein 407,244 • In terms of landslides, around 140
(88.8%) are private vehicles, 45,543 km (5.78%) of the national road in
(10.6%) are “for hire” or public utility the province of Albay is exposed
vehicles (PUV), and 2,687 (0.6%) are to high landslide, with Libon
government vehicles. The increasing having the highest exposure among
motor vehicle registration shows the municipalities at 29.33 km (47.3%) of
need for more and better roads to its total road length. About 96 km of
accommodate the increasing traffic roads in the province of Catanduanes
and prevent congestion in the future, are exposed to high landslides,
and must be designed to consider its followed by the province of Camarines
use for bikes and motorbikes. Sur at 25 km.
• Of the total national roads in Bicol, • Railways. The PNR Mainline South
822.91 km. (34%) are susceptible to Rail Transport System from Metro
flooding. The primary roads include Manila to the Bicol Region is non-
Daang Maharlika and Andaya operational. It is currently undergoing
Highways of which 54.12 km have upgrading and rehabilitation under
very high to high susceptibility to the South Long Haul (SLH) Project.
flooding. The secondary roads with The only operational PNR service is
very high, high, medium, and low the commuter line service with two
flooding exposures were estimated daily trips of two coaches, between
at 321.27 km, while the tertiary Naga City to Sipocot Stations, with
roads were at 290.99 km. In terms of a travel time of about one hour and
landslides, around 140 km (5.78%) of five minutes covering a distance of 30
the national roads in the province of km. The PNR SLH Project is a 560-
Albay, 96 km in Catanduanes, and 25 km standard-gauge rail track project
km in Camarines Sur are exposed to with 33 stations from Muntinlupa,
high landslides. Manila to Daraga, Albay, with a
railway extension to Sorsogon. It
• The flooding on Bicol national is comprised of four alignment
roads, specifically those with high packages, two of which cover the
susceptibilities, is mostly located Bicol Region, namely: (a) Package 1
in all provinces except Masbate. – Banlic, Laguna to Daraga, Albay;
The municipality of Prieto Diaz and (b) Package 2 – Daraga, Albay to
in Sorsogon has the highest flood Matnog, Sorsogon. Once completed,
susceptibility at 85 percent of its total the commuter train will render a
road length of 15.5 km, while the speed of 120-160 km/h, 80-100 km/h

for freight or cargo, and 80-100 km/h domestic airports capable of handling
on local sections. It will generally smaller aircraft. The feeder airports
improve inter- and intra-regional or community airports located in
connectivity and reduce travel time, Daet in Camarines Norte; San Jose in
thus contributing to the overall Camarines Sur; and Bacon and Bulan
economic growth of the region. in Sorsogon are used primarily as
Historical preservation of some support to regional and local airports
existing stations must be observed, for general aviation.
and relevant assessments for natural
disasters must be incorporated into The operation of BIA that started
its design. in October 2021 will increase the
inter-regional flights and may also
• Ports. Under the Philippine Nautical provide international flights serving
Highway System, the Bicol Region its neighboring Asian countries. The
is part of the integrated network BIA has night operations facilities and
of roads and ports providing the can accommodate large aircraft such
backbone of the nationwide transport as the A320. As of the first quarter
system and connecting the major of 2022, the BIA has seven day-time
islands of Luzon, Visayas, and flights per day with PAL Express and
Mindanao. The inter-regional sea CebGo. The Cebu Pacific airline
transport system of the Bicol Region proposed five flights per day using
caters to the Roll-on/ roll-off (RORO) both the Airbus and ATR aircraft.
passengers, as well as to domestic and Additional routes to Cebu twice a
foreign cargoes. In 2022, there are 49 week will soon follow. However,
operational ports in the region, with the power transmission towers of
the base port in Legazpi City being the National Grid Corporation of
the site of the Regional Operations the Philippines (NGCP) have yet to
of the Philippine Ports Authority be relocated because they obstruct
(PPA). The rest consist of eight PPA- air navigation. The Naga airport
managed terminal ports, 32 local in Camarines Sur and the Masbate
government unit (LGU)-operated airport are currently undergoing
municipal ports, and eight private major development and upgrading,
ports. These ports require upgrading specifically on runway reorientation
and modernization, particularly the for safer aircraft operation, and
Matnog Port, which urgently requires relocation to avoid a permanent
modernization of its facilities and obstruction along its approach,
services and establishment of an respectively. The Masbate Airport will
alternate port. require a transfer to a new location.
The Daet Airport in Camarines Norte
• Airports. The region has four has undergone runway improvement
operational airports with commercial in 2021. The San Jose Airport in
operations, including the newly Camarines Sur and Virac Airport
opened BIA in Daraga, Albay, which are being renovated. These airports
serves as the trunkline airport capable need to be continually upgraded and
of handling international flights modernized to accommodate the
and the major commercial domestic increasing passenger traffic. Intra-
airport in the region. Naga airport regional flights particularly flights
in Camarines Sur, Virac airport in going to and from the island provinces
Catanduanes, and Moises R. Espinosa of Catanduanes and Masbate will be
airport in Masbate are secondary restored.
airports or minor commercial

Map 2.3:

Production Areas
Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries
The share of AFF in the GRDP continues has remained constant, while fisheries
to decrease from 25 percent in 2011 to production has been decreasing and
only 18 percent in 2020. The gross value unstable from 2010 to 2020. Among the
of production declined from PHP88.47 sources of fishery production, municipal
billion in 2019 to PHP86.58 billion in fishery shared the highest volume of
2020. The poultry and livestock subsectors production (Figure 2.1). With the region’s
suffered the biggest loss of 11.29 percent, vast coastlines, protected bays, and lakes
with the 9.35 percent decrease in livestock in Bato, Buhi, and Bulusan, the potential
attributable to the ASF outbreak. Over the to develop the blue economy is huge,
years, cattle production which is a major particularly in the aquaculture industry.
commodity in the province of Masbate
Figure 2.1 Volume of Fisheries Production in the Bicol Region, 2010-2020
160,000
140,000
120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
-
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Commercial Municipal Aquaculture

Source: PSA
The major crops of the region are palay, Camarines Sur is the highest palay
corn, pineapple, coconut, pili, and abaca. producer. Rice farmers are confronted
The Bicol Region, particularly in the with the following challenges: (a) lowering
province of Catanduanes, has remained the cost of production; (b) increasing farm
the top producer of abaca fiber and mechanization; (c) providing irrigation;
pili products in the country; however, and (d) reducing the impacts of disasters
production is low compared to the major particularly due to floods and strong
commodities in the region. Over a period winds. The rice self-sufficiency level in
of ten years, palay production increased the region was reached in 2009. Map 2.4
only by 19.78 percent from 1.08 million provides for the Strategic Agricultural and
metric tons (MT) in 2010 to 1.29 million Fisheries Development Zones (SAFDZ).
MT in 2020. Among the provinces,

Map 2.4:

Services
The Services sector consistently recorded played a vital role in the growth of
the highest output, from PHP136 billion the region’s economy. Tourist arrivals
in 2011 to PHP202 billion in 2020, which in Bicol increased by 53.1 percent in
grew by 48.53 percent from 2011-2020. foreign tourist arrivals and 78.9 percent
But due to lockdowns caused by the in domestic tourist arrivals from 2010 to
COVID-19 pandemic, the output of the 2019 (Figure 2.2: Visitors Arrival). But in
Services sector declined by 6.9 percentage 2020, the tourism industry also suffered
points from 9.8 percent in 2019. heavily because of the lockdowns, closures
of tourism sites, and border restrictions
From 2010-2019, the tourism industry to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Figure 2.2 Visitors Arrival in the Bicol Region, Domestic and Foreign, 2011-2019
6,000,000
5,000,000
Number of Visitors
4,000,000
3,000,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
-
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Domestic Foreign
Source: Department of Tourism (DOT)
The main contribution of tourism to the rising demand of the tourists for better
Bicol economy is through the holding facilities and services. In 2020, among
of festivals, the hosting of national the provinces in the region, Camarines
events and conventions, and well-visited Sur posted the highest in terms of the
tourism destinations (Map 2.5 Tourism number of hotels or accommodation
Map). As the region continued to gain establishments and room capacity,
an advantage in tourism, other tourism- followed by the province of Albay. The
oriented establishments such as hotels and rest of the provinces have less than 150
restaurants, including the transportation tourism establishments and 3,000 rooms.
sector, also increased to meet the

Map 2.5:

Industry
The region’s Industry sector recorded the Industry sector because of the region’s
a total output of PHP176.9 billion in abundant mineral resources, which are
2020, from PHP90.86 billion in 2011 at rich in rock, copper, gold, phosphate,
constant 2018 prices. While this sector marble, silver, lead, manganese, chromite,
accounted for the second largest share nickel, and additional metallic minerals.
of the GRDP at an average of 33 percent, About 33.8 percent or 595,708.56 hectares
it has shown a fluctuating but generally (has.) of the region’s land area is covered
increasing growth over the ten years. But by mining leasing contracts, exploration
because of the COVID-19 pandemic in permits, industrial licenses, financial
2020, the Industry sector contracted to and technical support agreements, and
13.6 percent from a positive growth of 7.9 mining production sharing agreements.
percent in 2019. The biggest contractions From 2010-2021, the total production
were noted in the mining and quarrying, of metallic and non-metallic minerals
and construction subsectors. Except for reached PHP19.92 billion in 2021 from
food-related manufacturing businesses to PHP9.9 billion in 2010. In a span of 11
provide for essential commodities, most years (2010-2021), the production volume
of the manufacturing establishments were of gold greatly improved by 13.59 percent
temporarily closed in 2020. from 2010 -2021, and the production of
non-metallic production has increased
Mining is one of the major contributors to from 28.47 MT to 169.92 MT.
Table 2.2 Mineral Commodities by Province and Municipalities in the Bicol Region
PROVINCE MUNICIPALITIES MINERAL COMMODITY

Albay Rapu-Rapu; Legazpi City; Metallic and Copper; Gold; Zinc; Silver; Perlite; White
Camalig Oas Non Metallic Clay; Limestone; Sand, Gravel, boulders and
earthfill
Camarines Norte Jose Panganiban; Paracale; Metallic and Gold; Iron; Copper; Silver; Silica Sand; Sand
Labo; Capalonga; Sta. Elena Non Metallic and gravel
Camarines Sur Lagonoy; Ragay; Bula; Baao; Metallic and Chromite; Gold; limestone; gypsum; perlite;
Del Gallego Non Metallic bentonite copper
Catanduanes Baras; Bato; San Miguel; Metallic and Copper; Gold; Zinc; coal; sand and gravel
Virac; Viga; Caramoran Non Metallic
Masbate Aroroy; Milagros; Uson; Mobo; Metallic and Gold; Silver; Copper; Manganese; sand and
Baleno; Masbate; Balud Non Metallic gravel; earthfill; cobble
Sorsogon Sta. Magdalena; Pilar; Donsol; Metallic and titaniferous; magnetite; sand; red clay;
Sorsogon City; Magallanes; Non Metallic pumice; pumicite; coal; limestone; white
Irosin; Juban; Casiguran; clay; perlite; sulfur; iron; sand and gravel;
Bulan; Prieto Diaz; Matnog earthfill
Source: MGB
As of December 31, 2021, there are eight Sur, and one in Camarines Norte. There are
operating economic zones in the Bicol no declared economic zones in Masbate,
Region, mostly information technology Sorsogon, and Catanduanes (Table 2.3:
parks and centers. Three economic zones Economic Zones in the Bicol Region).
are located in Albay, four in Camarines

Table 2.3 Operating Special Economic Zones by Location and Total Area in the Bicol
Region, in Square Meters, 2021
LIST OF OPERATING SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES IN BICOL

NAME OF ECOZONE LOCATION TOTAL AREA (IN SQ. M)
ANR Business Center Barangay Concepcion Grande, Naga 1,800
City, Camarines Sur
Camarines Sur Information Technology Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines 50,000
Park Sur
Embarcadero de Legazpi Legazpi Port Area, Legaspi City 56,000
Gernarine Information Technology Alternate Road, Legaspi City, Albay 1,009
Center
Jose Panganiban SEZ Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte 363,515
Misibis Resorts and Estates Cagraray Island, Barangay Misibis, 322,178
Bacacay, Albay
Naga City Technology Park Barangay Triangulo, Naga City 12,546
Robinsons Cybergate Naga Naga Diversion Road corner Almeda 24,807
Highway, Barangay Triangulo, Naga City
Source: Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA)
Impact of Disasters on the Bicol

Economy
The Bicol Region is vulnerable agriculture and fisheries sectors, and
to various hazards, consisting of in business enterprises, and the added
hydrometeorological, geologic, and cost of building back better lives and the
volcanic in nature. The damages infrastructures. The negative impacts
brought on by TCs alone in the major on agriculture have threatened food
sectors were estimated at PHP49.3 security in the affected areas. Disruptions
billion for the period 2014-2022. These in the value chain of major commodities
are only the direct damages, but the occur as damage to agriculture affects
socioeconomic impacts of natural the supply value chain and increases
disasters in Bicol also include disruption prices and the cost of production.  
and loss of income opportunities in the
Table 2.4: Cost of damages due to Tropical Cyclones Bicol Region, 2014-2020 (At
Current Prices)
AMOUNT OF DAMAGES IN MILLION PESOS (AT CURRENT PRICES)

YEAR TYPHOON AGRICULTURE/
INFRASTRUCTURE IRRIGATION
FISHERIES
2014 Glenda 1,356.96 2,297.87 275.61
2016 Nina 2,040.89 5,414.38 189.21

2018 Usman 8,531.14 1,248.89 529.41
2019 Tisoy 4,607.92 3,036.70 273.97
2020 Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses 11,240.14 8,305.62 158.65
TOTAL 27,777.05 20,155.60 1,268.20
Source: OCD

Assessment and Challenges
A detailed discussion of the assessment risks such as increasing temperature,
and challenges are provided under the extreme rainfall patterns and winds
Planning Environment chapter of the (both in intensity and duration), and
DRR-CCA enhanced RPFP. Based on sea level rise. Measures to reduce
the scenario planning analysis, new and the communities’ vulnerabilities
emerging challenges were also identified. and exposure to these hazards will
The various scenarios considered be implemented. Disaster-resilient
using Strategic Foresight are presented infrastructure and settlement areas
in Chapter 3. Chapter 1 provides an will also be able to meet the demand
assessment of social, economic, physical, of the increasing population, which
and environmental trends in the region. is expected to double in 60 years
The highlights of the challenges identified (2080). The Bicolanos will also be
in the RPFP are presented as follows: adaptive to the continuing threat
of pests and diseases to humans
• Addressing land use conflicts. and the agriculture sector. Livable
The increasing population pressure communities must be created.
and economic activities resulted in
the encroachment of settlements, • Reducing the impacts of disasters
agriculture, and infrastructures and sea level rise. The occurrence of
in protected areas. Through the various disasters in the region caused
years, these population pressures the loss of lives, damage to properties,
contributed to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of socioeconomic
and agricultural productivity, activities. The continuous exposure of
pollution, deforestation, flooding, settlement areas to floods, landslides,
and erosion. Governance issues strong winds, volcanic eruptions,
such as weak enforcement and lahar flows poses socioeconomic
of policies and institutional threats to affected communities and
fragmentation due to overlapping the region as a whole. The impact
functions will also be addressed. of sea level rise will result in the
reduction of land area that would
• Ensuring a balance among the have been used for productive uses
three pillars of sustainable such as settlements, food production,
development (economic, social, and industries, and infrastructures.
environmental). More sustainable
policies, programs, and practices will • Increasing access to basic services,
be implemented to address threatened education, and technology
environmental integrity and depleting to enhance working capacity
natural resources. The allocation of considering that the majority of the
land resources to different functions, Bicol population is young. The Bicol
such as settlements, is crucial Region also has the highest magnitude
given the finite natural resources. of poor individuals and vulnerable
groups, such as persons with disability
• Increasing Bicolano resilience (PWD), IPs, women, and children,
and adaptive capacity. Adaptation who are experiencing difficulties
strategies, policies, and programs will in accessing basic services and
be put in place in addressing climate livelihood opportunities. Innovative

approaches, particularly in the “New of essential infrastructure will
Normal” are needed to cater to their create a link to markets, provide
special needs and help them become employment opportunities, and
productive members of society. The improve access to social services.
lack of social services (education,
health, and housing) and employment • Expanding, upgrading, and
opportunities also contributed to the modernizing infrastructure. The
increasing out-migration rate. The implementation of infrastructure
disparities in income and employment programs and projects is vital to
opportunities and access to social propelling the region’s sustained
services are the main sources of economic growth. The increasing
attraction for moving out of the region. population and rapid urbanization
put a strain on infrastructure facilities,
• Ensuring sufficiency in food, water, thus requiring new investments
energy, and other commodities. to develop new, and upgrade and
The continuing external threats modernize the region’s public
(increasing international tensions), infrastructures. The government
threats of climate change, diseases, needs to intensify efforts in addressing
and pests, will require the region the demand for infrastructure
to be self-sustainable in producing facilities such as roads, ports, airports,
its own requirements, particularly renewable energy, Information and
food and energy. Water for Communications Technology (ICT),
domestic use, food production, water and sanitation, and social
energy, and environmental infrastructure. These infrastructure
sustainability must be ensured. facilities must be resilient to the
various hazards in the region.
• Addressing poverty and inequality.
Although the region’s poverty • Providing land requirements for
incidence among the population the expansion of settlements that
improved from 41.1 percent in 2012 are safe and livable. The expected
to 27.0 percent in 2018, poverty is doubling time of the population in
still evident in rural areas. The Bicol 2080 must be anticipated, which
Region ranked second among the will increase pressure on production
regions in the country with the most and protection areas. The widening
GIDAs (489 barangays) which shows of road networks will require an
that a large proportion of the region’s additional land area that is already
population is still immersed in used for residential, commercial,
poverty because these areas remained and agricultural purposes. The ports
inaccessible and underdeveloped. The and airports development will affect
region has 97 barangays CAA-CVAs, specific portions of the protection
wherein 37 barangays are classified and production areas. Land
as Konsolidado (Influenced), 29 utilization along the area for railway
barangays as Ekspansyon (Expansion), development will require a minimum
23 barangays as Kinokonsolida (Less of thirty-meter right-of-way (ROW)
Influenced), and eight barangays width and additional 200 meters
as Rekoberi (Recovery). The for every train station. This exceeds
GFAs must be given the highest the land area to be allocated for the
priority in terms of socioeconomic relocation of affected communities.
development. The establishment

• Strengthening infrastructure industrial zones, tourism hubs, and
linkages and increasing other growth areas must be enhanced.
redundancy of transportation The digital and physical infrastructure
routes, communication, and systems must be integrated to provide
other infrastructure facilities to an efficient transportation and
reduce the vulnerability of people effective telecommunications network
and properties during disasters. to improve linkages of settlements
Connectivity between the region’s and key production areas which will
urban centers, agriculture and be beneficial during emergencies.
Regional Spatial Development

Framework
Core Strategies
Consistent with the LSDF, the Bicol (a) concentration; (b) connectivity;
RPFP focused on three core strategies: and (c) vulnerability reduction.
Concentration
Concentration will create agglomeration functions to support the different levels of
and economies of scale population in the hierarchy. Concentration will achieve
existing urban areas and metropolitan the following: (a) increased innovation,
centers will be distributed according creativity, and economic activities; (b)
to an urban hierarchy following greater opportunities for employment
the principles of densification, and poverty reduction; (c) availability
compaction, and smart growth. The of a larger variety and higher levels of
settlements and production areas will services; (d) reduced encroachment
be integrated by strengthening linkages into agricultural land, protected areas,
of communication, transportation, and hazardous area; and (e) optimized
and economic infrastructure systems government investments on basic services.
to optimize the provision of needed
Connectivity
Connectivity will improve linkages economic infrastructure systems will be
between settlements and the key able to: (a) increase access and improve
production areas, and strengthen urban- the efficiency of markets; (b) manage the
rural linkages. A multi-modal, smart, growth and development of settlements
and intelligent transport system will be according to specific urban and regional
developed to improve infrastructure plans; and (c) reduce vulnerability during
and inter-regional, and urban-rural emergencies by increasing redundancy of
linkages. More efficient transportation transportation routes, communication,
and digital communication networks and other infrastructure facilities. The
will make goods and services accessible Bicol Region will be interconnected with
to both producers and consumers. the different areas of the country through
An enhanced digital communication, airports, seaports and RORO systems,
transportation (land, air, and sea), and railways, and road transport systems.

Vulnerability Reduction
Vulnerability reduction will reduce will be delineated and demarcated.
the risks and the negative impacts of Appropriate and specific vulnerability
disasters and climate change. The safety of reduction measures will be provided in
settlements and the sustainable operation protection, conservation, and hazard-
of production and protection areas from prone areas, as well as the elements at risk,
the threats of hazards will be ensured. including population, agriculture and
The environmentally critical areas (ECA) industries, and infrastructure facilities.
and areas exposed to various hazards
Spatial Development Strategies

The spatial development strategy adopted by subjecting the 114 cities/ municipalities
for the Bicol Region uses a combination of the Bicol Region to a manual scalogram
of the integrated area development (IAD) technique of analysis (please refer to the
approach, and the urban functions in rural DRR-CCA Enhanced RPFP 2021-2050
development (UFRD). Under the IADs, the for details). The cities/municipalities
region is subdivided into smaller planning were categorized into levels of functional
units, wherein the province is one IAD complexity, and the types of diversity of
unit, and these IADs are subdivided into services and facilities located in central
sub-integrated area development (SIAD) places at various levels of the hierarchy. By
units which are clusters of municipalities scaling the resulting centrality indices, five
grouped according to the homogeneity levels of classification were determined.
of physical resources, economic The cities/municipalities at the first level
activities, accessibility to each other, and are those with centrality indices ranging
concentration of services and facilities. from 193.8-367.4. The areas under the
first level such as the cities of Naga and
The UFRD approach will increase access of Legazpi possessed the greatest number of
the rural population to basic services and functions and the presence of specialized
facilities, and locate investments that will and rare functions in the region. The
create an integrated regional settlements second level is with centrality indices
system to: (a) strengthen markets for ranging from 124.9-193.7, the third level
agricultural goods and other resources; with centrality indices ranging from 101.8-
(b) distribute the levels of services such as 124.8, the fourth and fifth levels are those
health, education, inputs for agricultural centrality indices from 50.4-101.7, and
production and other socioeconomic from 0-50.3, respectively which are mostly
amenities; (c) create new employment the fourth and fifth class municipalities.
opportunities; and (d) alter the migration The centrality index and ranking of
pattern. Under the UFRD approach, the municipalities are presented in Table 2.5.
Centrality of Functions was determined

Table 2.5. Centrality Index and Rank of Each LGU in the Bicol Region
CENTRALITY CENTRALITY CENTRALITY
RANK SETTLEMENTS RANK SETTLEMENTS RANK SETTLEMENTS
INDEX INDEX INDEX
1 Naga City 367.4 41 Pasacao 76.5 81 Rapu-Rapu 46.3

2 Legazpi City 350.5 42 Manito 76.1 82 Donsol 46.1
3 Daet 277.3 43 Milagros 75.6 83 Panganiban 44.0
4 Jose Panganiban 243.8 44 Capalonga 75.5 84 Pio V. Corpuz 43.8
5 Masbate City 222.5 45 Mandaon 74.0 85 Garchitorena 43.6
6 Polangui 213.9 46 Talisay 73.9 86 Milaor 43.6
7 Ligao City 210.0 47 Baao 73.2 87 Prieto Diaz 43.6
8 Daraga 208.2 48 Tinambac 71.2 88 Minalabac 42.7
9 Iriga City 206.0 49 Casiguran 69.7 89 San Jose 42.5
10 Nabua 201.9 50 Balud 69.7 90 Libon 42.1
11 Tabaco City 196.8 51 Castilla 68.8 91 San Fernando, Masbate 40.3
12 Sorsogon City 193.8 52 San Pascual 68.4 92 Cabusao 38.9
13 Pili 168.4 53 Bato, Catanduanes 67.3 93 Caramoran 38.7
14 Bacacay 166.3 54 Lagonoy 67.0 94 Palanas 37.4
15 Virac 162.0 55 San Jacinto 66.3 95 Ocampo 37.3
16 Calabanga 153.9 56 Gubat 66.1 96 Sagñay 36.6
17 Aroroy 146.9 57 Bato, Cam. Sur 66.1 97 Claveria 35.3
18 Labo 138.9 58 Matnog 64.7 98 Gainza 34.7
19 Mobo 136.1 59 Caramoan 64.3 99 Barcelona 34.4
20 Camalig 130.1 60 Dimasalang 63.7 100 Malinao 34.2
21 Goa 124.9 61 Buhi 63.4 101 Esperanza 33.2
22 Pio Duran 115.0 62 Irosin 61.9 102 Santa Magdalena 32.8
23 Guinobatan 112.5 63 Sipocot 61.2 103 Bagamanoc 32.2
24 Tiwi 110.5 64 Balatan 60.7 104 Monreal 31.7
25 Ragay 108.5 65 Pamplona 58.0 105 Batuan 30.1
26 Canaman 107.1 66 San Andres 57.8 106 Magarao 29.7
27 Bulan 101.8 67 Tigaon 57.8 107 San Miguel 29.6
28 Cataingan 99.9 68 Malilipot 56.5 108 Uson 27.8
29 Placer 98.6 69 San Vicente 56.3 109 Bombon 27.6
30 Cawayan 93.3 70 Bula 54.4 110 Del Gallego 26.9
31 Siruma 91.8 71 Pandan 53.5 111 Gigmoto 25.0
32 Santa Elena 88.8 72 Bulusan 53.4 112 Jovellar 24.1
33 Libmanan 87.5 73 San Fernando, Cam.Sur 51.6 113 Presentacion 21.3
34 Mercedes 86.6 74 Baras 51.1 114 Lupi 15.7
35 Pilar 84.8 75 Baleno 50.4 Total Centrality 9,692.7
36 Vinzons 84.4 76 Camaligan 50.0
37 Santo Domingo 84.1 77 San Lorenzo Ruiz 48.5
38 Basud 80.0 78 Juban 48.0
39 Oas 79.4 79 Viga 47.4
40 Paracale 77.8 80 Magallanes 46.9

Network of Growth Centers
A network of growth centers shall be institutions, central train stations, and
developed with the cities of Naga and government centers will be located.
Legazpi as the primary growth areas; the Various higher levels of services required
provincial capital as secondary growth of an expanding population in the less
centers; and SIAD centers as tertiary urbanized and rural municipalities will
growth centers (Map 2.6). The other be catered to by the secondary centers
towns will serve as the satellite centers. and/or tertiary centers. The satellite
Metro Naga shall be the agglomeration of municipalities will have the minimum
Naga City, Pili, Milaor, Gainza, Canaman, services required to support their
and Camaligan, while Metro Legazpi population; however, access to the higher
will consist of Legazpi City, Daraga, and levels of the hierarchy shall be provided
Camalig. A growth corridor from Daet, particularly for health and other social
Camarines Norte to Matnog, Sorsogon services. The municipalities in the lower
shall be developed. It will run parallel level of the hierarchy shall continue to
with the AH26, proposed Toll Road 5 work on elevating the level of services and
(TR5), and PNR mainline South. It will facilities in their locality. The two island
traverse the primary growth centers provinces of Masbate and Catanduanes
of metro Naga and Legazpi where will continue to work on being self-
specialized services such as a trunkline sufficient, with the improvement of
airport with international flight services, physical and digital access to these areas.
medical centers, higher educational

Map 2.6:

Functional Role of the Bicol Region
The role of the Bicol Region under the - Sorsogon (ALMASOR) and the
LSDF is to serve as: Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur,
and Catanduanes (Triple C) Tourism
a. Geothermal energy supplier. Development Areas. The Bicol Region
With the region’s aggregate generating shall be promoted as a primary
capacity of 397.9 megawatts, it will tourist destination for ecological,
continue to supply electricity to the agricultural, educational, and medical
Luzon Grid. It will aim to increase tourism in the country.
its power-generating capacity by
exploring other potential energy d. Luzon’s gateway to the Visayas
sources such as solar, hydro, wind, and Mindanao. Bicol’s strategic
and biomass energy. location at the southern tip of
Luzon makes it a gateway to Visayas
b. Major producer of agricultural and Mindanao. To strengthen its
commodities. The agriculture sector role as Luzon’s link to other major
will be modernized to support the islands of the country, the four
development of agri-based industries. modes of transport in the region
Agri-based industrial centers on will be modernized, expanded, and
prime commodities will be developed integrated. The Sorsogon-Samar
for Albay (sweet potato), Camarines Bridge link project shall be pursued
Norte (pineapple), Camarines Sur complementing the PNR extension to
(rice and corn for animal feeds), Matnog Sorsogon and the TR5.
Catanduanes (abaca), Masbate
(cattle), and Sorsogon (pili). e. International gateway. The
region will play its role as an
c. Tourism destination. Tourism international gateway in the South
will be one of the growth drivers through the operation of BIA, the
of the region’s economy fueled by completion of the New Naga Airport,
the increase in public investments and the upgrading of seaports in
in improving access and private Legazpi, Tabaco, and Jose Panganiban
investments in tourism-related assets. to international standards. These
Tourism development in the region facilities will provide the region with
will continue to be led by the alliances easy access to the global markets.
of LGUs under the Albay – Masbate
Composite Land Use and

Infrastructure Development (2021 to
2050) and Link to RDP Chapters
The Composite Land Use and composite land use under the DRR-
Infrastructure Development shall CCA enhanced RPFP consisted of three
provide general guidance to provinces thematic areas, namely: Protection
in the formulation and updating of their Land Use, Production Land Use, and
Provincial Development and Physical Settlements Development (Map 2.7
Framework Plans (PDPFP). The proposed Composite Land Use Map).

Map 2.7:

Protection Land Use
Protection Land Use aims to rehabilitate The Protection Land Use component of
and conserve sensitive and critical the RPFP is linked to Chapters 4 (Promote
ecosystems to preserve their ecological Human and Social Development),
integrity, allow degraded resources 15 (Practice Good Governance and
to regenerate, and protect the human Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency), and 16
population from natural hazards. It (Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen
includes all protected areas that are Disaster and Ecosystem Resilience) of the
proclaimed, legislated, and initial RDP. Livable communities will be created
components of the ENIPAS; non- where human settlements are resilient to
NIPAS areas including those that have disasters, and environmental quality is
outstanding physical and aesthetic promoted through responsive governance.
features, anthropological significance, Climate action and disaster risk resilience
and biological diversity but have not been will be accelerated, and ecosystems
included in the NIPAS but need to be resilience enhanced by intensifying the
protected for the same reasons of NIPAS conservation, protection, rehabilitation,
areas; ancestral domains of the ICC/IPs; and management of ecosystems, and by
and ECAs which include areas that are practicing DRR-CCA governance.
highly prone to natural hazards.
Production Land Use

Production Land Use aims to provide Security, and Enhance Administration of
an efficient and equitable utilization Justice) and 15 (Practice Good Governance
and management of land and water and Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency).
resources to ensure that there is adequate Livable communities and resilient human
and accessible space for the sustainable settlements will be created by ensuring
production of food, extraction of mineral food security and being able to quickly
resources, and development of industry recover from economic shocks because
and tourism to sustainably meet the Bicolanos have a stable income generated
demand of the regional population and from high-quality jobs, competitive
economy. Production land use will ensure products produced, and services created.
food security, and reduce the impacts of Infrastructure facilities will be expanded
disaster and climate change on agriculture, and upgraded to meet the demands of
forestry and fisheries, industry, and the production sector. The physical and
tourism. These areas will be developed digital connectivity of production areas
extensively and intensively for food to markets and processing centers will
production, and industry requirements. be provided. Energy and water security
will be ensured. To attain a prosperous,
The Production Land Use component inclusive, and resilient society, good
is linked to Chapters 4 (Promote Human governance will be practiced at all levels of
and Social Development), 5 (Protect society. Peace and security, and an efficient
Purchasing Power), 6 (Increase Income- administration of justice are also critical
Earning Ability), 7 (Modernize Agriculture in providing the enabling environment to
and Agribusiness), 8 (Revitalize Industry), encourage investments in the region, thus
9 (Reinvigorate Services), 13 (Expand and ensuring sustained economic growth.
Upgrade Infrastructure), 14 (Peace and

Settlements Development
Settlements Development aims to and Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency),
improve access of the population to social and 16 (Accelerate Climate Action and
and infrastructure facilities and services Strengthen Disaster and Ecosystem
to ensure the rational distribution of Resilience). Livable communities will
the population. It provides the spatial be established through adequate,
direction of urban growth that will create inclusive, accessible, and resilient human
disaster-resilient and climate-smart settlements. Public service will be
communities. The rational distribution improved through strengthened public
of the population can be attained by financial management, and strengthened
providing the needed services and financial inclusion because of the expanded
economic facilities in identified growth access to digital finance and payment. The
areas. overall physical and digital connectivity
will be improved, and environmental
The Settlements Development component quality promoted through responsive
is linked to Chapters 4 (Promote Human good governance. Infrastructures will be
and Social Development), 12 (Promote modernized to become more sustainable,
Financial Inclusion and Improve Public resilient, and integrated to be used by the
Financial Management), 13 (Expand and people and communities. Ensuring peace
Upgrade Infrastructure), 14 (Ensure Peace and security will create livable and happy
and Security, and Enhance Administration communities.
of Justice), 15 (Practice Good Governance
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure Development will provide extension to the south of the Luzon
the physical and digital connection Spine Expressway Network through the
among the protection, production, TR5, and the Sorsogon-Samar Bridge
and settlement areas. It will support Link project. Other significant projects
the physical and economic integration that will be implemented include: (a) the
necessary in ensuring business improvement of the BIA, the New Naga
continuity, development of agglomeration Airport Development Project, airports in
economies, creation of new urban centers, Catanduanes and Camarines Norte and
delivery of essential services, and the the relocation of the Masbate Airport; (b)
transition to a digital region. The physical the implementation of road convergence
infrastructure shall foster sustainable programs to connect tourism destinations
development and resiliency to climate and trade and industry areas; (c) closing
change. Adequate, safe, smart, resilient, the gaps of the Bicol Circumferential
and reliable facilities and services that will Roads. To improve inter and intra-regional
support the requirements of the region connectivity the seaports in Matnog,
while maintaining sound ecological Bulan, Tabaco, Virac, Jose Panganiban,
balance will be provided. Green and smart Castilla, Pioduran, Masbate, Aroroy,
infrastructure facilities will be promoted Cataingan, Balud, Mandaon, San Pascual,
consistently with the desired spatial Claveria and Pantao will be modernized.
pattern of the region. The Friendship Bridge connecting the
province of Catanduanes to mainland
The region will provide the backbone of Bicol will be pursued.
the land transport system to Visayas and
Mindanao through the PNR mainline The major programs and projects are
south, AH26 (Maharlika highway), the shown in Map 2.8.

Map 2.8:

The Infrastructure Development of Bicolanos will be improved through
component is linked to Chapters the provision of quality social facilities.
4 (Promote Human and Social Infrastructure development will support
Development), 7 (Modernize Agriculture the sustainable economic development
and Agribusiness), 8 (Revitalize Industry), of the Bicol Region through modern
9 (Reinvigorate Services), 11 (Promote and expanded infrastructure that will
Trade and Investments), 13 (Expand and improve competitiveness, thus promote
Upgrade Infrastructure), 14 (Ensure Peace trade and investments. Priority must
and Security, and Enhance Administration be accorded to the GFAs to promote
of Justice), 15 (Practice Good Governance lasting peace in the countryside. In the
and Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency), design of infrastructure development
and 16 (Accelerate Climate Action and projects, DRR-CCA governance must be
Strengthen Disaster and Ecosystem practiced and in project implementation,
Resilience). Infrastructure will lead the public accountability, transparency, and
economic and social transformation as efficiency at all levels of governance will
it will serve as the backbone of regional also be practiced.
development. The overall well-being

CHAPTER 3
Overview of the RDP

2023-2028 Strategic
Framework
In the RDP 2017-2022, the intermediate goal is to lay down the foundation for inclu-
sive growth, a high-trust and resilient society, and a globally competitive knowledge
economy. It was the first step towards the AmBisyon Natin 2040 and the SDGs, which
is why it was foundational. The AmBisyon Natin 2040, which represents the collec-
tive aspirations of the Filipinos to have a life that is strongly rooted, comfortable,
and secure (matatag, maginhawa, panatag), sets the direction of medium-term
plans. The SDGs are a global call to action to end poverty, hunger, inequality, and
climate change that aims to protect the environment and ensure that people every-
where can enjoy peace and prosperity.
The Bicol economy has been growing and heading towards the direction of the Am-
Bisyon Natin 2040 and the SDGs, with major improvements on key indicators such
as the GRDP, poverty, and employment. However, because of resource limitations
that were tested by the COVID-19 pandemic, the region has to face various challeng-
es because its capacity cannot keep up with the growing economy. The Bicol Region
is in the early stages of recovery from the pandemic and the impacts of TCs QRU.
Four Future Scenarios

Aside from the challenges that have growth. Sustainable development is
to be confronted, there are emerging highly regarded by everyone. Every
new challenges. Based on the scenario Bicolano considers natural resources
planning conducted, there is a need as a finite economic resource,
to identify robust strategies to address utilizing only what is necessary so
them. Scenario planning has been part that the needs of the future will not be
of the stakeholder’s consultations in the compromised.
formulation of the DRR-CCA enhanced
RPFP and RDP 2023-2028. • Nature Take-Over (or Sinauna) is
the future when societal conditions
The four scenarios tested are biophilia, decline and environmental health
nature take-over, doomsday, and human improves. Environmental protection
dominance (Figure 3.1). is the region’s top priority. The threat
of climate change, the occurrence
• Biophilia (or Sagana) is the future of extreme weather events, and
when every Bicolano is happy, lives the pandemic made people realize
in harmony with nature, and enjoys nature’s supremacy over humankind.
robust and inclusive economic Development agendas and policies
Chapter 3 Overview of the RDP 2023-2028 Strategic Framework | 52

are focused on the planet. The use of advances and environmental
natural resources is highly restricted, health deteriorates. The economy
resulting in socioeconomic challenges and society are the top priorities.
and compromised delivery of services The socioeconomic condition
to Bicolanos. substantially improved but at the
expense of the environment. The
• Doomsday (or Delubyo) is the government focuses on providing
future when environmental health access to the needs of the population
deteriorates and societal condition such as health, education, and
declines. Bicolanos are suffering employment. The impacts of climate
the impacts of climate change change continue to threaten the
and decades-long abuse of the region. Extreme weather events are
environment. Extreme weather occurring with higher frequency,
events are frequently occurring, intensity, and duration.
and at a higher intensity and longer
duration. The state of health of planet Among the major issues and challenges
Earth is no longer in good shape. The that will be addressed by the RDP 2023-
economy and the whole of humanity 2028 are: (a) ensuring food, water, and
are negatively affected. Resources energy security; (b) addressing poverty;
are now scarce, human health is (c) increasing resiliency; (d) addressing
compromised, conflicts and civil environmental problems; (e) moving
unrest are increasing, and the region towards modernization; (f) enhancing
is facing an economic recession. Research, Development, and Innovation
(RDI); and (g) providing infrastructure
• Human dominance (or Makasarili) facilities and social services.
is the future when societal condition
Figure 3.1: Four Future Scenarios

Headline Targets
Over the next six years, the development By the end of 2028, the Bicol RDP aims to
agenda of the Bicol Region will be towards achieve a growth rate in the GRDP from 4.3
the achievement of the headline targets percent in 2021 to 7.0-8.5 percent; reduce
that will prioritize inclusive growth, poverty incidence among population
reduction of poverty, and ensuring from 29.3 percent in 2021 to 18.0 percent;
resiliency. It will address the issues and lower unemployment from 8.8 in 2021 to
challenges and aims to regain its status 5.0-6.5 percent and; and maintain a single
as one of the fastest-growing regions digit inflation rate of 2.0-4.0 percent.
in the country before the COVID-19
pandemic. There will be sustained high To achieve the targets, the RDP 2023-2028
levels of inclusive growth to reach the will focus on the economic and social
AmBisyon Natin 2040 and the SDGs. transformation, to have a prosperous,
inclusive and resilient society. (Figure 3.2).
Strategic Framework
Figure 3.2. Strategic Framework of the RDP 2023-2028
Develop and Protect the Capabilities of

Individuals and Families
To effect economic and social be equipped with appropriate skills to
transformation, there is a need to develop participate fully in an innovative and
and protect the capabilities of individuals globally competitive economy.
and their families to accelerate poverty
reduction and to reinvigorate job creation • Promote Human and Social
by steering the economy back on the Development (Chapter 4). The full
high-growth trajectory. Bicolanos will potential of Bicolanos will be

optimized by improving their overall every Filipino, especially the most
well-being through quality health vulnerable, to quickly recover from
services, lifelong learning, and economic shocks or stresses by
creating livable communities. Livable ensuring food security, stabilizing
communities will be established food prices, and expanding social
through adequate, inclusive, protection programs.
accessible, and resilient human
settlements. Their connectivity will • Increase Income-Earning Ability
be improved, and environmental (Chapter 6). Productive employment
quality promoted through responsive opportunities will be provided to
governance. ensure sustainable income. Accessible
employment will be promoted by
• Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect upskilling the Bicolano workforce
Purchasing Power (Chapter 5). by taking full advantage of their
A transformative social protection potentials.
system will be established to enable
Transform Production Sectors to Generate

More Quality Jobs and Competitive Products
A high growth path means that businesses to produce more high-quality jobs
are expanding, new businesses are and competitive products. Science,
coming in, and that there are additional technology, and innovation will be
quality jobs. The economic and social made accessible particularly for the
transformation in the region will micro, small, and medium enterprises
contribute in achieving the upper middle (MSMEs).
income country status by 2040.
• Reinvigorate Services (Chapter 9).
• Modernize Agriculture and The Services sector’s current low
Agribusiness (Chapter 7). A holistic productivity level will be replaced by a
agri-food system approach will be modern, effective, and resilient global
adopted to enhance the efficiency of leader providing higher value-adding
AFF production, expand access to and differentiated services. Market
markets and AFF-based enterprises, expansion and digital transformation
improve resiliency and links of will strengthen businesses’ market
AFF value chains, and strengthen positions, expand new customer
agricultural institutions. The major regions and market categories, and
crops of the region where it has a explore diversification. The tourism
comparative advantage will be fully sector, as the comparative advantage
developed to supply raw materials for of the Bicol Region, will have a
the manufacturing industry. significant role and high potential in
the economic recovery of the region.
• Revitalize Industry (Chapter 8).
The domestic market and supplier • Advance R&D, Technology, and
base will be expanded by advancing Innovation (Chapter 10). The RDI
the whole of the value chain, and will advance from knowledge creation
strengthening cross-sectoral ties to commercialization of research

and development (R&D) products, • Promote Trade and Investments
and reinforce the innovation and (Chapter 11). As one of the region’s
entrepreneurship ecosystem. The RDI economic drivers, the Bicol Region
will be a continuum, starting with will continue to be promoted as
basic research, technical invention, a major investment destination,
and commercialization. The RDI and improve the competitiveness
will be market-driven and customer- of domestic industries through
centered. strengthened partnerships between
and among the public, private sectors,
and major social partners.
Fostering the Enabling Environment

• Promote Financial Inclusion • Practice Good Governance and
and Improve Public Financial Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency
Management (Chapter 12). Strong (Chapter 15). A high-trust society
public financial management systems and efficient bureaucracy through
will improve public service and good governance are essential to
effective financial efficiency. Financial attain a prosperous, inclusive, and
inclusion will be strengthened resilient society. Good governance
to include expanding access to is the foundation for inclusive and
digital finance and payments, sustainable growth, which creates
improving LGU revenue generation, accountability, transparency,
and budgeting and expenditure and efficiency at all levels of the
management of government entities. government.
• Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure • Accelerate Climate Action and

(Chapter 13). Infrastructure is the Strengthen Ecosystem and Disaster
backbone of regional development as Resilience (Chapter 16). To accelerate
it supports sustainable economic and climate and disaster risk resilience,
social development. Infrastructure the capacity of communities,
facilities will be modernized to institutions, and infrastructure will
become more sustainable, resilient, be increased. Ecosystems resilience
and integrated. will be enhanced by supporting a
low carbon economy, intensifying
• Ensure Peace and Security, the conservation, protection,
and Enhance Administration rehabilitation, and management of
of Justice (Chapter 14). Peace ecosystems, and practicing DRR-
and security, and an efficient CCA governance.
administration of justice are critical in
providing the enabling environment to The RDP 2023-2028 is based on President
ensure sustained economic growth. A Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s 8-point
whole-of-government approach will socioeconomic agenda that will address
be adopted by focusing peace and short-term concerns such as the high
security efforts in geographically inflation, scarring due to COVID-19, and
isolated and conflict-affected areas. the tight fiscal space; and over the medium
An enhanced administration of the term, the constraints in generating more
justice system will be characterized by jobs, quality jobs, and green jobs and
integrity, fairness, and accessibility. providing the enabling environment

(governance, level playing field, peace • Enhanced Resilience. Bicolanos
and security, infrastructure, and disaster are known for being resilient, able
resilience). to quickly recover from the harmful
impacts of natural hazards. But
The transformation agenda will include, because of climate change, hazard
among others: events such as typhoons are increasing
in frequency, intensity, and duration
• Digitalization. The digital which pose risk to communities
transformation will result in more and families and the physical
efficient and faster delivery of services, environment. It is important that
transparency, and fewer opportunities Bicolanos are able to adapt to changes
for corruption. The positive impact in the physical, social, and economic
of the COVID-19 pandemic must be environment to cushion from shocks
capitalized which enabled the various brought by hazard events.
sectors to digitalize.
• Greater collaboration between local
• Servicification. Servicification and national governments. The
creates the linkages for more value- operationalization of the Mandanas-
adding opportunities, diversification Garcia Supreme Court Ruling requires
of products and markets, and efficient greater collaboration between the
delivery networks. The expansion local and national governments. The
of the production sectors will create full devolution will give opportunities
service-related labor opportunities to share responsibility in providing
needed from the freed-up labor from the necessary programs, projects, and
the AFF sector. services to the people.
• Dynamic Innovation Ecosystem. • Strengthened partnership with the

Through innovation, new processes private sector. There will be more
and products will be created that can engagement of the private sector
be translated into quality jobs. The in terms of creating businesses to
government will support the creation generate jobs, and in implementing
of innovation hubs. and monitoring development
programs and projects. Because of the
• Enhanced Connectivity. The physical tight fiscal space, the Public-Private
and digital connectivity will facilitate Partnership (PPP) is one avenue
the movement of goods and services. where the private sector can help
It will link production centers to the government in financing major
markets and connect rural areas to development projects.
urban centers where higher level
social services are available.

CHAPTER 4
Promote Human and

Social Development
Investment in the overall well-being of the people will lead to social development.
This chapter will build the foundation for maximizing the full potential of people, as
our most valuable resource, through quality health services, transformative lifelong
learning opportunities, and livable communities.
Subchapter 4.1 Boost Health

Health is not the absence of disease. It gaps in the country’s health system will
refers to an individual’s physical, mental, be addressed through more equitable
and social well-being. Through the Health outcomes, responsive health systems,
Sector Strategy 2023-20281, priority and improved financial risk protection2.
shifts will be initiated, and long-standing

Assessment
2020-2040 and the National Human
Landmark reforms were enacted, and Resources for Health Master Plan
milestone plans and programs were (NHRHMP) 2020-2040.
developed. Since 2017, several landmark
reforms have been enacted, such as the The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted
Universal Healthcare Act (RA 11223), the vulnerabilities of our healthcare
Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Magnanay system and stretched our health
Act or the First 1000 Days (F1K) Law resources beyond their capacity. Among
(RA 11148), Mental Health Act (RA the persistent issues are the need for
11036), Tax Reform for Acceleration and more access to primary healthcare by the
Inclusion (TRAIN) Law (RA 10963), majority of the vulnerable population,
National Integrated Cancer Control Law insufficient healthcare workers, and
(RA 11215), New Sin Tax Reform Law limited budget/investment in health
of 2020 (RA 11467), and the Mandatory systems. Despite the increasing health
Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and expenditure3 in the region, access to
Health Events of Public Concern Act (RA frontline health facilities such as rural
11332). Likewise, among the milestone health units (RHUs) and barangay health
plans developed are the Philippine Health stations (BHS) remains a challenge. RHUs
Facilities Development Plan (PHFDP) are supposedly the entry points of the
communities into the health system but
1 Defines the country’s vision, policy direction, and strategic objectives to accelerate the achievement of Universal Health Care (UHC)
and to further build the health system’s resilience against future pandemics and health emergencies. The framework emphasizes the
importance of addressing health determinants through healthy public policies and settings
2 DOH Administrative Order No. 2022-0038
3 Based on the 2021 Philippine National Health Accounts of PSA, the Current Health Expenditure of the Bicol Region are as
follows: PHP25,888 million (2017), PHP28,939 million (2018), PHP34,014 million (2019), PHP40,877 million (2020), and PHP43,296
million (2021)
Chapter 4 Promote Human and Social Development | 62

in practice, some patients directly go to 95.2 percent of the municipalities in
hospitals and other specialized clinics. Masbate, do not have physical access to at
There should be one BHS per barangay and least 75 percent of its land area within one
1:20,000 RHU-to-population ratio. Bicol hour. 95.2 percent of the municipalities
Region is among the top three regions in Masbate, do not have physical access to
with the highest share of population at least 75 percent of its land area within
without access to RHU or health centers one hour.
within 30-minute travel time. Further,
Table 4.1.1 Number of Hospitals, Infirmaries, RHUs, and BHS by Province in the Bicol
Region, 2019
NO. OF NO. OF RHU TO

NO. OF NO. OF
PROVINCE NO. OF RHUS BARANGAYS BARANGAYS POPULATION
HOSPITALS INFIRMARIES
WITH BHS WITHOUT BHS RATIO
Albay 22 17 18 201 519 1:73,045
Camarines Norte 7 6 16 137 145 1:36,457
Camarines Sur 16 16 46 558 505 1:42,446
Catanduanes 6 5 11 63 252 1:23,724
Masbate 7 10 21 332 218 1:42,494
Sorsogon 8 8 17 193 348 1:46,644
Source: PHFDP 2020-2040
Upgrading of regional hospitals Access to health services improved for

pursued. By virtue of RA 11719, the Bicol people with HIV. Gentlemen Bicol for
Regional Training and Teaching Hospital Sexual and Reproductive Health and
(BRTTH) was converted to a general and Rights, Inc. established a community-led
sub-specialty hospital now known as the facility for human immunodeficiency
Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical virus (HIV) testing. As a result, there were
Center (BRHMC). The BRHMC is one 271 newly diagnosed HIV cases in 2021,
of the specialized centers being put up by higher than the 138 cases recorded in the
the DOH outside Metro Manila to cover previous year. Despite improvements in
neonatal illnesses and heart, lung, kidney, HIV testing, the 2022 Philippine National
and cancer diseases. The BRHMC has Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS)
increased its bed capacity from 250 to 800. shows that only 20.8 percent of young
The Bicol Medical Center (BMC), Bicol women aged 15-24 years in the region
Region General Hospital, and Geriatric have knowledge about HIV prevention.
Medical Center (BRGHGMC) are two
other regional hospitals undergoing Challenges
modernization.
Improving health and nutrition outcomes.
Malasakit Centers established. As of Data from the Department of Health
December 2021, there are seven Malasakit (DOH) Region 5 show that the maternal
Centers within government hospitals4 in mortality rate spiked from 112.45 percent
the region where indigents can efficiently in 2016 to 144.02 percent in 2021.
access financial and medical assistance.   Likewise, tuberculosis (TB) incidence
4 Malasakit Centers in the Bicol Region: Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (Albay), Bicol Medical Center (Naga City), Ca-
marines Norte Provincial Hospital (Camarines Norte), Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center (Camarines Sur),
Eastern Bicol Medical Center (Catanduanes), Masbate Provincial Hospital (Masbate), and Dr. Fernando B. Duran Sr. Memorial Hospital
(Sorsogon)

per 100,000 population increased from 51.71 percent in 2020 to 55.93 percent in
60 in 2020 to 84 in 2021. The neonatal, 2021.  
infant, and under-five mortality rates have
steadily gone downward since 2013, but Though the maternal mortality rate
rose in 2020 when the pandemic hit. The decreased from 162.98 percent in 2020 to
neonatal, infant, and under-five mortality 144.02 percent in 2021, it is still far from
rates increased from 2.45 percent, 5.67 the end of the plan target of 90 percent. The
percent, and 6.55 percent in 2019 to 13.28 neonatal, infant, and under-five mortality
percent, 21.50 percent, and 24.34 percent rates increased and exceeded the 2021
in 2021, respectively. and end-of-plan targets. The DOH cited
the need to strengthen advocacy among
Reaching major health outcome targets pregnant women not to delay seeking
despite improvement in child nutrition. professional services and to address the
According to the National Nutrition delay in receiving care in health facilities.
Council (NNC) Region 5, the prevalence
of wasting and stunting among children On reproductive health, despite the rise
under five years old dropped from 8.2 in the modern contraceptive prevalence
percent in 2015 to 3.12 percent in 2021 and rate from 27.84 percent in 2017 to 33.80
from 40.2 percent in 2020 to 13.38 percent percent in 2021, the proportion of women
in 2021, respectively. This is attributed of reproductive aged 15-49 years with an
to the implementation of RA 11148, or unmet need for family planning increased
the F1K Law of 2018. The Tutok Kainan: from 0.87 percent in 2020 to 2.89 percent
Dietary Supplementation Program in 2021, pulling away from the zero
provides supplements to nutritionally- percent end of plan target.
at-risk pregnant women and children 6
to 23 months old. Nutrition education Due to the limited budget of the LGUs,
sessions under the program emphasized TB incidence increased from 60 to 84 per
the importance of the first 1,000 days of 100,000 population, which caused the
life, from conception to 24 months, for TB treatment success rate to fall from 93
the child’s optimum development. These percent in 2020 to 84 percent in 2021. Due
indicators have already achieved the to mobility restrictions, the percentage
annual plan target in 2021 and the end of drug users who completed treatment
of the plan target. In addition, the DOH plunged from 100 percent in 2020 to 8.2
Region 5 reported that the proportion of percent in 2021.
fully-immunized children increased from
Targets
Achieve health equity and promote healthcare delivery system, increased and
good health through comprehensive and sustained investment in health resources,
responsive healthcare strategies focusing and harmonized efforts of all sectors.
on an integrated network of healthcare These will be the priorities to boost health
providers, an innovative and advanced conditions.  

Core Indicators
Table 4.1.2 presents the indicators and targets to achieve results for boosting health.
Table 4.1.2 Core Indicators to Boost Health
BASELINE ANNUAL PLAN TARGETS MEANS OF RESPONSIBLE

INDICATOR
(YEAR) 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 VERIFICATION AGENCY
Maternal mortality ratio 144.02 Decreasing PSA DOH

decreased (per 100,000 live (2021) estimates**
births)
Neonatal mortality rate 7.83 Decreasing NDHS DOH
decreased (per 1,000 live (2021)
births)
Infant mortality rate 18.01 Decreasing NDHS DOH
births)  
Under-5 mortality rate 24.34 Decreasing NDHS DOH
births)  
Premature mortality rate 0.14 Decreasing NDHS DOH
attributed to cardiovascular (2021)
disease, cancer, diabetes, and
chronic respiratory diseases
decreased (number of deaths
per 1,000 population aged 30-
70 years old)  
Tuberculosis incidence 84 Decreasing WHO Global TB DOH  
decreased (per 100,000 (2021) Report  
population)  
Safe water supply coverage 81.20 Increasing Annual Poverty PSA, water
increased (% families)   (2021) Indicator districts  
Survey (APIS)
Poverty incidence decreased 21.9P Decreasing Family PSA
(%) (2021) Income and
Expenditure
Survey (FIES)
Prevalence of stunting among 11.7% 10.7% 9.7% Annual E OPT+ NNC with the
children under 5 years of age (2022) Results provinces and
decreased (%)h cities
Prevalence of wasting among 2.6% 2.6 % 2.4% Annual E OPT+ NNC with the
children under 5 years of age (2022) Results provinces and
decreased (%)h cities
Adolescent aged 15-19 years 25.08% Decreasing NDHS PSA, DOH,
birth rate decreased (per (2021) POPCOM, LGUs
1,000 women in that age
group)
Proportion of fully immunized 55.93% Increasing NDHS PSA, DOH,
children increased (%) (2021) POPCOM, LGUs
p - This is based on the preliminary results of the 2021 FIES

Strategy Framework
The strategy framework supports overall well-being of Filipinos, advance
the whole-of-society and whole-of- the healthcare delivery system, and
government approach to improve the achieve health equity.
Figure 4.1.1 Strategy Framework to Boost Health
Strategies
Outcome 1: Social determinants of health
improved
The World Health Organization (WHO) timeframe, to wit:
defines social determinants of health as
non-medical factors that influence health Ensure that communities,
outcomes. They are the conditions in workplaces, and schools support
which people are born, grow, work, live, physical, mental, and social well-
and age, including a more comprehensive being for all. This strategy is a holistic
set of forces and systems shaping the approach in the community with a focus
conditions of daily life. Examples of social on accessibility for all and not just for
determinants of health that can positively those who can afford it. The DOH will
or negatively influence health equity are strengthen interventions to improve
income, education, social protection, food healthy settings for schools, communities,
insecurity, housing, and early childhood and workplaces guided by the Healthy
development. By nature, strategies Communities Framework5. The signing
under this outcome require a long-term of Executive Order (EO) No. 138, s.
5 DOH-DILG Joint Administrative Order No. 2021-0002 on the National Policy Framework on the Promotion and Recognition of
Healthy Communities

2021 on full devolution emphasizes the policies and intensify health promotion
instrumental role of LGUs in creating activities to achieve healthy communities.
health-supportive environments. The Community participation and partnership
implementation and cascading of national with civil society organizations (CSOs)
policies and initiatives such as National will be institutionalized in decision-
Policy Framework on the Promotion and making, problem-solving processes,
Recognition of Healthy Communities and program implementation. Health-
(DOH-DILG Joint Administrative Order related programs, activities, and projects,
(AO) No. 2021-0002) and the Local Health e.g., observance of proper solid waste
System Health Promotion Playbooks will management, minimization of air and
be ensured. Extensive implementation of water pollution, and community disaster
major programs such as the Gulayan sa risk reduction programs of government
Tahanan and Gulayan sa Paaralan will be agencies, LGUs, academe, CSOs, and
guaranteed (See subchapters 4.2 and 4.3 private entities, will be aligned with
and Chapters 5 and 13). the Health Sector Strategy 2023-2028.
Gender-responsive health facilities, safety
Foster a whole-of-government, measures for displaced populations and
whole-of-society approach. at-risk individuals, and access to routine
This strategy requires coordinated and health, sexual health, and reproductive
sustained efforts from all sectors to health services during disasters and
emphasize the impacts and responsibilities emergencies will be promoted.
of non-health sectors to strengthen public
Outcome 2: Healthy choices and behavior

enabled
Strategies under this outcome focus (DSWD) will be maximized as an
on individual and household levels, advocacy and health promotion platform.
complementing the strategies under the On Responsible Parenthood and Family
first outcome, which are intended on a Planning (ResPFP), Commission on
community level. Population (PopCom) recommends
promoting Social and Behavior Change
Increase health literacy. Health Communication on ResPFP and
literacy is the ability of an individual or Adolescent Health and Development.  
an organization to use health information
and make well-informed decisions. Health Promote appropriate health-
education campaigns, through the Health seeking behavior. Enable rationale
Literacy Program and Health Education demand where individuals know when
and Promotion, will be intensified so and where to seek proper medical care and
that individuals and households are promote patient navigation and referral
more aware of the benefits of a healthy from primary to tertiary health care
lifestyle and accordingly implement social providers. The primary intervention for
and behavioral change interventions this is to develop healthy public policies
(See Chapter 5). The family and youth across social determinants of health6 (See
development sessions of the Department Chapter 5).  
of Social Welfare and Development
6 Health Sector Strategy 2023-2028

Outcome 3: Access, quality, and efficiency of
healthcare improved
Harness complementary private GIDAs (See Chapter 10).
sector partnerships for healthcare
access and delivery. Establish Secure sustainable and equitable
partnerships with the private sector distributed health infrastructure
to complement what the government and human resources. There is
cannot provide. The establishment of a need to secure sustainable financial
Health Care Provider Network (HCPN)7 support to ensure the continuous
and Primary Care Provider Network provision of health services through the
(PCPN)8 will be pursued (See Chapter 10). availability of health infrastructure, e.g.,
primary and community health facilities,
Establish integrated, innovative, supplies, equipment, and information
and quality health service systems, as well as human resources for
delivery systems. Ensure the health (HRH) at all levels of society. The
functionality of public and private, government will provide a competitive
local, and national networks to provide compensation system to attract more
innovative and quality health services, HRH workforce. The region will support
e.g., telemedicine at different levels of the implementation of NHRHMP and
care, mobile clinics, and ambulance and PHFDP. Table 4.1.3 shows the Bicol
patient transport services, especially for Region’s projected needs and supply gaps
those in the underserved, unserved, and over the next years (See Chapter 13).
Table 4.1.3 Projected Needs and Supply Gaps for the Bicol Region, 2025-2040
PROJECTED NEEDS AND SUPPLY GAPS 2025 2030 2035 2040 TOTAL
Primary Care Facilities 418 15 19 18 470
Outpatient Primary Care Physicians 3,521 284 354 380 4,539
Level 1 Hospital Beds 10,609 979 1,059 1,147 13,794
Level 2 Hospital Beds 4,266 358 418 495 5,537
Level 3 Hospital Beds 3,939 454 485 515 5,393
X-Ray Machines 212 22 24 26 284
CT Scan Machines 32 4 4 4 44
MRI Machines 10 1 1 2 14
LINAC Machines 12 2 2 2 18
Source: PHFDP 2020-2040
Ensure financial risk protection comprehensive primary care outpatient

through social health insurance. benefits. To encourage healthcare providers
The full implementation of the Universal to enlist as an accredited KonSulTa
Health Care (UHC) Act will be the facility, Philippine Health Insurance
main instrument to achieve this strategy Corporation (PhilHealth) will pursue
through the Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama partnerships with the LGUs to assist in the
(KonSulTa) package which provides registration process. Filipinos will be able
7 Group of primary to tertiary care providers, whether public, private, or mixed, offering people-centered and comprehensive care in
an integrated and coordinated manner with the primary care provider acting as the navigator of health care within the network (AO
2020-0019)
8 Coordinated group of public, private, or mixed primary care providers, which serves as the foundation of a HCPN (AO 2021-0006)

to access high-quality healthcare services lessen out-of-pocket expenses, and protect
without experiencing financial hardships. from unexpected and high medical costs
Registration for health insurance will be (See Chapters 5 and 16).
facilitated to promote preventive care,
Outcome 4: Health systems strengthened

Increase local government network to support real-time policy
investments in health. To increase and decision-making and increase
the level of responsiveness to local health efficiency, productivity, transparency, and
needs, there is a need to maximize financial accountability. Fragmented data is one of
opportunities to increase investments the lessons highlighted by the COVID-19
in health, enhance local capacity for pandemic. This strategy will be fostered
health system leadership, management, by implementing the Philippine e-Health
anticipatory governance, and resilience to Strategic Framework and Plan. Further, the
public health emergencies, and advance DOH will continue to provide managerial,
responsive regulatory environments for technical, and financial support to provinces
emerging developments and disruptions. and highly urbanized and independent
Efforts to strengthen public health to component cities (HUCs/ICCs) that commit
respond to future threats on public health to province and city-wide integration of
emergencies such as pandemics will be health systems under the UHC Integration
pursued. In view of the Mandanas-Garcia Sites (UHC-IS) program. As of September
ruling, national government agencies 2020, out of the 58 provinces/HUCs/
(NGAs) will continue to assist LGUs with ICCs, there are three provincial UHC-IS
the full devolution of basic health and in the region: Catanduanes, Masbate, and
nutrition services (See Chapter 10). Sorsogon (See Chapter 10).
Accelerate interoperable health Strengthen health research for

information systems. This refers evidence-informed policy-making
to the harmonization of data from the and self-sufficiency in health
DOH, LGUs, private service providers, technology. Advance health RDI to
and other stakeholders who are part of improve healthcare products, services, and
the integrated health service delivery policies (See Chapter 10).
Legislative Agenda
Table 4.1.4 Legislative Agenda to Boost Health
LEGISLATIVE AGENDA RATIONALE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Trans-Fat Elimination The proposed measure will ban all forms of industrial trans-fatty DOH, Food and Drug
acids; prohibit the sale, manufacture, importation, and distribution Administration, and
of partially hydrogenated oils, oil, and fats with high trans-fat acid Department of Science
content. and Technology (DOST)
Establishment of Specialty This bill seeks to establish specialty centers that provide and DOH
Centers improve access to specialized healthcare services.
Creation of the Philippine The following are the key features of the proposed measure: DOH
Center for Disease and (a) creation of the CDC under the DOH for policy and program
Prevention Control coordination; (b) ensuring the health system is well-prepared
to forecast, prevent, monitor, and control diseases, injuries,
and disabilities both of national and international concern; (c)
re-centralization of local epidemiology and surveillance units;
(d) strengthening epidemiology, public health surveillance, and
research capacities; and (d) ensuring investments better to equip
the country in response to public health emergencies.

PROPOSED BILL RATIONALE/KEY FEATURES LEAD AGENCY
Creation of the Virology This Institute will be an attached agency of the DOST
and Vaccine Institute of the Department of Science and Technology. It will serve as the
Philippines (VIP) country’s top virology laboratory, providing investigations,
research, and technical coordination of the entire
network of virology laboratories across the country.
Establishment of a Medical The MRC will include licensed physicians, medical degree DOH
Reserve Corps (MRC) holders, students who have completed four years of a
medical course, registered nurses, and licensed allied
health professionals who may be called upon to assist the
national government, its agencies and instrumentalities,
and the LGUs in addressing the medical needs of the
public. The President will have the authority to order the
nationwide mobilization of the MRC to complement the
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Corps in
case of declaration of a state of war, lawless violence, or
state of calamity.
Institutionalization of the This will provide a policy framework for the provision DOH
e-Health Medicine of wider access to quality and innovative healthcare
services, especially to geographically-isolated and
disadvantaged areas through electronic means using
Information and Communication Technologies.
Subchapter 4.2 Improved Education

and Lifelong Learning
Continued education goes beyond competitiveness, and employability. With
career advancement. Lifelong learning is the rising demand for lifelong learning, the
developing skills beyond an individual’s education sector should be able to meet
formal education. It is a personal process the future demand through the diversity
and is seen as increasingly vital in the of learning opportunities, accessibility
future and growth of the education sector. for learners of all ages, and flexibility in
For individuals, it will lead to a better learning modalities.
quality of life as it increases self-fulfillment,

Assessment New curricular programs were
developed to foster 21st-century
Landmark reforms were enacted. Since competencies. Among these new
2017, several landmark reforms were curricular programs offered are (a)
enacted, i.e., Philippine Qualifications Bachelor of Science (BS) in Tourism
Framework Act (RA 10968,) Second Management major in Agri-tourism,
Congressional Commission on Education and Bachelor in Technical-Vocational
or EDCOM II (RA 11899), Excellence Teacher Education in Central Bicol State
in Teacher Education Act (RA 11713), University of Agriculture (CBSUA), (b)
Tulong-Trabaho Act (RA 11230), Universal BS Architecture in Catanduanes State
Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act University (CatSU), and (c) Master of Arts
(RA 10931), and Transnational Higher in Nursing in Camarines Sur Polytechnic
Education Act (RA 11448). Colleges (CSPC). CBSUA is also the
only tertiary school in the region that

offers Master of Science in Disaster Risk Online Distance Learning, Home
Management. Schooling, Blended Learning, Traditional
Face-to-Face Learning, and Alternative
The CatSU also partnered with the Delivery Modes. Learning continuity
University of the Philippines Los Baños for was ensured through adjustments and
collaborative research undertakings for modifications in the K to 12 curricula
faculty teachers. The Abaca Technology and training workshops on different
Innovation Center continues to provide modalities to ensure alignment and
training programs for abaca farmers contextualization of learning resource
on sustainable productivity through a materials. However, student learning
biological approach. outcomes need to be adequately assessed,
and data from student learning should be
The CSPC and DOST-PCIEERD signed disseminated promptly.
a memorandum of agreement for
establishing an artificial intelligence Tracking Senior High School (SHS)
(AI) research center to promote research graduates in terms of their path (e.g.,
studies using AI for disaster risk entrepreneurship, employment, college,
management, agricultural management, middle-level skills training). The DepEd
community development, and data- Region 5 needed help in conducting
driven policy development. a tracer study for SHS graduates since
2017 concerning curriculum exits. The
Challenges pandemic aggravated the situation and
halted the tracer study due to realigned
Improving the quality of higher and priorities.
technical education despite surpassing
the targets on youth placed in education Reducing job and skills mismatch. The
and training. There are 16,861 graduates workforce produced by the education
of technical and vocational education and training system has yet to be aligned
and training (TVET) programs who were with the skills demanded in the labor
beneficiaries of scholarship programs in market, which constantly changes due
2021, 79 percent of whom were employed, to economic threats, disruptions, and
surpassing the 65 percent target. Relative emerging technological advancements.
to certification, 53 percent of graduates The education and training systems will
with training regulations were certified continuously adapt to these changes.
five days after graduation, while 69
percent of skilled workers were certified According to the 2022 Jobsfit Regional
within seven days after application. For Report by the Department of Labor
CatSU, 15.65 percent of students were and Employment (DOLE), among
awarded scholarship grants and financial the key employment generators are
assistance. However, higher and technical agribusiness, cyberservices, construction,
education quality remains challenging banking and finance, manufacturing,
despite various students’ financial ownership dwellings and real estate,
assistance programs. transport and logistics, and renewable
energy. In-demand occupations include
Determining the quality of outcomes agriculturists, computer programmers,
of different learning modalities software and web developers, systems
implemented. Among the learning engineer, business process outsourcing,
modalities implemented were Distance accountant, mechanical engineers,
Learning, Modular Distance Learning, automotive mechanic, heavy equipment

operators, and checkers. Lastly, hard- technological advancements. In Bicol
to-fill occupations include veterinarian, Region, 17 out of 78 LUCs nationwide are
electrical engineer, information covered under Republic Act No. 10931 or
technologist, and chemical analyst. the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary
Education Act.
Improving support and
complementation among local Narrowing the gap in reading and basic
universities and colleges (LUCs) and literacy skills due to the pandemic. The
state universities and colleges (SUCs). pandemic disrupted the foundation of
LUCs tend to serve the most vulnerable young learners on early/basic literacy.
population of students, yet they are mostly Learning how to read is a crucial
underfunded. LUCs need the necessary development skill in children. Their
resources from the SUCs, LGUs, and ability to acquire new knowledge depends
national government to support the on their ability to understand the context
needed investments for the students and of their reading.
cope with emerging educational and
Targets
The focus is to improve the quality of of teachers and education executive
education and expand access to lifelong officers; (d) improved learners’
learning opportunities through: (a) proficiency across all levels; (e) promotion
enhanced curriculum and programs; of knowledge co-creation, and (f)
(b) improved access to quality learning establishment of innovation hubs and
resources; (c) strengthened competencies incubation centers.
Core Indicators
Table 4.2.1 presents indicators and targets for lifelong learning opportunities.
Table 4.2.1 Core Indicators to Improved Education and Lifelong Learning

INDICATOR
Proportion of learners achieving at least “Proficient” in the National Achievement Test (NAT) (%) in Reading
NAT Results,
Grade 6 3.33 10.00 16.66 23.33 30.00 36.67 43.33 Learner
(2016) Information System
Grade 10 1.74 8.63 15.53 22.42 29.32 36.21 43.11 (LIS), Enhanced DepEd
(2017) Basic Education
Information System
Grade 12 0.10 7.23 14.36 21.49 28.61 35.74 42.87 (EBEIS)  
(2017)
Proportion of learners achieving at least “Proficient” in the National Achievement Test (NAT) (%) in
Mathematics
Grade 6 1.14 8.12 15.10 22.08 29.06 36.04 43.02

(2016) NAT Results, LIS, DepEd
EBEIS
Grade 10 0.34 7.43 14.53 21.62 28.72 35.81 42.91
(2017)
Grade 12 0.02 7.16 14.30 21.44 28.58 35.72 42.86
(2017)

INDICATOR
Net Enrollment Rate
Elementary 88.80 89.97 91.14 92.31 93.49 94.66 95.83

(2021)
EBEIS DepEd
Junior High School 83.49 85.42 87.35 89.28 91.21 93.14 95.07
(2021)
Senior High School 56.50 62.29 68.07 73.86 79.64 85.43 91.21
(2021)
Completion Rate
Elementary 73.95 77.24% 80.54% 83.83% 87.12% 90.41% 93.71%

(2020)
EBEIS DepEd
Junior High School 67.85 72.01% 76.18% 80.34% 84.51% 88.67% 92.84%
(2020)
Senior High School 51.05% 57.61% 64.18% 70.74% 77.31% 83.87% 90.44%
(2020)
TESDA Certification Rate   92% 92% 93% 93% 94% 94% 95% T2 TESDA
(2022) Management
TESDA
Information System
(MIS) / RWAC
Number of TVET trainers 150 150 160 160 180 180 200 T2MIS/MIS 0302 TESDA
certified (2022)
Strategy Framework
Figure 4.2.1 Strategy Framework to Improve Education and Lifelong Learning

Strategies
Outcome 1: Quality, inclusive, adaptive,
resilient, and future-ready basic education for
all achieved
Strengthen private-public qualified teachers in ESC-participating
complementarity in the provision schools. There are deliberations to expand
of quality basic education. The the voucher program to elementary
DepEd will continue to improve and level and increase the voucher amount.
expand access to quality basic education This will help achieve the ideal ratios on
through the SHS Voucher Program (SHS teacher-to-student, classroom-to-student,
VP) and Educational Service Contracting and student-to-textbooks. Inclusion
(ESC). The SHS VP and ESC provide of learners with disabilities in regular
subsidies to qualified learners in certified classes will be promoted, thus the need
private schools that aim to strengthen the to improve school facilities and learning
complementary roles of private and public materials and capacitate school teachers.
educational institutions in the country. As of December 1, 2022, there are
According to the Private Education 1,788,491 enrolled learners from Kinder
Assistance Committee9 (PEAC), there are to Grade 12. Based on Table 4.2.2, the
145 ESC-participating schools in the Bicol net enrollment rates at all levels in public
Region. In addition, PEAC also administers schools are significantly higher than in
the Teachers’ Salary Subsidy (TSS) to private schools.
Table 4.2.2 Net Enrollment Rate by Level and Type of School in the Bicol region, SY.
2020-2021
LEVEL PUBLIC (%) PRIVATE (%) TOTAL (%)

Kinder 59.87 2.43 62
Grades 1-6 84.24 3.02 87.26
Grades 7-10 66.03 9.06 75.09
Grades 11-12 33.21 10.31 43.52
Source: EBIES, DepEd
Develop catch-up programs Curriculum for Grades 1-3 focused

to address learning losses. This on the foundation skills in literacy
will reduce, if not reverse, the negative and numeracy; (c) conduct of capacity
impact of prolonged distance learning building on early literacy for teachers; and
on the learning outcomes. Alternative (d) implementation of the Bicol Brigada
Learning System (ALS) will be promoted, Pagbasa Program, e.g., Bawat Bata
and additional community learning Bumabasa Advocacy and Bawat Batang
centers will be established. (See Chapter Bikolano Bihasang Bumasa Campaign. In
10). Among the strategies to address addition, DepEd to conduct regular and
the widening gap in reading and basic timely progress assessments on utilizing
literacy skills due to the pandemic are: (a) self-learning modules (SLMs) and
crafting of Region 5 Learning Recovery monitoring curriculum implementation
Plan; (b) implementation of the 8-Week in the new normal.
9 Entity contracted by DepEd to administer the ESC and TSS programs. PEAC is the trustee of the Fund for Assistance to Private
Education which is a perpetual fund used to provide assistance to private education.

Ensure access to quality learning of teacher workload, pre-and in-service
resources. Learning resources include teacher training, and adopting new
textbooks, online learning management pedagogical practices such as using open
systems, and open-access references. The educational resources and gamification of
DepEd Region 5 identified the continued learning.
support for the development of localized
supplementary reading materials and
strengthened support for school libraries Enhance school-based DRR
as effective strategies for learning. Blended activities. Enforce implementing the
learning modalities will continue to be policy integrating DRR in school curricula,
utilized to meet the growing demands for including providing psychosocial
learning (See Chapter 10).   support, learning, and teaching kits
during calamities, clear mechanisms on
Improve competencies of alternative delivery modes, and temporary
teachers. This will be through review learning spaces (See Chapter 16).  
Outcome 2: Globally competitive and inclusive

TVET, higher education, and improved research
output for a broader knowledge economy
Design and implement future- the conduct of regional/provincial skills
ready TVET programs and higher mapping and develop programs based
education courses. This will prepare on the identified skills priorities. Tax
learners for the world of work and incentives will be considered to increase
Industry 4.0. Ladderized programs will be the participation of enterprises and
promoted (See Chapter 10). The Mariners companies in EBT. The Commission on
Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) Higher Education (CHED) and TESDA
Legazpi is set to offer new academic and also need to expand their reskilling and
training programs on Boat Building and retooling programs. Higher education
Repair, Coastal Ecotourism and Resource institutions (HEIs) will conduct matching
Management, and create ladderized program outcomes of curricular offerings
programs for maritime. with industry needs to address skills and
competencies matching. DOLE must
Increase involvement/ provide timely and accurate labor market
participation of industry and information (LMI) (See Chapter 6).  
private sector in TVET and higher
education courses. This will make Optimize the roles of universities
curricular programs more responsive to as innovation hubs and incubation
labor market needs and demands, address centers. This is to institutionalize
local communities’ needs, and promote collaboration, create new knowledge and
lifelong and adult learning. The TESDA skills, promote the conduct of cutting-edge
will continue implementing the: (a) research, and develop new technologies
enterprise-based training (EBT) programs, (See Chapters 8 and 10). Inter-regional
e.g., Dual Training System, Apprenticeship, partnerships among HEIs will be fostered
and Learnership and Supervised Industry to increase university networks, promote
Learning; and (b) area-based and demand- student mobility, and joint education
driven TVET policy reform through programs and researches.

Develop alternative skills Under techvoc training, to address limited
assessment and certification opportunities for upskilling and reskilling,
methods. This effectively evaluates TESDA will promote the Competency
student performance and skills gaps Assessment and Certification of Workers
and validates acquired skills. Micro- program.
credential is the skill sector being explored
to respond to changing nature of work Provide adequate support to
and address growing skill gaps caused by LUCs to ensure complementation
Industry 4.0, increasing globalization, with SUCs. LUCs and SUCs need to
aging populations, climate change, and supply mutual needs or offset mutual
technological advancements such as AI. As lacks through: (a) sharing of resources
defined by researchers, a micro-credential and capabilities through the provision
covers more than a single course but is less of support in instruction, research, and
than a full degree, e.g., certification badges extension; (b) conduct of capacity building
in specific topics such as digital literacy, and technical assistance in curriculum,
data analytics, cybersecurity, etc. This will faculty, and leadership development; and
address concerns to meet the demands for (c) promotion of research collaboration
reskilling and upskilling (See Chapters 6 (See Chapter 10).
and 9).
Outcome 3: Governance for human capital

development improved
Harmonize the trifocal system of Strengthen School-based
education for lifelong learning. Management (SBM)10 to enable
The Philippine Qualifications Framework schools to better respond to the education
(PQF), Philippine Skills Framework needs of the communities, increase
(PSF), and ASEAN Qualifications learner participation, and maximize
Reference Framework (AQRF) seek to student learning outcomes. Every school
address fragmented strategies among is mandated to practice SBM starting
education institutions. Partnerships from the School Improvement Plan which
with local and international institutions are used as inputs to the Division Basic
will enhance continuing professional Education Plans and then consolidated
development, credit transfer schemes into Regional Basic Education Plan.
for pathways and equivalency systems The School Governing Council (SGC)
to facilitate standards comparability composed of teachers, parents, LGU, and
and professional mobility, i.e., graduates other community members, discusses
recognized in Association of Southeast school management issues and promotes
Asian Nations (ASEAN). Learning stronger link with the community.
materials will be developed which are
aligned with international standards and Design a higher education career
trends to ensure updated international system to improve the efficiency of
education frameworks, standards, institutional governance in state-run
and competencies. (See Chapter 6). HEIs. A merit-based career system will
be established to enhance the capacities
10 DepEd thrust that decentralizes decision-making from the Central Office and field offices to individual schools to enable them
to better respond to their specific education needs. (DepEd Department Order No. 029, s. 2022 Adoption of the Basic Education
Monitoring And Evaluation Framework).

of HEI executives and comply with global education standards and practices.
Legislative Agenda
Table 4.2.3 presents legislative measures for consideration by Congress.
Table 4.2.3 Legislative Agenda to Improve Education and Lifelong Learning

Review of the Country’s Basic The proposed law seeks to revisit the K-12 curriculum to make DepEd
Education System towards the graduates more readily employable, better equipped with
Improving the Enhanced Basic critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and imbued with
Education Act of 2013   the skills and capacities needed to be productive and active
citizens of the country.  
Expansion of the National The proposed law addresses what is identified as among the DepEd
Feeding Program in secondary biggest problems of the student population by expanding the
schools coverage of the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP), as
mandated by RA 11037, to include learners from Grades 7 to 12
to ensure that proper government interventions are in place
for the youth in their formative and adolescent years.  
Expansion of the Government In recognition of the complementary role of private schools DepEd
Assistance to Students and in providing basic education to Filipino learners, the measure
Teachers in Private Education aims to expand the existing government assistance for high
(GASTPE) to Elementary Level school students and teachers in private education to include
students in private schools from kindergarten up to Grade
6 level. The TSS is also proposed to be expanded to cover
teachers employed in private elementary schools.
Strengthening the TVET in the This proposed measure aims to incorporate the existing TESDA
Philippines by incorporating programs under the “EBT Program” administered by TESDA and
Apprenticeship and Dual Training expand the provision of training programs implemented within
System, providing for Continuous companies. The program can be a mix of workplace training
Training of the Unemployed, and classroom-based learning. Strengthening partnerships
and Expanding the Provision of among LUCs, TESDA, and TVET institutions are suggested to be
Enterprise-Based Education and highlighted to ensure that programs will cater to community
Training   needs and priorities, including agri-entrepreneurship.  
Subchapter 4.3 Establish Livable

Communities
This subchapter takes a more be guided by the core strategies of the Bicol
comprehensive outlook on establishing RPFP 2021-2050, namely: concentration,
communities through: (a) adequate, connectivity, and vulnerability reduction.
inclusive, accessible, and resilient Network of growth centers will be
human settlements; (b) increasing developed and the islands of Masbate
mobility and connectivity; (c) improving and Catanduanes will be self-sufficient
environmental quality; (d) promoting the and have improved digital and physical
social environment, and (e) advancing accessibility.
responsive governance. This chapter will

Assessment high occupancy rate. Notwithstanding
the pandemic in 2021, the occupancy
Socialized housing projects posted a rate for socialized housing exceeded the

target of 15 percent by 50.63 percent. The endorsed for classification.
number of produced/taken out socialized
housing units increased with 901 units Challenges
(lots only) in Albay, 288 units (house
only) in Camarines Sur and Sorsogon, Reducing unmet housing needs for
and 728 units (house and lot package) in informal settler families (ISF). The
Camarines Sur. Further, four government Resettlement Assistance Program for
resettlement sites were completed with LGU (RAP-LGU) is a joint undertaking
complete housing facilities prior to of NHA with LGUs to address the
occupancy, namely, Juban Housing housing requirements of ISF affected
Project, Bato Resettlement Project, Isarog by government infrastructure projects,
Village, and Kinamaligan Resettlement those living in dangerous areas, and IPs.
Project. In 2021, NHA completed 79.54 percent
or 15,671 units of 19,701 target units of
Availment of home financing programs housing assistance. However, completion
increased. For the Community Mortgage rate of the Resettlement Program was low
Program, the Social Housing and Finance at only 41.30 percent or 567 units of 1,373
Corporation (SHFC) has processed and target units.
taken out one project in Barangay San
Vicente, Baao, Camarines Sur. The project Among the difficulties encountered were:
has provided home lots to 200 households.   (a) failure of the developer to comply with
some requirements of the Regional CBIA
The Home Development Mutual Fund Technical Working Group (RCTWG),
(HDMF) approved housing loans of causing a delay in the launching of
1,995 units in mortgage financing and the expansion project of Mauraro
released funds of PHP1.57 billion. The Resettlement Project Phase 2 for the
accomplishment is 133.36 percent higher victims of Mayon Volcano eruption; (b)
than its target of 1,496 units for CY fund unavailability for the 14 permanent
2021 and 101.92 percent higher than its housing units for the Typhoon Yolanda
accomplishment in CY 2020.   Project; (c) delayed processing of housing-
related documents such as permits and
Intensified monitoring of air and water clearances; and (d) limited land for
quality management. Additional Air socialized housing development and
Quality Monitoring Stations (AQMS) difficulty in identifying lots as relocation
were constructed in the provinces of sites in some LGUs.
Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines
Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon and cities of
Tabaco and Ligao to monitor the Total Increasing number of LGUs with Local
Suspended Particles and Particulate Shelter Plans (LSP) and decreasing
Matter (PM 10) concentration. A real-time housing backlogs. LSP includes
air quality monitoring system for Legazpi identifying housing needs, inventory
City and Naga City stations through the of resources, analysis of shelter issues
DENR Dashboard is also accessible. and concerns based on the community’s
existing local dynamics, and developing
For water quality management, 35 water strategies to address the identified
bodies were monitored in 2021, including housing and development concerns. As
25 adopted esteros. Five waterbodies were of December 2021, only 20 of the 114

LGUs have drafted LSPs. Based on the material recovery facilities (MRF) in the
LSP, the total housing backlog is 451,649 region, 490 of which are in Albay, 47 in
units with a total area of 3,634.02 hectares. Camarines Norte, 223 in Camarines Sur,
Further, there are 359,201 total informal 80 in Catanduanes, 85 in Masbate, and 178
settler families. in Sorsogon. There are eight operational
sanitary landfills in the region, with 33
The Department of Human Settlements servicing LGUs. From 2023 to 2025, the
and Urban Development11 (DHSUD) DENR projects that a total of 3.28 million
intensified the provision of capacity- tons of waste will be generated in the
building training on the: Comprehensive region12.
Land Use Plan (CLUP) formulation;
Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment Recent data on the approval of the ten-
(CDRA) and Geographic Information year Solid Waste Management (SWM)
System (GIS); Land Use Development Plan shows that most of the SWM plans
and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP); and in the region are still under evaluation.
Land Use and Zoning Information System
(LUZIS). 104 out of 114 LGUs across the Upgrading of the standard design for
region have already formulated their decent and resilient housing. Key shelter
CLUP, 17 of which have updated CLUP agencies (KSAs) need to upgrade house
per EO 72, s. 1993. designs to meet the demands and needs
of the target end-users and be resilient
Strengthening the implementation to extreme natural hazards. Among the
of basic solid waste management. concerns to be considered is the land/
RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste floor area of the housing unit vis-à-vis
Management Act of 2000, still needs to target-end users’ profiles.
be fully implemented. There are 1,103
Figure 4.3.1 Solid Waste Management Plans, by Province in the Bicol Region, 2022
Catanduanes
Camarines Norte
Province
Sorsogon
Albay
Masbate
Camarines Sur
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Total No. of 10-Year SWM Plans
11 The DHSUD was created by RA No. 11201 which comprises the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) and the Housing
and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and has the primary mandate of managing housing and related development.
12 Breakdown of waste generation from 2023 to 2025: 0.85 million tons from Albay, 1.1 million tons from Camarines Sur, 0.30 million
tons from Camarines Norte, 0.11 million tons from Catanduanes, 0.46 million tons from Masbate, and 0.45 million tons from Sorsogon.

32.50%
67.50%
Under Evaluation Approved
Source: EMB
Targets
Establish livable communities and upgrade the availability of basic services and
conditions of existing communities where facilities, improved environmental quality,
all residents equitably access civic, social, enhanced mobility and connectivity, and
and socioeconomic opportunities through responsive governance.
Core Indicators
Table 4.3.1 presents the indicators and targets to establish livable communities.
Table 4.3.1 Core Indicators to Establish Livable Communities  

INDICATOR
Number of CSOs accredited Province:

by the Provincial/Municipal/ 106 Report
City Sanggunian   C/MLGUs: Increasing submitted by DILG  
1,832 the field
(2022)
Proportion of barangays 41% 43% / 45% / 46% / 49% / 51% / 51% / Annual SWM DENR-EMB
served by MRFs   (2021) 1,492.53 1,561.95 1,631.37 1,700.79 1,770.21 1,839.63 Report
Total no.
of Brgys:
3,471
Proportion of cities/ 7 7 7 5 5 5 5 EMB Report DENR-EMB, LGU  
municipalities served by SLFs   (2022)
Percentage of water bodies conforming with water quality guideline values for the following intended use
Water supply   0%
17% 17% 33% 33% 50% 50%
(2021)
Food production   0% Annual Water
13% 25% 25% 38% 38% 50% DENR-EMB
(2021) Quality Report  
Primary contact recreation 46%
54% 54% 62% 62% 69% 69%
use   (2021)

INDICATOR
Percentage of highly
urbanized and other major
urban centers within ambient 59% Annual Air
60% 62% 64% 66% 68% 70% DENR-EMB
air quality guideline values 2021 Quality Report  
for particulate matter (PM)
10 and 2.5  
Housing units started/ 3,888 8,774 11,385 12,557 9,357 4,714 907 Progress DHSUD, KSAs,
financed   (2022) report LGUs
Occupancy Rate 10% 10% Progress DHSUD, KSAs,
(2022) report LGUs
Percentage of LGUs preparing risk-informed plans  

CLUP   16% or 18
LGUs Increasing 40%
(2021)
With Approved Local Shelter 17% or 20
Progress
Plans   LGUs Increasing 30% DHSUD, LGUs  
report  
(2021)
With Local Housing Boards 23% or 27
created LGUs Increasing 35%
(2021)
Strategy Framework
The domains of a livable community A livable community equitably serves all
include promoting the social environment, the residents regardless of background
improving environmental quality, and and provides opportunities to engage in
upgrading of built environment supported socioeconomic activities.
by responsive governance.
Figure 4.3.2 Strategy Framework to Establish Livable Communities

Strategies
Outcome 1: Social environment promoted
Improve equitable access to food, and communities. Encourage
health, education, safe drinking communities to participate in civic,
water, basic sanitation, social cultural, recreational, and sports
services, social protection, and activities. Develop physical and virtual
quality jobs. Ensure that fundamental cultural spaces for social interactions,
human necessities are accessible to satisfy such as parks, libraries, museums, and
the residents’ needs, such as basic services sports facilities. Promote gender-sensitive
and facilities like markets, hospitals, social and culture-responsive interventions to
services, recreational facilities, police promote the welfare of vulnerable groups
stations, fire stations, and schools. The (See Chapter 15).
programs that are carried out to achieve
this are Gulayan sa Tahanan, Gulayan sa Build disaster preparedness and
Paaralan, SBFPs, and Medical Assistance resilience of communities. The
to Indigent Patients, among others. For Bicol Region is among the most vulnerable
employment generation in coastal areas, regions to climate and disaster risks. There
among the strategies are sustainable is a need to adopt gender-responsive and
fisheries and use of marine resources, inclusive community risk assessment
development of aqua-based enterprises, and disaster preparedness. Community
fostering technological innovations, and disaster preparedness is complemented by
inclusion of the Blue Economy concept as private and government efforts through
a major component for economic growth establishment of early warning systems
in the region (See subchapters 4.1 and 4.2, (EWS), provision of livelihood, and
Chapters 5, 6, 7,12, 13, 14, and 16). construction of flood control, coastal
protection, permanent evacuation
Strengthen social cohesion centers, and other critical infrastructure
among government agencies, and facilities (See Chapters 5, 13, 15, and
the private sector, CSOs, LGUs, 16).
Outcome 2: Environmental quality improved

Broaden waste minimization systems for waste, water, and air pollution.
initiatives. Air and water pollution The Extended Producer Responsibility
are widespread in both urban and rural Act (RA 11898) mandates large-scale
areas. There is a need to steer behavioral companies to manage plastic packaging
change at the individual, household, properly, especially in the post-consumer
and community levels on proper stage (See Chapters 8,10, and 13).
waste management and sustainable
consumption and production. Recycling, Increase access to proper waste
composting, banning single-use plastics, disposal facilities. Fast-track approval
and strict monitoring of waste recovery of SWM plans and implement clustering
are crucial. Moreover, there is a need to of facilities such as MRFs and sanitary
institutionalize the adoption of developed landfills. The DENR will continue to
technologies and science-based policy provide capacity-building activities.
recommendations to improve monitoring Innovation and science-based policy

recommendations, e.g., waste-to-energy, Solid Waste Management (RA 9003), and
will be promoted in all LGUs to develop other environmental laws.  
septage management programs, sewerage
systems, and sanitation improvement Establish accessible green
projects. spaces. The LGUs will allocate and
develop land for green and open spaces
Expand monitoring and for parks, social and cultural events, and
enforcement of air and water urban farming for all; and promote the
quality standards. Air and water use of multifunctional green spaces in
quality monitoring and standards housing designs such as green roofs. This
will be enforced. Implementation of will help improve air quality and reduce
multistakeholder initiatives such as clean- urban heat. Further, LGUs, in partnership
up drives and rehabilitation of water with the DOT, need to conduct carrying
bodies will be continued. The DENR capacity studies to preserve the ecological
will strictly monitor compliance with integrity of ecotourism communities (See
the Philippine Clean Air Act (RA 8749), Chapters 5 and 16).
Philippine Clean Water Act (RA 9275),
Outcome 3: Built environment upgraded

This pertains to the community’s physical government employees; (c) Settlement
parts, e.g., houses, roads, and utility Upgrading; and (d) resettlement
distribution systems, that should be programs.
inclusive, connected, and integrated to
achieve sustainable human settlements. Additional subsidies for ISFs and low-
A responsive population management income families will be explored. Aside
program will be implemented to from financing concerns, measures
rationalize distribution of population to address issues on land availability,
including migrants and displaced citizens, construction materials, and workers will
and improve access to social, employment, be undertaken.
and infrastructure facilities.
Integrate accessibility, health,
Mobilize private sector and culture, and resilience outcomes
government resources to meet into the design of housing
housing needs and improve and communities. Houses will be
housing affordability. Financing affordable, inclusive, accessible, efficient,
support from the private sector through and will provide tenure security. Houses
development loans, homeowner’s lending are designed to be responsive to the
programs, and real estate mortgages of needs of target end-users, e.g., young
private banks will be mobilized. The KSAs professionals, rebel-returnees, and family
will increase housing production. The homes, for adequate spaces which conform
DHSUD will subsidize interest payment with cultural norms and are resilient to
support and the LGUs will improve the impacts of health emergencies, climate
planning, financing, and implementation change, and disaster risks. Green features
of housing programs. Some programs in housing and community designs will
of the DHSUD include: (a) Pambansang be adopted, such as renewable energy,
Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program; rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-
(b) Home for Every Juan Program, a efficient materials (See Chapter 16).
housing program for IPs, former rebels,

Enhance connectivity and adopt active mobility options such as
mobility. This entails the provision walking and cycling, which are affordable
of a connection to utilities, e.g., water, and accessible to everyone. LGUs will
electricity, and telecommunications. prioritize the use of renewable energy
Transportation links to economic, social, sources (See Chapter 13). Ongoing and
and cultural places will be in place to ensure proposed major programs and projects
continued access to food and basic services, to enhance transportation include the
health facilities, and places of work. widening of AH26 and other national
The road system will be well-designed, roads, and construction of the SLEX TR5,
connected to public transportation, and Sorsogon-Samar Link Bridge, Legazpi
provided with ample drainage to avoid City-Tabaco City Alternate Road Project,
disruptions from floods and safe routes and PNR SLH Project, among others.  
in emergencies. Connectivity will also
Outcome 4: Responsive governance advanced

Adopt digital governance and implement integrated and connected
strengthen the digital capacities spatial plans for communities with LGUs
of citizens. Adopt smart governance to strictly safeguarding the No Build Zones
facilitate better information and service in hazardous areas. Consider the National
delivery, promote transparency, and Urban Development and Housing
involve communities in decision-making. Framework and National Spatial Strategy
Conduct of a massive awareness campaign for regional development and ensure
to promote digitalization will be pursued that all LGUs have already formulated
(See Chapters 10 and 15). and updated their respective CLUPs. An
information system is also recommended
Prepare/implement integrated to access timely and relevant housing data
community spatial plans. Spatial such as but not limited to the inventory
planning is an essential tool to achieve of idle lands, compliance with housing-
more livable communities. Adopt and related policies, and housing backlogs.
Legislative Agenda
Table 4.3.2 presents the priority legislations proposed to establish livable communities.
Table 4.3.2 Legislative Agenda to Establish Livable Communities

National Land Use Bill Address practical land availability constraints for housing DHSUD
development by legislating options such as removing the
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) restrictions
to land consolidation while maintaining land ownership by
beneficiaries, completing an inventory of protected areas to
ascertain land for development, and tapping idle/unutilized
private lands.
Rental subsidy and access to Improve access to and affordability of housing, especially for DHSUD
public rental housing   the ISFs, homeless, and underprivileged.

Strengthening of KSAs NHA Renew the NHA Charter and strengthen its organizational DHSUD
Act Amendments to the NHMFC structure and functions.
Charter
Broaden mandate to allow securitization of mortgages and

other housing-related receivables or loans, resulting in
increased funds available for housing development.
Unnecessary Plastic Products Phase out single-use plastic. DENR
Regulation Bill  
Maritime Safety, Security, and Prevention and control of marine pollution from any vessel.   Philippine Coast Guard
Prevention of Ship- Sourced (PCG), DENR, DOST
Pollution Bill  

CHAPTER 5
Reduce Vulnerabilities and

Protect Purchasing Power
This chapter aims to contribute to achieving SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 3: Good Health
and Well-being, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and the Ambisyon Natin 2040, which
articulates the Filipinos’ desire for a stable and high-level of well-being.  
To reach this level of well-being, the government will establish a transformative

social protection system that enables every Filipino to adequately plan for, respond
to, and recover from any economic shock. This can be done by ensuring food
security, stabilizing food prices, expanding food supply sources, improving access
to food during emergencies, optimizing digital marketing platforms, and expanding
access to social protection programs that can manage risks, address vulnerabilities,
and increase Bicolanos’ resiliency to potential shocks.  
Subchapter 5.1 Ensure Food Security

and Proper Nutrition
Assessment the country, causing high inflation and
the cost of food production to rise. For
Food security remains a challenge instance, the pandemic restricted mobility
despite efforts on increasing food and hampered the timely delivery of social
supply. Programs to increase agricultural services and the supply of goods, especially
production and food supply were in the island provinces. This resulted in a
continuously implemented. Despite the significant increase in food inflation in
efforts, food security remains a challenge, 2021 to 5.5 percent from -0.3 in 2019 and
especially in regards to affordability and 3.1 percent in 2020. Although this was
sustainability13. The country scored 59.3 lower than 9.4 percent in 2018, it was the
on the Global Food Security Index 2022. highest since 2010.
Food affordability scored 71.5, availability
at 55.2, quality and safety at 65.30, and To increase agricultural production and
sustainability at 41.8. A similar indicator is food supply, various subsidy programs
not available at the regional level. However, for farmers were implemented by the
statistics indicate the region’s difficulty in Department of Agriculture (DA) Region
attaining food security levels because of 5. In 2020, a Financial Subsidy to Rice
certain events and external crises affecting Farmers (FSRF) of PHP5,000.00 each, or
13 Food security as defined by The World Bank is when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and
nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. Food security has four dimensions:
availability, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.
Chapter 5 Protect Purchasing Power | 88

a total of PHP294.33 million, was released rice production to combat global trade
to 58,874 Bicolano farmers, broken down uncertainties and promote food security
as follows: Albay (19,891), Camarines Sur amid the pandemic. Rice seeds and
(22,584), Masbate (6,168), and Sorsogon fertilizers were distributed for free to rice
(10,231). Under the Expanded Survival farmers starting the wet cropping season
and Recovery Assistance Program (SURE of 2020. Inbred and hybrid rice seeds
Aid), a total of PHP94.00 million was with fertilizers were distributed to rainfed
released to MSMEs and PHP92.75 million and irrigated areas on top of the existing
was released to farmers. One application Rice Competitiveness Enhancement
for Kapital Access for Young Agripreneurs Fund (RCEF) and the support to inbred
(KAYA) was approved in 2020, amounting and hybrid farmers under the National
to PHP315,000. Rice Program14. More seeds and planting
materials were also made available for the
The Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita retail outlets farmers under the agriculture programs
and Kadiwa on wheels were established. of the DA (See Chapter 7). Based on the
The two projects aim to enhance market reported rice self-sufficiency ratio (SSR),
and income opportunities for farmers only Camarines Sur, the region’s rice
and partnerships with cooperatives and granary, attained and maintained a rice
LGUs and improve consumers’ access to sufficiency level15.
safe, nutritious, and affordable agriculture
and fisheries products. In 2020, with Various healthcare programs were
the participation of six LGUs and 47 implemented which contributed to
cooperatives and associations, 108,000 enhanced health status. On assessing
households were served, with a total sale the provision of proper nutrition, the
of PHP79.86 million. The transport of nutrition targets were achieved based on
prime agricultural commodities from the results of Operation Timbang (OPT).
the region to Metro Manila and other The prevalence of wasting and stunting
parts of Luzon was facilitated by the DA. among children under five years was
Also, in 2020, a total of PHP1.77 billion reduced. Nutrition services for all life
was allocated for Ahon sa Lahat Pagkaing stages included promotive, preventive,
Sapat (ALPAS) Kontra COVID-19 to curative, and rehabilitative health care
ensure food accessibility and availability at to ensure a healthy pregnancy, infancy,
stable prices. Women’s participation was childhood and adolescence, adulthood,
evident in the training conducted by DA and aging. The Women’s Health and Safe
Region 5 for various programs. Seeds were Motherhood Program, the Newborn
distributed to women farmers. Likewise, Screening Program, and the First 1,000
native chicken, native goat, sheep, and Days (F1K) Program were implemented
swine were also dispersed.   to ensure a healthy pregnancy and infancy.  
The Rice Resiliency Project is one of the The School-Based Feeding Program
components of ALPAS Kontra COVID-19, (SBFP) of the DepEd provided free
also known as the “Plant, Plant, Plant” meals in all public elementary schools to
program, which aims to increase local learners classified as wasted or severely
14 Department of Agriculture Region 5 Annual Report 2020 available at https://bicol.da.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/DA-Bicol-

Annual-Report-2020.pdf
15 The SSR shows the magnitude of production in relation to domestic utilization or the extent to which the region’s supply of commodity
is derived from its own domestic production. A ratio of less than 100 reflects inadequacy of food production to cope with the demand of
the population, a 100 ratio indicates that food production capacity is just enough to support the food needs of the population, and over
100 ratio means domestic production is more than enough to support the domestic requirements.

wasted, which aims to address short- deforestation and forest degradation
term hunger and undernutrition among affected food and water security, while
public school children. In 2021, about increasing temperature exacerbated food
31,789 malnourished children received and water scarcity.
supplementary feeding in daycare centers.
Of these children, 75 percent, or 23,964, Increasing resiliency of agriculture,
had improved nutritional status, i.e., 6,797 fisheries, and business enterprises.
severely underweight children improved Critical infrastructures such as
to underweight, and 17,244 underweight production, post-production, processing,
children improved to normal nutritional and irrigation facilities suffered partial
status. The prevalence of wasting and to total damage that affected the region’s
stunting among children below five years productive capacity. The negative impacts
was reduced from 6.1 and 20.8 in 2017 to of disasters on agriculture have threatened
2.6 and 11.7 in 2022, respectively. While food security in the affected areas.
the prevalence of overweight among Disruptions in agriculture, particularly
children under five years old decreased the major commodities, affected the
from 4.5 in 2017 to 3.08 in 2022. supply chain and increased production
costs, resulting in high prices. The
The implementation of F1K days of life vulnerability of the production sector to
from conception to ensure optimum multidimensional shocks such as tropical
nutrition and the physical and mental cyclones, the pandemic, and armed
development of the child was strengthened. conflict also contributed to an unstable
At the same time, the complementarity of food supply.  
nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive
programs that address the determinants of The irrigation systems are vital for
fetal and child nutrition and development sustainable agricultural development that
was ensured. The NNC intensified leads to food security, but the potential of
the mobilization of LGUs, involving irrigation development in the region has
the community of non-governmental yet to be fully harnessed. (See Chapter 13)
organizations (NGOs) and development
partners’ resources, to ensure that the Improving digital technology to access
Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition safe, affordable, and nutritious food.
(PPAN) 2017-2022 delivered the planned This revealed the issues of the digital
outcomes and reached the GIDAs. divide, or inequitable internet access,
information, and communications
Fund support was provided to the BRTTH technology facilities (See Chapter 13), and
for the Philippine Integrated Management the limited use and knowledge of digital
for Acute Malnutrition to rehabilitate the technologies. There is a need to improve
health of severely malnourished patients. the market participation of sellers and
Under the Health Emergency Management consumers and maximize the region’s
Program, capacity-building activities were online market platforms.
conducted among healthcare providers
and community rescuers to ensure quick Providing infrastructure and logistics
response to emergencies. support. Although the support of LGUs
for the existing health and nutrition
Challenges programs was evident, additional budget
to implement such programs, particularly
Various challenges in the production for procuring commodities and other
sector distress food security. For instance, logistical support, is needed. The lack of

efficient transport and logistics systems minimum wage earners, may allocate their
contributed to the high price of goods and resources to other concerns and interests
services and low accessibility to nutritious such as health, education, and recreation.
and healthy foods. If these infrastructure They may also afford to consume nutritious
and logistics issues are addressed, prices and healthier foods that are likely more
of goods may likely be more stable, and expensive than the nutrient-poor food
people, especially vulnerable groups and options.
Targets
This chapter aims to reduce the food prevalence of malnutrition among children
inflation rate, lower the subsistence manifested by wasting and stunting.
incidence among the population, and the
Core Indicators
Table 5.1.1 presents the indicators and targets to ensure food security and proper
nutrition.
Table 5.1.1 Core Indicators Ensure Food Security and Proper Nutrition

INDICATOR
Food inflation rate (%) kept 5.7

2.5-4.5 2-4 2-4 2-4 2-4 2-4 Inflation Report PSA
stable (2022)
Subsistence incidence among 5.9 4.5-5.5 N/A 3.5-4.5 N/A 3.0-4.0 2.5-3.5 Poverty PSA
population (%) reduced (2021) Statistics
Report
Severe food insecurity 2 0 National NNC
(2021) Nutrition
Survey (NNS)
Moderate to severe food 33.4
31.7 30.1 28.5 27.1 25.7 24.4 NNS NNC
insecurity (2021)
Prevalence of stunting (%)
11.7 Annual E OPT +
among children under 5 years 10.7 9.7 9.7 9.7 9.7 9.7 NNC
(2022) Report
of age decreased
Prevalence of malnutrition (%) NNC with
2.6 Annual E OPT +
for children under 5 years of 2.4 provinces and
(2022) Report
age (wasting) decreased cities
Prevalence for overweight 3.1 2.9 2.6 2.4 <2.5 <2.5 <2.5 Annual E OPT + NNC with
among children under 5 years (2022) Report provinces and
of age decreased cities
Strategy Framework
To ensure food security and proper affordable, safe, and nutritious food; and
nutrition for Bicolanos, various outcomes (c) improved nutrition across all ages.
should be attained, such as: (a) a sufficient This can be done through continuous
and stable supply of food commodities; collaboration among the government,
(b) expanded access for consumers to private sector, academe, and other

stakeholders. By achieving these, food and the excellent health and well-being of
insecurity and hunger will be reduced, Bicolanos will be improved.  
Figure 5.1.1 Strategy Framework to Ensure Food Security and Proper Nutrition
Strategies
Outcome 1: Sufficient and stable supply of
food commodities attained
Promote urban agriculture and be conducted at various levels to ensure
maximize the use of idle lands. that food will be made available to the
The Bicol Region represents about six public, especially in times of distress or
percent of the country’s land area, wherein disaster. The Buffer Stocking Program will
the majority of around 10,347 sq. km. is be strengthened by regional agencies such
utilized for agriculture, of which 640 has as the National Food Authority (NFA) and
were converted for various land uses and the DSWD in collaboration with LGUs
considered one of the top issues in the and the private sector. Necessary policies
region. A significant portion of the total and mechanisms will be put in place to
land area is idle and can potentially be facilitate the distribution of buffer stocks
used for food production.   and avoid issues in the case of surplus.
The capacities of concerned agencies
To enhance food security, the region and LGUs will be strengthened to ensure
will intensify the promotion of urban efficient administration and supply chain
agriculture in households, schools, and management.
communities. The LGUs will lead the
promotion at the household level to Boost production of agri-fishery
produce food in their respective backyards food commodities. Considering the
or communities through community or region’s potential as a supplier of various
backyard farming activities. Initiatives to agri-fishery food products, the region will
maximize the use of idle lands for food implement various interventions to boost
production will also be explored. its production, thus increasing the region’s
food supply. These include the provision
Ensure sufficient buffer stock. of inputs such as planting materials/
Buffer stocking of rice and other food fishery stocks to farmers and fisherfolks,
commodities that will last for months will upgrading of machinery, and capacity-

building activities. Efforts to modernize operated by capable organizations and
the agri-fishery sector will also be given individuals. Proper waste management
attention (See Chapter 7). will initially be done at the household
level through waste segregation and
Reduce and prevent food losses/ composting, while the local government
waste. Food waste not only entails an will conduct intensive information
amount of food that contains nutrients campaigns to educate the community
wasted but also has implications on the on the practical benefits of reducing
environment, such as air pollution, soil food waste. Additionally, the upcycling16
and water contamination, and climate process will be explored and promoted.
change, which can eventually affect the The private sector and the academe can
health and well-being of people. Food be tapped to promote upcycling of food
waste will be appropriately managed waste and enhance public awareness
by providing the communities with around food waste’s generation of revenue
the necessary facilities and equipment and nutritional value.  
Outcome 2: Access of consumers to affordable,

safe, and nutritious food expanded
Ramp up the promotion and region’s vulnerability to calamities that
use of digital platforms for food impede the transport and delivery of
delivery services and payment food, the establishment of cold storage
transactions. Online food markets facilities is essential to ensure a sufficient
and delivery services in the region will be and stable supply of food. These facilities
supported and expanded. These services will be strategically located to ensure that
will be strengthened by accelerating the islands will have access despite bad
digital connectivity in all areas, including weather conditions. This can be done
GIDAs, which comprise around 489 through partnerships with the private
barangays in the region. Local businesses sector. The LGUs will be encouraged to
participating in the digital market will develop strategies to store and utilize local
be provided with technical support to farmers’ produce as a food supply for the
enhance entrepreneurial skills and adapt affected population during emergencies
to the demand for digital services. The instead of instant/ processed unhealthy
participation of local stores offering foods.  
healthy food products will be encouraged
to promote market competition and The Kadiwa outlets will be expanded, or
increase the accessibility and affordability a local market system will be established
of nutritious foods.   within clustered areas to provide a trading
venue for farmers and consumers. The
Leverage local government and LGUs, in partnership with appropriate
private sector resources to bring government agencies, will identify their
safe and nutritious food closer prime commodities that can potentially
to consumers. Investments in cold be developed into value-added products
storage facilities, transport, and logistics (See Chapter 8). This will save farmers
systems will increase. Because of the from potential losses and help improve
16 Upcycling food means to reduce food waste and transform it into nutritious and high-quality products, using nutrients that
would otherwise be lost in the food supply chain. https://www.myblueproject.com/upcycled-food-the-new-trend-to-reduce-food-
waste/#:~:text=Upcycling%20food%20is%20a%20means,them%20into%20a%20new%20product

their skills and income-earning abilities. sector to ensure that food supplies in the
market are sold at reasonable prices under
Strengthen price and existing policies such as the Price Act.
supply monitoring of food Initiatives to strengthen and reactivate
commodities.  Price and supply the Local Price Coordinating Council at
monitoring of all food commodities will the provincial and municipal level will
be regularly conducted by concerned be pursued to include capacity-building
agencies such as the DA and DTI in activities and the implementation of Joint
partnership with the LGUs and the private Memo Circular (JMC) No. 03, s. 2020.
Outcome 3: Nutrition across all ages improved

Promote a healthy lifestyle and a critical to the F1K days of life will be
culture of active health-seeking ensured, especially in rural areas and
behavior. Promoting a healthy lifestyle island provinces. Promoting healthy
requires a whole-of-society approach. lifestyles and eating environments will
Intensive advocacy campaigns will be help manage and prevent malnutrition
conducted across sectors and population and obesity. Key nutrition behaviors
segments (See Chapter 4). Schools, offices, that reduce stunting in targeted
LGUs, and private organizations will municipalities will also be improved.
conduct activities promoting healthy The RA 11148 will be fully implemented,
practices and behaviors, and work-life and investments and budget allocation
balance. They will prioritize building for evidence-based nutrition, especially
communities that provide an active and for the F1K days, will be increased.
safe environment for all, regardless of
race, gender, body size, weight, and shape. The Philippine Multi-Sectoral Nutrition
The LGUs and communities with best Project (PMNP) or the Kasapatan
practices in promoting healthy lifestyles at Ugnayan ng Mamamayan sa
and a culture of active health-seeking Akmang Pagkain at Nutrisyon will
will be given incentives as role models be implemented. Four provinces in
to others. Locally grown/ available the Bicol Region, namely: Camarines
vegetables, fruits, and root crops will be Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and
introduced as alternatives to processed, Sorsogon, are among the 26 provinces
nutrient-poor food alternatives. The to implement the PMNP, designed
development and adoption of technologies to address the perennial problem of
that increase the nutritional content and undernutrition, child stunting, and
prolong the shelf-life of food products will wasting. In the implementation of the
be supported by implementing initiatives PMNP, the LGUs will be capacitated to
related to research, innovation, and effectively integrate nutrition into their
capacity development. comprehensive development plans and
local development investment plans as
Implement measures to prevent part of the LGU mobilization strategy of
and address wasting, stunting, the regional plan of action for nutrition.
and obesity. The delivery of services

Box Article 5.1
Bicol RDC back multi-sectoral nutrition project toward ending

maternal and child malnutrition in Bicol
The PMNP or the Kasapatan at Ugnayan ng Mamamayan sa Akmang Pagkain at

Nutrisyon is a nationwide project that will adopt a multi-sectoral approach to deliver
a package of nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions in different
LGUs. Four provinces in the Bicol Region are among the 26 provinces to implement
the PMNP designed to address the perennial problem of undernutrition, child
stunting, and wasting in the Philippines.
The Bicol RDC endorsed the PMNP, through RDC Resolution No. 2-18, Series of
2021, and reaffirmed its support for the implementation of the project through RDC
Resolution No. 1-13, Series of 2022. Further, the RDC approved the creation of the
PMNP technical working group which is tasked to provide technical assistance in the
formulation and implementation of the Regional PMNP Work Plan and Milestones
2022 to 2025.
The PMNP aims to improve health and nutrition outcomes by prioritizing

interventions that are linked to the reduction of maternal and child undernutrition.
The intervention will focus on strengthening the delivery of maternal and child
health and services through the primary healthcare system and leverage the
existing community structures and to take ownership of and support the delivery of
nutrition-related activities.
The target beneficiaries are pregnant and lactating mothers, children 6 to 23 months
old, and children under five years old in 26 provinces nationwide. For Bicol, the
target beneficiaries come from Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon
which were selected based on the (1) prevalence of childhood stunting; (2) poverty
incidence; and (3) experience in the implementation of KALAHI-CIDSS. The
expected outcomes of the projects are (1) strengthened delivery of nutrition and
primary health services; (2) community-based nutrition service delivery and multi-
sectoral nutrition convergence; and (3) institutional strengthening, monitoring, and
evaluation.
The project’s contribution to the country’s overall nutrition goal will be monitored
through indicators that focus on the utilization of key services and practices and
behaviors known to impact the nutritional status of the target beneficiaries.
Credits: NEDA and NNC

Legislative Agenda
Table 5.1.2 presents the priority legislative agenda to ensure food security and proper
nutrition.
Table 5.1.2 Legislative Agenda to Ensure Food Security and Proper Nutrition

Food Waste Management Policy The policy seeks to address the country’s growing food waste NNC, DILG, and LGUs
problem by adopting and institutionalizing mechanisms that
will promote, facilitate, and ensure food waste reduction
across different sectors of society (e.g., households, food
establishments, food distributors, and supermarkets).
If institutionalized, this will provide an integrated system

of waste management across the LGUs in the region and
improve the interventions for food waste reduction.   
Creation of LGU nutrition offices A Nutrition Office with a competent staff complement will DILG, LGUs, DOH, NNC
ensure that LGUs have nutrition focal persons on the ground.
It will contribute to the effective and efficient implementation
of nutrition programs and targeted beneficiaries, especially
vulnerable and high-risk groups.  
Knowledge on proper nutrition may not be widely

disseminated and advocated in rural and remote areas; hence
the initiative of the national government to improve nutrition
governance, including the establishment of LGU nutrition
offices and enhancement of the functionality of Local
Nutrition Committees and capacity of local nutrition workers
will advance health and nutrition services in the local areas.
Subchapter 5.2 Strengthen Social

Protection  
Assessment Regular Cash Conditional Cash Transfer
(RCCT) amounting to PHP8.77 billion.
Various social protection programs, For the Modified Conditional Cash
mostly nationally funded, are being Transfer (MCCT), 4,916 households
implemented by different government benefited, amounting to PHP78.34
agencies targeting vulnerable groups. The million. The MCCT is a sub-component
Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the 4Ps that uses a modified approach
(4Ps) – the flagship program of the in terms of targeting, conditionalities,
government for poverty alleviation, as program interventions, and mode
institutionalized through RA 11310 of implementation. A total of 4,863
or the 4Ps Act, has been successfully households were served in 2022, with
implemented and continues to benefit a corresponding disbursed amount of
households through its conditional cash PHP90 million under the Sustainable
transfer scheme. In 2022, out of the Livelihood Program (SLP). The SLP is
378,253 target households for the year, a capability-building program for poor,
366,789 households benefitted from vulnerable, and marginalized households

and communities to improve their socio- the typhoons that visited the region were
economic conditions.   provided with disaster relief assistance.
The UHC Act states that all Filipinos As of December 2021, there were 208,864
will be provided with health insurance. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
As of November 2021, 81 percent of the registered with the Overseas Workers
population in the region was covered Welfare Administration (OWWA), who
under the PhilHealth. This is higher were assisted by 117 OFW help desks
than the 78 percent target in 2020 but that were established in partnership
falls short of the end-of-plan target of with the LGUs. Information caravans
100 percent. About 82 percent of the were conducted to increase the OWWA
total number of patients admitted to membership of OFWs. Moreover, the
healthcare institutions availed themselves Social Welfare Attaché Act (RA 11299), the
of the National Health Insurance Program Handbook for OFWs Act (RA 11227), and
(NHIP). There is no available data on out- the Social Security Act of 2018 (RA 11199)
of-pocket expenditure over the total health were enacted, which aim to enhance the
expenditure of its members, but 36.8 social protection (SP) afforded to overseas
percent of patients in government hospitals Filipinos. The number of profiled child
and 36.7 percent in private hospitals had laborers referred for services increased
no co-payment for basic accommodation from 1,070 in 2018 to 22,703 in 2021.
in health care institutions. The PhilHealth Further, 507 families with child laborers
Konsulta Package was launched in 2021, received livelihood assistance.
and a total of 97 healthcare institutions
were accredited as of January 2023. As of October 2022, 170 barangays,
The program aims to hasten member 5 municipalities, and 1 province
registration toward a more comprehensive have Indigenous Peoples Mandatory
approach to delivering primary health Representatives (IPMRs) in the legislative
care. councils. Two IP groups’ Indigenous
political structures, such as the Agta
In 2021, the social pension covered 100 and Manide, were documented. The
percent of poor senior citizens. In the documentation aimed to protect and
province of Catanduanes, 58.2 percent promote the inherent right of IPs to
of senior citizens availed of Assistance to self-governance and self-determination
Individuals in crises.   through their organizational and cultural
leadership systems. A Cultural Heritage
The Protective Social Welfare Program Center for the IPs in Bicol named
of the DSWD catered to: 39 children in “Ladawan” was established at the CBSUA in
conflict with the law (CICL) serving in Camarines Sur. The IPs were also provided
the Regional Rehabilitation Center for the legal, livelihood, educational, and medical
Youth; 180 women in especially difficult assistance, including infrastructure
circumstances; and 84 children in need projects such as water supply systems
of special protection, e.g., abandoned, and evacuation centers. Two Ancestral
physically or sexually abused, serving Domain Sustainable and Protection Plans
in centers and residential care facilities. (ADSDPPs) for the Manide in Capalonga
Sixty trafficked persons (39 females and 21 and Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte
males) were provided with social welfare were completed in 2021. The ADSDPP is a
services. Emergency shelter assistance was culture-sensitive plan containing policies,
provided to 42,498 beneficiaries affected by strategies, programs, and projects toward
calamities in 2021. All families affected by sustainable management and development

of ancestral domains. also a challenge in the region. Moreover,
different levels of interpretation by LGUs
Challenges of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the
Management of Emerging Infectious
The critical challenges affecting the sector Diseases (IATF-EID) policies and
are as follows: guidelines resulted in the delayed delivery
of services or payout of the SP and other
Ensuring the availability of updated forms of cash assistance. Considering the
social registry data for speedy new normal under a prevailing pandemic
implementation of the social protection situation, the adoption of cluster payouts
program. On the Philippine Identification and online systems from application for
System (PhilSys), 3,487,663 Bicolanos assistance to receipt of assistance will be
were registered as of the fourth quarter considered.
of 2022. Financial inclusion through a
partnership with the Land Bank of the The SP programs still need to be more
Philippines (LBP) through co-location cohesive and integrated. Some interventions
strategies to cover unbanked registrants are overlapping and duplicative thus,
to PhilSys, including those in GIDAs, need to rationalize in order to increase
was initiated. Some of the issues in the efficiency and effectiveness. Eliminating
registration process include the inability risks, particularly for vulnerable groups,
of registrants to travel to registration modernizing the SP programs, ensuring
centers due to the travel restrictions, the complete registration of Bicolanos in
absence of documents to support their the PhilSys, and providing funds for SP
identity, and economic reasons. The roll- programs are among the remaining major
out of PhilSys needs to be fast-tracked to challenges. Additionally, the lack of a
facilitate the provision of social welfare comprehensive international and internal
and protection services to the poor and migration database that could hasten the
vulnerable groups. needs assessment and provision of social
protection services to migrant workers is
During the COVID-19 pandemic, social also a concern. No data were generated
protection programs helped mitigate the on the number of families covered by
impact of the crisis and keep families out social insurance except for PhilHealth
of poverty. The entities that implemented coverage. Thus, it is difficult to determine
the government’s major programs are the percentage of Bicolanos vulnerable to
DILG, DSWD, DOLE, OWWA, and crises and other risks.
the LGUs. However, the COVID-19
crisis highlighted inefficiencies in the Maximizing the use of digital payment
delivery of social protection programs. systems. The release of government
Among others, the delivery of assistance grants and subsidies was done on a cash
was delayed due to data limitations basis, which caused delays and exposed
that prevented efficient targeting and the beneficiaries to social and emotional
provision of assistance; logistical problems risks, especially during the COVID-19
that caused delays in certain localities, pandemic, when a significant percentage
especially GIDAs; stringent procedures of of the regional population relies on most
local treasurers; and the tedious process of SP programs. One potential remedy for
availing of benefits such as Unemployment this problem is the use of other digital
Insurance. Implementing SP programs and platforms. However, among the major
projects for the poor, children, indigent hindrances to digitalizing the payment
senior citizens, PWDs, IPs, and OFWs was system is the need for bank accounts of the

beneficiaries. Data from the Bangko Sentral challenge. In 2020, the wrath of TCs QRU
ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that only about caused widespread destruction among
56 percent of Bicolanos (15 years old and Bicolanos, with estimated cost damages
above) have an account at a bank or other and losses amounting to PHP80.40 billion
financial institution or with a mobile- (at 2020 price levels). The devastation
money service provider. Despite the rising caused by the TCs wreaked havoc on the
demand and patronage on online payment lives of the Bicolanos and the regional
platforms, such as GCash and Maya, economy. Despite the efforts to mitigate
releasing the benefits of government SP the impacts of the pandemic and the
programs remains on a cash basis, with successive TCs, more needs to be done to
minimal or no improvement. reverse the scarring effects, especially for
the poor and vulnerable groups. Among
Increasing disaster resilience. them are the continuous improvement
Considering the region’s exposure of the early warning systems, disaster
to various hazards combined with preparedness, and improvement in the
its vulnerabilities, particularly in the nutritional content of food assistance
socioeconomic aspect, increasing packages during disasters.  
Bicolanos resilience remains a major
Targets
This chapter aims to increase the number for vulnerable sectors, and improve the
of families covered by social insurance, resilience of families to risks through
expand the coverage of SP programs social insurance.  
Core Indicators
Table 5.2.1 presents the indicators and targets to strengthen social protection.
Table 5.2.1 Core Indicators to Strengthen Social Protection

INDICATOR
Percentage of out-of-pocket 50
National Health
expenditure over total health (2016) 50 50 45 40 40 40 PHIC
Accounts
expenditure (%)
Percentage of families Annual Poverty GSIS,
83.8
covered by social insurance 100 Indicators SSS, PhilHealth,
(2020)
Survey (APIS) PCIC
National Health Insurance 80.52 Increasing 90 Admin Data SDC, HDPRC,
Program availment rate (2017) PhilHealth
Number of beneficiaries
served by emergency 37,645
Increasing DSWD Report DSWD
employment/cash-for- work (2021)
program

Strategy Framework
To strengthen social protection, the cycle risks; (c) mitigate natural, health,
following sector outcomes will be achieved: climate, and other human-induced
(a) a universal, modern, and integrated SP hazards; and (d) manage economic risks
system; (b) mitigate individual and life and political risks.  
Figure 5.2.1 Strategy Framework to Strengthen Social Protection
Strategies
Outcome 1: A universal, modern, and
integrated SP achieved
Establish a standard menu of guarantee access for every Filipino to
rationalized programs for the a continuum of essential and quality
SP floor guarantees. Given the health services while ensuring protection
possibility of overlap, duplication, against financial hardship. Among the
gaps, and limited fiscal resources for SP benefits, once fully implemented, are the
programs, it is important to review the expansion of subsidized primary care
existing programs to determine the need drugs, unlimited conditions covered by
to merge, stop, or improve for the efficient primary care benefits, and a fixed fee co-
use of resources.   payment. To guarantee continuous access
to social services and achieve universal
The roll-out of the Philippine and transformative social protection, the
Identification System will be fast- region will support the institutionalization
tracked to improve people’s access to of SP floor, a set of basic social security
financial services and assistance, thereby guarantees that secure protection aimed
reducing their vulnerability. The UHC at preventing or alleviating poverty,
Act will be fully implemented to ensure vulnerability, and social exclusion.
protection against financial difficulties
arising from medical expenses. The As provided in the Philippine
full implementation of the UHC will Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, the

proposed package of programs for each SP agency will be identified. The information
floor guarantee will improve coordination in the national ID will be dynamic. For
among agencies and maximize impact for instance, the residence change will reflect
beneficiaries. The programs selected in the information contained in the ID. LGUs
the package shall be strengthened at each will be encouraged to establish a database
stage, from targeting to enrollment, to for their residents and provide them
delivery. Innovative and shock-responsive with residence cards that will be used as
programs will also be encouraged and proof of residency to avail themselves
mainstreamed. The evaluation of SP of nationally-funded or locally-funded
programs will also be institutionalized. provided by the LGUs or agencies. This
will ensure the timely delivery of services
Ensure timely and responsive and record discrepancies in the delivery
implementation and financing of of services.  
SP programs. Some segments of the
population or vulnerable groups depend Strengthen services and facilities
on the SP programs of the government. for digital payments of cash
Emergencies reveal their vulnerabilities, transfers. The emergence of digital
and the delay in assistance and inadequate payment platforms is an advantage to
funds leave them distressed. To alleviate implementing the digitalization of cash
difficulties, the government will establish transfers and assistance. In the absence
and digitalize the database to quickly target of bank accounts, the concerned agencies
and monitor SP program beneficiaries.   and LGUs will utilize these platforms for
the efficient and timely delivery of social
The government will coordinate with services, including regular and special
the private sector to complement its SP programs. Mechanisms in using digital
programs with packages that cannot payments for pay-outs will be put in place
be covered under the fiscal allocation. to slowly transition from the previous
Insurance packages are effective forms of practice of cash-basis release of pay-outs.
risk transfer during emergencies. This will
also aid the public sector in reducing its Integrate the nutritional needs
burdens by creating a responsive approach of vulnerable groups in the SP
to mitigating the impact of disasters. program. The government will ensure
The region will also support efforts to that food assistance during emergencies is
rationalize the government’s SP programs nutrient-dense, healthy and appropriately
and the provision of funds.   provided according to their needs. The
agencies and LGUs will promote and
Social registries of the agencies concerned patronize the use of locally-produced
will be updated and harmonized with products by farmers to ensure that their
the national identification (ID) system harvests are not wasted, provide them
to avoid data duplication and ensure with income, and maintain healthy
efficient targeting, funding, and delivery conditions for the affected population
of programs. As necessary, only one despite the crisis.
database will be maintained, and the lead
Outcome 2: Individual and Life Cycle Risks

Mitigated
Strengthen the implementation sectors will be promoted and protected.
of laws protecting vulnerable These include PWDs, women, IPs, senior
groups. The rights of the vulnerable citizens, and children. Several initiatives

that were implemented promoting gender
equality and women empowerment will The LGUs will be encouraged to pass
be sustained and expanded. Children local ordinances directing the creation of
will be protected against bullying, child functional local committees on migration
abuse, and pornography, and their and development. This local legislation
physical, moral, intellectual, and social will support the strategy of ensuring safe
well-being will be promoted. Gender and orderly overseas migration. It will
and rights-based services and IP rights provide a policy framework at the local
protection programs will be implemented level to help facilitate the adoption of
to protect and promote the rights of the IP a standard format in profiling overseas
communities. Filipinos and their families, organization
of overseas Filipinos at the barangay or
Ensure SP access in GIDAs. municipal level, creation of migrants’
Families in GIDAs will be given priority resource centers in key LGUs, and
in providing social services and SP strengthening of public employment
programs, including PhilSys registration. service offices.
This will be done by strengthening
co-location strategies in partnership Implement a holistic approach to
with LGUs. Infrastructure, livelihood, eradicate child labor. In the region,
education, and health programs will also child labor exists in the mining sector. Based
be strategically implemented to reach on the result of the Retooled Community
the GIDAs, including those in conflict- Support Program (RCSP) activities
affected areas that are considered priority conducted in several municipalities in the
areas under the Support to Barangay province of Camarines Sur, Camarines
Development Program (SBDP). Norte, and Sorsogon in 2019, the factors
that contribute to the participation of
Ensure safe and orderly overseas the children include social issues such
migration. The OWWA will enhance as poverty, education, family problem,
advocacies to encourage membership of among others. To address the issues related
OFWs to ensure they are documented to child labor, various interventions will
and provided with timely and appropriate be provided such as poverty alleviation
assistance during emergencies. Programs and livelihood programs while adopting
for the children left behind by OFWs a whole-of-society approach in close
will be provided. Financial management coordination with the families, community
orientation will be offered to OFWs to members, concerned agencies, LGUs, and
ensure the sustainability of financial private organizations. Children that need
resources and provide SP programs, psychosocial and emotional guidance will
including educational plans and be given appropriate interventions.
retirement packages.  
Outcome 3: Natural, health, climate, and other

human-induced hazards mitigated
Ensure implementation of implementation of mental health and
mental health and psychosocial psychosocial services will be ensured.
services during a disaster and Teleconsultation and telemedicine will
crisis. Given the numerous calamities be encouraged to ensure the accessibility
affecting the region and health crises, of health support services to the affected
such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the population (See Chapter 4).

Develop and implement affected populations are prepared and
anticipatory delivery mechanisms capacitated to avoid panic and casualties.
for various types of disasters All LGUs will implement preemptive
and emergencies. Through multiple evacuation in the region. Permanent
channels, the government will intensify and resilient evacuation centers will be
the implementation of anticipatory constructed and equipped with basic
delivery mechanisms, such as an early facilities to make the evacuees, especially
warning system. Capacity building and children, elderly, women, and PWD,
disaster preparedness interventions will comfortable and safe (See Chapter 16).
be implemented locally to ensure that
Outcome 4: Economic and political risks

managed
Rationalize existing unemployment Promote financial literacy and
insurance schemes and livelihood social insurance products for
and public works/cash-for-work better awareness and use of
programs. Programs intended for financial instruments. Considering
unemployed or displaced workers will be the high percentage of Bicolanos with
reviewed and rationalized. The programs no bank accounts hinders them from
not directly beneficial for unemployed or enjoying the benefit of fast, convenient,
displaced workers will be revisited, while and secure receipt of financial assistance.
new interventions will be developed, The lack of opportunities to be provided
as needed. Among the emergency cash with appropriate information on financial
and livelihood assistance is the Tulong literacy limits their options for protecting
Panghanapbuhay sa Disadvantaged/ themselves from risks and adverse
Displaced Workers (TUPAD). The impacts of emergencies. Thus, to address
program and other related programs this, intensive promotion and advocacy
will be evaluated to enhance the level of activities on financial literacy and the
work and skills of the beneficiaries that importance of SP will be conducted to
have availed of the program despite its mitigate the risks during emergencies
temporary nature of employment (See holistically. When families have sufficient
Chapter 6). resources and savings, they can avail
themselves of social insurance products;
Expand coverage of free hence risks are transferred, and burdens
agricultural insurance for reduced. Insurance promotion will not be
qualified farmers and fisherfolk. made limited to life and health insurance
Given the region’s location and but also other types of risk transfer options
vulnerability to natural hazards that usually such as crop and property insurance.
affect the agriculture sector, providing Non-profit and microfinance NGOs that
agricultural insurance for farmers is very offer financial and non-financial services
important. The government will expand with training and formation to micro-
free insurance coverage through the entrepreneurial families (e.g., Simbag sa
Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation Pagasenso Inc. or SEDP) will be tapped to
(PCIC), especially for small farmers. The partner with government programs and
insurance will be provided on top of other advocacies to improve the quality of life
subsidies and assistance given by other and economic well-being of the Bicolanos.  
government agencies.  

Legislative Agenda
Table 5.2.2 presents the priority legislative agenda that will complement and support the
strategies to strengthen social protection.
Table 5.2.2 Legislative Agenda to Strengthen Social Protection

Expansion of Unemployment This will expand the coverage and benefits of unemployment Social Security System
Insurance insurance under the SSS and GSIS.   (SSS) and Government
Service Insurance
This will serve as a security measure to provide a buffer and System (GSIS)
avoid disruption in family income while looking for a new
job. It can benefit the unemployed population in the region
affected by crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evacuation Center Act This will establish permanent and disaster-resilient DPWH and LGUs
evacuation centers with the necessary facilities to avoid using
classrooms during calamities.  
The establishment of permanent evacuation centers is one

of the critical programs in the region, given the increasing
frequency and strength of tropical cyclones and the existence
of other natural hazards such as volcanic eruption.

CHAPTER 6
Increase Income-earning
Ability
One strategy for attaining the medium-term goal of economic and social
transformation for a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society is to develop and
protect the capabilities of individuals and families. Over the coming years, the
Bicol Region will be a sustainable and resilient region that can handle pandemics,
globalization, and shifting technologies.
Taking the gains from the pre-pandemic phase and the technological advancements
in the era of COVID-19, economic growth will be intensified through the generation
of productive employment opportunities to improve the well-being of individuals
and families. Providing decent jobs will ensure income and empowerment for the
Bicolanos, especially for the poor and vulnerable groups. Available and accessible
employment will be promoted by upskilling the Bicolano workforce. Skills
enhancement and development will be prioritized to equip and enable Bicolanos
to take full advantage of their potential, hobbies, and capabilities in seeking quality
jobs and escalating employment ventures.

Assessment displaced or would-be displaced workers,
during summer and/or Christmas
Employment opportunities were vacations or any time of the year. One
continuously provided. The Special challenge encountered was retaining the
Program for Employment of Students SPES beneficiaries and resolving payment
(SPES) of the DOLE helped ensure that delays.
beneficiaries could pursue their education.
It provided income-earning opportunities From 2019-2022, there were 400 OSY who
to assist the beneficiaries financially in were provided with life skills and technical
supplementing school-related expenses training through the JobStart Program,
and supporting their family’s necessities. which aimed to address the high rate of
From 2017-2022, there were 29,188 unemployment among the youth and
underprivileged and deserving Bicolano fresh graduates through partnership and
youth who were enrolled under the collaboration among DOLE, City Public
SPES. Despite limited funding from the Employment Service Office (PESO),
DOLE, more beneficiaries were assisted and private business firms. The program
by allowing LGUs to fund and implement equipped the youth with career readiness
the program. The SPES is DOLE’s youth by improving their employability through
employment-bridging program, which full-cycle employment facilitation, which
aims to provide temporary employment consists of training and paid internships,
to poor but deserving students, out-of- and decreasing their job-hunting
school youth (OSY), and dependents of duration.
Chapter 6 Increase Income-earning Ability | 108

The Government Internship Program issued Wage Order No. RBV-20 in 2022,
(GIP) provided 19,166 interns to work in bringing the new minimum wage rate
public offices. As a result of the internship, in the Bicol Region to PHP365.00 for all
34 GIP beneficiaries were absorbed sectors. The adjustment of the minimum
by the office. The GIP aims to provide wage rate was a measure to increase the
opportunities and engage young workers workers’ income-earning ability, hence
to serve the general public in government providing immediate relief to the high
agencies/entities, projects, and programs. cost of living due to high prices of basic
It provides young workers, particularly goods and services.
the poor and indigent, the opportunity
to demonstrate their talents and skills in Interventions to aid the informal sector
public service with the ultimate objective workers in recovering from the loss of
of attracting the best and the brightest who income were provided. A total of 397,253
want to pursue a career in government displaced/disadvantaged workers were
service. provided with temporary employment
to recover from the effects of typhoons
Initiatives to create jobs were that visited the region and the loss of
undertaken. The Trabaho Negosyo income due to lockdowns brought about
Kabuhayan (TNK), an initiative between by COVID-19. The provision of income
the DOLE and the DTI, brought support through the TUPAD provided
government services and jobs closer to emergency employment for displaced
the people through the conduct of job workers, the underemployed, and the
and livelihood fairs, lectures, seminars, unemployed poor for a minimum period
and the promotion of entrepreneurship. of 10 days but not exceeding a maximum
This initiative catered to all types of of 30 days, depending on the nature of the
entrepreneurs and job seekers, including work to be performed. Financial support
returning OFWs, K-12 graduates, PWDs, was provided to affected workers in private
and senior citizens. A total of 15 TNK establishments that have adopted flexible
Jobs and Business Fairs were conducted work arrangements or temporary closure
(face-to-face and online) from 2017-2022. during the COVID-19 pandemic through
the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures
The regional minimum wage was Program. Through the concerted efforts
increased as an immediate relief to of the national and local governments,
the increase of prices of basic goods the emergency employment programs
and services in the region. Pursuant provided income opportunities to
to a wage order issued by the Regional disadvantaged workers while giving them
Tripartite Wages and Productivity better access to social protection schemes
Board (RTWPB) Region 5 in 2020, the and long-term employment.
prevailing daily minimum wage rate of
the region was adjusted to PHP335.00, an Challenges
increase of PHP25.00 from the previous
daily minimum wage of PHP310.00, for Increasing employment and reducing
all private establishments in all sectors, underemployment. Since 2017, the
regardless of the number of workers lowest recorded employment rate for the
employed, their position, designation, Bicol Region was in 2020 at 90.4 percent,
status of employment, and method by which can be attributed to the lockdowns
which they are paid. Due to the rising implemented to prevent transmission
prices of essential items and commodities of COVID-19. The lockdowns caused
and the escalating living costs, RTWPB 5 the closure of businesses and led to

joblessness in Bicolanos. The pandemic pre-pandemic employment rate level. The
revealed the financial fragility of small and gradual resumption of face-to-face classes
medium enterprises, thereby affecting the in 2022 also increased domestic activities
Bicolanos’ livelihood and employment. and prevented future productivity losses.
The working-age population, specifically
Enhancing education and employment parents, can go to work and pursue
opportunities. Even before the lockdown, income-generating activities.
unemployment was already a challenge.
This was attributed to the limited access to The Bicol Region’s underemployment rate
employment opportunities, particularly or employed persons who expressed a
for those residing in rural and remote desire to have additional hours of work in
areas. In 2020, the Bicol Region ranked their present job, a different job, or a new
second among the regions with the most job with longer working hours remained
GIDAs17, with 489 barangays. high. In 2018, the underemployment rate
in the region was recorded at 29.6 percent,
Aside from employment issues in these exceeding the national underemployment
GIDAs, challenges in education are rate of 16.4 percent based on the 2018
rampant, such as lack of access to the Annual Labor and Employment Estimates
internet or poor internet connectivity, of the PSA. However, in 2022, the average
power interruptions, and other underemployment rate significantly
technological difficulties. With the improved to 21.6 percent from 25.6
unexpected events brought about by the percent in 2021.
COVID-19 pandemic, distance learning
methods (modular or online) and The number of jobless Bicolanos
television/radio-based instructions were declined in 2022 compared to the 2020
implemented. These new learning modes unemployment rate when millions of jobs
primarily depended on access to the were shed, and thousands of businesses
internet and/ or a reliable phone signal. shuttered after a large percentage of the
The mobility of training supplies and economy was stopped by lockdowns.
materials was also a challenge. The GIDAs,
due to their physical remoteness, need Eliminating skills mismatch and
the necessary government interventions enabling pathways to employment.
to meet the needs of the learners and the There must be a match between the skills
unemployed. and competencies of workers sought
by employers (demand) and the skills/
In 2021, a slight increase in employment competencies possessed by individuals
was observed due to the easing of in the labor market (supply). Despite
mobility restrictions and the reopening implementing various student financial
of businesses, which induced more assistance programs in the region,
economic activities. As one of the signs of the quality of higher and technical
economic recovery, the employment rate education still needs to improve (See
in the Bicol Region further escalated to Chapters 4 and 8).
94.1 percent in 2022, which is nearing the
17 GIDA refers to barangays that are specifically disadvantaged due to the presence of both physical and socio-economic factors. Physical
factors refer to characteristics that limit the delivery of and/ or access to basic health services to communities that are difficult to reach due
to distance, weather conditions, and transportation difficulties. In contrast, socioeconomic factors refer to social, cultural, and economic
characteristics of the community that limit access to and utilization of health services. https://doh.gov.ph/faqs/What-is-GIDA

Figure 6.1 Labor and Employment Situation in the Bicol Region, 2017-2022
100.00%
80.00%
60.00%
40.00%
20.00%
0.00%
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Employment Rate Underemployment Rate

Labor Force Participation Rate
Source: PSA
Reducing the vulnerability of workers These workers need better access to social
in part-time/ temporary/ self-employed protection services to cope with risks or
to job losses. Workers with no employee- secure their livelihoods. Workers with
employer relationship have mostly lower low skills are at a higher risk of being in
levels of job security, and social protection temporary work than workers with higher
and are more vulnerable to job losses. skills.
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 targets to Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
sustain the percentage of TVET graduates scholarship programs that are employed
in programs with training regulations at 69 percent. By 2028, the number of
certified within five days after graduation graduates from technical education and
at 70 percent, the percentage of skilled skills development scholarship programs
workers issued with certification within will increase to 10,769. Further, the Bicol
seven days of their application at 90 RDP aims to increase the placement rate
percent, and the percentage of graduates of PESOs.
from the Technical Education and
Core Indicators
Table 6.1 presents the targets and indicators to increase income-earning ability.
Table 6.1 Core Indicators to Increase Income-earning Ability

INDICATOR
Percentage of TVET Graduates 70% 70% TESDA Training TESDA

in programs with training (2022) Management
regulations certified within Information
five days after graduation System (T2MIS)

INDICATOR
Percentage of skilled workers 90% 90% Tracking TESDA

issued with certification (2022) Sheet for the
within seven days of their Issuance of
application NC/COC
Percentage of graduates from 69% 69% Scholarship TESDA
TESDA scholarship programs (2022) Program Online
that are employed Monitoring
System
(SPMOR)
Number of graduates from 9,304 9,769 9,769 10,257 10,257 10,769 10,769 Scholarship TESDA
TESDA scholarship programs (2022) Program Online
Monitoring
System
(SPMOR)
Placement rate of Public 138 Actual DOLE Admin DOLE
Employment Service Offices (2022) data
(PESOs) increased
Percentage of total number of 113 Increasing DOLE Admin DOLE
establishments (%) provided (2022) data
with technical assistance
which installed or enhanced
productivity performance-
based incentive schemes
Percentage of trained 1,197 DOLE Admin DOLE
Micro, Small and Medium (2022) data
Enterprises (MSMEs) (%) that Increasing
implemented productivity
improvement program
Strategy Framework
Figure 6.2 Strategy Framework to Increase Income-earning Ability

Strategies
The strategy framework presents the Strategies to increase employability
interventions that will support the will be pursued. Access to employment
objective of developing and protecting the opportunities will be expanded. Further
capabilities of individuals and families. To developing labor market governance will
further increase income-earning ability, be highlighted through collaboration and
the government will intensify its efforts shared responsibility.
to improve human resource quality.
Outcome 1: Employability increased

The adaptability and employability of curricular programs will be continuously
workers will be intensified, focusing on updated to enhance the development of
upgrading the human capital of Bicolanos 21st-century skills (e.g. learning, literacy,
through education, training, and skills and life skills).
development. The following strategies will
help achieve the outcome: Develop and promote a national
policy for lifelong learning.
Develop modern and responsive Accelerate human capital development
TVET, apprenticeships, and through advocating lifelong learning to
higher education aligned with provide better opportunities, develop
emerging competencies, trends personal, social, professional, and
or demands in the labor market. employment-related skills, and improve
Aside from skills needs, emerging quality of life. Lifelong learning improves
industries will be identified, such as individuals’ skills and competencies as
manufacturing and construction, to align work, technology, and skills requirements
the relevant skills with the labor market change (See Chapter 4). The PQF, which
needs (See Chapter 8). Career guidance is a collaborative program by the DepEd,
will be strengthened to facilitate students’ TESDA, CHED, PRC, and DOLE, will
and workers’ decisions and options in be promoted in the Bicol Region as this
entering the labor market and regaining encourages lifelong learning and builds
employment, respectively, considering the the workforce’s confidence. A local
new emerging sectors. This also entails or regional qualifications framework
increasing investments in TVET human will likewise be adopted to easily assist
resources, higher education, digitalization Bicolanos in remaining responsive to
initiatives, and innovation facilities. To the skills demand and needs of both the
ensure access and preparedness by all domestic and international labor markets.
learners, developing and sustaining easy
access to distance learning platforms Establish skills assessment
and learning spaces for TVET will be mechanisms and certification
applied, particularly in practical skills programs to recognize prior
development. learning. The digitalization of skills
assessment will be mainstreamed to
Courses offered by technical, vocational, meet future skills needs, and technical
and professional training institutions assistance will be provided to address the
will target the in-demand occupations barriers to digitalization. Upskilling and
to ensure the employability of graduates. reskilling efforts will be put in place to
The contents of training modules and ensure that skills shortages are minimized

and workers can enter the labor market the changes and challenges concerning
with the adequate skills needed to function Industry 4.0, as well as innovation hubs
in high-quality jobs (See Chapter 4). for TVET in the Bicol Region will likewise
be pursued to support the establishment
Strengthen government-private and development of MSMEs, thereby
partnerships and collaboration creating employment (See Chapters 4, 8,
with industry boards and and 10).
associations. Effective coordination
and partnership between the public Ensure the employability of TVET
and private sectors are vital factors of a graduates. The effectiveness of tech-voc
TVET program towards preparing highly programs will be continuously measured
skilled workers for the industry18. Joint through the conduct of assessments
ventures with training institutions will specifically on the employment rate of the
be intensified to equip students with the TVET sector in the region. Apart from
most updated and advanced knowledge employment, undertaking livelihood
and skills required for international ventures and starting a business will be
market (See Chapter 4). promoted. While employment brings
about security, compensation, and other
Industries will be encouraged to partner benefits, owning a business has its perks,
with TESDA or TVET stakeholders such as financial profits considering
in offering TVET programs anchored that businesses can become rewarding
in the Regional Skills Priorities under and the freedom to do routine tasks.
the Enterprise-based Training. The Initiatives and interventions will be
establishment of industry boards and undertaken to support business ventures,
associations will pursue area-based including the conduct of training and
demand-driven programs supporting workshops, financial support for start-
occupations in Industry sectors. An up activities, and the availability of credit
enabling environment will be created to services opportunities, especially for
allow private-sector investment through those students and/or graduates with
increasing investments in TVET human entrepreneurial goals. The provision of
resources, higher education, digitalization greater access to capital to be used as
initiatives, and innovation facilities. an investment by entrepreneurs would
The establishment of Regional TVET increase employment.
Innovation Centers, in anticipation of
Outcome 2: Access to employment

opportunities expanded
Encouraging employment growth in the will improve the earnings of the entire
region will require access to employment workforce, including the most vulnerable
opportunities such as the implementation individuals, and will promote equality:
of employment support programs for
Bicolanos. Active labor market programs Integrate and strengthen all
will be crucial to connect the Bicolanos employment facilitation services,
to jobs and address the barriers to including career development
productive employment. These strategies support. Aside from pushing for
18 P. 43 Sub-Education Policy Review Report: TVET, UNESCO

the completion of the education cycle, practices, and techniques and serve
diversifying training opportunities, and as a communication tool to recognize
assisting job search, other support services knowledge gaps and share innovative
such as career development support will ideas.
be intensified to guide the students to find
their way into work. Internship programs Strengthen technical capacity to
will be continued to support the graduate develop dynamic and responsive
students and the unemployed group to labor market information systems.
gain work experience that will assist them The conduct of skills needs analysis at
in finding part-time and full-time jobs. the government and institutional levels
will establish the skills that employers
To facilitate the reemployment of require to allow job seekers to participate
unemployed Bicolanos, programs will equally and take advantage of the
be implemented by concerned agencies opportunities determined by priority
such as DOLE and TESDA to enable sectors. Identifying and anticipating skills
the unemployed to obtain support such needed will precede training decisions so
as the provision of entrepreneurial that the skills required are relevant to the
training to build their chosen business, labor market.
while receiving benefits. The PESOs
will maximize their reach in the Investments in establishing labor market
localities through the efficient delivery information systems (LMIS) will be
of employment facilitation services prioritized, which can be used to make
in collaboration with DOLE, TESDA, informed decisions about the employment
and educational institutions. The same field and will result in efficient information
programs and services will be provided, flow. Building quality LMIS through
including repatriation assistance to technological advancements will improve
returning OFWs, focusing on skills and data access and the user experience.
entrepreneurial development to prepare The PhilJobNet, an automated job and
them for their reintegration upon their applicant matching system and a facility
return to the country. Moreover, the of the DOLE, is envisioned to become the
implementation of labor-related programs country’s one-stop shop for all matters
and projects for OFWs will be pursued related to labor market information. Aside
by the Philippine Overseas Employment from job vacancies posted in PhilJobNet,
Administration (POEA). career information guides such as training
manuals, labor market trends, and career
Maximize the utilization of guidance advocacy programs are available
PESO. The LGUs will be enjoined to for students, job seekers, and career
institutionalize, support, and advance advocates/guidance counselors19. The
the capabilities of PESOs. The activities, use of the PhilJobNet will be promoted
accomplishments, challenges, and best in the region to allow a convenient and
practices of PESO across LGUs will user-friendly work exploration for job
be documented and shared to ensure applicants and search for a suitable
continuous capacity building and efficient workforce by employers.
delivery of employment programs and
services. With a dedicated information- The DOLE Region 5 will generate an
sharing platform, PESO across LGUs online interactive labor market platform
can stay up-to-date with the policies, where the DOLE-accredited employers
19 https://philjobnet.gov.ph/

(i.e., labor standards compliant) can post of barangays identified as CAA-CVAs,
and advertise job vacancies and interact followed by Camarines Sur (See Chapter
with prospective employees. Aside from 14). Considering that one of the issues
ensuring the employability of the Bicolano exploited in the said locations is the lack of
labor force, increasing the productivity of alternative livelihood and unemployment,
workers, and enhancing labor mobility services and assistance will be directed
and income security, the proposed project to these vulnerable areas to improve the
will serve as an additional platform to well-being and socioeconomic condition
monitor compliance to labor standards. of the affected families and communities
and ensure peace and security.
Intensify employment programs
for the youth, marginalized, Training programs for Bicolano farmers
disadvantaged, and vulnerable and fishers will be prioritized to take
sectors. Special training programs full advantage of the services designed
and employment opportunities will be to reduce poverty incidence and uplift
provided to disadvantaged groups to their living conditions (See Chapter 7).
involve them in gainful occupations and The training programs will support SDG
help them become productive members 4 on ensuring inclusive and equitable
of society. The PWDs will be prioritized quality education and promoting lifelong
in livelihood programs considering the learning opportunities for all.
challenge for them to secure formal
employment. In the region, the DOLE Expand social protection and
Region 5 has assisted two renowned PWD provide emergency employment
groups (Visually Impaired Voices of Albay and training support to
and New Hope) in their chosen livelihood. displaced workers due to human-
The DOLE Region 5 will continue to induced disasters and natural
conduct a series of livelihood orientations calamities. The vulnerability of the
for PWDs and provide livelihood grants Bicol Region to various hazards that
to the beneficiaries, specifically in areas in are hydrometeorological, geologic, and
the region with organized PWD groups. volcanic in nature, such as flooding, rain-
induced landslides, active faults, and lahar,
Earning and learning opportunities for and biological hazards such as COVID-19,
students and out-of-school youths will led to lost income opportunities and
be intensified through the SPES, GIP, revenue decline. Local and regional
and JobStart. Further, TESDA Region employment will be supported in times
5 will provide training programs that of disasters through the following actions:
will be responsive to the employment (a) assisting workers, businesses, and
requirements of marginalized and enterprises to navigate available programs;
vulnerable groups. (b) job posting and matching to address
immediate hiring needs; (c) offering
Employment opportunities will be access to skill development programs to
prioritized for those situated in the facilitate training and adjustment; and (d)
GIDAs, CAA-CVAs20, and geographic providing direct financial assistance.
focus areas. In the region, Masbate
province has the highest number of GIDA Aside from protecting the workers’
barangays as well as the highest number income which can be affected by various
20 Conflict-affected areas (CAA) are communities where (a) there are actual armed encounters between the government forces and
political armed groups; (b) where political armed groups dominate the state of affairs of the community; or, (c) where other forms of
violent conflicts exist. Conflict-vulnerable areas are communities that are proximate to CAAs, where possible “side-stepping” of armed
group(s) are imminent. It can also include GIDAs whose resources (actual or symbolic) are deemed valuable by the political armed group.

risks and crises, social protection will be continued to be granted to the affected
intensified. Benefits relating to health individuals. Special leave for employees
insurance and pensions will be enjoyed will be considered in emergencies like
by the workers and will be accessible isolation periods/ quarantine, and
to both men and women. Emergency caregiver roles for the family, as a means
employment programs for displaced to provide financial assistance to workers
workers such as the TUPAD, DOLE who cannot earn due to extraordinary
Integrated Livelihood and Emergency circumstances. Livelihood assistance
Program (DILEEP), and Training for will be provided by the OWWA to the
Work Scholarship Program that serve as distressed and displaced returning OFWs
immediate income opportunities will be (See Chapters 5 and 16).
Outcome 3: Shared labor market governance

achieved
A whole-of-society approach, enhancing the necessary assistance to facilitate
multi-sectoral collaboration and engaging equal access and gain from green jobs.
stakeholders, is crucial to increase income- Environmental literacy, defined as
earning ability. This will be supported by understanding the ecological, social,
the following strategies: and economic dimensions of human-
environment interactions and the skills
Strengthen linkages and and ethics to translate this understanding
collaboration among all into life choices21, will be advocated in the
stakeholders and ensure inclusive region. Green entrepreneurship will be
participation and equitable promoted to include access to finance and
access to education and resources and creating gender-sensitive
skills development programs. training programs (See Chapter 16). In
Coordination and linkages will be terms of training regulations, TESDA
intensified among all stakeholders (i.e. Region 5 will continue pursuing efforts in
government, industry association, implementing the greening of the TVET
enterprises, social partners, and private sector through the inclusion of green
sector). With the new and evolving policies.
technologies and tools, continuous
efforts will be ensured, primarily allowing Gender inequalities in the labor market
inclusive participation and equitable will be addressed by upholding and
access to education and skills development respecting laws regarding gender
programs. discrimination and resolving workplace
violence and harassment. The DOLE
The government will remain proactive Region 5 will closely monitor the
in formulating innovative and effective compliance of establishments and offices
interventions that enhance income- in the region on gender indicators and
generating ability throughout the worker’s labor standards including but not limited
life cycle, especially those of vulnerable to the implementation of expanded
groups and communities. maternity leave, as well as paternity leave
compliance, anti-sexual harassment
Mainstream gender and green policies, and the presence of lactation
competencies. Men and women rooms, among others.
will be encouraged and provided with
21 Reynolds, H.L., Brondizio, E.S., and Robinson, J. M. (Eds) (2010) Teaching Environmental Literacy. Across campus and across the
curriculum. Bloomington-Indianapolis: Indiana University Press.

Integrate lifelong learning for vulnerable groups [i.e. persons
processes in human resource deprived of liberty (PDL)] to equip them
development programs. Employees with the knowledge and skills that are
will be in their best shape to create relevant to the needs of the labor market.
opportunities for new roles, challenges, Benchmarking of strategies from other
and self-improvement. Hence, there is regions, such as Region 11, specifically
a need to be proactive about lifelong “College Education Behind Bars,” will be
learning, as this allows employees to studied and replicated in the Bicol Region,
adapt, adjust, and thrive in a complex, with the objective of ensuring that the
unpredictable, and changing world. PDL are given equal opportunities to learn
The culture of lifelong learning will be and eventually be employed. Strategies to
integrated, and innovative practices will facilitate the reintegration of the PDL into
be promoted into every organization’s society and increase their income-earning
human resource development program ability will be spearheaded by the Bureau
to empower employees to continue of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)
developing their skills and improving Region 5 in partnership with TESDA,
organizational performance (See Chapter DOLE, and other concerned agencies (See
4). Chapter 14). Mainstreaming of lifelong
skills will likewise be ensured in all sectors
The introduction and integration of of society, particularly those with special
lifelong skills will be equally considered needs.
Legislative Agenda
Table 6.2 presents the proposed policy reforms for the plan period 2023-2028 to increase
the income-earning ability of Bicolanos.
Table 6.2 Legislative Agenda to Increase Income-earning Ability

Revised National Apprenticeship Strengthen linkages with existing education-to-employment TESDA
Program Act policies and programs and prevent the circumvention of labor
laws and standards.
Lifelong Learning Development Access to lifelong opportunities will upskill and reskill the DOLE
Bill labor force, upgrade competencies, and equip Bicolanos,
especially the youth, with the proper knowledge and skills for
their prospective profession to enhance their employability
and improve productivity. The development of a Lifelong
Learning Development Framework will lead to the protection
of workers from career disruptions and recovery acceleration
from job losses.
Trabaho Para sa Lahat ng Pilipino Push for job security and opportunities by institutionalizing DOLE
Act the National Employment Recovery Strategy and developing it
as the National Employment Action Plan.
Jobs Creation Strategy Bill The Bill, co-headed by the DTI, DOLE, and TESDA, including DOLE
representatives from employers’ organizations and labor
groups, will facilitate the formation of an Inter-Agency Council
for Jobs and Investments tasked to develop employment
recovery and job creation in specific industries and emerging
sectors, such as but not limited, to construction, tourism,
agriculture, information technology and business process
management, and manufacturing.

Enterprise Productivity Act Strengthen the objectives of the “Productivity Incentive Act of DOLE
(Amendments to Productivity 1990” by promoting inclusive and sustainable work productivity
Incentives Act) programs. The Act aims to reinforce labor productivity by: (a)
establishing a Productivity Incentives Committee; (b) adopting
productivity incentive programs; (c) granting productivity
incentives to employees; and (d) providing a tax incentive to
business establishments for granting incentives to employees.

CHAPTER 7
Modernize Agriculture and

Agribusiness
The agri-fishery sector is the source of food for daily nutritional needs and
employment for Bicolanos, especially those in rural areas who draw livelihood
from farming, fishing, and livestock and poultry raising. The sector is also a major
contributor to abaca, coconut, high-value crops, and marine products, and supplies
raw materials for the manufacturing industry.
For 2023-2028, the focus will be on holistic agri-food system approach in addressing
the issues and concerns of the sector and to attain the desired outcomes: (1)
efficiency of AFF production enhanced; (2) access to markets and AFF-based
enterprises expanded; (3) resilience of AFF value chains improved; and (4) agricultural
institutions strengthened.

Assessment target of 2.5 to 3.5 percent. The sector
accounts for 17.69 percent of the GRDP
The AFF sector slightly improved by an amounting to an average of PHP90.94
average of 0.25 percent from 2016-2021, billion during the six-year period.
but did not attain the RDP 2017-2022
Figure 7.1 Performance of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Sector, 2016-2021
100 6.00%
90 5.00%
80 4.00%
Gross Value Added
70 3.00%
Growth Rate
60 2.00%
50 1.00%
40 0.00%
30 -1.00%
20 -2.00%
10 -3.00%
0 -4.00%
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
GVA for AFF (in Billion PHP) Growth Rate
Source: PSA
Chapter 7 Promoting Philippine Culture and Values | 124

Positive growth rates were noted in the These commodities will be prioritized
years 2017 and 2019 and the highest with the passage of RA 11524 or the
GVA for AFF was in 2019 amounting Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund
to PHP93.73 billion with 4.67 percent Act in 2021 and declaring the Province of
growth. On the other hand, there was a Catanduanes as the Abaca Capital of the
decrease in 2018 due to the occurrence of Philippines through RA 11700 in 2022.
drought in the last part of the year. In 2020 For high-value crops, pineapple increased
and 2021, the performance also declined by 6.3 percent, while pili nut declined by
due to the effects of COVID-19 pandemic 4.5 percent. The DA High-Value Crops
coupled with the emergence of pests and Development Program continues to
diseases (such as ASF, Avian Influenza, and distribute seeds, planting materials, and
Fall Armyworm infestation), global price other inputs to increase production.
hike of inputs, and weather disturbances
(typhoons and drought) in the region. In terms of livestock and poultry, the
sub-sector declined by an average of 1.3
The GVA for crops increased by only 0.27 percent due to the spread of ASF in 2020
percent on average caused by the decrease and 2021. Cattle, chicken, and chicken egg
of six percent in 2019 due to the effects production increased, while production
of the drought that occurred in the last of hog, goat, and cattle declined. The
quarter of 2018 and carried over to 2019, decrease in production was partly
as well as typhoons in the latter part of attributed to higher prices of animal feeds,
2019. Interventions were implemented by antibiotics, and other production inputs
the DA and other government agencies, due to high transportation costs brought
in coordination with the LGUs, to help by travel restrictions. Hog production also
improve the performance of the sector. decreased due to ASF.
Palay production increased by 1.3 percent Other notable accomplishments include

during the six-year period. The RA the ALPAS Laban sa COVID-19 program
11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law was of the DA which ensured access to adequate
implemented in 2019 which establishes the food during the pandemic. Production
RCEF allocated for the provision of farm inputs including machinery, equipment,
machinery and equipment; development, and facilities were continuously provided
propagation, and promotion of rice seeds; to farmers and fishers. The Kadiwa ni
expanded credit assistance, and training Ani at Kita program of the DA enhanced
and extension services. Financial subsidies the market and income of farmers, and
for rice farmers also contributed to the improved consumers’ access to safe,
increase in palay production. Despite the nutritious, and affordable agriculture and
infestation of Fall Armyworm in some fisheries products. Various loan programs
corn areas in Bicol, production increased for the agri-fishery sector were offered by
by 2.9 percent. This was attributed to the Agricultural Credit Policy Council
the immediate pest management and (ACPC) to finance the emergency and
provision of inputs for the control and production requirement of small farmers
treatment of the pest in infested corn and fishers.
areas.
Challenges
Abaca, with a 9.1 percent decline in
production, has not yet recovered from The agri-fishery sector faces long-
the effects of past typhoons, while coconut standing challenges in both production
production improved by 0.7 percent. and marketing.

Ensuring access to land and water and pesticides. In addition, high post-
resources. The reduction in agricultural harvest losses and high marketing cost are
land is due to land reclassification and due to inadequate post-harvest facilities
conversion from agricultural to other for drying and milling including transport
uses. Premature and illegal conversion and logistics infrastructure such as farm-
of prime agricultural lands, irrigated to-market roads and cold chains.
and irrigable lands continue, despite
safeguards against land conversion (e.g., Encouraging participation of youth
Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization and women. The average age of farmers
Act, Comprehensive Agrarian Reform and fishers ranges from 48-55 years
Program, and Local Government Code). old, dominated by males. The youth
and women are finding more attractive
Irrigation development has been slow employment opportunities outside the
due to the long and tedious process of sector.
designing and constructing large-scale
irrigation systems. On the other hand, Strengthening extension service. This
the installation of small-scale irrigation slows down the delivery and adoption of
systems has been inadequate and many farm practices and technologies that are
of the existing irrigation systems need applicable to specific areas and responsive
rehabilitation or restoration to improve to the needs of farmers and fisherfolk.
their efficiency (See Chapter 2). Inefficiencies in the delivery of extension
services can be attributed to inadequate
Presently, the country has more than operational funds and lack of human
enough laws leading to sustainability of resources of LGUs.
the marine resources, but these have not
been fully enforced particularly those Increasing investments in R&D. Despite
pertaining to illegal, unreported, and the significance of R&D in developing
unregulated fishing activities. Limited technologies and identifying good farm
access to fishing grounds also contributes and fishery management practices, the
to the unsustainable use of fisheries and share of R&D programs remains low in
aquatic resources. the total budget of the DA and DOST.
Improving farm/labor productivity. Expanding access to credit and

Primary production is still dependent on insurance. Small farmer and fisher
manual labor, as the level of mechanization borrowers did not access formal credit
is rising at a slow pace and is focused only due to the lack of technical capacity to
on rice. Farm productivity is limited by develop viable project proposals, no credit
the practice of monoculture of low-value track record and acceptable collateral, and
crops, and low adoption of high-yielding limited information on available loan and
inputs and climate-resilient technologies. insurance programs.
Farmers also do not diversify and there is
bias against traditional crops and farming Increasing resiliency to climate change,
methods. disaster, and other risks. Threats
brought by climate change such as
Lowering cost of production, post- tropical cyclones, heavy rainfall, flooding,
harvest losses and marketing costs. High drought, and volcanic eruption, including
cost of production is due to increasing supply chain disruptions results to low
prices of farm inputs such as fertilizers private sector investments.

Targets
The implementation of the plan will growth in AFF labor productivity,
significantly address the challenges and increase the level of rice mechanization,
constraints of the AFF sector. Among the increase growth in the total value of
major targets in modernizing agriculture approved investments in AFF-related
and agribusiness is to increase growth activities, increase growth in the value
in the average family income of skilled of agri-fishery exports, and increase the
agricultural workers, farm laborers, and proportion of primary producers covered
fisherfolk and increase growth in GVA in by agricultural insurance.
AFF. Specifically, the plan aims to increase
Core Indicators
Table 7.1 presents the indicators and targets to modernize agri-fishery and agribusiness.
Table 7.1 Core Indicators to Modernize Agri-Fishery and Agribusiness

INDICATOR
Growth in Average
Family Income of Skilled 27.1
- - 20.0-30.0 - 20.0-30.0 - PSA Report DA, DAR, LGUs
Agricultural Workers or Farm (2015-2018)
Laborers and Fisherfolk (%)
Growth in Agriculture,
Forestry, and Fisheries (AFF) 0.8
Gross Value Added (GVA) (2022 1.8-3.3 PSA Report DA
increased (%, in constant Q1-Q3)
prices)
Ratio of High-Value Crops
21.0
(HVC) GVA to Total AFF GVA 21.3 21.7 22 22.4 22.8 23.1 PSA Report DA
(2021)
increased (%)
Level of Rice Mechanization 0.21
0.49 0.53 0.57 0.61 0.65 0.69 PSA Report DA
improved (hp/ha) (2022)
Growth in AFF Labor -8.7
2.30-5.50 PSA Report DA, DAR, LGUs
Productivity increased (%) (2021)
Growth in the total value of
Investment
approved investments in AFF -24.0
10 PSA Report Promotion
related activities increased (2021)
Agencies
(%, in real terms)
Growth in the value of A&F -13.9 6.4 PSA Report DA, DTI
exports increased (%, FOB (Sept 2022)
value)
Proportion of primary 32% 37% 42% 47% 52% 57% 62% DA-PCIC Report DA-PCIC, DAR
producers covered by (2022)
agricultural insurance to
total number of primary
producers registered in the
RSBSA (%)

Strategy Framework
Figure 7.2 Strategy Framework to Modernize Agri-Fishery and Agribusiness
Strategies
Outcome 1: Efficiency of AFF production
enhanced
Improve access to production systems; and modernization and adoption
requirements. Land, water, energy of solar-powered irrigation in suitable
and capital are the main categories of areas. In addition, farm and non-farm
production inputs. Facilitated access wastes and biological materials will be
to these inputs is essential for farm utilized, such as palm sap, wood waste,
productivity improvement. and napier grass, as energy and fertilizer
sources.
For land resources, strategies include
support programs for efficient utilization To expand the coverage of innovative
of ancestral lands and agro-forestry areas. financing schemes and processes,
The DAR will fast-track land acquisition agricultural credit and financing programs
and distribution to qualified agrarian under the ACPC, such as the Production,
reform beneficiaries under the CARP. Working Capital, and Agriculture and
Improvement of water management Fisheries Machinery and Equipment Loan
through investments in irrigation systems, Easy Access, are offered to finance the
which will be focused on disaster- and production, farm machinery, and working
climate-resilient small-scale irrigation capital requirements of small farmers and
systems; retrofitting, restoration, and fisherfolk. Loan and emergency assistance
rehabilitation of existing irrigation packages will be provided to agricultural

households in calamity-affected areas will address food security concerns and
to help them regain their capacity to a continuing rise in the prices of food
earn a living through the Survival and and basic commodities. The Urban and
Recovery Loan Assistance Program. Also, Peri-Urban Agriculture Program aims
Kapital Assistance for Young Agripreneurs to increase vegetable production and
and the Agri-Negosyo Loan Program farmers’ income by engaging the urban
will encourage the youth to engage in areas and maximizing areas for food
agriculture and fisheries ventures, and production. Residents will be encouraged
build the entrepreneurial mindset among to start growing their own food to ensure
our farmers and fishers. they eat safe and fresh produce. The DA,
in partnership with the LGUs, will offer
Diversify farm and non-farm assistance to communities in engaging
income. Farmers will be engaged in in mushroom culture, hydroponics, and
commodity diversification through aquaponics, among others. Community
the DA commodity banner programs, gardens will be established in barangays
particularly on crops with high value- with vacant areas where they can plant,
added and export market potential propagate, and produce their own
such as fruits, vegetables, marine, and vegetables (See Chapter 5.1).
aquaculture products. Animal integration
will be considered such as poultry, hog, Strengthen capacities for R&D to
and small ruminant raising. Also, non- promote innovation in farm and
farm diversification during the off-season fishery technology. Investments
undertakes other livelihood activities in R&D, especially those that promote
such as handicraft production, small- innovation and generate productivity-
scale manufacturing, construction, improving technologies and farm
house repair, or local transportation. management practices will be augmented.
Diversification of farm and non-farm It will focus on generating new knowledge,
incomes will further increase value-adding information, and innovation for the
activities, provide additional income from development of better seeds, pest and
other sources for primary producers, and disease management, extension services,
ensure supply of nutritious food to meet climate change adaptation, value addition
the consumers’ demand in the region. and shelf-life extending technologies. The
conduct of midstream and downstream
Consolidate/cluster/block farms. R&D projects will be intensified to include
These arrangements address the perennial localizing or adopting technologies up to
problems of economies of scale and market the farm level. Personnel of the research
power. The DA’s Farm and Fisheries institutions, SUCs, and the private sector
Clustering and Consolidation Program will be capacitated. The Bicol RRDIC of
will facilitate adoption of more efficient the RDC will continue to provide direction
mechanization practices and bulk buying for the R&D agenda in the region.
of inputs, and increase access to services
to enhance productivity. Consolidating The technology commercialization and
small and medium-sized farms will allow adoption of basic and applied research
product consolidation, expand supply to will be done by research institutions such
existing markets, and open new markets, as DA, DOST, and the Bicol Consortium
thereby increasing farmers’ income. for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural
Resources Research and Development
Promote/upscale urban (BCAARRD), SUCs and the private
agriculture/vertical farming. sector. Aside from Pili and Pineapple R&D
Urban agriculture and vertical farming Centers, other priority agri-commodities

in the region such as high value crops will the province-led agri-fishery extension
be considered in the Niche Center in the system; increasing investment in
Regions (NICER) Program to support the research, development, and extension
local industries (See Chapter 10). covering the entire agri-food system
and covering biological, physical, and
Create and facilitate adoption of digital technologies; and giving priority
improved technology. Farmers and to extension, both in demonstration sites
fisherfolks in the region will be able to and digital platforms. Extension support,
access production and post-production education, and training programs will
technologies through the various DA be strengthened by LGUs for greater
programs such as RCEF, Coconut adoption of technologies. The partnership
Farmers and Industry Development between the government and private
Program, commodity banner programs sector will be sustained to strengthen the
for rice, corn, high-value crops, livestock/ technical capacities of farmers, fisherfolks,
poultry, and fisheries, among others. youth and rural women in agricultural
This can also be done by strengthening and fishery development.
Outcome 2: Access to markets and AFF-based

enterprises expanded
Create opportunities for Promote agri-tourism industry.
participation in value-adding AFF Tourism as the economic driver of the Bicol
products. Geographically specialized Region will be linked to the agriculture and
commodity systems will be commercially fishery sectors. Infrastructures leading
developed covering processed agri- to agri-tourism destinations will be
fishery products such as high-value constructed, and additional investments
crops in Albay, pineapple in Camarines in improving farms to provide local
Norte, fisheries in Camarines Sur, abaca agricultural experiences to tourists will
in Catanduanes, cattle in Masbate, pili in be encouraged. Collaborations among the
Sorsogon, and other agri-fishery based DOT, DA, DENR, and DPWH to improve
commodities for which Bicol Region is the marketing of the products and
known. services to promote agri-ecotourism will
be strengthened. The Farm Tourism Sub-
The private sector will be engaged Committee under the RDC Bicol Regional
in setting up more agri-fishery-based Tourism Committee will oversee the agri-
industries in the countryside, investing tourism development in the region and
in research as well as developing local provide a venue to discuss pressing issues
and export markets for agricultural and relevant programs (See Chapter 9).
products, and promoting agripreneurship
to modernize the sector. Linkage Develop the blue economy. Pursue
with the agro-processing industry effective fishery resource management
will be strengthened through greater in the context of the “Blue Economy”
participation in an effective value chain to with focus on food security, promoting
eliminate unnecessary intermediaries and sustainable marine development and
make marketing channels more efficient. management, and creating wealth-
Participation in local and international generating opportunities based on
agri-business enterprise-related activities inclusive, oceans-based economic
such as trade fairs and market matching growth. The region is rich in coastal and
will be encouraged to establish local and marine resources that, when harnessed
global networks (See Chapter 8). sustainably, can provide viable solutions

toward achieving food security and and others) will be intensified by DA
inclusive growth. The major fishing to minimize production losses and
grounds include Lagonoy Gulf, San labor costs. Processing facilities will
Miguel Bay, and Ragay in Camarines Sur, be established such as milling centers,
Sorsogon Bay, and Asid Gulf in Masbate. rice processing centers, grain centers,
dairy processing centers, and cold chain
The following actions will be undertaken technology and facilities to properly store
by BFAR in collaboration with the and maintain the quality of agricultural
LGUs: (a) fully implement fishery commodities. Additional community fish
regulations including the strengthening landing centers and fish processing plants
of measures against illegal, unreported, will be established and operationalized
and unregulated fishing, implementation to improve fisheries post-harvest and
of boat/vessel and gear licensing, and cold chain technology and facilities.
monitoring of compliance with catch The FMRs, through the DA’s FMR
documentation; (b) establish fishery Development Program and Philippine
reservation and conservation areas; (c) Rural Development Project, connect
comply to fishery laws such as delineation production areas to the market, as well
of municipal waters; (d) adoption of as coastal landing points to postharvest
harvest control rules and reference points facilities.
for at least two species of sardines in
Balatan, Camarines Sur; (e) implement Digital infrastructure is a requirement for
closed fishing season for selected species facilitating services such as credit, market
in some fishing areas such as Lake Buhi, information, and disaster preparedness.
and provide alternative livelihood to Financial technology such as digital
affected fisherfolks; (f) strengthen the wallets and e-payment systems will be
aquaculture industry through distribution incorporated into agricultural credit
of fingerlings and provision equipment and for wider and more efficient credit
for the development of fishponds; (g) access. It also includes the promotion
develop and promote ship building and expansion of mobile and web-based
industry in support to the blue economy; platforms/channels for transactions and
and (h) engage marine and fishery schools delivery services such as the e-KADIWA
to intensify information, education and system (See Chapter 13).
communication (IEC) campaign on blue
economy. Ensure compliance with
regulations and standards. This
Improve physical and digital includes the adoption of global standards
infrastructures. This will improve for product safety and quality, and for
efficiency and reduce the environmental business practices; implementing the
impact of the agri-food system. Among law on Ease of Doing Business; and
the physical infrastructures that need promoting partnerships between foreign
urgent attention are the agri-fishery and domestic investors. Farmers and
machinery and equipment, processing fisherfolks will be encouraged to adopt
centers, cold chain, farm-to-market roads, good agricultural practices (GAP), good
transport, and logistics. animal husbandry practices (GAHP),
good aquaculture practices (GAqP), and
The provision and utilization of good manufacturing practices (GMP)
production and postharvest-related to ensure the best quality of agri-fishery
machinery and equipment (tractors, products (See Chapter 11).
threshers, combine harvesters, planters,

Outcome 3: Resilience of AFF value chains
improved
Integrate climate and disaster high seas. This includes mainstreaming
risks in AFF plans, programs, the use of remote sensing technologies,
and projects. As the Bicol Region is the adoption of site-specific, timely, and
typhoon-prone, science-based climate simplified climate outlooks (e.g., La
risk analysis, adaptation measures, Nina and El Nino updates), and weather
and disaster risk management will be forecasts, improving biosecurity measures
enhanced during the plan period. The to prevent the spread of animal and plant
DA Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative diseases and pests, and accelerating
in Agriculture (AMIA) Program will be the development of vaccines to control
institutionalized regionwide to develop livestock and poultry diseases (See
climate-resilient villages with operational Chapter 16).
enterprises and commercialized products.
To reduce supply chain disruptions Develop and promote resilient
such as global pandemics and conflicts, and indigenous products for
investments in the domestic production food production. This includes the
of AFF inputs will be intensified, along promotion of traditional food culture
with creating local business opportunities through active advocacy, formal and
for the sector to lessen dependence on informal education, and support for RDE
foreign sources (See Chapter 16). on the utilization of indigenous species
and varieties of plants and breeds of
Create and adopt climate- and animals. The Access and Benefit Sharing
disaster-resilient technologies. Project of the DENR will develop bio-
Among the notable examples are the products from local genetic resources of
adoption of early-maturing and resilient/ pili in Bicol. It will increase economic
tolerant crop varieties for floods and opportunity and biodiversity conservation
droughts, improved breeds of animals, for local communities and indigenous
water-saving irrigation systems, soil peoples in the region stemming from
erosion control technologies, and fair and equitable sharing of biodiversity
controlled environment crop production benefits (See Chapter 10).
systems. This can be done through
investments in research, development, Develop innovative insurance
and extension (See Chapter 16). schemes. The weather-based
system provides adequate and timely
Develop and mainstream EWS/ compensation against the risk of profit loss
anticipatory mechanisms. The from various threats to production, such
region will invest in their continuous as natural disasters, plant diseases, and
improvement and deployment to guide pest infestations. Agricultural insurance
primary producers in making such products are available through the
decisions as time and place of planting, as Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation
well as farm practices, and for fisherfolk as well as private insurance providers.
who can get caught by a typhoon on the

Outcome 4: Agricultural institutions
strengthened
Improve coordination and of Certain Functions of the Executive
convergence of government Branch to Local Governments.
agencies. This strategy includes the
review and updating of the status of the Enhance support to agricultural
Agriculture and Fishery Modernization education and job-skills matching.
Act, the completion/updating of the This includes the participation of
farmers and fisherfolk registry, the the farm schools or learning sites for
adoption of best practices in formulating agriculture as implementing partners of
AFF programs, and the strengthening the concerned government agencies. AFF
of agricultural cooperatives. It also curricula will be formulated, and AFF
includes establishing a portal for all schools will be capacitated for teaching
government services and enhancing modern agri-fishery in the context
the coordination mechanisms between of agri-food systems, with a focus on
and among government agencies in innovations for the best and most modern
collaboration with the private sector and techniques and applications, as well as the
academe. This will ensure horizontal and commercialization of modern farming
vertical linkages given the implementation and fishing technologies (See Chapter 6).
of EO 138, s. 2021 or the Full Devolution
Legislative Agenda
Table 7.2 presents the priority legislations proposed to modernize agri-fishery and agri-
business.
Table 7.2 Legislative Agenda to Modernize Agri-Fishery and Agri-Business

Institutionalize the Pili Industry The Bicol Region is the major pili producer in the country. The DA, DOST, DTI, SUCs,
Development Program institutionalization of the Pili Industry Development Program LGUs
will benefit the region as this will respond to the development
needs of the industry.
Philippine Fiber Industry This in support to RA No. 11700 which lapsed into law on DA, DOST, DTI, SUCs,
Development Program April 15, 2022, declaring the Province of Catanduanes as the LGUs
Abaca Capital of the Philippines in recognition of its status
as the country’s biggest producer of abaca and making
the Philippines world-renowned in the fiber industry, and in
support to agricultural development of the province.
Magna Carta for Young Farmers This measure aims to promote and protect the rights of DA, TESDA, SUCs, LGUs
young farmers, establish programs for young farmers, and
institutionalize young farmers’ representation in agricultural
decision-making and policy-making processes. It would
address the declining interest of the youth in agriculture and
fisheries.
Integrated Urban Agriculture and This is to promote urban agriculture and vertical farming to DA, DOST, LGUs
Vertical Farming address food security concerns and continuing rise in the
prices of food and basic commodities.

CHAPTER 8
Revitalize Industry
By 2028, the industry sector of the Bicol Region will be revived by expanding the
domestic market, advancing the value chain, and strengthening cross-sectoral
ties to produce more high-quality jobs and competitive products. Science,
technology, and innovation (STI) will be integrated in all interventions and aspects
of industrialization, making it a way of life of key industry players.
At the end of the plan period, the following subsector outcomes will be achieved: (1)
domestic market production and supplier base expanded; (2) moving up the value
chain achieved; and (3) inter-sectoral linkages enhanced.

Assessment at 6.75 percent followed by manufacturing
at 3.24 percent.
The Bicol RDP 2017-2022 aimed to expand
economic opportunities in the industry Disasters at the beginning of 2020 pushed
through Trabaho and Negosyo, which the government to take immediate
helped reduce inequality in economic action to curb impacts. The COVID-19
opportunities. The Plan targeted an pandemic slowed down the achievement
increase in the GVA in the Industry sector, of industry targets but was able to register
labor productivity, and tourist arrivals. positive growth rates when the economy
was re-opened. In 2021, the industry
From 2017-2021, the average GVA for sector grew significantly to 8.8 percent
Industry increased by four percent, with which is attributed to the government’s
construction posting the highest growth response to address COVID-19.
Table 8.1 Growth Rates by Major Industry in the Bicol Region, 2017-2021, at Constant
2018 Prices
SECTOR 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

Industry 4.0 13.2 7.9 -13.5 8.8
a. Mining and quarrying 2.5 16.0 -2.0 -22.1 21.2
b. Manufacturing 2.1 6.0 7.7 -5.0 5.4
c. Construction 7.9 22.6 11.4 -20.0 11.9
d. Electric, gas, and -1.0 2.3 1.0 -6.2 3.5
water supply
Source: PSA
In 2021, Mining and Quarrying grew by companies in 2021 largely contributed to

21.2 percent from a contraction of 22.1 the increase in the taxes, quantity, and
percent in 2020, the fastest among the value of mineral resources production.
sectors and subsectors in the region. The
resumption of operations of some mining The growth in the construction industry
Chapter 8 Revitalize Industry | 136

can be attributed to the construction of establishments and other industry players
residential and commercial infrastructure impelled higher electricity demand.
projects and the government’s spending
on infrastructure projects under the Build, There were 28,214 approved business
Build, Build Program (See Chapter 13). names registered with the DTI Region 5 in
2022, 20.6 percent less than registrations
For electricity, steam, water, and waste in 2021. The province of Camarines Sur
management, the growth is attributed recorded the highest number of approved
to the increase in electricity sales by business name registrations in the region
21.3 percent and the increase in water at 34.0 percent and Catanduanes with the
production by 4.5 percent in 2021. The least at 8.9 percent (Figure 8.1).
resumption of operation of various
Table 8.1 Growth Rates by Major Industry in the Bicol Region, 2017-2021, at Constant
2018 Prices
40,000
35,000
30,000
25,000
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
-
2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Source: DTI
In terms of domestic investments, stock/ continues, through the paid-up capital of

non-stock corporations and partnerships corporations and capital contributions of
registered with the Securities and partnerships, totaling PHP3.1 billion for
Exchange Commission (SEC) in the the combined years 2020 and 2021.
region generated a total paid-up capital
of PHP952.00 million in 2021, lower by Investment promotion programs
43.88 percent from the value generated intensified. Before the pandemic, the
in 2020. Stock corporations posted the MSMEs were urged to participate in local
highest number of paid-up capitals and international trade fairs to promote
starting in 2020 with PHP2.17 billion. The their products and increase investments.
growth is almost the same for non-stock The Bicol craft and food industries were
corporations but in 2018 it increased to reinforced, diversified, enlarged, and
PHP113.94 million. Despite the pandemic, enhanced in quality as a result of the
capital infusion in the local economy trade fairs. Travel and tourism fairs were

conducted, highlighting food, MSME statistics were carried out.
development, and travel exchange. A total
of 48,831 MSMEs from 2017-2021 were Enhance linkage between MSMEs and
assisted through various programs and large corporations. The KAPATID
initiatives. mentor ME (KMME) project linked
the MSMEs to large companies’ value
The creation and upkeep of shared chains. The project has three components:
service facilities and NCs in the area (1) Mentor ME (micro-entrepreneurs)
contributed to the achievement of program; (2) adopt-a-shared facility
SDG 8 on the promotion of sustained, program; and (3) inclusive business
inclusive, and sustainable economic model.
growth, full and productive employment,
and decent work, as these programs Access to financing increased. Through
improved the productivity and efficiency the establishment of NCs and the
of MSMEs. Facilities, tools, equipment, implementation of SSFs, Bicolano
and significant knowledge were provided entrepreneurs increased their economic
to MSME beneficiaries to help improve opportunities. The MSMEs were assisted
production and operations, and support through programs which include KMME
the achievement of SDG 9 on building and SME Roving Academy (SMERA)
resilient infrastructure, promoting that enhanced participants’ knowledge in
inclusive and sustainable industrialization, entrepreneurship.
and fostering innovation.
Financial literacy training was provided
Investments in infrastructure increased. to MSMEs, cooperatives, students, and
With the Build, Build, Build Program, other stakeholders to empower them to
the construction sector received the make informed and effective decisions
biggest proportion of investments. The concerning their financial resources.
improvement of access roads to tourism There is a growing number of cooperatives
sites through the convergence program in the region, 124 of which were registered
on enhancing tourism access paved in 2021 with paid-up capital of PHP36.11
the way for the opening of new tourist million.
destinations and thus the growth of the
tourism industry (See Chapter 13). Challenges
Advocacy and capacity-building The following are the challenges during

programs in the tourism industry the plan period:
improved. Training programs were
conducted to enhance the skills of tourism Unfavorable business environment
professionals and improve the quality of for sector competition. The high cost
tourism-related establishments’ services. of doing business in the region is still
To assist the LGUs in the development and a concern as production cost increases
management of tourism and to promote directly as that of power supply.
sustainable tourism development in Bicol,
advocacy activities such as: (a) campaigns Accessing financing windows. The lack
to raise awareness of the industry; (b) of collateral and information prevented
orientation sessions on tourism planning banks and other creditors from accurately
guidelines for LGUs, visioning, strategic assessing borrowers’ creditworthiness
planning, and project development; and are the two main obstacles that MSMEs
(c) and training in the basics of tourism encounter when applying for financing.

The increased risks and threats of business in Catanduanes, the cattle in Masbate, the
insolvencies brought by the COVID-19 queen pineapple in Camarines Norte, the
pandemic made it more difficult for pili which are both found in Sorsogon and
MSMEs to get the much-needed liquidity. Albay, root crops in Albay, and corn in
Camarines Sur.
Enhancing digital skills. The rapid shift
to more digital platforms highlighted the Modernizing the region’s infrastructure.
increasing requirement for a range of Enhancing physical and digital
digital and complementary skills. connectivity, and ensuring a low-cost and
reliable supply of water and electricity
Creating jobs in high-productivity are some of the factors that hamper the
firms. Most of the labor force is employed economic growth of the region (See
in low-productivity firms. To generate Chapter 13).
high productive workforce, the manpower
will require special attention to innovative Strengthening the institutional structure
strategies for the future labor market. at the local level. Some LGUs are not
capable of providing an environment
Utilizing the region’s resources for conducive to private sector investments,
industrialization. The Bicol Region has particularly in providing incentives due to
a comparative advantage in terms of the lack of local investment and incentive
developing the full potential of the abaca codes.
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 targets to in 2021 to 9.5 percent in 2028; and (2)
increase the following: (1) GVA growth employment generation in the industry
in the Industry sector from 8.8 percent from 35,000 in 2022 to 46,900 in 2028.
Core Indicators
Table 8.2 presents the indicators and targets to revitalize industry.
Table 8.2 Core Indicators to Revitalize Industry

INDICATOR
GVA growth of the Industry 8.8

*8.0-9.5 RSET DTI, PSA
sector sustained (%) (2021)
GVA Growth of Construction 11.9
16.0-17.0 16.0-17.0 16.0-17.0 16.0-17.0 16.0-17.0 16.0-17.0 PSA/DTI Report DTI, PSA
increased (%) (2021)
Employment generated
35.0
in industry increased (in 36,750 38,580 40,510 42,540 44,670 46,900 PSA/DTI Report DTI, PSA
(2022)
thousands)
RIICs established/ 1
1 DTI Report DTI
maintained (2022)
Number of Knowledge,
Innovation, Science and 2
2 2 2 2 3 4 DTI Report PEZA, DTI
Technology (KIST) parks (2022)
maintained
*target for validation

Strategy Framework
Revitalizing the industry will contribute The strategy framework to revive the
to transforming the production sectors industry adopts a culture-sensitive
in generating more quality jobs and perspective, a gender-sensitive
competitive products towards economic paradigm, is human rights-based, and
transformation for a prosperous, adheres towards achieving sustainable
inclusive, and resilient society. By 2028, development goals. This ensures that
the following subsector outcomes will be the interests of vulnerable groups, such
achieved: (a) domestic market production as IPs, PWDs, women, young people,
and supplier base expanded, (b) moving and children, are carefully taken into
up the value chain achieved; and (c) inter- consideration.
sectoral linkages enhanced.
Table 8.2 Core Indicators to Revitalize Industry
Strategies
To generate more quality jobs and linkages across sectors.
competitive products, the Industry
sector will be revitalized by expanding The following strategies will help achieve
the domestic market and supplier base, the subsector outcomes to address the
moving up the value chain, and enhancing challenges presented above:

Outcome 1: Domestic market production and
supplier base expanded
Intensify support to industries Nooks in tourism-related firms in the
producing for the domestic provinces of Bicol.
market. The priorities will include
enhancing advocacy and capacity- Universities will serve as knowledge
building initiatives to motivate companies, hubs which will perform R&D work
particularly MSMEs, to take advantage on enterprises. There will be a full
of export prospects. The Bicol enterprise operationalization of the Bicol Fablab and
will build a solid domestic market base. other co-working space for local start-
Domestic markets and supplier base will ups. The Regional Inclusive Innovation
be expanded by leveraging global service Centers (RIIC) and other similar
centers to attract information technology interventions will keep offering training
outsourcing (ITO) and knowledge on design thinking and acting as meeting
process outsourcing (KPO) investment places for the academic community,
(See Chapter 10). There is a need to boost business community, and other ecosystem
Philippine goods and services marketing actors (See Chapter 10).
and promotion, as well as market research.
Expand economic zone
Enhance business-matching development. Concentrate industrial
activities across the region. expansion/growth in urban areas
Enterprises will collaborate closely with and promote vertical development,
DepEd, CHED, DOLE, and TESDA especially in highly urbanized areas.
to ensure the matching of skills and Increase agri-based industry investment
development of students with the job by establishing and strengthening ties
requirements of industries (See Chapter between large industries or businesses
6). Partner with TESDA for free training and small businesses as part of value
and certification of auto and small engine chain development. The eight operating
mechanics and technicians of Service and economic zones in Bicol, such as
Repair Enterprises (SREs). Camarines Sur Information Technology
Park, Embarcadero de Legazpi, Gernarine
Foster regional industrialization. Information Technology Center, Jose
The DTI Region 5 will work for the Panganiban SEZ, Misibis Resorts and
advancement of the implementation of Estates, Naga City Technology Park,
production-based regional development. Robinsons Cybergate Naga, and the ANR
Programs will include the establishment Business Center will be promoted.
of more One Town, One Product (OTOP)
Outcome 2: Moving up the value chain

achieved
Improve competitiveness entrepreneurship ecosystem by upgrading
and developing new industries and
The strategies to improve competitiveness reskilling or upskilling the workforce; (c)
will include (a) improving the business addressing gaps in industry supply chains;
climate to attract investments in the (d) incentivizing the LGUs for achieving
region; (b) building an innovation and their milestones in improving their level

of competitiveness; and (e) increasing balanced approach as outlined in
access to financing by streamlining loan International Labour Organization (ILO)
processes for MSMEs and cooperatives to Recommendation 204. It aims to create
access financial products. more and better jobs, reduce poverty,
and address the marginalization of those
Accelerate the digitalization and who are especially vulnerable to the
innovation of MSMEs and startups. With most serious decent work deficits in the
the new normal, MSMEs will remain informal economy. From the point of
competitive. The strategies that will view of informal enterprises, informality
support MSMEs and startups include: (1) is associated with the risk of detection
business mentoring and entrepreneurship by law enforcement officials and often
training to help establish more MSMEs; constitutes an obstacle to growth, as it
(2) intensifying support for the digital makes it more difficult for them to access
transformation of MSMEs and the growth formal finance, business development
and development of startups; and (3) services, technologies, and investments.
conducting extensive innovation pitching
for MSMEs and startups. Accelerate the rollout of
e-government and the
Dynamic industry ecosystem e-commerce roadmap. Support the
created implementation of the Innovative Start-
Up Act by making research and digital
Implement Industry 4.0 technology diffusion programs efficient
Roadmaps. The 4th Industrial and demand-driven.
Revolution (IR) technology will transform
industries towards an increasing share of Upskill and reskill the workforce
STI intensive sector to the GDP through to adapt to technology. With
the adoption of this new technology. The advancements in digital technology,
roadmap outlines overall strategies for the new jobs will emerge that will increase
facilities and services, human resources, productivity. It will require increased
R&D technologies, and science and investment in new skills, capacity
technology policies. building, and the development of the
skills framework.
Support job creation policies.
The Operationalize the Green Jobs Law Promote green and blue
(RA 10771) will promote job creation economies. The green economy will
in various industries and development include the provision of critical life
of green skills. Other strategies include support services – clean air and water,
incentivize on-the-job digital skills and the resilient biodiversity needed to
training, strengthen government- support food production and health.
industry-academe linkages, and develop The blue economy supports sustainable
digital skills roadmap (See Chapter 6). economic growth through ocean-related
sectors and activities while improving
Facilitate the transition of human well-being and social equity and
informal enterprises to formal preserving the environment (See Chapters
economy. Enterprise formalization 15 and 16).
is part of a multidimensional and

Outcome 3: Inter-sectoral linkages enhanced
Link with foreign trade and services to encourage more
investments. Creating an enabling services. This will create synergies
environment and improving the ease of for more value-adding opportunities
doing business are necessary to attract expansion of products and markets and a
local and foreign investments as well as more efficient delivery network. The Bicol
new businesses to the region (See Chapter region will prioritize the three industry
11). clusters: (a) Industrial, Manufacturing,
and Transport (IMT); (b) Technology,
Address supply chain and Media, and Telecommunication (TMT);
logistics. Develop strategies to and (c) Health and Life Science (HLS)
encourage more investment and which will give advantage to the region’s
competition in connectivity and logistics export. Policies that will build ecosystems
services. Investments in modern, efficient around clusters will be pursued to attract
air, land, and sea infrastructure, as well more investments and expand their
as in physical and digital infrastructure, demand for higher-productivity jobs.
power, and logistics, will increase
aggregate productivity and lower business Activate business networks across
expenses (See Chapter 13). industries. Industry partnerships will
be developed to address coordination
Strengthen inter-industry issues and to make information and
demand between industry and resource sharing easier.
Legislative Agenda
The following are the priority legislative agenda that will support the strategies to
revitalize industry outcomes.
Table 8.3 Legislative Agenda to Revitalize Industry

Amendments to the PEZA law Updating of the 27-year-old PEZA law to adapt the PEZA
digitalization of the locators.
Philippine Skills Framework Common reference or language that employers and workers
Initiative share to ensure the match between jobs and skills
Science and Technology Parks The establishment of Science and Technology Parks (STPs) DTI
Act will promote a culture of competitiveness and innovation
through the active promotion of investments from tech-based
enterprises and knowledge-based institutions.
Internet Transactions Act It will provide an effective regulatory policy for commercial DTI
activities conducted through the internet or electronic means.
Enterprise Productivity Act Aims to strengthen productivity improvement and gain sharing DTI
between workers and enterprises.

CHAPTER 9
Reinvigorate Services
The Services sector’s current low productivity level will become modern, effective,
and resilient through higher value-adding and improved services and the entry
of new key players. Market expansion and digital transformation will strengthen
businesses’ market positions, expand new customer regions and market categories,
and explore diversification. The Tourism sector, in which the Bicol region has a
comparative advantage, will play a significant role in the fast socio-economic
recovery of the region brought about by COVID-19 and the previous disasters.

Assessment the 6.9-7.9 percent RDP 2017-2022 target.
This is attributed to the impacts of the
From 2017-2021 the Services sector grew COVID-19 pandemic and TCs QRU and
by an average of 4.08 percent, lower than Paeng.
Figure 9.1 Growth Rates, Services, 2017-2021 at Constant 2018 Prices
30.0
20.0
10.0
-10.0
-20.0
-30.0
-40.0
-50.0
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Wholesale and retail trade; repair Transportation and storage

of motor vehicles and motorcycles
Accommodation and food service activities Information and communication
Financial and insurance activities Real estate and ownership of dwellings
Professional and business services Public administration and defense;

compulsory social activities
Education Human health and social work activities
Other services
Source: PSA
Chapter 9 Reinvigorate Services | 146

From 2017-2021 the Services sector grew include the Ease of Doing Business and
by an average of 4.08 percent, lower than Efficient Government Service Delivery
the 6.9-7.9 percent RDP 2017-2022 target. (EODB-EGSD) Act. Other key reforms
This is attributed to the impacts of the that provide support to the Services
COVID-19 pandemic and TCs QRU and sector include Amendments to the Retail
Paeng. Trade Liberalization Act, Amendments
to the Foreign Investment Act, and
In terms of average annual GVA from Amendments to the Public Sector Act.
2018-2021, education ranked the
highest with 4.8 percent followed by Challenges
Human Health and Social Work with
3.53 percent, Transporation and storage Reducing the cost of doing business.
with 2.95 percent, Accommodation and There is a need to reduce the cost of doing
Food Services with 2.75, and Public business such as the high cost of utilities
Administration and Defense with 2.7 such as power and water. These factors
percent. are critical in improving business climate
in the region which is one of strategies to
The share of the Services sector to the spearhead promotion and attract more
region’s output increased from 46.5 investments.
percent in 2018 to 47.7 percent in 2021.
The 1.2 percent increase was due to the Increasing digital connectivity and
following factors: (a) intensified marketing ensuring digital security. There remains
and promotion of Philippine products a gap in terms of access to digital
and services and market intelligence; infrastructure and services between
(b) expanded services for MSMEs on businesses and markets, individuals, and
packaging and labeling, technology households, particularly in the GIDAs
training, and laboratory and testing of the region. The lack of infrastructures
services; and (c) increased revenues from that will support the digitalization of the
the tourism and tourism-related activities services sector is still inadequate. The
prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. data users of the services sector must also
be protected from malicious attacks (See
The Services sector contributed the Chapter 13).
biggest employment from 2017-2020,
mostly coming from the wholesale and Addressing the mismatch in market
retail trade at an annual average of 485,810 demand requirements. Education and
employed persons from 2017-2020. training are not providing the skills
demanded in the labor market, and
In terms of the banking industry from the economy does not create jobs that
2017-2020, universal and commercial correspond to the skills of individuals.
banks, thrift banks, and rural and
cooperative banks were the main Accessing financing windows. The
financial institutions in the region. The MSMEs lack adequate access to capital at
distribution of the loan portfolio revealed reasonable rates to either finance its core
that in 2020, commercial and universal business activities or expand business.
banks comprised 66.39 percent of the
region’s total loan portfolio, while rural Creating jobs in highly productive firms.
and cooperative banks accounted for 14 Most of the labor force is employed in
percent.
low productive firms. To improve the
Several reforms were implemented which productivity of the workforce in the

region, there is a need to introduce skills the future labor market (See Chapter 3).
development aligned with the demand of
Targets
The plan targets increasing GVA growth tourist arrivals will increase by 8.31
in the services sector, from 3.9 percent in percent and foreign tourist arrivals by
2021 to 6.4-7.9 percent in 2028. Domestic 0.27 percent.
Core Indicators
Table 9.1 presents the indicators and targets to Reinvigorate Services
Table 9.1 Core Indicators to Reinvigorate Services

INDICATOR
GVA growth rate in the 3.9

*6.4-7.9 RSET DTI, PSA
services sector improved (%) (2021)
Foreign tourist arrival (in 0.008
0.125 0.176 0.194 0.217 .241 .267 DOT Report DOT
million) (2022)
Domestic tourist arrival (in 0.98
4.707 5.884 6.473 7.120 7.689 8.305 DOT Report DOT
million) (2022)
*target for validation
Strategy Framework
In generating more quality jobs and its pre-pandemic growth path. Aggressive
competitive products, the plan aims to marketing and promotion initiatives
reinvigorate services in the next six years. along with innovative efforts in major
Digital technologies and partnerships and comparative industries of Bicol
between government and private sectors will be pursued. Three sector outcomes
will play a crucial role in stimulating are envisioned: (1) market expansion
growth in the Services sector. Since achieved; (2) creativity and innovation in
the Bicol region is a services-driven services value proposition strengthened;
economy, improvements in this sector and (3) inter-sectoral linkages enhanced
will propel the regional economy back to (Figure 9.2).
Figure 9.2 Strategy Framework to Reinvigorate Services

Strategies
Outcome 1: Market expansion achieved
Improve the quality of the Bicol and implementing their tourist plans
tourism experience as well as formalizing tourism offices
for sustainability. Carrying and
Diversify product portfolio. adaptive capacities of destinations
Multidimensional tourism will be pursued will be considered in the provision of
to provide a variety of experiences by infrastructures in the tourism areas.
showcasing the culture and heritage, Regional governance will be led by the
nature tourism, agri-tourism, dive and RDC through its Bicol Regional Tourism
marine sports, sports and adventure, Committee, especially on policy-making
leisure and entertainment, and cuisine of and other major interventions.
the Bicol region. Clustering of areas will
be continued, such as initiatives pursued The DOT Region 5 will accelerate the
for ALMASOR and the Triple C Area roll out of the product development
Development Circuits. Each cluster has manual and training modules for LGUs
a number of ready tourism products to increase the readiness of products
mixed and packaged to come up with and destinations for safe, smart, and
distinct travel bubbles sold mostly by sustainable tourism. The LGUs and DOT
DOT-accredited tour operators and travel will assist firms in finishing accreditation,
agencies. capacitate tour guides, and include
locals in promoting their respective
The DOT 5 has its repackaged Bicol areas. Establishments that support high
Tourism Circuit, to wit: (a) Bicol Center standards for amenities and services
for Fun, a southern mainland Luzon fun will be expanded. Carrying capacity
trip of food, farm, and faith to Camarines studies will be conducted to preserve the
Sur, Albay, and Sorsogon, designed to ecological integrity of ecotourism sites and
link with the NCR, MIMAROPA, and improve environmental quality. Human
4-A package by land connectivity; (b) resource development and institutional
SorMas Dive Safari, a unique dive and support as one of the priority actions of
drive adventure to the wealth of wonders the DOT will include: (a) harmonization
of Sorsogon and Masbate; (c) Happy of rules, policies, and standards for
Island-Tugawe Connection, a unique ecotourism-oriented establishments (TOEs)
cultural adventure to the happy island and tourism-related enterprises (TREs);
of Catanduanes and the Tugawe nature (b) capacity-building programs for tour
paradise of Caramoan, Camarines Sur; operators, TOEs, TREs, LGUs, NGAs,
and (d) Albay Costa-Burias Ridge to Reef and People’s Organizations (POs); (c)
Adventure, adventure to the beautiful and institutionalization of tourism offices; and
unique ridges and amazing reefs of Burias (d) convergence programs between LGUs
Pass. and NGAs.
Improve tourism governance. The Spearhead promotions and

LGUs will be converted into destination attract more investments
management organizations with
significant private sector involvement. Engage more in high-impact
The LGUs will take the lead in creating international events and dedicated

investments. There will be a focus on of manufacturing companies. Business
attracting investments to build on positive permit licensing shall be streamlined
perceptions and success stories of places in all LGUs. Improved competitiveness
and individuals. Encourage collaborations of the LGUs will play a significant role
with DTI and DFA in gathering and in improving the business climate (See
sharing market intelligence as well as in Chapter 15).
exhibiting Bicol resources such as Bicol
Tourism and Food Expo for creative Promote digital economy while
tourism. Investment promotion guides ensuring cybersecurity
and local investment and incentives codes
will be prioritized to attract targeted Encourage businesses to engage in
entrepreneurs in the region. e-commerce. The visibility and global
reach of businesses will be enhanced
Invest in year-round multi-media through awareness and advocacy
campaigns. The LGUs, private sector, campaigns. Private technology companies
and educational institutions will and platform providers, industry
encourage Filipinos to travel and associations, and conglomerates will be
promote pride in place and culture in encouraged to scale up collaboration with
the region. Demonstrate the region’s the DTI and partner agencies to increase
current abilities to provide high value- the adoption of e-commerce tools by
added and differentiated services such as MSMEs in their services to improve
transportation design, AI-based services, processes and to accept digital payments
and other digital services. As part of the towards a cash-lite economy.
Bicol Regional Tourism Development
Plan, one of the priority actions on the Establish secured e-payment systems
market research and information, the and ensure consumer/ supplier
digital infrastructure and information protection. The enhanced protection will
structure of LGUs, DOT Region 5, and create value through increased traceability
other stakeholders will be improved. of goods, including imported orders. A
legal framework to boost cybersecurity
Improve the business climate. will be adopted, as well as policies
Investments will be drawn to the area on minimum information security
when the business climate has improved. standards, safeguarding the ICT systems
The cost of doing business shall be of public institutions, transportation, and
reduced by upgrading infrastructure e-commerce transactions, and enhancing
facilities, lowering power and water the ability of the private sector to reduce
costs, simplifying business procedures, creative output piracy (See Chapters 13
and improving the productivity levels and 15).
Outcome 2: Creativity and innovation in services

value proposition strengthened
Increase access of MSMEs to and organization will be upgraded.
capital, digital technologies, MSMEs will gain access to ideas,
startups, and capacity- building technology, and talents to improve
programs their performance from the RIIC,
and other government programs.
Upgrade MSMEs through STI). The Under the Philippine Innovation Act,
MSME processes, products, marketing, creative industries can avail of shared

service facilities of DTI, as well as the interest loans, scholarships, research
infrastructure and R&D support grants, and training subsidies will be
programs of the DOST. MSMEs will provided to promote start-ups, digital
be provided with training packages on technology careers, innovations, and
digital transformation for onboarding research projects that will address
opportunities to the global online market. industry needs. Financial capital will be
provided under the Corporate Recovery
Enhance digital management and and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act,
entrepreneurship competencies of The Philippine Innovation Act, the
MSMEs. Through the implementation of Innovation Start-up Fund Act, and the
the Digital Workforce Competitiveness Digital Workforce Competitiveness
Act, the DTI, in coordination with Act to support startup entrepreneurs,
relevant government agencies and the scientists, and researchers to achieve
private sector, will establish co-working STI interventions, accelerate the transfer
or shared service facilities to support the and commercialization of generated
development and enhancement of digital technologies, and strengthen the capability
skills and competencies of entrepreneurs, of human resources and institutions to
especially women, and the current and undertake R&D.
future workforce.
Develop and implement programs
Develop and improve spaces and to build the start-up ecosystem. The
facilities for MSMEs government will prioritize the promotion
of innovation and entrepreneurship,
Match real estate development projects the creation of an enabling business
to the requirements of creativity, environment for startups, and allowing
innovation, and entrepreneurship more foreign participation. Building start-
ecosystems. The development of up ecosystems will be developed in pilot
technology parks, centers of creative areas in the Bicol Region where start-up
excellence and innovation, creative talent communities are beginning to thrive, like
hubs, and shared services facilities for Naga City and Legazpi City.
MSMEs will be pursued. The Information
Technology and Business Process Ensure sustainable supply of
Management (IT-BPM) companies will competitive, creative, and skilled
have dedicated ‘creative hubs’ with flexible workforce
workspaces and common infrastructure to
support creative freelancers. Creative hubs Foster creative industries. The RDC
with training and advanced opportunities, will support the Department of Trade
advanced research labs, and business and Industry in leading the formulation
support centers (for legal, mentoring, of the Regional Creative Industries
and guidance services, linkages with Development Plan, Regional Creative
investors, and repositories for creative Industries Investments Priority Plan, and
images as sources of inspiration) will be in undertaking road-mapping efforts for
established to support MSMEs, creative the different identified creative sectors
entrepreneurs, and startups. under the nine domains mentioned
in the Philippine Creative Industries
Support start-up ecosystem Development Act of 2022.
development
Spearhead active promotions of
Provide funds and incentives. Low- tourism, culture, and creative

industries. The Regional Committee Industries Development Council will
on Culture and Values, in coordination provide technical and financial assistance
with the Department of the Interior to providers of non-formal learning
and Local Government, will push for modalities. Creative industries will
the establishment of a local culture and provide for an inclusive environment for
arts council, which shall promote & creative freelancers and creative workers
develop the locality’s creative industries. to have access to sustainable and dignified
Further, the RCCV will mobilize all work in the industries (See Chapter 10).
stakeholders of the creative industry,
particularly the performing arts domain, Provide appropriate funds to
to participate in the celebration of the educational institutions that will revise
Philippine Creative Industries Month or develop new curricula to address
every September of every year to promote learning gaps. The DepEd, CHED, and
the goods, products, and services of the TESDA will continue to extend incentives
Philippine creative industries, and to raise to academic institutions that provide
awareness on their role in nation-building funds and grants for the research of their
and socioeconomic advancement. This students and faculty on the development
will harness the creative industries to and promotion of the services sector.
increase positive perception of tourism
destinations and build the distinctly Strengthen collaboration with the
Filipino and Bicolano brand of tourism private sector in mentoring programs;
and culture. the promotion of science, technology,
engineering, entrepreneurship, arts, and
Establish a Creative Educational Plan mathematics careers; and interventions
in partnership with the private sector and to build talent in differentiated services.
the academe. The DepEd and CHED will This will increase financial, digital, and
support and develop relevant programs cybersecurity literacy; and develop
and provide scholarships to deserving entrepreneurial and creative skills from
students enrolled in programs and early schooling by revising curricula
courses related to creative industries. The (including the inclusion of mandatory
TESDA will also provide technical and basic computer education, introduction
vocational training through scholarship of relevant electives, and/or micro-
programs and continuous education. credentials across courses) to support IT-
Regional counterpart of the Creative BPM upgrading.
Outcome 3: Inter-sectoral linkages enhanced

Facilitate physical connectivity Promote digitalization in
(aviation, shipping and maritime, transport and logistics to lower
and land) and convenience to costs. Increase utilization of technology
move people and goods. Increase in logistics processes to improve
access to tourist destinations through an coordination among stakeholders. Expand
improved and sustainable transportation the participation of the industry players
network, and digitalization of tourist in the modernization of existing airports,
services to increase yields from higher ports, and land transport terminals to
spending and length of stay in a wide reduce overall transportation costs and
range of destinations (See Chapter 13). shipment delays (See Chapter 13).

Increase internet speed, coverage, industries (See Chapter 13).
and network. Expand fiber-optic,
broadband, and 5G networks in priority Use direct access to all satellite systems
areas identified by industries such as: IT- (whether fixed, mobile, international,
BPM enterprises, clustered tourism and or domestic) to connect local businesses
retail facilities, ports, airports, transport and tourism sites with their developing
terminals, logistics facilities, and creative markets and to build resilience.
Legislative Agenda
The following are the priority legislative agenda that will support the outcomes to
reinvigorate the services sector.
Table 9.2 Legislative Agenda to Reinvigorate Services

Amend RA 10372 amending the This aims to commercialize technologies and creative DTI and Intellectual
“Intellectual Property Code of the industries and will enhance attractiveness of the Bicol Property Office of the
Philippine” region as an investment destination that places high value Philippines (IPOPHL)
on intellectual property creation, protection, utilization, and
commercialization.
Open Access in Data This will strengthen value chain linkages in the industry and National
Transmission services sectors and facilitate the realization of full potential Telecommunications
of e-commerce and digital trade. Commission (NTC)

CHAPTER 10
Advance Research and

Development, Technology,
and Innovation
The new normal has opened opportunities and increased the demand for
R&D, technology, and innovation for better connectivity, seamless delivery of
social services, and reduced poverty. R&D involves creative work undertaken
systematically to produce knowledge that can be used to generate new technologies
and innovations. The Innovation ecosystem refers to the “economic...dynamics of
the complex relationships...between actors or entities whose functional goal is to
enable technology development and innovation.”22
This chapter discusses the priority strategies to: (a) advance RDI from knowledge
creation to commercialization of R&D products; and (b) reinforce the innovation
and entrepreneurship ecosystem. The strategy framework sees RDI generation
as a continuum encompassing theoretical conception through basic research,
technical invention, and commercial use.23 It is perceived to drive future growth and
prosperity through an economic transformation that would reinvigorate job and
income generation.

Assessment Region, however, still needed higher levels
of knowledge and innovation outputs
To accelerate technology transfer, in terms of the number of patents and
commercialization, and utilization, intellectual property rights and published
the Bicol Region (a) implemented the scientific and technical journals. This
Science for Change Program (S4CP), the could be attributed to the low institutional
Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading support for RDI in terms of government
Program (SETUP), Philippine Startup spending, RDI human capital, and RDI
Development Program, Higher Education linkages and ecosystems.
Institution Readiness for Innovation and
Technopreneurship (HEIRIT), and other Challenges
programs focused on the empowerment of
MSMEs; (b) enhanced education curricula The critical challenges affecting the sector
on science, technology, engineering, are as follows:
agriculture, and mathematics (STEAM);
and (c) established niche R&D centers and Strengthening institutional support
innovation hubs, among others.  The Bicol for RDI in terms of funding. In the past
22 Jackson, D. (2011). What is an innovation ecosystem? https://erc-assoc.org/sites/default/files/download-files/DJackson_What-is-an-

Innovation-Ecosystem.pdf, Accessed December 5, 2022.
23 NEDA Philippine, Development Plan 2023-2028, 2022.
Chapter 10 Advance Research and Development, Technology, and Innovation | 156

years, RDI was outside the priorities in interested and engaged in STEAM.
investment programming and budgeting The government enhanced the science
among regional line agencies (RLAs) and technology education curricula.
and SUCs. The RDI community has It provided scholarship grants and
been clamoring for a higher budget subsidies through the Junior Level
allocation for RDI, especially for logistical Science Scholarship Programs and
and infrastructure support such as Undergraduate Programs under RA 7687
laboratories, testing facilities, R&D and 10612. However, brain drain and
centers, and innovation hubs. On average, underemployment remain as challenges
only about two to five percent of the total in mobilizing the innovation system.
agency and SUC budget allocation under In 2018, the Bicol Region ranked 11th
the General Appropriations Act (GAA) in terms of number of R&D personnel
was allotted to R&D initiatives. The headcount (full-time equivalence26) in all
lack of sufficient funding support and sectors, with 2,264 personnel. Based on a
the unaddressed barriers to innovation survey conducted by DOST, the majority
contributed to the weak RDI culture in of the R&D personnel in the region are
the region. researchers coming from public HEIs.
Bicol also ranked 11th across regions in
The 2022 Global Innovation Index terms of the number of researchers.27
(GII) ranked the Philippines 75th in
gross expenditure in research and The lack of employment and income-
development (GERD). It stands at 0.32 generating opportunities on STEAM
percent, considerably lower than the has pushed skilled and locally-trained
global average of 2.04 percent and the one scientists, engineers, and researchers
percent benchmark recommended by the to change their path towards more
United Nations Educational, Scientific, lucrative careers and disciplines or seek
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). employment overseas. Efforts to address
this have been made, such as the Balik
The government’s share of the total Scientist Program and Innovations for
R&D expenditure is 39 percent, while Filipinos Working Distantly from the
the private sector is 61 percent.24 Across Philippines; however, more is needed to
regions, Bicol ranked 11th in terms flourish the innovation ecosystem.
of R&D intensity at 0.10, the ratio of
regional R&D expenditures in the areas of Strengthening industry-academe-
agriculture, environment, health, energy, government linkages that could facilitate
and others to the GRDP in 2018.25 collaborative RDI. The low levels of
knowledge and innovation outputs may
Increasing the number of human capital be attributed to the weak interlinkages
engaged in RDI. Weak innovative and between and among the innovation
entrepreneurial culture has resulted in ecosystem players. The innovation
the inadequate number of Bicolanos ecosystem comprises two distinct but
24 Dutta, S., et.al, supra note 4.

25 DOST, Compendium of Science and Technology Statistics, 2021 Ed., ISSN 2244-3614
26 Ibid. R&D Personnel in the country is measured in terms of full-time equivalence or the ratio of working hours actually spent on R&D
during a specific reference period (usually a calendar year), divided by the total number of hours conventionally worked in the same
period by an individual or group.
27 Ibid.

largely separated economies: the research region to ensure that research outputs
economy, driven by fundamental are converted into tangible tools that the
research, and the commercial economy, community can use for commercialization
driven by the marketplace.28 The elements and utilization.
of the innovation ecosystem29 (a) human
capital and education, (b) research and Given the new policy directions on
knowledge creation, (c) knowledge innovation and the close link between
transfer, (d) start-ups and spinoffs, and R&D and innovation, the RRDIC was
(e) collaboration have yet to take off in the strengthened and expanded to integrate,
Bicol Region.   harmonize, and coordinate research and
innovation efforts in the region.
The Philippines ranked 64th in the 2022
GII on University-Industry Collaboration The RRDIC will be guided by the
on R&D. Most universities perceive Pagtanaw 2050, which the Bicol RDC
assisting companies outside their core supported through RDC Resolution
mission.30 Further, Bicol ranked 10th in No. 4-45, s. 2022. Pagtanaw 2050 which
terms of private sector R&D expenditure translates to “Looking Ahead,” is the first
in 2018 spending about PHP658 million.31   inter-disciplinal and trans-disciplinal
project on Philippine-focused STI
Led by the DOST Region 5, the RRDIC Foresight and Strategic Plan. Its main goal
was established under the RDC to serve as is to chart a strategic path by anticipating
the governing body of the R&D initiatives the factors influencing the development
in the region. It is currently composed of the Philippines’ scientific capital in
of nine RLAs, ten HEIs, and three local the years leading up to 2050. It serves as
consortia: BCAARRD, Bicol Council a planning device for achieving concrete
for Industry, Energy, and Emerging goals and designing strategic plans that
Technology Research and Development transcend political periods, aiming for
(BCIERRTRD), and Bicol Council for inclusive growth, sustainability, and
Health Research and Development competitiveness in STI. It suggests
(BCHRD). The RRDIC has yet to provide significant drivers of change and provides
and implement the procedure for proposal insights and reflections on plausible
evaluation and endorsement to the RDC STI development paths that will impact
on all government-funded R&D projects the Filipino people’s aspirations and the
of the consortia, SUCs, government nation’s development towards 2050.
agencies, and other institutions in the
28 Jackson, D., supra note 1.

29 USAID STRIDE, Philippines Innovation Ecosystem Assessment, 2019. https://pdf.usaid.gov/, Accessed December 5, 2022.
30 Dutta, S. et. Al, supra note 3.
31 DOST, supra note 4.

Targets
The targets by the end of plan period are: accelerated.
(a) basic R&D and knowledge creation
strengthened; (b) market-driven and The following year-by-year and end-of-
customer-centered R&D advanced; plan targets indicate the level or numbers
(c) technology adoption, utilization, that the government seeks to attain within
and commercialization scaled up; and each of the four outcomes.
(d) innovation and entrepreneurship
Core Indicators
Table 10.1 presents the indicators and targets to Advance R&D, Technology, and
Innovation.
Table 10.1 Core Indicators to Advance R&D, Technology, and Innovation

INDICATOR
Number of university- HEIs, SUCs, CHED, DOST,

industry collaborations on 2 CHED, and BCAARRD,
3 3 3 3 3 3
R&D (i.e., MOU, partnership (2018) Consortia BCIEERD,
agreements) Reports   BCHRD, SUCs
Increased number of
2,264
Researchers with Full-Time Increasing DOST Report DOST, SUCs
(2018)
Equivalent
Number of established
innovation hubs, centers of 3 DOST and SUCs
1   DOST, SUCs
excellence, and niche R&D (2022) Reports
centers
Increased number of CHED, DOST,
1
Technology Business 31 Increasing DTI, SUCs, DICT DOST
(2021)
Incubators Reports
Percentage increase
in public R&D products 2 DOST, DTI, and DOST, DTI,
Increasing
adopted by users and/or (2022) IPOPHL Reports IPOPHL
commercialized
Number of start-ups 54 DOST, DTI, DICT
Increasing DTI
increased (2022) Reports
Number of qualified
1 DOST, DTI, DICT
technology or creative start- Increasing DOST, DTI
(2021) Reports
ups coached and mentored
Number   of   incubators    1 DOST, DTI, DICT
Increasing DOST
Number   of   accelerators 54 DOST, DTI, DICT
Increasing DOST

Strategy Framework
The strategy framework illustrates the and innovation generation continuum.
areas of focus in the R&D, technology,
Figure 10.1 Strategy Framework to Advance Research and Development, Technology,
and Innovation
Strategies
Outcome 1: Basic R&D and knowledge creation
strengthened
R&D covers basic research, applied for an efficient incentives system for RDI.
research, and experimental development. Alignment of PAPs in the RDI agenda
Basic research increases the ‘knowledge and investment programs of all research
base’ available to companies and other consortia and institutions will enable the
participants in the economy to source provision of support facilities and funds
innovative information.32 for RDI.
Nurture a supportive environment Laboratories, science, and technology

for R&D. To reshape the region’s weak research facilities, KIST parks,
RDI culture and productivity and address university science and technology parks,
the barriers to innovation, the RRDIC technology business incubators, and
will harmonize collaborative efforts other infrastructure will be established
and networks and create a conducive and strengthened. The Bicol Science and
RDI environment. This will be done by Technology Centrum (BSTC), the oldest
formulating the Harmonized Regional regional science centrum in the country,
Research, Development, and Innovation is a joint undertaking of the DOST
Agenda based on the priorities in the Region 5, the PCICEETRD, and the City
RDP and the National Innovation Government of Naga will be revived and
Strategy Document (NIASD) and pushing improved to further ignite the interest
32 NEDA, supra note 2.

and encourage the passion of students in collaborative efforts (See Chapters 4
STEAM and innovation. and 6). Further, through the DOST
Science Education Institute, there will
Investments in information, IEC be more scholarship opportunities for
activities on call for R&D proposals to undergraduate and graduate studies
SUCs, MSMEs, researchers, engineers, for science and technology manpower
and scientists, rewards and incentive development.
mechanisms, RD Lead Program and
other capacity building activities for R&D The HEIs and SUCs will invest in
personnel and research institutions, PPP building a well-organized innovation
projects on RDI, the establishment of and knowledge creation system through
centers of excellence and innovation hubs, strengthened R&D and extension services.
and other similar collaborative platforms The implementation of the HEIRIT
will be pursued (See Chapters 8 and 9). will be enhanced. They will promote an
Industry 4.0 skills framework that maps
Re-engineer basic, tech-voc, out jobs, career pathways, occupational
and higher education. Among the skills, micro-credentialing, and reskilling
innovation priority areas are learning options. Further, strategic foresight and
and education, and health and well- futures thinking will be incorporated in
being. Achieving a proactive, smart, and developing RDI technologies. There will
innovative society starts with accelerating be compensation for the time spent on
human capital development. Investments industry research and consultation by
in improving the teaching and the learning faculties of SUCs. Programs that will give
environment, learning equipment and opportunities for aspiring researchers
platforms, continuing professional and to receive start-up support and ensure
learning development, curriculum that research outputs are supported for
design, and pedagogy, among others, patenting and commercialization within
will be ensured. Innovations that ensure HEIs will be implemented.
affordable, smart, equitable, quality,
responsive, accessible, and comprehensive Aggressively increase expenditure
healthcare, and total well-being services, in R&D and its commercialization.
products, and solutions will likewise Alignment of PAPs for RDI with the
be prioritized to improve learning and industry needs and priorities will
development.33 help in ensuring that the priority RDI
activities are evaluated and included in
The DepEd, TESDA, and CHED the budget proposals of agencies and
will pursue programs that (a) trigger SUCs through the RDC Investment
drive for curiosity and discovery; (b) Programming and Budgeting Process, or
cultivate critical thinking, growth funded through grants, PPP, and private
mindset, communication, and decision- sector funding, among others.  This will
making skills; (c) enable to adapt to the increase expenditure on R&D and its
uncertainties of the environment; and commercialization.
(d) develop more trusting and more
33 Ibid.

Outcome 2: Market-driven and customer-
centered R&D advanced
To ensure sustainable technology The project was created to accelerate
commercialization, government-funded STI in the country to keep up with the
research in universities and research developments in our time, wherein
institutes will shift towards a market- and technology and innovation are game
demand-oriented approach in responding changers. The proposed establishment of
to market failures or demand issues in the the S4CP Regional Center will facilitate the
private sector. implementation of the four components
of the S4CP in the region, namely: (1)
Carry out R&D, technology, and Niche Centers in the Region for R&D or
innovation in mutually beneficial NICER for R&D; (2) R&D Leadership
private-public collaborations. Program or RDLead; (3) Collaborative
The Philippine Innovation Act fosters R&D to Leverage Philippine Economy or
innovation as a vital component of CRADLE; and (4) Business Innovation
national development and sustainable through S&T or BIST for Industry
growth. The RRDIC, the three research Program. The S4CP Regional Center
consortia, and other collaborative groups is expected to widen access, enhance
will support and recognize collaborative visibility and provide more opportunities
work of public researchers and private to Bicolano scientists/researchers. It will
firms on RDI. To operationalize this, the further promote local research projects in
government, in coordination with the the region by establishing a showroom for
private sector, will implement the S4CP. RDI initiatives in the region.
Box Article10.1
R&D investments pushed through S4CP
As an initiative to sustain innovation efforts, the Bicol RDC passed Resolution No.
4-37, Series of 2021, ratifying an earlier RDC resolution by referendum supporting
the SC4P Bill for endorsement to the Congress and Senate.
The SC4P Bill, proposed both in the House of Representatives and Senate, will
substantially increase investment with initial funding of PHP10 billion to be taken
from the GAA of the preceding year. The annual budget shall double yearly until it
reaches two percent of the GAA budget. The Philippines currently has 0.16 percent
GDP Expenditure on R&D. A developing country should have at least one percent
according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.
The S4CP will accelerate R&D programs for capacity building and industrial
competitiveness through the: (1) NICER for R&D; (2) R&D Leadership Program;
(3) CRADLE; and (4) BIST for Industry Program.

The enactment of the S4CP Bill will significantly contribute to economic recovery
amid the COVID-19 pandemic through increased investment in R&D that will
address national problems through knowledge-driven solutions
Credits: NEDA, DOST S4CP Website: https://s4cp.dost.gov.ph/
Integrate creative arts and academic institutions as well as local

social sciences with science and companies and start-ups, subject to the
technology. The government will evaluation and approval (See Chapters 8
support the active participation of human and 9).
resources from the creative arts and social
sciences to widen the perspective on Increase participation and
the experience and social application of collaborative works in R&D.
technology and innovation and contribute The private sector will contribute
to the dynamic process of creating to government RDI by: (a) guiding
value and competitive advantage of RDI researchers and scientists on consumer
products. The RRDIC will promote and trends and market system requirements;
coordinate the development of technology (b) addressing market challenges and
parks, centers of creative excellence and opportunities; (c) leveraging private
innovation, and creative talent hubs; and investments in STI activities; (d) seeking
improve shared services facilities. solutions to broad national and regional
challenges such as climate change,
The government will facilitate the public health, social protection, green
implementation of the Philippine and blue economies, energy efficiency,
Creative Industries Development Act of administration of justice, and ensuring
2022 particularly in providing financial peace and security; (e) investing or locating
support to research projects addressing knowledge, science and technology parks,
the industry needs through science and incubators, and entrepreneurship cells;
technology interventions, accelerating and (f) improving academia-industry
the transfer and commercialization of linkages.
generated technologies, and strengthening
the capability of human resources and The private sector will be encouraged
institutions to undertake research and to share its observations, knowledge,
development. Research grants will be and insights on people’s motivations
availed of by government research and and preferences, and product trends to

help improve R&D products in terms market value. Feedback mechanisms will
of function, aesthetic impressions, and be put in place.
Outcome 3: Technology extension, adoption,

utilization, and commercialization scaled-up
The development from a research insight establish a framework that will standardize
to a widely distributed product requires a the procedures for R&D institutions
good balance of public funds and private and SUCs for valuing their intellectual
investment; public sector research, property assets.  
extension programs, and private R&D;
and scientific, technology management, Provide support and incentives
product development, diffusion, and for IP management. The government,
commercialization skills.34 through the DOST and the Intellectual
Property Office of the Philippines
Intensify the technology transfer, (IPOPHL), will accelerate programs to
extension, and commercialization increase awareness among policymakers,
of publicly funded technologies. private sector, university researchers, and
The Bicol RRDIC will establish the Bicol the public of the value and contribution
Knowledge, Innovation, Science and of innovation and Intellectual Property to
Technology Information System and economic and social transformation.
Database, a compendium of proposed,
ongoing, and completed RDI projects The Bicol Knowledge, Innovation, Science
that will minimize duplication of RDI and Technology Information System
initiatives and open opportunities and Database will include a registry of
for collaboration, extension, and IP assets to facilitate monitoring and
commercialization. It will also serve as a minimize duplication of technologies in
platform for public research institutions, the region. It will strengthen a network
SUCs, and other RDI stakeholders to of IP units delivering timely, high quality,
pitch their R&D products and technology and accessible IP management services
developed to successfully commercialize that benefit technology and creative
their technologies. Programs that involve startups. It will improve the capacity of
private sector participation will be the private sector to create, protect, utilize,
implemented through the promotion, commercialize and enforce their IP rights.
utilization, and commercialization of There will be opportunities to provide
investments in these products. MSMEs with patent mapping and analytics
tools that identify trends and gaps in the
Simple but effective modes of technology technological landscape, which can be
transfer of commercially ready publicly used as a basis for strategic direction and
funded R&D outputs from qualified business decisions for pursuing R&D and
private entrepreneurs and enterprises investments in technology development.
will be implemented (See Chapter 8).
This will further capacitate the research Strengthen the provincial S&T
and extension offices of SUCs and Offices. The DOST Region 5 will fast-
the technology transfer and business track the implementation of Republic
development offices. The RRDIC will Act 11914 or the Provincial Science
34 Ibid.

and Technology Offices (PSTO) Act. In others.
accordance with the RDP, the PSTOs will
identify the STI needs in the provinces, The PSTOs will implement and monitor
implement DOST programs that will the various technology promotion
benefit rural and GIDAs, and develop the and commercialization programs such
institutional linkages among provincial as, but not limited to, the SETUP and
offices, academe, and LGUs.   Community Empowerment through
Science and Technology. They will
There will be Sangguniang Panlalawigan promote the adoption of appropriate
resolutions enjoining all LGUs to facilitate technologies by MSMEs to improve
the implementation of the Provincial their operational efficiency and increase
Science and Technology Plan. This productivity, and harness the results of
local legislation will seek to ensure the scientific research and innovation to
efficient delivery of the functions of produce new and competitive products
the Provincial Science and Technology and services in potential investment areas
Offices pursuant to the Provincial Science in the locality. For instance, the Province
and Technology Office Act. Further, it of Albay is the regional center of the Bicol
will facilitate the implementation of the Region with several potential investment
Provincial S&T Plan, the adoption of areas for technology extension, adoption,
appropriate technologies by MSMEs, and utilization, and commercialization.  
the dissemination of STI and RDI, among
Table 10.2 Potential Investment Areas by Locality in Albay
PROVINCE/LOCALITY POTENTIAL INVESTMENT AREA

Tiwi Ceramics
Daraga Abaca Gifts and Housewares
Camalig Processed Food (Pinangat)
Guinobatan Processed Food (Longganiza)
Jovellar Abaca Gifts and Houseware
Legazpi City ICT
Oas Processed Food (Rice Puto)
Tabaco City Cutlery
Manito Lasa Gifts and Housewares
Sto. Domingo Processed Native Foods
Libon Seagrass Gifts and Housewares
Malilipot Abaca Gifts and Houseware
Polangui Processed Food (Kalamay-Panucha)
Bacacay Karagumoy Gifts and Houseware
Ligao City Coco-based processed Food
Malinao Abaca Gifts and Houseware
Pio Duran Processed Fish
Rapu-Rapu Seaweeds
Source: NEDA, Bicol Investment Promotion Guide

The PSTOs will lead the promotion of hand, spin-offs are start-ups created by
digital transformation and transfer of a parent organization, usually by large
technologies and services to enhance corporations. Promoting the growth and
the technology-livelihood enterprises in competitiveness of MSMEs, start-ups, and
rural areas. Further, the LGUs will pursue spin-offs are key to national development.
a seamless delivery of social protection
services to vulnerable populations, Increase venture capital
especially in GIDAs (See Chapter 15). investments. The government will
complement angel investing initiatives
Increase public-private and start-up enablers. The private
partnerships for technology sector will provide support for startup
adoption, utilization, and technology innovators through “angel”
commercialization. Through the investors (i.e., wealthy individuals with
Innovative Start-up Act, the government experience in starting up new companies),
will provide benefits and incentives for and venture capital firms specialized in
start-ups and start-up enablers. Start- early-stage or “seed” investments. For
ups are enterprises engaged in innovative instance, the potential of overseas Filipino
business models aiming to solve pressing remittances will be effectively harnessed
problems in society, usually using and channeled into productive venture
scalable technologies. On the other capital investments.
Outcome 4: Innovation and entrepreneurship

accelerated
A strong culture of innovation and Province of Camarines Norte is known
entrepreneurship is vital in creating high- for its queen pineapples, producing more
quality jobs and competitive products than a hundred thousand metric tons for
and services. This entails a firm policy, both domestic and foreign consumption.
regulatory environment, and new Hence, the Camarines Norte State
mechanisms to support technopreneurs, College (CNSC), in collaboration with
start-ups, spin-off companies, and the DOST- National Research Council
MSMEs.   of the Philippines, Philippine Council
for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural
Establish and promote Resources Research and Development,
innovation hubs and other DOST Region 5, and the BCARRD
similar collaborative platforms. established the Queen Pineapple Niche
The government will establish centers R&D Center to further boost the
of excellence and innovation hubs to production of the country’s “sweetest”
facilitate knowledge and technology pineapple variety. Moreover, the CatSU,
sharing. Industry-academe centers in collaboration with DOST Region 5,
and the RIIC will promote digital established the Abaca Technology and
transformation as an essential factor in Innovation Center.  
innovation and entrepreneurship that
can change production and distribution An established mechanism will be set to
processes, reduce the cost of doing monitor and enhance the operations of
business, facilitate cross-border trade, and existing innovation hubs and niche R&D
provide flexible access to considerable centers such as the Queen Pineapple
computing power without investing in Niche R&D Center, Pili Niche R&D
physical infrastructure. For instance, the Center, Bicol Regional Food Innovation

and Commercialization Center, Abaca advantage in the pili industry.  
Technology and Innovation Center, and
Manufacturing Fabrication Laboratory, The Province of Masbate has a comparative
among others. Enhancement will include advantage in terms of cattle production
innovations in interconnected value and power generation from renewable
chains such as agricultural extension energy sources. RDI on energy will be
and support services in food, agriculture, maximized for low-carbon energy and
forestry, and fisheries. This will help ensure cleaner, more affordable energy sources.
food security and proper nutrition that is
affordable, accessible to the communities, Embracing Industry 4.0 entails upskilling
and sustainable while empowering local and reskilling the workforce in the
producers. public and private sectors. This would
require increasing investments in skill
Support globally competitive development to deliver outputs on
industries and an agile par with the advancements in digital
workforce. The government will technology (See Chapter 8).  
invest more in promoting innovation
in globally competitive agri-based Accelerate business mentoring
and manufacturing industries while and scientific, and technical
supporting the manufacturing and assistance. To pursue and leverage
production of green and climate-smart innovative and technology-enabled
technology products for global markets. business models, the government will
This will expand market opportunities strengthen current mentorship and
for low-carbon technologies and products coaching programs for MSMEs and
(See Chapter 16). start-ups to accelerate digitalization and
innovation.  
Pursuant to the Philippine Innovation
Act, the NIASD strategies must promote Continuing programs such as NC
regional innovation that will harness the Seminars, the MSME Roving Academy, the
competitive advantages as well as the KMME, the Small Enterprise Upgrading
existing and potential strengths of the Program, and the BIST for Industry
region and provinces. The Province of Program will be strengthened to further
Camarines Norte is one of the mining infuse an innovative and entrepreneurial
and industrial centers in the country and spirit. Support will combine financial and
has a comparative advantage in terms technical support for academic and skills
of mineral and agricultural resources. training institutions, business incubators,
It will strengthen the Jose Panganiban and start-ups.
Special Ecozone and explore innovation
hubs for its mining industry, having Innovative and science-based industries
been endowed with mineral resources, will be bolstered by linking MSMEs
both metallic and non-metallic, found in with start-ups through the continued
commercial quantities such as gold, silver, implementation of the Innovative Start-
iron, lead, zinc, bull quartz, and iron. up Act. For instance, the Province of
Further, the PSA reported that in terms Camarines Sur, strategically located
of volume of production, the Province of at the heart of the Bicol Peninsula,
Sorsogon has been the biggest producer may be developed as an investment
of pili in the region for several years, i.e., and innovation business center. Naga
3,328.29 MT in 2020 and 3,056.49 MT in City’s first innovation project, the Naga
2021, giving the province a comparative City Start-up Ecosystem Development

Program may be enhanced and replicated Innovation Day and regional conferences,
by other localities in the region to promote formulation and promotion of Regional
a culture of innovation and encourage Innovation and Cluster Policy, and quad
creative thinking and knowledge creation, media promotion of the Filipinnovation
and dissemination towards expanding and Branding will be conducted.
maintaining economic competitiveness.
The government is the primary mover
Foster innovation ecosystem in enabling a flourishing innovation
across sectors and industries. The ecosystem, hence will spearhead the
NEDA Region 5, with guidance from the creation of systems supporting the needs
RIIC, National Innovation Council,35 and of MSMEs, start-ups, and different
in collaboration with the RRDIC, will assist innovation actors (Figure 10.2). The private
in the administration of the Innovation sector will complement this by fostering
Fund under the Philippine Innovation innovation ecosystem across various
Act to support the commercialization sectors and industries. Entrepreneurs are
of publicly or privately funded and key innovation actors who provide direct
domestically developed technologies and and significant contributions to national
innovations in the Bicol Region. IEC economic growth.
activities such as the conduct of National
Figure 10.2 National Innovation Ecosystem Framework
Source: National Innovation Agenda, adapted from the Cyclic Innovation Model by A.J. Berkhout
35 The Philippine Innovation Act mandates the creation of the National Innovation Council, a 25-member policy advisory body in charge
of the formulation, development, implementation, and monitoring of the country’s innovation goals, priorities, and long-term national
strategy.

Legislative Agenda
Table 10.3 presents the priority legislative agenda that will complement and support the
strategies to advance R&D, Technology, and Innovation.
Table 10.3 Legislative Agenda to Advance R&D, Technology, and Innovation

Establishing the Science The bill seeks to institutionalize the S4C Program of the DOST
for Change Program and DOST to address the inadequacies in the field of research
Appropriating Funds Therefor and development and to enable the nation to be globally
competitive and equipped to provide knowledge-driven
solutions and evidence-based responses in resolving the
nation’s challenges.
Amending Section 177 and The bill seeks to amend the following sections of the IPOPHL
Section 216 of Republic Act No. Intellectual Property Code:
8293, Otherwise Known as the
Intellectual Property Code of (a) Section 177 to consider rampant digital reproduction of
the Philippines, as Amended by copyrightable works; and
Republic Act No. 10372, and for
Other Purposes (b) Section 216 of the IP Code, as amended, addresses
increasing concerns about secondary liability and online
copyright infringement issues, such as those related to P2P
networks and ISPs.
This bill considers the right of copyright owners to prevent

others from copying, uploading, scanning, digitizing, or
distributing their creative work.
Creating the Pili Research and The bill seeks to create the Pili Research and Development DA, DTI, DOST, DENR,
Development Center Center in the Province of Sorsogon which will be attached to SSU
Sorsogon State University.  
It also seeks to develop the Pili Industry in the Bicol Region,

creating for the purpose the Pili Subsidy Fund, and declaring
the Province of Sorsogon as the Pili Capital of the Philippines.  
The Pili Research and Development Center will undertake

research and technical studies on the development,
production, management, and marketing of pili and its by-
products and develop innovative technologies beneficial to the
pili industry.  

CHAPTER 11
Promote Trade and

Investments
Over the medium-term, the trade and investment sector remained as one of the
region’s economic drivers, thus, it is expected to contribute to the country’s national
growth. A renewed focus shall be given further to the sector to propel the region’s
position as a major investment destination.
To meet these goals, there is a need to powerfully recharge the trade and investments
as motors of job creation, skills development, and poverty reduction through the
continued partnerships between and among the public, private sectors, and major
social partners.

Assessment Bicol Region (5.7%) in 2021 despite
the lingering effects of the COVID-19
To further boost the country’s trade pandemic on the domestic economy.37
and investment, the Bicol Region: (1)
supported the external trade policy, Data on trade and investments showed
particularly on the backward and that, in 2021, the Bicol Region generated
forward linkages to both the domestic a traded balance of USD478.64 million.38
and international markets; (2) diversified Moreover, the value of exports in the
the products and markets, as well as region in 2021 increased from USD393.65
provided opportunities for the growth million in 2020 to USD509.97 million in
of enterprises; and (3) stimulated the 2021, and the value of imports increased
production of higher value-added goods from USD21.12 million in 2020 to
and services. USD31.32 million in 2021.39 In terms of
the direction of foreign trade, European
As reported by investment promotion countries were the major destinations of
agencies (IPAs), the Bicol Region the region’s exports, while the member
received the highest share of approved countries of the Association of Southeast
investments (i.e., foreign and Filipino Asian Nations (ASEAN) were the major
nationals’ investments) in the country in origins of Bicol imports.40 For 2020, the
the third quarter of 2022, at 35.4 percent, value of trade with Europe amounted
or PHP56.29 billion.36 A year-on-year to USD422.95 million, while the value
positive performance in aggregated of imports from ASEAN amounted to
approved investments is posted for the USD28.73 million.41
36 Total Approved Investments of Foreign and Filipino Nationals by Region at Current Prices, PSA. https://psa.gov.ph/foreign-
investments-press-releases/tables.
37 Report on Regional Economic Developments in the Philippines 2021, BSP. https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Media_And_Research/Report%20
on%20Regional%20Economic%20Developments/REDP_2021.pdf
38 Value of Export and Imports by Ports, PSA.
39 Ibid.
40 Ibid.
41 Ibid.
Chapter 11 Promote Trade and Investments | 172

Challenges or the firm being negatively affected by
an economic downturn. Firm closure is
Lack of champions at the regional level inevitable if the signs of firm distress are
that will promote trade and investments. not recognized, leading to job loss as well as
There is a need to identify regional the wastage of scarce local entrepreneurial
champion/s that will promote Bicol capital. The survival of commodities with
products and services both at the local strong domestic sectoral and labor market
and national levels. This will complement linkages is imperative, especially where
efforts to link sectors with more markets the Bicol Region has clear comparative
to improve their competitiveness. advantages.
Inadequate and inefficient provisions of Weak ability to develop and retain

key infrastructures affect the business skilled workers. The Philippines ranked
environment. Inadequate equipment 80th out of 113 countries, down 10
facilities and support infrastructure result spots from 2021, in the 2022 Global
in delays in the movement of goods and Talent Competitiveness Index of Institut
services. For example, an underdeveloped Européen d’Administration des Affaires
port and ancillary facilities in Matnog (INSEAD). This may undermine the
Port resulted in long queues of cargo country’s first-mover advantage in
trucks to transport goods. Poor road Information Technology-Business
conditions impede mobility. Another Process Outsourcing commercial
challenge in the business environment is services, and affect its ability to secure
the high cost of electricity in the region, high value-added niches in intermediate
which adversely affects the cost of other services.
utilities (See Chapter 13).
The institution of major Foreign Direct
High standards that must be met by Investment (FDI) reforms in 2022 is
exporters. The country’s ability to meet expected to significantly improve the
the standards in terms of consumer health investment environment, but fundamental
and safety, environmental protection, problems with red tape, especially at the
and overall product quality remains a level of LGUs; insufficient coordination
challenge, thus efforts to support local of investment promotion efforts; and
firms to venture into new export markets, scarcity of local suppliers that are able to
as well as the identification of suppliers to deliver the necessary quality and scale;
lead firms in Global Value Chains. and high costs of doing business due
to inadequate and inefficient provision
Lack of policies on timely interventions of key infrastructure (e.g., electricity,
and preventive measures for distressed transport networks, telecommunications)
firms. There are several reasons why a remain. These issues need to be addressed
firm can become financially distressed to raise the attractiveness of the Bicol
in a globally competitive market. These Region as an FDI destination relative to
include declining firm performance due other provinces with similar endowments
to a change in the competitive landscape and levels of development.
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 aims to increase activities of Bicol goods and services, and
the merchandise exports in the region, increase the number and investments of
increase the services exports, increase the registered stocks/ non-stock corporations.
number of marketing and promotional

Core Indicators
Table 11.1 presents the indicators and targets to promote trade and investments.
Table 11.1 Core Indicators to Promote Trade and Investments

INDICATOR
Number of Exporters PSA

Assisted 64 International
65 66 67 68 69 DTI
(2022) Merchandise
Trade Statistics
Marketing and promotional
PSA
activities (domestic trade
7 International
fairs conducted and 8 10 12 14 16 18 DTI
(2022) Merchandise
participated) of Bicol goods
Trade Statistics
and service increased
Number of Registered Stock

755 SEC Registered
/ Non-Stock Corporations 900 1,000 1,200 1,400 1,700 20,000 SEC
(2021) company
and Partnerships increased
Investment of Registered
PHP 929.35
Stock / Non-Stocks PHP 1.2 PHP 1.5 PHP 1.75 PHP 2.0 PHP 2.5 PHP 3.0 SEC Registered
million SEC
Corporations and billion billion billion billion billion billion company
(2021)
Partnerships increased
Strategy Framework
The strategy framework illustrates the and expansion of local firms in the export
areas of focus in trade and investments. and domestic markets to drive productive
There are two desired outcomes: (1) employment and increase incomes. On
the global position of Philippine export the other hand, FDI will be harnessed as
sectors is restored, sustained, and driver of export growth, a source of vital
strengthened; and (2) total investments are technology, and a critical enabler of the
increased and targeted to boost trade, skill country’s long-term climate action. Figure
upgrading, and sustainability. A renewed 11.1 presents the Strategy Framework to
focus will be given to the survival, growth, Promote Trade and Investments.
Figure 11.1 Strategy Framework to Promote Trade and Investments

Strategies
The following strategies will help achieve challenges presented above:
the desired outcomes and address the
Outcome 1: Global position of Philippine export

sectors restored, sustained, and strengthened
Identify regional champions sectoral backward and forward
on goods and services that will linkages. The shrinking export product
promote trade. The DTI will identify space will be transformed by identifying
sector champions as well as private and supporting local firms that have
partners to promote trade, goods, and triggered roles in linking upstream and
services in the region. downstream sectors in the economy.
The agri-processing sector, for instance,
Increase the competitiveness is populated by these types of firms.
of Bicol exports. Reforms will Similarly, the region will support the
be introduced to minimize the cost trade policy, particularly on the backward
of production and delivery of goods and forward linkages to the domestic
and services. Bicol exporters will be and international markets, stimulate the
encouraged to continue improving their production of higher value-added goods
products through product development and services, diversify products and
and packaging, and at the same time, markets, and provide opportunities for
efforts to ease the cost of doing business the growth of enterprises.
will continue.
The servicification of manufacturing
Intensify marketing and and agriculture has now been known to
promotion of Bicol goods and increase the competitiveness of exports.
services. The DTI will intensify the The Bicol RDC will support the expansion
promotion of high-quality Bicol goods of government agencies’ assistance and
and services to increase their presence work towards implementing these in the
in the international market. Promotion region, such as DTI’s Shared Services
campaign and marketing strategies will Facilities to include common business
include participation in domestic and services (e.g., marketing, digitization,
international trade fairs and sustained administrative and finance, promotions,
brand awareness campaign programs logistics, distribution, assistance in
geared towards building partnerships to consolidation), especially for MSMEs
feature Bicol products.   and cooperatives with potential export
transitions. On value chain interventions,
Moreover, the establishment of the focus will be given to organization
regional counterpart of DTI – Export development and brokering multisector
Marketing Bureau, that can cater to partnerships to capacitate smallholders
trade-related queries and the needs of and make value chains inclusive.
local exporting firms will be explored.
A more readily available unit/office will Resolve constraints to export
encourage businesses to interact with the growth and competitiveness.
government at a more local level. The Bicol RDC will pass resolutions to
support any anti-competitive policies,
Diversify exports by fortifying the including the exporter’s issue on the high

cost of doing business. The government Ensure an integrated, whole-
will ensure tight collaboration with LGUs, of-government commitment
with a special focus on the country’s Anti- to deliver broad access to the
Red Tape Authority (ARTA), specifically National Quality Infrastructure
on encouraging them to automate their (NQI). The Bicol RDC will support the
business permitting and licensing through passage of the NQI. This will complement
Electronic Business One-Stop Shops efforts to address institutional
(E-BOSS). fragmentation and the adoption of
harmonized quality infrastructure, thus
In addition, specific sectors will be ensuring the efficient flow of goods and
identified and prioritized at the regional services domestically and internationally
and local levels to address market (See Chapter 13).  
competition issues.
Outcome 2: Total investments increased and

targeted to boost trade, skills upgrading, and
sustainability
Strengthen the alignment of campaign to raise awareness of
national and local government the new business climate ushered
investment promotion strategies. in by the most recent structural
The government will establish the reforms. The government will support
Inter-Agency Investment Promotion the major FDI reforms in 2022. An all-
Coordination Committee under the out campaign is needed to bring across
Amended Foreign Investments Act (RA the message that a new FDI regime
11647) to integrate all the promotion exists, making the country truly open for
and facilitation efforts, encourage business. The government will likewise
foreign investments, and make the maximize the opportunities opened
new investment environment credibly up by the Corporate Recovery and Tax
improved for investors. The regional Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act,
counterpart of the said Committee will the amended Foreign Investment Act (RA
be created to develop interventions in the 11647), the Retail Trade Liberalization
regional context. The partnership between Act (RA 11595), and the Public Service
the LGUs, and the DILG’s Local Economic Act (RA 11659), through local and
Development and Investment Promotion international user-friendly information
Office (LEDIPO) will be strengthened dissemination programs and coordinated
to facilitate local economic investments. communications campaigns done in
The establishment of a comprehensive collaboration with the private sector and
local database of exporting firms will social partners.
be pursued. In identifying investment
priority areas, a firm-level approach Bolster investment promotion
will be emphasized to identify the needs and facilitation capability at
of exporters so that support programs the local level. The role of domestic
implemented by agencies such as the DTI investor firms, especially in rural areas,
will properly address these needs. in attracting foreign partnerships
for greenfield investments will be
Launch an aggressive Make strengthened. To support the thrust
it Happen in the Philippines towards regional development, there is a

need to reinvigorate investment promotion utility infrastructure projects such as
in the regions to bring investments to the source development.
countryside. The DTI’s initiatives, such as
the Investment Promotion Units Network Position the Bicol Region as a
will likewise be continued to increase prime destination for foreign
the competitiveness and efforts of the investments against climate
LGUs to attract more businesses as well change or environmental,
as to catalyze the stepping up of the less social, and governance (ESG)
developed areas. investments. The Bicol RDC
will support innovative schemes, such
Boost investments in as payment for environmental services
infrastructure to support trade. (PES), to support ESG investments in the
Investments to be prioritized will include region through collaboration among the
the establishment of new air and sea public sector, private sector, academe,
links, renewable energy development, and other social partners in building
better trade facilitation arrangements, transparent and credible Standards and
and agribusiness development. The PPP Certification schemes by stimulating
transaction arrangements will be explored dynamic institutional entrepreneurship in
in the areas of agriculture and fisheries this area.
sectors, as well as in developing water
Legislative Agenda
Table 11.2 presents the priority legislative agenda that will complement and support the
strategies to promote trade and investments.
Table 11.2 Legislative Agenda to Promote Trade and Investments
Urgent ratification of the Joining the RCEP will be beneficial to the Philippines to Congress
Regional Comprehensive enhance its market access and investments. As of 2023, only
Economic Partnership (RCEP) the Philippines has not yet deposited their Instrument of
Agreement   Ratification to the ASEAN Secretariat. In 2020, RCEP accounted
for 30 percent of the world’s population, 30 percent of GDP, 29
percent of trade, and 33 percent of global inward investments.
NQI Act The establishment of an NQI Act will help boost best DTI and DOST
practices and competitiveness. Compliance with standards
can be a source of advantage (especially in the context of
e-commerce). This will also facilitate secure market access
and utilization of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).  
Export and Industry Development Amendments to the law will provide targeted and strategic DTI
Act   policy, program, and project support, including non-fiscal
incentives, for the development of local industries towards
export competitiveness. Most of the provisions of the Export
Development Act have lapsed already.  
EO for a whole-of-government, The issuance of an EO will provide cross-cutting facilitation Office of the President
harmonized, and structured services for priority investments.  
Investment Facilitation
Mechanism, including
resolution of critical issues and
concerns for identified priority
investments.  

CHAPTER 12
Promote Financial
Inclusion and Improve
Public Financial
Management
An economy with strong public financial management systems provides a better
chance for public service improvement and effective financial efficiency, and fulfills
its obligation to its citizens. The promotion of financial inclusion contributes to
reducing inequality and improving the well-being of the poor and MSMEs. This
will also result in an increase in overall savings rates, loans, and accounts in formal
financial institutions.
This chapter provides strategies to strengthen financial inclusion, such as expanding

access to digital finance and payments; improving the LGU revenue generation,
budgeting processes, and expenditure management; and improving the overall
financial management of regional line agencies.  

Assessment
To ensure consumer protection,
Throughout the years, many programs education, and financial inclusion, the
and issuances have been created to BSP and the DepEd conducted various
promote financial inclusion in the region. financial literacy programs. The BSP
To ensure the availability of digital and DepEd created FinEd, a financial
payment options for the public from literacy program for schools, civil
government entities, the Office of the servants, and the armed forces. The
President of the Philippines issued EO BSP, in collaboration with the OWWA,
170, s. 2022, or the Adoption of Digital implemented the Pinansyal na Talino
Payments for Government Disbursements at Kaalaman for OFWs. The DepEd,
and Collections. It intends to promote along with Rizal Commercial Banking
financial inclusion and strengthen the Corporation, created the DiskarTech
efforts for more efficient service delivery, program to promote financial literacy to
and align with government efforts to educators and students.
pursue a digital economy. It is in line with
RA 8792 or the Electronic Commerce Act, The PhilSys aims to simplify public
and RA 11032 or the EODB-EGSD Act of and private transactions by creating a
2018. foundational identification system. The
Chapter 12 Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public Financial Management | 182
system will transform service delivery and and older, have a financial account with
access in the Philippines and in Bicol and banking/financial institutions or mobile-
at the same time, accelerate our transition money-service providers according to
to a digital economy. Currently, PhilSys BSP. Though financial literacy has been
has registered more than 3.48 million improving throughout the years, data
Bicolanos. PSA launched the PhilSys from BSP Financial Inclusion Survey
Birth Registration Assistance Project Report suggest that individuals from
(PBRAP) to support the registration socioeconomic classes D and E, or those
process for PhilSys. The PBRAP is aimed in the lower middle class and lower
at GIDAs, with the assistance of DILG class, respectively, as well as those with
and LGUs, to facilitate the issuance and lower educational attainment, remain
eliminate barriers to the registration the lowest in terms of access to basic
of birth certificates. The two programs financial services. Bicolanos in the lower-
will contribute to the region’s efforts in income class, as compared to those in
promoting financial inclusion, especially the higher-income classes, have a low
in the marginalized sector. proportion at 55.1 percent. The use of
financial platforms, as well as various
In 2022, the DBM Central Office released financial literacy programs, can aid the
Local Budget Circular No. 147 to reduction of poverty by providing people
support the enhanced Public Financial with easier means of payment, managing
Management Assessment Tool (ePFMAT). income, savings, and various investment
The ePFMAT is a digital and upgraded opportunities.
version of its predecessor which is a self-
assessment tool used by LGU to measure Increasing the capacity of LGUs to
their public financial performance. More improve locally sourced income
LGUs are yet to be capacitated by the and reduce National Tax Allotment
DBM to effectively use and implement (NTA) dependency rate. With the
ePFMAT.    implementation of EO 138, the LGUs’
budget will expand because of the increase
The NEDA annually conducts investment in the NTA. However, the sudden increase
programming activities and technical in the nationally sourced income may
budget review. The budget review aims to: cause the LGUs’ NTA dependency rate
(a) strengthen the linkage of the planning, to rise. Based on the Department of
investment programming, and budgeting Finance - Bureau of Local Government
processes; and (b) ensure that the PAPs are Finance (DOF-BLGF), the current
in the Regional Development Investment locally-sourced LGU income ratio to total
Program (RDIP) support the plan operating income is at 13 percent, which
objectives and sectoral priorities in the is close to the target of maintaining it at
P/RDP, and contribute to the attainment 15 percent. In the coming years, the ratio
of the SDG and regional priorities. The may potentially become lower due to
RLAs, SUCs, LGUs, Bicolano legislators, the enactment of EO 138. Maintaining
and CSOs are invited in the budget review the ratio of the locally-sourced income
to encourage active involvement in the versus the total operating income at 15
public budgeting systems. percent poses a challenge for the LGUs.
Despite the increase in budget, LGUs
Challenges are still encouraged to boost revenue-
generating capabilities to reduce NTA
Improving financial inclusion. In 2021, dependency and make LGUs autonomous
only 55.6 percent of adults, aged 15 years and self-sustaining. Aside from this,

Devolution Transition Plans (DTPs) of be in close coordination with the LGUs to
government agencies and LGUs have to determine priority projects that will suit
be fast-tracked. Government agencies will the needs of the localities.  
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 aims to: (a) projects in the region; (e) increase the
increase the proportion of adults with locally-sourced income of LGUs and
access to financial services; (b) improve reduce average NTA dependency rate; (f)
financial inclusivity of the lower income expand growth in social and economic
classes; (c) increase the number of service expenditures; and (g) strengthen
financial technology companies in the growth of locally-sourced LGU income.
region; (d) increase the number of PPP
Core Indicators
Table 12.1 presents the indicators and improve public financial management.
targets to promote financial inclusion and
Table 12.1 Core Indicators to Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public Financial
Management

INDICATOR
Proportion of adults (15

years and older) with an
account at a bank or other 55.6 BSP Demand
>=70.0 >=75.0 >=75.0 >=80.0 >=90.0 >=90.0 BSP
financial institutions or with (2021) Side Survey
a mobile-money-service
provider increased (%)
Proportion of E income class
with accounts to proportion 55.1 BSP Demand
>=60.0 >=65.0 >=65.0 >=70.0 >=75.0 >=75.0 BSP
of ABC income class with (2021) Side Survey
accounts increased (%)
No. of fintech companies 2
4 6 8 8 10 10 Fintech Alliance SEC
increased (2022)
No. of PPP projects in the 14
Increasing PPP Website PPP
region (2022)
Ratio of locally-sourced
LGU income to total
13% DOF-BLGF
current operating income 15% DOF-BLGF
(2022-S1) Reports
maintained above 15 percent
(%)
Year-on-Year growth in
social and economic service 43.5% DOF-BLGF
10% DOF-BLGF
expenditures maintained at (2022-S1) Reports
10 percent (%)
Growth of locally-sourced 16% DOF-BLGF
>11% DOF-BLGF
LGU income improved (%) (2022-S1) Reports
Strategy Framework
Figure 12.1 Strategy Framework to Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public
Financial Management  
Strategies
The chapter framework will serve as a outcome, cooperation between the
guide in promoting financial inclusion and private sector and the government will be
improving public financial management. strengthened.   
To support the attainment of the chapter
Outcome 1: Global position of Philippine export

sectors restored, sustained, and strengthened
The provision of greater access to financial teachers will be intensified through
services to the marginalized sector and the assistance of DepEd and BSP. This
lower income individuals can empower will pose awareness to the students in
them to work their way out of poverty. managing financial resources and will
Broader financial inclusion will help aid them in achieving financial stability.
individuals in meeting their basic needs, The LGUs and government agencies will
generating income, managing cash flow, promote programs specialized for the
and pursuing investment opportunities. lower socioeconomic classes to aid in
The idea of financial inclusion is supported poverty reduction and promote a better
by international organizations, not only understanding of managing finances.  
for individuals but for businesses as well.
MSMEs in emerging markets may be able The National Strategy for Financial
to broaden their growing ability with Inclusion (NSFI) 2022-2028 will be
better financial inclusion, thus becoming adopted by the region’s government
more competitive. agencies, as well as its priority initiatives.
The adoption of NSFI strategies in the
Promote financial literacy. Existing region ensures effective access to wide-
programs in promoting financial literacy ranging financial services in the region.
will be strengthened, including the The NSFI will serve as the guiding
development of additional platforms framework and facilitate a comprehensive
to accommodate remote learning. approach to identifying, implementing,
Financial literacy for students and and evaluating financial inclusion efforts.  

Improve access to financial systems in remote areas, making access
services. As a means of identification to basic needs more convenient and
and one of the requirements for opening accessible. The OFWs will benefit from
accounts in financial institutions, the PSA improved access to financial services,
will accelerate the registration and release as remittances to their families can be
of PhilSys cards to Bicolanos. The Free accessed more easily and with fewer
Wi-Fi for All Program of DICT will be surcharges. Capacities of LGUs will be
implemented to aid in providing internet strengthened in order to access various
services to remote areas with difficulties climate and risk finance mechanisms
in connecting online. The program will including the People’s Survival Fund, and
strengthen online banking and payment Green Climate Fund, among others.  
Outcome 2: Financial innovation accelerated

and strengthened
As Bicolanos slowly recovered from technologies by providing support to
the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, technology-based MSMEs. In 2022, BSP
several financial innovations were and DILG introduced the Paleng-QR Ph
introduced to prioritize convenience Plus program to expand digital payment
and reduce contact. These will be further acceptance in every city and municipality
promoted to ensure that these innovations in the country.  
are accessible and consistent in terms of
service delivery. Financial innovations, Adopt a regulatory sandbox
in order to promote financial inclusion, approach for financial technology
will be fully communicated to their target innovators. Financial technology or
audience and consumers. fintech, refers to new technology for
delivering financing services and is
Promote and provide funding regulated by both the BSP and the SEC.
for innovation and start-ups. To While both agencies are responsible
adapt to the new normal caused by the for shaping the future of Philippine
COVID-19 pandemic, the digitalization fintech industry, their roles differ. The
of financing methods, services, and SEC is responsible for protecting public
e-commerce will be accelerated. These investment, while the BSP has adopted
financial innovations in digital methods a test-and-learn sandbox approach to
have been proven to be safer, as it limits create innovation and ideas. In line with
physical contact, and provide more this, the BSP will test and offer innovation
convenience to users. The region will in fintech in controlled environments,
capitalize on the current technological which may eventually be useful in local
trend by funding innovation and the financing systems. The BSP will seek to
start-up of businesses to adopt digital and create responsible innovation that will
electronic business methods. promote efficiency in financial systems
and expand financial inclusion.  
Several programs will be adopted in the
region to support the strengthening and Encourage efficiency and
expansion of innovation in financial innovation in small and medium
services. The DOST created the Start- enterprise financing, microfinance,
up Development Program and Venture and microinsurance. Creating an
Financing Program, which will accelerate enabling environment to ensure efficiency
the commercialization of innovative in financing MSMEs will be encouraged
in the region. In line with the EODB- providing them with relevant programs
EGSD Act of 2018, concerned government in financing. The implementation of
agencies with MSME financing will the National Innovation Act will be
strengthen efficiency and innovation supported, including the establishment of
through the use of electronic platforms in mechanisms to access various financing
the submission of necessary requirements options, including grants that encourage
and applications. The Philippine Guarantee innovation for MSMEs. (See Chapters 9
Corporation (PHILGUARANTEE) will and 10).
assist the MSMEs through its MSME
Credit Guarantee Program and facilities Mainstream sustainable finance. In
by providing a first-loss guarantee. Aside creating long-term investments, programs,
from MSMEs, PHILGUARANTEE’s and economic activities, all relevant
various programs will aid electric government agencies will consider the
cooperatives, individuals looking for environmental, social, and governance
housing loans, as well as the agricultural impacts to ensure sustainability.
sector. Another program is the Livelihood Government agencies will promote the
Seeding Program – Negosyo Serbisyo values of alternative energy and green
Barangay of the DTI, which will widen the projects by setting an example and creating
reach of business development assistance sustainable programs within their offices.
in cooperation with LGUs. In capacitating With the rising energy problems and
barangay officials, the DTI can provide prices in the region, personal alternative
basic advisory and information energy projects within households will be
services to MSMEs in its locality, thus promoted (See Chapter 11).
Outcome 3: An efficient and inclusive budget

system implemented
An inclusive budget system ensures enhanced with sustainable funding
that an organization or agency removes sources. The House Bill No. 6527, or the
barriers to allow other sectors, such as “PPP Act,” has recently been approved by
the private sector, CSOs, target groups, the House of Representatives for its third
and other marginalized groups, to and final reading in December 2022. It
participate in the budgeting process. The will provide the enabling environment
inclusivity, automation, rightsizing, and that will foster the growth of PPP for
feedback loops in the budget systems will infrastructure and development projects.
contribute to the efficiency, effectiveness, Government agencies will promote the
and timeliness of the programs, activities, implementation of the said policy once
and projects. it has been passed into law to increase
the participation of the private sector in
Increase participation of government projects and PPP activities.  
the private sector in the
procurement of government Ensure timely completion of
projects. Through the PPP, the private awards and projects. In preparation
sector can help address the limited funding for the full implementation of the
requirements for government projects. Modernized Philippine Government
Such partnerships will be promoted Electronic Procurement System
and strengthened as infrastructure (mPhilGEPS), government agencies,
development and service delivery are specifically their Bids and Awards

Committee (BAC) secretariats, BAC Improve efficiency of
chairperson/members, and technical bureaucracy. Improvement of
working groups, will undergo training bureaucratic efficiency will be attained
from the Philippine Government by streamlining government processes,
Electronic Procurement System on the pursuing digitization, enhancing
new features and functionalities for feedback loops, and pursuing rightsizing
procurement. The mPhilGEPS intends in government agencies. The region
to provide and implement a total will support the passage of the National
e-government procurement solution Government Right-Sizing Act, which will
and achieve transparency in all stages of be based on agency mandates, functions,
government procurement.   and processes. EODB-EGSD will
continue to be promoted to attain better
The DBM will continue to push for the public service delivery and digitization.
passage of the Budget Modernization Bill At the same time, promoting the
to institutionalize the Cash Budgeting adoption of the ISO 9001:2000 Quality
System. Public financial management Management System among government
reforms will aid in the simplification, agencies will standardize and streamline
improvement, and harmonization of government processes. Government
financial management processes and agencies accredited with ISO 9001:2001
information systems in the public will continuously improve their internal
sector. The bill intends to strengthen processes and enroll in new processes
accountability by improving the as well during their re-accreditation
government’s ability to deliver direct, programs (See Chapter 15).
immediate, and substantial service to the
public.  
Outcome 4: Local government finance

strengthened
The strengthening of local government strengthen the ability of LGUs to generate
finance is vital for LGUs to be revenues, the region will support the
autonomous and self-supporting. The Real Property Valuation and Assessment
capacity of LGUs to raise revenues will Reform Bill, which aims to appraise all
aid them in implementing the devolved real property based on prevailing market
functions as provided under EO 138, values in the location of the real property,
which implements the Mandanas-Garcia in conformity with specified standards.
Supreme Court ruling. It will also lessen If passed into law, LGUs will review and
the LGU dependency on the NTA. update old revenue codes every five years
LGUs that can manage their finances as mandated by the Local Government
effectively can easily overcome the Code (LGC) of 1991. Further, the DILG
emerging issues and challenges in their and DOF released JMC 2019-01 to guide
respective localities, as well as provide the LGUs in reviewing and adjusting
timely, effective, and unhampered service regulatory fees in their respective localities.
delivery to the public. LGU’s best practices for raising revenues
will be replicated by peer-mentoring and
Strengthen the capacity of LGUs sharing with the assistance of the BLGF.
to raise more revenues and
implement devolved functions. To The concerned government agencies and
LGUs will complete their respective DTP This means that poor and wealthy LGUs
as required under EO 138. The facilitation will receive the same 25 percent of the
and overall oversight of the endeavor NTA. As such, the region will support
are led by the Regional Committee initiatives that will promote an equitable
on Devolution, chaired by DBM and and efficient NTA including the revision
co-chaired by DILG. The completion of computation of the NTA per LGU to
of DTPs will ensure the harmonious make an incentive-based distribution
transition of the devolved functions from depending on the performance of LGUs
the government agencies to the LGUs. in relation to financial capacity and
As such, the DTPs will serve as the guide income-generating capabilities. If the
for LGUs to fully assume and effectively incentive-based distribution becomes
implement the devolved roles and enacted, our LGUs will enhance their
responsibilities. performance based on the given criteria
to gain a higher distribution of the NTA
Pursue an equitable and efficient and at the same time increase their self-
NTA. The current distribution of the sustaining capacity through localized
increased NTA to be received by LGUs income-generating activities. The better-
can result to gaps between its needs performing LGUs will be rewarded with
and capacities. The computation for funds and will share their best practices
the distribution of NTA is the same with the lower-performing LGUs for
regardless of LGU income classification. improvement.
Legislative Agenda
To achieve the chapter outcome, the government will pursue legislation outlined in
Table 12.2.  
Table 12.2 Legislative Agenda to Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public
Financial Management   Promote Trade and Investments

Digital Payments Act   The enactment of the act will facilitate transactions, BSP
arrangements, and exchange of goods and services
by promoting the universal use of digital payments in
government financial transactions and the general public.  
Capital Markets Development Act   The act will expand the capital market by developing a robust SEC
institutional investor base, strengthening the regulatory
environment, and promoting financial literacy.  
Budget Modernization Bill The budget modernization bill seeks to institutionalize the DBM
cash-based budgeting system to strengthen fiscal discipline in
the allocation and use of budget resources.  
Military and Uniformed Personnel The bill aims to create a mandatory pension system for MUP DBM, Bureau of
(MUP) Reform Bill pension fund and increase the compulsory retirement age of Treasury
MUPs to control the pension cost and make financial systems
more stable.  
Local Government Finance Real Property Valuation and Assessment Bill    DOF-BLGF, DBM
• To assess the value of real properties in specific

localities in accordance with internationally accepted
valuation standards.  

Amendment of the NTA Distribution Formula  
• To revisit the computation for NTA distribution for LGUs

based on financial capacity and income-generating
ability.  
LGU Income Classification Bill  
• Seeks to authorize the Secretary of Finance to set

the income ranges and undertake the regular income
reclassification of all provinces, cities, and municipalities
once every three fiscal years.  
LGU Property Insurance   
• Proposes to mandate all provinces, cities, and

municipalities to ensure all government properties
with the Government Insurance Fund. The measure will
protect LGUs’ fiscal position against significant losses
due to property damages.  
CHAPTER 13
Expand and Upgrade

Infrastructure
Infrastructure is the backbone of regional development as it supports a locality’s
sustainable economic and social development. In this chapter, strategies were
formulated to attain the sector outcome of delivering sustainable, resilient,
integrated, and modernized infrastructure facilities and services with focus on
four subsector outcomes on connectivity, water resources, energy, and social
infrastructure. To realize the sector outcome, investments in infrastructure projects
need to be increased.

Assessment
Physical Connectivity
Few new roads and bridges were more than 550,000 in 2022. The increase
constructed. From 2017 to 2021, 67.72 in the volume of vehicles along major
lane km new roads were constructed, thoroughfares resulted in heavy traffic and
which is less than half of the planned economic loss due to delays in mobility.
target of 145.13 lane km. There were 39
bridges constructed along primary roads, Flights and passenger movements in
exceeding the plan target of 22 bridges. airports were low. The region has four
The low accomplishment on the operational airports with commercial
construction of new roads is attributed to operations: the Bicol International
the following: (a) low approved Airport (BIA) in Daraga, Albay, Naga
budget allocations per DPWH; (b) the Airport in Camarines Sur, Virac Airport
COVID-19 pandemic; and (c) inclement in Catanduanes, and Masbate Airport in
weather conditions which slowed down Masbate.
the construction of major roads. These
affected the physical connectivity on The number of round-trip flights
land transportation in the entire region, decreased from 5,900 in 2019 to close
reducing the travel time of commuters, to 3,500 in 2021. Air passenger traffic
goods, and services. (domestic) consequently reduced
from more than 915,000 in 2019 to
The volume of traffic along national close to 718,000 in 2022. Lesser flights
roads increased. The volume of motor and passengers were noted due to the
vehicles plying the main highways in the following reasons: (a) use of smaller
Bicol Region increased, amid the travel aircraft (propeller-type planes) due to
restrictions imposed during the pandemic shorter runways; (b) absence or lack of
years 2020-2022. The number of motor vital air navigational equipment; and (c)
vehicles registered (new and renewal) expensive airfares.
increased from about 455,000 in 2020 to
Chapter 13 Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure | 194

Fast deterioration of major roads wooden poles along major thoroughfares
due to overloaded cargo trucks. The pose hazards to motor vehicles and
dependence on road-based transportation pedestrians.
for the movement of goods and services
over land, overloading of cargo trucks, Financial constraints on the part of
weak enforcement of laws on overloaded the electric cooperatives hindered the
trucks, and insufficient weighbridges immediate relocation of electric posts
along the AH26 resulted in the fast affected by the widening projects of
deterioration the national and local roads. national roads. The funding for the
relocation of electric posts was not
Commuter rail services are limited. The released in full to electric cooperatives by
37-kilometer Naga-Sipocot rail service DPWH, wherein only half was the initial
along the existing PNR railway track from release, and the other half was upon
Manila to Legazpi City is the only railway completion.
section being used for commuter service.
Two daily round trips are provided from Seaports and ancillary facilities
Naga to Sipocot with a fare ranging from remain poor and inadequate. There are
PHP12 to PHP32 per trip depending on long queues of cargo trucks and other
the distance traveled. vehicles in some seaport areas due to
inadequate equipment, facilities, and
Weak coordination between agencies support infrastructures, especially during
and utility companies on road works inclement weather conditions. Matnog
and on the repair/ construction of port require immediate attention as the
utilities. Road widening activities along long queue of vehicles stretch for several
national roads in the Bicol Region are not kilometers along the highway during gail
properly coordinated with the concerned warnings and other weather disturbances.
utility providers, resulting in traffic jams, There are 12 seaports in the region that
road accidents, prolonged or repeated have RORO facilities namely: Tabaco,
closure of roads, and higher construction Pasacao, Pioduran, Legazpi, Bulan,
costs. The presence of overhead electric Matnog, Virac, San Andres, San Pascual,
and telecommunications cables that were Claveria, Aroroy, and San Jacinto ports.
no longer in use and leaning and rotting
Digital Connectivity
Cellular sites in the region decreased. (Mbps), exceeding the target of 13 Mbps.
The decrease in the number of cellular
sites was due to the following: (a) TC Nina Cyber Security Plan implemented. The
that destroyed communication facilities; activities conducted on cybersecurity
and (b) delay in the implementation in the region are the following: (a)
of the National Broadband Network cybersecurity caravans/events, including
Project. The boosted network training of persons; (b) training on Data
infrastructure serves as an alternate Privacy; (c) seminars on Digital Parenting;
route for internet traffic to go through and (d) provision of technical assistance
when there is an outage or failure on on cybersecurity. Although there were no
the primary route of the subsea cables. reported cybersecurity breaches in the
In 2021, the average broadband speed region, the DICT continually undertake
of the internet in the Bicol Region was cybersecurity measures to prevent a
recorded at 21.45 megabits per second breach.

Water Resources
Bicol Region is ranked fourth with the planning and policy-making interventions
least water resource potential among
administrative regions. The region’s Moreover, the water agencies’ inadequate
water resources potential, which accounts financial and technical capacities in
for only 2.84 percent of the country’s planning and implementing water-
potential, totals 4,145 million cubic related infrastructure projects are
meters (MCM) per year.42 Of this total, worsened by the lack of an updated and
about 3,060 MCM/year is the surface comprehensive inventory of all water-
water potential while 1,085 MCM/year is related infrastructure. This hinders the
the groundwater potential. facilitation of a harmonized rehabilitation
and maintenance program, leading to
The water balance in the province island the deterioration of many water-related
of Masbate will be tight.43 The surface infrastructure facilities. There were
water balance in the Donsol area is several projects under the Bicol River
declining, and the groundwater balance Basin Master were not implemented due
in the northern part of the region is to the lack of funds. Moreover, a flood
also declining particularly in the Naga control master plan for BRB has not been
City area.44 Legazpi City and the island formulated.
province of Masbate are also predicted to
have a negative groundwater balance in the Universal access to safe, affordable, and
future. The decreasing water balance in the sustainable water supply and sanitation
region will require the need to address the services has yet to be achieved. DOH
competing water users and the changing data showed that a total of 1,058,211
priorities of water infrastructure. It is households have access to basic water
imperative because of the increased water supply under Levels I, II, and III water
demand and competition among water systems, or about 81.2 percent of the
users because of the growing population, projected number of households in the
industrialization, urbanization, and region.
economic development.
On sanitation, 80.9 percent of Filipino
The coordination and capacities of families have a “basic sanitation service
water resources agencies are poor. level” (i.e., used an improved sanitation
Water planning and financing priorities facility not shared with another
are often affected by decisions made household), 8.5 percent of households
on political jurisdictions instead of in the Bicol Region used an improved
hydrologic boundaries. For example, the sanitation facility shared with two or
implementations of programs/projects/ more households, and 2.5 percent had an
activities for the Bicol River Basin (BRB) “unimproved service level” of households
are influenced by political dynamics at that used pit latrines without a slab or
the local level. The lack of influence of platform, hanging latrines or bucket
and coordination among water resources- latrines.
related agencies results in unintegrated
42 Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan. Volume 2: Bicol Region Water Supply and Sanitation Databook and Regional
Roadmap. Available URL: Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan - National Economic and Development Authority (neda.
gov.ph). 2019
43 Progress Report on the Data Collection Survey for the National Water Resources Development and Management in the Republic of
the Philippines. December 2022
44 Ibid.

The Bicol Region remains one of the settlers have no access to sanitation
regions with the highest number of facilities.45 Data from the Annual Poverty
households practicing open defecation. Indicator Survey showed that the region’s
There is slow progress to eliminate open open defecation rate is 8.1 percent in
defecation in the region with households 202246 from 9.8 percent in 2017, which is
practicing open defecation prevalent in more than thrice the national percentage.
rural areas along the coastlines where
Table 13.1 Level and Status of Sanitation in the Bicol Region, CY 2022
LEVEL OF SANITATION FACILITIES LEVEL OF SERVICE (IN %)

Basic 80.9
Limited 8.5
Unimproved 2.5
Open Defecation 8.1
Source: DOH
There are two existing septage treatment in 2017 or an increase of only 2.51 percent
plants (STPs) in the region, only in Naga (Table 13.2). Camarines Sur, which is
City and Legazpi City. the region’s largest province, has 123,700
has. of irrigable area of which 78,792
Irrigation development remains low. As has. or 63.70 percent were developed
of December 2022, the total service area is while Catanduanes, which is the smallest
145,681 has. of the 239,660 has. Irrigable province, has 3,770 has. of irrigable areas
areas. The irrigation development in the of which 3,341 has. or 88.62 percent were
Bicol Region over the Plan period was developed. The expansion of irrigation
recorded at 60.79 percent of the total systems and appurtenant drainage
irrigable area in 2022 from 58.27 percent facilities remains marginal.
Table 13.2. Status of Irrigation Development in the Bicol Region, 2017 to 2022
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

IRRIGABLE TOTAL REMAINING TOTAL REMAINING TOTAL REMAINING TOTAL REMAINING TOTAL REMAINING TOTAL REMAINING
PROVINCE
AREAS IRRIGATION AREA TO BE IRRIGATION AREA TO BE IRRIGATION AREA TO BE IRRIGATION AREA TO BE IRRIGATION AREA TO BE IRRIGATION AREA TO BE
SYSTEMS DEVELOPED SYSTEMS DEVELOPED SYSTEMS DEVELOPED SYSTEMS DEVELOPED SYSTEMS DEVELOPED SYSTEMS DEVELOPED
Albay 54,620 30,532 24,088 31,538 23,082 31,632 22,988 31,749 22,871 31,889 22,731 31,984 22,636
Camarines 22,590 8,995 13,595 9,596 12,994 9,632 12,958 9,788 12,802 9,863 12,727 9,913 12,677
Norte
Camarines 123,700 76,878 46,822 77,283 46,417 77,579 46,121 77,635 46,065 78,130 45,570 78,792 44,908
Sur
Catanduanes 3,770 3,201 569 3,201 569 3,211 559 3,269 501 3,312 458 3,341 429
Masbate 19,880 6,656 13,224 6,795 13,085 6,848 13,032 6,863 13,017 7,042 12,838 7,185 12,695
Sorsogon 15,100 13,392 1,708 14,102 998 14,102 998 14,159 941 14,277 823 14,466 634
TOTAL 239,660 139,654 100,006 142,515 97,145 143,004 96,656 143,463 96,197 144,513 95,147 145,681 93,979
Source: NIA
45 Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan. Volume 2: Bicol Region Water Supply and Sanitation Databook and Regional
Roadmap. Available URL: Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan - National Economic and Development Authority (neda.
gov.ph). 2019
46 2022 Annual Poverty Indicator Survey. Available URL: https://psa.gov.ph/income-expenditure/apis/node/176566. Accessed on 23
March 2023

The performance of irrigation systems Flood control measures and drainage
is low due to watershed degradation facilities were constructed and improved
resulting in increased run-off and silts to protect lives and properties from
compounded by extreme climate-related floods. In 2021, a total of 187 flood
events that affected its operations. Illegal control projects were implemented by
offtakes at random places and leakages the Department of Public Works and
along canal systems, exacerbated by Highways (DPWH). About, 68,351 lineal
damage during the typhoon season, meters of flood control structures were
account for poor efficiency due to water constructed, 7,362 lineal meters below the
losses. target of 75,713 lineal meters.
Bicol Region is vulnerable to water- The damage brought by typhoon-induced

related hazards. Approximately 1,405.72 rainfall and subsequent flooding as well
sq. km, mostly found within the Bicol as inundation due to tsunamis in coastal
River Basin area, are categorized as very areas are very high. The effect of increasing
highly susceptible to flooding. It is also intensity, frequency, and duration of
where most of the agricultural areas are extreme weather events due to climate
found primarily planted to palay. On the change on the water cycles will continue
other hand, around 315 sq. km. of the to strain the built infrastructures. These
region’s coastal area, mostly located along infrastructures must be designed and built
the eastern seaboard, is prone to tsunami considering the effects of these hazards
with inundation depths of five meters and and climate change. (See Chapters 5 and
above. 16).
Energy
The COVID-19 pandemic aggravated the entry of possible investors to the
the delays in the commercial operation region.
and timely completion of power projects
by restricting the mobility of people, The status of energization in the Bicol
constraining the delivery and transit of region increased from 81.6 percent in
equipment and materials, and limiting 2021 to 82.26 percent in 2022. Out of
the entry of foreign technical experts. 8,534 sitios in the Bicol, a total of 7,020
The full implementation of the Total sitios were energized in 2022. The First
Electrification Program (TEP) was also Catanduanes Electric Cooperative, Inc.,
hampered by the pandemic because recorded the highest energization rate
of the limited mobility of distribution in 2022 at 97 percent while the Ticao
utilities, which was due to government- Island Electric Cooperative, Inc. has
imposed travel restrictions and changes/ the lowest sitio energization rate of
adjustments in the prioritization of fund 52 percent.
allocation.
Too high systems loss of electric
Despite having two major geothermal cooperatives. The average systems loss
power plants such as the Bacon-Manito of electric cooperatives in the region is
and Tiwi Geothermal Power Plants, the 16.03 percent as of February 2023, which
Bicol Region still experiences power is above the desired systems loss of nine
outages. This is aggravated by high power percent. In 2022, the Albay Electric
rates as compared with the other regions Cooperative (ALECO) registered the
in the Luzon grid, thereby discouraging highest systems loss of 28 percent while

the Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative and equipment.
(CANORECO) had the lowest systems
loss of 6.37 percent. The targeted one- Many electric cooperatives (ECs) are
digit systems loss was not achieved ailing financially. The failure to attract
in the following electric cooperatives: more investments that will increase
Camarines Sur Electric Cooperatives 2 electricity demand contributed to the
and 4, Sorsogon Electric Cooperatives 1 low financial viability of the ECs. Also,
and 2, and Masbate Electric Cooperative, the high systems loss of most ECs in the
attributed to the high incidence of region contributed to financial losses and
electricity pilferage through illegal poor services.
connections and aging distribution lines
Social Infrastructure  
Education Health
The targeted number of school From 2020 onwards, managing the

buildings was not achieved. The total COVID-19 risks has been a great
number of elementary and junior high challenge. The region lacks hospital beds,
school buildings (public and private) intensive care units, isolation rooms, and
constructed in the plan period is less than other healthcare facilities. Funds for the
the targeted number of schools in the construction of these facilities are needed
plan period from 2017-2021. This would to cater to COVID-19 cases.
likely lead to a shortage of classrooms,
especially in the remote areas of the Under the Health Facilities Enhancement
region. The targeted number of school Fund (HFEP), 165 RHUs were allocated
buildings was not achieved due to the funding from 2016-2021. However, there
following: (a) lack of funding and budget were no new barangay health stations
allocations for projects; (b) restrictions (BHS) constructed in 2021 because BHS
due to the COVID-19 pandemic (travel was not included in the GAA for funding.  
restrictions, manpower availability due to
50 percent workforce arrangement on site, Housing
and delayed deliveries of construction
materials); and (c) poor participation of On the housing facilities, the number
concerned entities in virtual meetings of socialized housing units constructed
resulting in unsubstantial outputs and exceeded the plan target in 2021. The
delays in the implementation of PAPs. member shelter agencies of the DHSUD
delivered a total of 18,341 units of housing
Further, the high cost of repair and assistance through the implementation of
maintenance of classrooms damaged by four major programs: (a) Resettlement
TCs QRU that hit the region in November Program; (b) Community Mortgage
2020, and the use of public schools as Program; (c) Direct Housing Provision;
temporary shelters or evacuation centers and d) Indirect Housing Provision.
for those affected by disasters posed
challenges in the provision of adequate For the Resettlement Program, the
school facilities to the students. National Housing Authority (NHA)

has completed 567 units against its The Bicol Region has 12 SLFs operated by
target of 1,373 units representing 41.30 LGUs, to wit: Albay (4 SLFs); Camarines
percent accomplishment in 2021. For the Sur (5 SLFs); Masbate (2 SLFs) and
Community Mortgage Program, a total Sorsogon (1 SLF). On the operation of
of 200 household borrowers benefited the MRF, per DENR-EMB Region 5, 1,103
from this project provided by SHFC. For barangays are covered by MRFs or 31.78
the Direct Housing Provision, the NHA percent out of the 3,471 total number of
provided 200 units of permanent housing barangays in the region.
to victims of calamity; and helped 14,614
individuals through the Emergency Hospital wastes also increase in the region,
Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). there are insufficient disposal facilities for
For the Indirect Housing Provision, the toxic, infectious, and hazardous medical
HDMF disposed of 475 units of the Fund’s waste in the region. Most of the hospital
acquired assets (See Chapter 4.3). waste in the region is transported or
hauled to the neighboring regions for
The affordability and access to treatment and disposal.
government housing programs by the
poor remain a major challenge. Many poor The SWM facilities remain inadequate
HHs live in housing units with roofs and to cope with the increasing rate of waste
walls made of light or salvaged materials generation particularly in urban areas.
and without electricity. The demand for Most of the municipalities in the region are
socialized housing units increases due to still unserved by common waste facilities
the increase in the population. such as MRFs and SLFs. The provision of
solid waste facilities is hampered by the
Solid Waste Management following challenges: (a) low willingness
of LGUs to pay SWM services; (b) low
The total solid waste generated in the awareness of waste recycling, recovery,
Bicol Region has been increasing from and composting technologies; (c) no
2017-2021 due to increasing population clear policy on clustering of LGUs on
and consumption, thus exacerbating the SWM services; and (d) lack of technical
problems of inefficient garbage collection and financial capabilities of LGUs in
and inadequate disposal facilities.   implementing solid waste management
projects.
Challenges
Connectivity
The challenges of the transportation (d) increasing redundancy to reduce the
sector are: (a) enhancing inter-modal vulnerability of growth areas and the
transport connectivity, (b) strengthening GIDAs, and (e) adopting the national
the transport linkage among urban standards for roads.
centers, agricultural and industrial zones,
tourism hubs, and other growth areas to For digital connectivity, the challenges
improve the movement of people, goods, are: (a) increasing the number of LGUs
and services, (c) improving accessibility with internet access; (b) increasing the
of transportation facilities and services to internet broadband speed regionwide;
PWDs, as well as children and the elderly and c) protecting information technology
of transportation facilities and services, systems from malicious attacks.

Water Resources
Among the critical challenges to related infrastructures; (4) strengthening
effectively manage the region’s water the institutional structure of the water
resources are as follows: (1) ensuring resources sector; and (5) generating water-
water security; (2) addressing sanitation related data, particularly on groundwater.
gaps; (3) increasing the resiliency of water-
Energy
For energy, the challenges are: (a) other sources of energy; (b) ensuring
encouraging investors in renewable energy security; and (c) attaining full
energy (RE) because of other cheaper electrification all sitios and households.
energy development costs compared to
Social Infrastructure
The challenges under the social facilities; and (b) strengthening readiness
infrastructure are: (a) providing sufficient for public health emergencies like
and resilient school, health, and housing epidemiology and disease surveillance.  
facilities, and solid waste management
Targets
Connectivity
Under the physical connectivity the increased (cumulative); and (g) cargo
targets are: (a) new roads constructed to shipped via air increased (international
close the gaps in the national road network and domestic) (MT, cumulative).
(lane kms.); b) length of paved national
roads (km.), (c) number of bridges along Under digital connectivity, the targets are:
primary roads made resilient; (d) number (a) average broadband speed increased
of new constructed permanent bridges (Mbps); (b) proportion of households
along national roads; (e) increase the with an internet connection to the total
volume of air passenger and cargo traffic; number of HH (%, cumulative); and (c)
(f) number of passengers by sea transport average download speed (Mbps).
Water Resources
The proposed regional core indicators of total potential irrigable area increased
underwater resources are: (1) safe water (%, cumulative); (5) the number of HHs
supply coverage (% of families); (2) access safe from 25-year flood or flood depth of
to basic sanitation (% of families); (3) 20 cm for < 12 hours; and (6) number of
open defecation (% of families); (4) the households safe from two and four-meter
ratio of the actual irrigated area to the storm surge.
Energy  
The proposed regional core indicators of renewable energy (RE) in optimal
are: (a) electricity consumption per generation mix increased (%); and (c)
capita increased (kwh/ person); (b) share renewable energy installed capacity (MW).

Social Infrastructure
Education are as follows: (a) number of socialized

housing units produced/taken out (lot
The proposed regional core indicators are: only); (b) number of socialized housing
(a) classroom-to-pupil ratio (Primary/ units produced/taken out (house only);
Junior High School/Senior HS); and (b) and (c) number of socialized housing
water and sanitation (WatSan) facility-to- units produced/taken out (house and lot
pupil ratio. package).
Health Solid Waste Management
The proposed regional core indicators are The proposed regional core indicators
as follows: (a) number of BHS constructed; are as follows: (a) number of LGUs
(b) number of RHU constructed; and (c) with operational MRF; (b) number of
RHUs to population ratio. LGUs with approved SWM Plan; and (c)
proportion of cities/municipalities served
Housing by SLFs.
The proposed regional core indicators
Core Indicators
Table 13.3 presents the indicators and targets to expand and upgrade infrastructure.
Table 13.3 Core Indicators to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

INDICATOR
New roads constructed
to close the gaps in the 20.25
20.83 50.07 42.57 46.83 51.52 56.67 DPWH Report DPWH
national road network (lkm (2022)
kms.)
Length of Paved National 0.96
0.21 8.30 Increasing DPWH Report DPWH
Roads (km.) (2022)
The number of bridges
29
along primary roads made 32 110 Increasing DPWH Report DPWH
(2022)
resilient
Number of newly
3
constructed permanent 5 20 Increasing DPWH Report DPWH
(2022)
bridges along national roads
Passenger Transported via 151,924
756,677 814,257 842,415 875,597 905,430 936,100 CAAP Report CAAP
air increased (cumulative) (2021)
Cargo shipped via air
432,908
(international and domestic) 2,726,153 2,661,153 2,661,420 2,412,266 2,262,482 2,137,855 CAAP Report CAAP
(2022)
(MT)

INDICATOR
Average broadband speed 21.45
Increasing DICT Report DICT
increased (Mbps) (2021)
Water security, the ecological integrity of water systems and resiliency to water hazards
Safe water supply 81.2 DOH/WDs DOH / WDs /
Increasing
coverage (% of families) (2020) Report LGUs
Access to basic sanitation 80.4 DOH/WDs DOH / WDs /
Increasing
(% of families) (2020) Report LGUs
Open defecation reduced 8.4 DOH/WDs DOH / WDs /
Decreasing
(% of families) (2020) Report LGUs
Ratio of the actual irrigated
area to the total potential 60.786
60.934 Increasing NIA Report NIA
irrigable area increased (2022)
(% cumulative)
Affordable, accessible, reliable and clean energy provided
Electricity consumption
1,451.10
per capita increased (kWh/ 1,736.58 1,834.29 1,937.59 2,036.51 2,143.98 2,253.05 DOE Report DOE
(2021)
person)
Share of renewable energy
22.40
(RE) in optimal generation 24 26 28 30 32 33 DOE Report DOE
(2021)
mix increased (%)
Renewable energy installed 5,471
10,500 13,200 15,700 18,400 21,600 23,900 DOE Report DOE
capacity (MW) (2022)
Solid Waste Management
No. of Operational MRF 842
25 25 25 25 25 25 EMB Report EMB
(2021)
No. of approved SWM 39
27 27 Increasing EMB Report EMB
(2022)
Proportion of Cities / 7
7 7 5 5 5 5 EMB Report EMB
Municipalities served by SLFs (2022)
Strategy Framework
This chapter is geared toward the delivery specific strategies corresponding to each of
of sustainable, resilient, integrated, the infrastructure subsectors: connectivity
and modern infrastructure systems. It (physical and digital), water resources,
comprises cross-cutting strategies and energy, and social infrastructure.

Figure 13.1 Strategy Framework to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure
Strategies
General Strategy
Embed resilient and innovative resiliency and sustainability in the current
solutions in the design of infrastructure planning is imperative to
infrastructure facilities. The Bicol reduce additional costs in infrastructure
Region is highly vulnerable to climate facilities, thereby maximizing the lifespan
change and natural disasters like typhoons of infrastructure facilities.
and volcanic eruptions. Mainstreaming

Specific Strategies
Outcome 1: Seamless and inclusive
connectivity achieved
Increase government and including road traffic disruptions
private sector spending on road, and noise and air pollution during
water, air, and rail transport to construction activities. Tunneling will
achieve seamless and inclusive also shorten the period of construction
connectivity. Agencies and LGUs will (See Chapter 10).
prepare more project proposals for local,
foreign, and PPP financing. The private Improve inter- and intra-regional
sector will be encouraged to invest in connectivity by enhancing
transport projects in the region through quality transport infrastructure
the provision of technical assistance and to boost trade, industry, and
other requirements for PPP financing. tourism. Seaports and airports will be
upgraded to international standards. The
Move people, goods, and RORO ports with passenger terminal
information through modernized buildings will be provided in Tabaco
and expanded transport and City, Pioduran, Legazpi City and
digital infrastructure. The DICT, Pantao (Albay); San Andres and Virac
DOTr, and DPWH will use appropriate (Catanduanes); Matnog, Bulan, Castilla
technologies in the modernization of and Pilar (Sorsogon); Masbate City,
transport and digital infrastructure (See Aroroy, Calumpang (Balud), Mandaon,
Chapter 6). Cataingan, San Pascual, Claveria, San
Jacinto, and Cawayan (Masbate); and
Improve the efficiency of Jose Panganiban Port in Camarines
transportation services. The PNR Norte. The BIA will be improved with
lots within train stations and PPA within the airside obstruction removed and the
the port areas will be leased to LGUs and landside improved. The Naga Airport
private entities for the construction of will be reoriented with a better and safer
shopping centers, restaurants, amusement runway and passenger terminal building.
areas, hotel accommodations, and other The feasibility study for the relocation of
commercial establishments to serve as Masbate airport will be completed and
One-Stop-Shop for commuters. approved, and the acquisition of the right
of way will be completed. The community/
Pursue “Tunnelling Technology” feeder airports (e.g., Bulan, Bacon, Daet)
in the construction of roads will be upgraded to serve as alternate
and railway projects to protect airports.
watershed and forest areas. Road
opening projects of DPWH and railway New sea routes will be opened with bigger
sections of the PNR SLH Project that and faster sea vessels with speeds of not
will traverse mountainous areas will be less than 20 knots that will connect to the
studied to consider the use of tunneling following ports: Jose Panganiban Port to
technology. This will minimize the cost Real Port (Quezon); San Pascual Port to
and destruction to the environment, San Andres, Quezon, and Lucena City

via Boac Port (Marinduque); Pantao Port convenience, safety and protection.
to Lucena City, Cajidiocan (Romblon),
Calapan, and Caticlan; Pioduran Port Construct and upgrade
to Tacloban and Cebu Cities; Cataingan intermodal transport facilities to
Port to Calbayog (Samar), Calubian achieve seamless connectivity.
(Leyte), and Cebu City; Cawayan Port Intermodal transport facilities will
to Bogo City, Cebu; Calumpang (Balud) minimize traffic congestion in urban
Port to Culasi (Roxas City), Bogo and centers like Legazpi City and Naga City.
Cebu Cities; Masbate City to Cajidiocan Pedestrian bridges will be constructed
(Romblon); Mandaon Port to Asagra and inside urban centers to ensure the smooth
San Agustin (Romblon), Caticlan via San flow of traffic and the safety of pedestrians.
Jose, Romblon; and Legazpi Port to Allen Commuter trains and buses will be used
and Jubasan, Northern Samar. for medium and long-distance trips across
the region. Train and bus stations will be
Access roads leading to seaports and constructed at the airports and ports.
airports will be constructed of good
quality standards and closely monitored Install intelligent/smart traffic
by involving PSOs. The feasibility studies light units along major roads and
and detailed engineering and designs for urban areas to ensure a smooth
the Catanduanes Friendship Bridge and flow of traffic. Intelligent traffic lights
the Sorsogon-Samar Bridge Link projects will operate 24 hours with programmable
will be completed. The latter project will signal timing based on the volume of
complement the PNR SLH project and vehicles during peak and lean hours.
the TR5 project (formerly the Quezon This will ensure a smooth traffic flow and
Bicol Expressway project) that will reduce the number of situations when
terminate in Matnog, Sorsogon. The breaking traffic rules seems appealing or
Sorsogon-Samar Bridge link project is of undetectable.
national importance as it will contribute
to the development of the Samar, Leyte, Protect both national and local
and Mindanao provinces. The project roads from encroachment.
will also address the perennial problem of Removing encroachment problems along
motorists being stranded during weather national and local roads will result in the
disturbances causing the long queue of smooth flow of traffic of motor vehicles.
vehicles, and port congestion during the The encroachment problems along major
peak season. roads in the Bicol REGION can be done
through the following: (a) LGUs to
Develop active transport monitor and strictly enforce Presidential
networks in the region. Existing Decree (PD) 178 (Revised Philippine
thoroughfares and bridges across the Highway Act) to ensure road safety of
region will be studied and if possible, will motorists and pedestrians; (b) assign
be redesigned and retrofitted for asset areas for vendors and free pedestrian
preservation and to protect motorists and walkways, (c) remove illegal dwellings
pedestrians. Road furniture like corridors, along road shoulders/pedestrians, (d)
widened sidewalks, bike and joggers’ install appropriate signages in right of
lanes, pedestrian bridges, greeneries, ways to deter encroachment problems,
waiting sheds, road signs, and street lights and regularly monitored by the concerned
and markings will be installed for public agencies and LGUs.

The LGUs to promote and tricycles will be upgraded and modernized
encourage ride-sharing with the for the convenience and safety of the
use of private vehicles along the riding public.
major roads in the region. This
results in fewer automobiles on the road, Increase the capacity of RORO
less occurrence of vehicular accidents, facilities to address port
lesser fossil consumption, and less carbon congestion and delays. The
emission or air pollution. capacity of RORO facilities especially in
Matnog, Tabaco City, Pilar, Pioduran,
Develop applicable mass and Masbate City ports will be increased
transportation systems in urban to accommodate large-capacity RORO
areas. Mass transportation systems like vessels. Modern and adequate ancillary
tramways, railways, and ferry systems facilities for passengers such as passenger
will be prioritized in urban areas for the terminal buildings, shops, communication
convenience of commuters. Study and services, parking areas, booking/ticketing
explore the use of tramways in urban offices, and restrooms will be provided
centers like Legazpi City to Daraga (BIA) inside the port premises. To address the
and Naga City to Pili (Naga Airport) areas port congestion in Matnog Port, a partner
to provide a faster mode of transport port in the province of Sorsogon will
and decrease the volume of vehicles on be constructed with Legazpi Port as an
the road. Existing public transportation alternate port.
systems like traditional jeepneys and
Cross-cutting Strategy
Address supply chain and logistics (See Chapter 6).
Expand internet coverage and Maximize the use of digital
increase cell sites in areas where technology and build a robust,
the signal is poor or absent. efficient, and disaster-resilient
Additional cell sites will be installed in ICT infrastructure for the justice
areas in the Bicol REGION where there sector (See Chapter 14).
is weak to no signal accessibility (See
Chapter 9). Promote digitalization in
transport and logistics to lower
Intensify internet connectivity costs (See Chapter 7).
among government offices. The
Free Wi-Fi for All Program of DICT will Implement ICT master plans
be continued to provide free internet and roadmaps. Under the
access in public places per RA 10929. E-Government Master Plan (EGMP),
This can also be done through electronic DICT will continue the establishment of
interconnection or the internet by Technology Empowerment for Education,
encouraging private sector participation Employment, Entrepreneurship, and
(See Chapter 15). Economic Development (Tech4ED)

centers in the Bicol Region. The Increase internet speed,
Philippine National Public Key coverage, and network. The internet
Infrastructure (PNPKI), a program in the and mobile network coverage will be
ICT master plan that allows users of public expanded particularly in the GIDAs and
networks like the internet to exchange GFAs (See Chapters 1 and 7).
private data securely will be continued.
The DICT will continue the approval and Accelerate the rollout of
issuance of digital certificates and will e-government and the
conduct PNPKI engagement across the e-commerce roadmap (See Chapter
region. 6).
Outcome 2: Water security, ecological integrity

of water systems, and resiliency to water
hazards attained
Effective water governance through continued.
Integrated Water Resources Management
(IWRM) will be the overall strategy to be Multipurpose reservoirs for water supply,
implemented in the sector. hydropower, and flood mitigation will
be pursued such as the Sipocot Dam in
Ensure water security through Camarines Sur, and Lanang (Baleno)
efficient water infrastructures and Mandaon Dams in Masbate will be
and management. Concerned explored. Public-Private Partnership
agencies and LGUs to ensure the efficient (PPP) schemes will be considered to
allocation and utilization of water, deliver the needed infrastructure facilities
especially over competing water users. and services. A climate risk assessment
will be integrated into the studies of
Relatedly, localized implementation water-related infrastructure to increase
of the Philippine Water Supply and reliability and economic life. (see Chapter
Sanitation Master Plan (PWSSMP), the 16)
National Irrigation Master Plan (NIMP),
the National Water Security Road Map Strengthen the participation
(NWSRM), and various Flood Master of local communities in
Plans for major river basins will be pursued. improving water and sanitation
Given the geographical characteristic of management. LGUs and concerned
the Bicol Region, these master plans will be agencies will continue spearheading the
localized and modified based on location- efforts to improve water and sanitation
specific conditions, and the prioritization in the region, in coordination with the
and timing of investments. The island DENR in watershed rehabilitation and
provinces of Masbate and Catanduanes the DILG in the provision of training
will be given focus in the formulation and programs in water supply development
implementation of these master plans. To and management, including behavioral
address the projected tight water balance change communication to eliminate the
in the region, new water sources such practice of open defecation.
as surface water will be explored. The
improvement of water system facilities Develop applicable wastewater
such as the Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa systems in urban areas. In
Lahat Program (SALINTUBIG) will be coordination with those in charge of

the septage management program, the of nature-based solutions (NBS) and
expansion of sewerage systems will be engineered or gray structures will be
explored in urban areas like Legazpi City promoted. Floodplains, wetlands, and
and Naga City. A National Sewerage and forests will be restored and enhanced to
Septage Management Program (NSSMP) temporarily store and dampen flood peaks
subsidy grant for sewerage and septage using NBS; while engineered structures
management programs (SMP) will be put such as flood walls, embankments, and
in place. Capacity development regarding detention ponds will be skillfully designed
sewerage systems will be planned and in combination with NBS. In addition, soft
integrated with other infrastructure. PPP infrastructure for flood mitigation will still
schemes will likewise be encouraged in be pursued. The design and construction
the provision and operation of septage of flood mitigation structures and NBS
treatment facilities. will be based on ecosystems-wide or
basin-wide master plans formulated under
Continue to pursue climate- the principles of IWRM such as the Bicol
proofing for irrigation River Basin Master Plan. Urban flood
development. Disaster-resilient mitigation infrastructure will consider the
irrigation facilities will be adopted to upstream and downstream impacts based
mitigate the impacts of climate change and on comprehensive science-based studies
water-related hazards. This will be done such as flood modeling studies.
through bio-engineering and structural
and non-structural measures. Improve data monitoring
systems. Investments and resources for
Optimize the use of funds and detailed water data collection need to be
improve the technical capacity provided. A rationally designed network
for irrigation development and for long-term data monitoring on surface
management of facilities. To sustain water, groundwater, water quality, and
irrigation development, investments will sediment data will be established. Proper
be increased for the construction and (statistically/physically-based) temporal
rehabilitation of existing systems, and and spatial sampling frequency of data
in enhancing the technical capacity of collection will be ensured. Moreover, a
irrigation engineering, hydrology, and decision support system for purposes of
water resources management. science-based water resources planning
and management as well as for multi-
Prioritize flood mitigation and stakeholder consultation and public
coastal protection infrastructure participation will be developed and
with hybrid systems. A combination maintained.
Outcome 3: Affordable, accessible, reliable,

and clean energy provided
Invest in renewable energy. Geothermal Power Plant Expansion
Encourage investments in renewable Project in Sorsogon will expand the
energy through the provision of Energy Development Corporation’s
government subsidies and incentives. capacity of the existing 130 MW Bacon-
This will ensure a more sufficient, stable, Manito (BacMan) geothermal facility.
and affordable power supply in the region. This low-carbon emission project will
The 29-megawatt (MW) Palayan Binary reduce the country’s carbon emissions by

around 72,000 tons per year. (g) reduce billing irregularities by using
mobile meter reader.
Lower electricity rates. This can be
done through the following: (a) removal of Encourage investment
value-added tax on systems loss charges; regionwide in clean power
(b) capacity additions to the existing generation. The region will continue
geothermal plants; (c) Murang Kuryente its role as a geothermal energy supplier
Act; and (d) Retail Competition Open to the Luzon Grid. Investments in
Access. The island provinces of Masbate waste-to-energy and other renewable
and Catanduanes will be interconnected energy projects such as the Del Gallego
to the Luzon Grid for more reliable and Geothermal Power Project will be
affordable electricity rates. encouraged to provide an environment-
friendly power supply and affordable
Reduce systems loss of Bicol ECs. power supply.
Systems loss in electricity is categorized
as technical loss, non-technical loss, Explore other renewable energy
and administrative loss. In lowering the sources. Hydropower, wind, wave, and
system’s loss, the ECs in the region will solar energy such as the Lanang (Baleno)
undertake the following: (a) reinforce grid and Mandaon multi-purpose dam
security; (b) properly locate distribution projects, and the Catanduanes wind and
transformers; (c) install smart metering; solar energy development projects, will be
(d) prevent meter tampering; (e) invest in explored and provided funding if found
technology; (f) upgrade equipment; and feasible.
Outcome 4: Enhanced support to social

development provided
Education Schools will be encouraged to prepare a
school site development plan based on the
Construct a safe, disaster- LGU comprehensive land use plan to have
resilient, and conducive place breathing space for learners.
for learning. The DepEd will adopt
measures to strengthen its capacity to The DPWH will continue to provide fund
identify gaps and needs to better allocate support to LGUs for the construction
resources for classrooms and other of evacuation centers. This is to avoid
facilities including the necessary human the use of schools as evacuation centers
resources. This will minimize delays in the during disasters and the consequent
construction of new school buildings and displacement of students and disruption
classrooms in public schools (See Chapter of classes.
4).
Health
The DepEd and DPWH will strengthen
coordination and jointly enforce policies Construct and upgrade the health
and guidelines on the implementation facilities in the region. Intensify
of the Basic Education Facilities Fund the construction and rehabilitation of
(BEFF) to ensure that school buildings health-related facilities such as hospitals,
and classrooms that are designed and testing laboratories, and quarantine
built are disaster-resilient. facilities that will address the gap in

healthcare infrastructure in the region. of solid waste disposal facilities such
Access and improved quality of health as SLFs through PPP. The clustering of
care particularly among the vulnerable LGUs for common SWM facilities will
groups will be achieved, and the capacity be encouraged to take advantage of
of the region to prevent diseases, promote economies of scale and cope with the high
health, and prepare for and respond to upfront cost of building and operating
threats and challenges to health will be such facilities. Waste generation will be
realized (See Chapter 4). reduced through prevention, reduction,
recycling, and reuse, and massive IEC
The DOH will continue to develop campaigns on solid waste management
policies and strategies that will ensure the policies, laws, projects, and best practices
functionality and sustainability of health will be conducted.  
facilities and the satisfaction of human
resource requirements. The formulation Ban single-use plastics. To promote
of policies and strategies will be done in the non-usage of single-use plastics (e.g.,
coordination with concerned NGAs and straws, food wrappers, grocery bags,
LGUs. instant food packaging), ordinances will
be imposed and strictly implemented
Temporary treatment monitoring to minimize the occurrence of non-
facilities (TTMFs) will be constructed to biodegradable wastes that pollute the
cater to COVID-19 cases, in addition to water bodies and affect marine species.
the construction of isolation buildings.
Minimize the spread of healthcare
Housing waste at the source. Health care
waste management system will be
Construct disaster-resilient institutionalized in health facilities across
housing facilities in the region the Bicol REGION through investment in
by adopting the “Build Back training and communications. Treatment
Better” principle. The region is and disposal facilities for toxic, infectious,
frequently hit by natural calamities, thus and hazardous wastes in the region will
housing facilities will be constructed to be provided to minimize the spread of
withstand these calamities. Social housing diseases.
programs and projects will be constructed
in government idle lands. LGUs will Construct security and safety
identify these government idle lands management service facilities.
and develop a system of land inventory Police stations and/or outposts, fire
to better identify areas for urban growth stations, jail facilities, evacuation centers,
and planned areas for human settlements and emergency response centers such as
through their CLUPs.   911, will be constructed. The concerned
LGU will provide the required lot, and
Solid Waste Management   the agency will provide the building and
equipment (See Chapter 14).
Ensure suitable and sustainable
SWM. The Ecological Solid Waste Implement peace-promoting
Management Act of 2000 (RA 1003) infrastructure programs and
will be fully implemented to protect projects. (See Chapter 14).
the environment through the provision

Legislative Agenda
Table 13.4 presents the proposed legislations to expand and upgrade infrastructure.
Table 13.4 Legislative Agenda to Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

National Transport Policy Act To guide all entities involved in the transportation sector to DOTr / DPWH
prepare policies on how to achieve a safe, secure, efficient,
competitive, environmentally sustainable, and people-oriented
transportation system.
Magna Carta for Commuters To address the long-standing plight of Filipinos using public DOTr
transport by laying down the rights of the commuting public.
Creation of an independent body The independent body will investigate transport accidents and DOTr
for transport safety and security provide transport safety recommendations/guidelines.
National Broadband Act To institutionalize the National Broadband Program, public DICT, DOE, DND, DPWH
safety, and emergency communications and policies for the
use of other passive infrastructure.
Amendment to the National To amend certain provisions of the National Building Code by DICT, DPWH
Building Code incorporating minimum electronic requirements in buildings
(i.e., telecommunication facilities in multi-dwelling buildings,
government buildings, and office/commercial buildings).
Creation of the Department of To address the weak and fragmented institutional set-up in NEDA
Water Resources (DWR) the sector by streamlining all water-related functions in the
government, and separate resource regulation from economic
regulation.
Creation of the Water Regulatory To create a business and regulatory environment that is level, NEDA
Commission (WRC) transparent, and conducive for public and private domestic
and foreign investment in water supply and sanitation (WSS)
services by implementing fair, just, and reasonable tariffs,
rates, and charges for water supply and sanitation services.
Establish a Department of Energy To ensure a continuous, adequate, and economic supply DOE
Bicol Regional Office of energy in the Bicol Region through the integrated
and intensive exploration, production, management, and
development of the region’s indigenous energy resources.
Enhance Energy Regulatory To provide a more streamlined and stronger power regulatory ERC
Commission body.
Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Act To provide a regulatory framework for facilities utilizing WtE DOE / DENR
Single-Use Plastic Product To phase out and eventually totally ban the use of single-use DENR - EMB
Regulation Act plastics in the country
Institutionalization of the To address the increasing volume of waste brought upon by DENR – EMB
National Government – Local rapid urbanization
Government Unit cost-sharing
scheme for SWM programs

CHAPTER 14
Ensure Peace and

Security, and Enhance
Peace and security, and an efficient administration of justice are critical in providing
the enabling environment to ensure sustained economic growth. In pursuing
economic and social transformation, the RDP 2023-2028 puts forward the whole-of-
government approach to achieve lasting peace and security, as well as an enhanced
justice system characterized by integrity, fairness, and accessibility.
The government’s focus is to strengthen peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts by

enhancing the effectiveness of military and civilian approaches in the protection of
the general public. A safe and secure environment is manifested where there is an
adequate level of public order, and people conduct their daily lives and activities
without fear of undue physical harm from any form of violence. Peace and security,
particularly in the GFAs (See Chapter 1) require normalcy in community life where
guns are silenced, food and basic services are sufficient, and general signs of
progress are evident.
A stable and accountable justice system will inspire trust and confidence among
stakeholders. Economic justice will be the pillar of a strong and vibrant economy,
anchored on a sector-based approach to drive public engagement and trust in the
justice system.
Subchapter 14.1 Ensure Peace and

Security
Peace and security are manifested where in conflict-affected communities.
there are equitably enforced laws, and the
lives, properties, freedoms, and rights of Investing in commitments to peace
individuals are protected. Criminal and and security will continue. The former
motivated violence is kept at a minimum, combatants, including their families,
and criminal elements are pursued, will be provided with assistance to be
arrested, and detained. mainstreamed and returned to civilian life.
LGUs will facilitate the whole-of-society
Intensified peace-building initiatives, approach to ensure peace and security;
such as localized peace engagements corroborative action on law enforcement
by the local governments, will stabilize operations will be intensified; as well as
security in many areas of the Bicol region. disaster response will be strengthened.
The implementation of development The modernization of the armed forces
projects will open better opportunities and other security sector agencies will
and provide a violence-free environment continue to be pursued.
Chapter 14 Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance Administration of Justice | 216
Assessment Extremism (PCVE) were also rolled out
and localized.
Peace and security are pursued. Several
peace and development efforts were The local peace engagements were
introduced by the government to address initiated in communities affected by the
local issues. Related initiatives were carried presence of the Communist Party of the
out to lessen and restrain criminal acts Philippines-New People’s Army-National
and violent activities of terrorist groups Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
through harmonized public, private, Socioeconomic and legal assistance
and community activities in solving the was provided to communist rebels who
insurgency issues. The presence of the surrendered through the Enhanced
government was felt in GFAs through the Comprehensive Local Integration
implementation of peace-promoting and Program (E-CLIP) and community
catch-up socio-economic development development interventions such as the
programs and projects such as the SBDP. Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan
(PAMANA) Program and the SBDP. The
Sustained law enforcement efforts PAMANA Program set the foundations
stabilized the security of communities for conflict-sensitive development efforts
in GFAs resulting in improved access to and empowered partners for peace. From
the resources necessary for meeting basic 2017-2021, PAMANA supported the
needs and advancing health and well- implementation of socioeconomic and
being, and increased economic activities. infrastructure projects in the communist-
However, despite the government efforts, terrorist group (CTG)-cleared barangay
14 percent of the total barangays in under the SBDP.
Bicol region are still classified as GIDAs.
In 2020, the Bicol region ranks second Decrease in Criminality. In 2021, the
among the regions nationwide with average monthly crime index in the
the greatest number of GIDAs, next to Bicol region was 2.68 percent which is
Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in a 68 percentage points decline from the
Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). In 2021, previous year. It translates to about 2.68
97 barangays were also considered as index crime incidents per month for every
CAAs-CVAs in the region. 100,000 people. Index crimes, as defined
by the PNP, involve crimes against persons
The implementation of the Peace and and property. Crimes against persons
Development Program by the Regional include murder, homicide, physical injury,
Task Force to End Local Communist and rape, while crimes against property
Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) through are robbery, theft, arson, carnapping/
the whole-of-nation approach under carjacking, and cattle rustling. The
EO 70, s. 2018, fostered a more holistic generally stable and low monthly crime
and cohesive government response rate can be attributed to the constant law
in addressing the interrelated armed enforcement operations, such as anti-
conflicts. The local task forces were illegal drug operations and community
also activated to effectively deliver basic surveillance, and the continuous
services to communities within the GIDAs. improvement of the competency of the
Key strategies in the National Action Plan police force.
on Preventing and Countering Violent

The non-index crime rate monthly especially at the local level. There are still
average for 2021 was 7.62 percent, which gaps in assessing threats, programming
is a 67.5 percent decline from 11.28 responses, engaging communities,
percent in 2020. Non-index crimes dismantling private armed groups, and
include violations of special laws such as strategic communications.
illegal gambling and violations of local
ordinances. On the other hand, the Crime Enhancing logistical and technological
Solution Efficiency (CSE) rate was 64.86 capabilities. Criminality and threats to
percent in 2021. The high CSE is due to public safety continue to persist. There is
the consistent monitoring and resolution a need for additional modern equipment
of cases and follow-up operations by and other logistical needs to aid law
investigators resulting in the identification enforcement in ensuring cybersecurity.
and arrest of suspects. The rapid growth and sophistication
of cybercrimes and cyberattacks have
Enhanced capacity to respond during increased the vulnerability of data,
disasters. The capacity of the security people, and structures, thus, appropriate
sector in terms of response to adverse IT tools and training of PNP officers on
impacts of natural hazards and other cybercrimes are needed to apprehend
security threats was strengthened. This cybercriminals.
includes barangay-level capacity through
the BFP-initiated Oplan Ligtas na Ensuring security, public order, and
Pamayanan. The Barangay Peacekeeping safety. Initiatives towards peace and
Action Teams (BPATs) as well as NGO security have substantially improved,
teams in the region provided public safety however, there are still challenges, such as
training. The improvement in terms of the continuation of criminal and terrorist
disaster response also covers the adoption activities and the need to improve
of standard operating procedures, processes of assisting former combatants
activation of the Incident Command in their return to civilian life, healing,
System/Center, and prepositioning and reconciliation. Also, natural hazards
of the relief and search and rescue continue to threaten vulnerable groups as
actions and measures. However, data well as the GFA communities.
on population, critical facilities, and
infrastructure exposed to natural and Other challenges include managing the
other security threats are still fragmented region’s territory and maritime domain
and incomplete. and improving the force structure,
capability, and material upgrade of the
Challenges PCG, AFP, PNP, and other security sector
agencies, which are critical to being more
Institutionalizing peacekeeping effective in undertaking internal and
interventions. Peace and development external security operations.
initiatives are not fully institutionalized,
Targets
The region will ensure and sustain peace affected barangays and improve their
and order to enable the stream of social access to basic services, and continuously
and economic activities. The Bicol RDP reduce all forms of criminality.
2023-2028 targets to reduce conflict-
Table 14.1.1 presents the indicators and targets on ensuring peace and security.
Table 14.1.1 Core Indicators on Ensuring Peace and Security

INDICATOR
Percentage of Support to DILG-Report,

Barangay Development RTF-ELCAC
Program beneficiary- monitoring
barangay provided with 100% report
100% DILG, 9ID PA
socioeconomic interventions (2022) 9th Infantry
Division
Philippine Army
(9ID PA)
Average monthly index crime Crime Incident
rate reduced 3.45% Reporting
Decreasing PNP
(2022) and Analysis
System (CIRAS)
Police-to-population ratio 1:560
1:555 1:545 1:535 1:525 1:515 1:500 PNP reports PNP
improved (2022)
Percentage of cybercrime DICT reports,
incident reports processed/ 80% PNP reports,
Increasing DICT, PNP & NBI
closed and remediated (2022) NBI Cybercrime
Unit Reports
Strategy Framework
Peace and security have an intrinsic Council (RPOC) will promote and
relationship with sustainable strengthen mainstreaming interventions
development. In accomplishing the on peace and development using
peace agenda, the required cooperation conflict-sensitive and peace-promoting
and collaboration of all stakeholders standards in support of PAPs promoting
from government agencies, academe, peace, reconciliation, and healing among
the private sector, NGOs, and CSOs former rebels. Further, the whole-of-
will be consistently pursued. Through nation approach will be carried out by all
the continued partnership, the Bicol of the members of the RDC and RPOC
RDC and Regional Peace and Order with the support of local communities.

Figure 14.1.1 Strategy Framework to Ensure Peace and Security
Strategies
Outcome 1: Protection and development of
conflict-affected communities and conflict-
vulnerable areas sustained
Expand, advance, and sustain services as part of social development
peace and development efforts. packages in GFA areas needs to be given
To address security issues and enhance priority and sustained.
access to socioeconomic resources and The Bicol region will be initiating
opportunities for the people, peace, and localized peace engagements, recognized
development efforts will be expanded as an appropriate strategy for achieving
and sustained. The full implementation peace and security at the grassroots level.
of the RTF-ELCAC-formulated umbrella Community problem-solving sessions and
program anchored on the peace and local peace dialogues will be effectively
development framework needs to be undertaken.
expanded to address the root causes of
insurgencies, internal disturbances and Expedite normalization
tensions, and other armed threats at the and reintegration of former
grass-roots level. The delivery of basic combatants and their families,
and the rehabilitation of conflict- Advance healing and
affected communities. Rehabilitation reconciliation, social cohesion,
and catch-up development programs, and transitional justice
such as E-CLIP and BDP, to include social, interventions as key components
financial, and socioeconomic assistance of peacebuilding. The Bicol RDC
for the recovery of conflict-affected and RPOC will coordinate with the
communities will be fast-tracked and built Office of the Presidential Adviser on
on the gains of the momentum set in the the Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity
implementation of the whole-of-nation (OPAPRU) and LGUs towards attaining
approach to development, particularly the peace and development agenda. The
the rehabilitation and development PAMANA program of the OPAPRU will
of conflict-affected communities. The be continued to implement and provide
delivery systems of socioeconomic for the specific needs of the communities
support packages for decommissioned in conflict-affected areas.
combatants, their families, and vulnerable
groups (children, the elderly, PWD, Moreover, expert interventions in dealing
indigenous groups, and internally with former combatants and child soldiers
displaced persons) in GFAs will be made will be provided by the DSWD Region 5
more efficient and effective. and its local counterpart. These include
psychosocial interventions, sustainable
Infrastructure projects will be provided livelihood programs, and other protective
to GFAs such as roads, bridges, schools, services.
health centers, markets, ports, and
permanent housing units in village-type Establish appropriate mechanisms
communities where there is security for to counter threats from
the former rebels (FRs) and their families terrorism, radicalization, and
with access to basic amenities. violent extremism. The Bicol region’s
security and public safety campaign will
Strengthen convergence of be strengthened. The government will
programs, and ensure that continue to be proactive and steadfast in
development interventions its efforts to sustain public order and safety,
are conflict-sensitive and and maintain a peaceful environment by
peace-promoting (CSPP). The actively engaging the private sector and
CSPP principles will be advocated for the community. The Bicol region, being
mainstreaming and application in the the gateway to the Visayas and Mindanao,
various aspects of development planning is exposed to different public disturbances
and peace-building PAPs. Convergence from CTGs who want to gain access
efforts of government entities, LGUs, to Luzon. The security forces in the
Peace and Order Councils (POCs) at region will be strengthened by providing
regional and local levels, and other manpower and equipment support.
stakeholders will be undertaken for the
effective and sustainable delivery of basic Legal offensive initiatives, and intensified
services to GFAs as provided for under manhunt operations by the Philippine
EO 70. Government-led coordination, Army (PA)-AFP against the remaining
collaboration, and complementation members of the CTGs of the CPP-
mechanisms will be established among NPA-NDF in the Bicol region will be
stakeholders in the implementation implemented. Further, security for
of all peacebuilding and development critical infrastructures, e.g., roads,
initiatives. telecommunication towers, and lifeline

facilities, will be provided by the military, its Campus Peace and Development Fora
police, and LGU peace and order activities promoting awareness of peace
enforcers. and security-related thrusts and priorities
of the government and other relevant
Moreover, community mobilization will discussions with students and the youth.
be enhanced, such as the PNP program
on Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo Information and education campaigns
(KKPT), which protects and capacitates will be conducted and advocated for the
the youth sector against illegal drugs government’s efforts in maintaining a safe
and violent extremism. The KKPT and peaceful community. People’s security
operation involves a reporting tool for from external threats will be ensured,
the observed irregularities in society. especially the women, children, and
The Tactical Operations Group 5 of the elderly, to feel safe in performing their
Philippine Air Force will continue with economic and social activities.
Outcome 2: Quality of life of people safeguarded

from criminality  
Promote a holistic approach to Strengthen and expand police
countering the proliferation of engagements with communities
illegal and dangerous drugs. The on crime deterrence, reporting,
PNP and Philippine Drug Enforcement and resolution. Policing in the
Agency (PDEA) will be resolute in law barangays will be intensified with the help
enforcement coordination and remain of communities through the Barangay
aggressive through their intelligence- Information Networks (BINs) and BPATs.
driven operations on dangerous drugs The BINs will assist with the operations
related transactions and/or activities. of the PNP, while the BPATs will serve as
Stringent monitoring and accounting the primary operators in the conduct of
of high-value individuals, street-level the Community-Oriented Policing and
individuals, and drug groups will be Public Safety System.
continuously asserted.
The POCs, the government’s platform for
Drug-clearing operations at the local level stronger collaboration among the LGU,
will be strengthened through the Local law enforcement, and the community to
Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (LADACs) fight criminality, illegal drugs, and violet
at city/municipal/barangay levels. The extremisms, will efficiently perform their
PNP and PDEA will implement measures tasks by harmonizing and effectively
for the reactivation and functioning of implementing peace and order and public
the LADACs, particularly the Barangay safety activities. Likewise, the POCs will
ADACs, and advocate for community- serve as partners in the implementation
based drug rehabilitation (CBDR) of EO 70.
programs. The CBDR is a holistic process
that includes health promotion and Engagements between police and
prevention, assessment and screening, communities will be strengthened by
drug treatment, family and community establishing additional PNP stations in
services, and aftercare schemes closest to cities and municipalities. To attain this,
the community or people. LGU support will be tapped through
appropriate lot donations. In addition,
the agency will pursue recruitment electronic landscapes of the country as
and training to produce quality police a whole have been and are continually
officers. The logistics and equipment for changing. Cybercrimes, a faster-growing
the police system will also be developed. non-violent crime rampantly affect
The necessary equipment for ICT businesses and individuals, and threatens
system upgrades will be prioritized the substantial and growing reliance of
for procurement to advance the anti- commerce, governments, and the public
criminality strategies and database on the conduct of business, carrying
establishment and preservation of relevant messages, and processing of information.
information and documents. Cybercrimes go beyond the technical,
transnational dimension and involves
On juvenile delinquencies, the PNP will offenders with the deliberate intention of
strengthen coordination with DSWD attacks to exploit the potential weaknesses
for appropriate interventions for minor that are present in the online or digital
offenders. Both agencies will adhere to and infrastructure. The Bicol region will be
implement the nation’s Comprehensive in full cooperation with the national
National Juvenile Intervention Program. government’s strategy for strengthening
cyber-security by pursuing the legislative
Strengthen national and regional enactment or amendment of existing
partnerships to counter and laws to address cyber threats. The PNP
prevent threats from terrorism, Region 5 will improve its approaches
violent extremism, radicalization, to fighting cybercrimes by aggressively
transnational crimes, and other pursuing the improvement of its ICT
non-traditional security threats. infrastructure support facilities, and other
The Bicol region will adhere to the related programs such as the Anti-Online
governments’ mechanisms for inter- Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children
regional cooperation of agencies in (OSAEC) will be prioritized.
handling the CTGs’ operations, inter-
regional recruitment, and other activities Similarly, mandates and functions of
across regional borders. Rigorously various agencies relative to coastal
collaborative, intelligence-driven management and maritime security will
operations between national and regional be reviewed and harmonized to ensure
offices of the security sector against efficiency and effectiveness in addressing
notorious criminal groups or personalities maritime security threats, while the
will be strengthened and intensified. modernization of the PCG and relevant
maritime security institutions will be
The technical, communications, and actively pursued.
Outcome 3: Protection and safety from natural

hazards and other security threats ensured
Improve the capacity and underpinning the National Disaster
capability of security forces and Risk Reduction and Management Plan
LGUs on Humanitarian Assistance (NDRRMP) 2020-2030. The BFP will
and Disaster Response (HADR) conduct fire safety inspections as a
and protection services to precaution and prevent casualties during
mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. Further, the BFP Modernization
hazards and other emergencies. Act will be fully implemented to ensure
The effective management of disaster more responsive fire protection services
risks in the region will be anchored on across the Bicol region.
the implementation of the strategies

Various collaborated interventions among and bridges, telecommunication, and
frontline agencies (PNP, BFP, OCD, other utility facilities, among others. The
DILG, LGUs, and DSWD) to mitigate regional and local entities will continue to
the impacts of natural and man-made safeguard the protected areas in adherence
disasters will continue to be implemented, with existing laws.
such as the Oplan Paghalasa as a response
to typhoons and their damaging effects; The coastal barangay information
Oplan Ligtas na Pamayanan / Ugnayan networks and bantay-dagat volunteer
sa Barangay, etc. Related programs that organizations will be mobilized, and
enable LGUs able to revisit, improve, and reporting systems will be established
implement disaster risk reduction and in strategic locations such as marine
management plans, such as the OCD-led pollution centers.
Gawad Kalasag Awards, will continue to
be implemented. Strengthen the security and
resilience of cyberspace.
The region will intensify its humanitarian Cybersecurity in the region will
assistance from various stakeholders be strengthened. Interventions on
including the private sector. Coordination information and communications
and collaboration with reservists and technology will include the creation of a
other private individuals/entities or cybercrime emergency response teams,
groups of volunteers for disaster response and upskilling of relevant agencies, such
will be explored. as the DICT, NBI and PNP in partnership
with other public and private institutions.
Protect critical infrastructure, Further, the cyber defense component will
strategic assets, and natural be strengthened and incorporated into the
resources. The military, police, and modernization program of the PNP and
LGUs will join forces on guarding AFP. Also, the cybersecurity curriculum
and protecting critical government will be mainstreamed in academic and
infrastructure assets and major/priority technical education platforms.
programs and projects, such as roads
Cross-cutting Strategies
Sustain compliance of LGUs with Ensure gender mainstreaming and
good governance principles protection of vulnerable groups
and of security institutions on in conflict-affected communities.
human rights and rule of law. The protection of individual rights will be
Good governance and the protection promoted in conflict situations and post-
and promotion of human rights play conflict recovery. Favorable actions will be
a significant role in peacekeeping and taken for the welfare of vulnerable groups,
peacebuilding interventions. Efficient and including children, youth, the elderly,
inclusive partnerships with communities persons with disability, and internally
will be strengthened to gain back people’s displaced persons.
trust and confidence in the rule of law, and
human rights-based security institutions. The mainstreaming of GAD will continue
Further, better reward systems and to be advocated and promoted in the
mainstreaming efforts will be intensified, region to effectively achieve conflict-
and appropriate penalties on violators will sensitive, peace-promoting interventions,
be imposed. that are responsive to the needs of every
Bicolanos. The Regional Gender and activities of the RTF-ELCAC, such as the
Development Committee (RGADC) Ugnayan sa Barangay, and Campus Peace
will continue to guide the region in and Development Fora among others,
ensuring gender equality and equity in are specialized avenues in disseminating
implementing programs and projects. government initiatives toward
Further, the PNP will continue to take peacekeeping and peace-promoting
appropriate and necessary actions on strategies. The region will support the
cases relative to violence against women national thrust on mainstreaming peace
and children (VAWC). The establishment education in formal and non-formal
of VAWC desks in police stations will learning platforms. The peace education
be sustained and maintained to provide program will be pursued, such as the
access to vulnerable individuals and recruitment of students and youth to the
facilitate the filing of complaints against Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
VAWC. to promote nationalism and inculcate
awareness of radicalism, and idealism, as
Favorable actions will be carried out to well as disclosure of the true nature and
protect and promote women and gender intent of the CPP-NPA-NDF.
right, as well as safeguard the welfare of
vulnerable groups, including children, The advocacy and promotion of a
youth, elderly, PWDs, and internally sustained culture of peace campaigns
displaced persons, during conflict will be strengthened. The establishment
situations and post-conflict recovery. of a National Peace Institute under
the OPAPRU will be pursued to
Mobilize a broad-based institutionalize and sustain the gains of
constituency for peace. Advocacy the general peace process.
Legislative Agenda
The following are the priority legislative measures that the region will support to
contribute to the achievement of the chapter outcomes.
Table 14.1.2 Legislative Agenda to Ensure Peace and Security
Amendment of the National The National Defense Act of 1935 which provides for national Department of National
Defense Act defense policies, principles, and concepts, is proposed to be Defense (DND)
updated. It will codify various laws on national defense, the
AFP, and the civilian bureaus, to streamline and professionalize
the defense bureaucracy.
Amendment of the Enhancement of certain provisions of the Act to address PDEA
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs the present drug situation in the country, particularly
Act of 2002 the implementation mechanism function of concerned
government agencies, and the reorganization of PDEA.
Mandatory Citizens’ Service It aims to unify the training programs of the current National DND
Training Act Service Training Program into a single and comprehensive
citizens’ civil and military training.
Cybersecurity Policy Framework Institute a national policy framework on cybersecurity and/ DICT
or enactment of legislation or amendment of existing laws to
address cybercrimes/threats.
National Land Use Act Settlement of land disputes to address internal armed conflict DAR
as it is also largely rooted in long-standing disputes over land
resources. The enactment of the National Land Use Act will
address this issue being capitalized by the CTGs.

Subchapter 14.2 Enhance
The fundamental rights of people include The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 provides the
freedom from fear, freedom from want, outline of strategies that will enhance
and freedom to live in dignity. Access to the administration of justice aimed at
justice and the rule of law are the very improving the civil, criminal, commercial,
bedrock of a stable society. Access to and administrative justice systems and
justice and the protection of humans need enhancing efficiency and accountability
to be guaranteed to protect and further in the justice sector. The government will
improve the well-being of Bicolanos. The maximize the use of digital platforms
accomplishments during the past regime to ensure enhanced administration of
set the stage for further enhancement justice. It will further strengthen the
in terms of the institutional, policy, and coordination and cooperation among
process framework of the justice system justice sector agencies, and continuously
in the region. streamline and improve processes within
the different pillars of the justice system.

Assessment trafficking in persons with convictions.
The DOJ Region 5 implemented the
Over the past years, the justice sector Witness Protection Program and housing
policy reforms and key legislations of witnesses covering 93 percent of the
remain to be elusive to attain despite total applicants from 2017-2022.
the developments from national to local
engagements. In Bicol, the improvement The jail congestion rate is decreasing
is with the establishment of the Justice as reported by the BJMP Region 5, with
Zone (JZ) in 2019. The first JZ launched an average of 228 percent in 2021 from
in the region is in Naga City, which is the the 396 percent congestion rate in 2017
sixth of the nine JZ created by the Justice (See Figure 14.2.1). With the end view
Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) in of further reducing jail congestion in the
the entire country as of 2022. The Naga region, the Bicol RDC through Resolution
No. 48, s. 2020, enjoined LGUs to donate
City JZ seeks to improve the sector’s lots for the construction of jail facilities,
efficiency and accountability and helps to ensure protection and humane support
facilitate the delivery of swift and fair towards rehabilitation of the PDL.
administration of justice in the region
through the speedy resolution of cases The rehabilitation of inmates by the
filed in court. BJMP Region 5 was done in partnership
with other line agencies and CSOs.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) Various interventions such as livelihood,
reported insufficient human resources psychosocial activities, and religious and
which contributed to the low disposition behavioral management initiatives were
of cases and further congested case introduced. Intensified capacity-building
dockets. The DOJ, however, reported activities for personnel and the on-time
relevant accomplishments including the release of qualified PDL were initiated.
successful prosecution of drug cases, and
Figure 14.2.1 Jail Congestion Rate, Bicol Region, CY 2017-2022
450%
400%
350%
300%
250%
200%
150%
100%
50%
0%
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Source: BJMP
Challenges the lack thereof) which emanates from

the low annual budget of the judiciary
Strengthening coordination among and justice-related sector agencies in the
agencies involved in the five pillars of executive branch, after the shortage of
the justice system. Overall, the criminal courts, and insufficient human resources,
justice system of the nation remains put pressure on and weaken the justice
fragmented. Traditionally, the five pillars of sector, consequently resulting in the
the justice system perform their respective buildup of caseloads and backlogs, as
roles and mandates independently, well as congestion of jails in the region.
narrowing their focus to their spheres Prosecutors and public attorneys
of authority with less coordination are assigned to two or more courts
and complementation of activities. As simultaneously despite laws prescribing
an immediate and adequate redress, it the ideal ratio (1:1) of Prosecutor and
resulted to procedural inconsistencies and Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Lawyer to
lapses in policy guidance. To address this, courts.
there is a need to continue to collaborate
and fully coordinate to streamline the Improving the disposition of cases.
administration of the justice processes Backlogs and delays in resolving cases
of the five pillars of the criminal justice in the region have not improved much
system in the country, namely, (a) law over the years. There is the uneven ratio
enforcement; (b) prosecution; (c) the between public attorneys, prosecutors, and
courts/hearing of cases; (d) correctional/ judges vis-à-vis the caseloads contributes
rehabilitation; and (e) the re-integration to the piling up of cases and delays in case
to the community. hearings. The cases handled and/or filed
outnumber the cases resolved in normal
Increasing the human resources of the operations, resulting in backlogs that
justice sector. The limited resources (or further aggravate jail congestion.

Pursuing reforms to decongest jail occupying such cell exceeds the standard
facilities. Overcrowding in jails and occupant capacity of 4.7 square meters
prisons has been one of the major per inmate. Jail congestion needs to
challenges of the region despite the be addressed as it results in health and
continuous decrease in jail congestion rate sanitation problems, and negatively affects
for the past years. A jail cell is considered the rehabilitation of PDL.
congested when the number of inmates
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 aims to: (a) free or affordable free legal assistance; (c)
enhance the administration of justice improve the quality of life of PDL; (d) and
by improving civil and criminal justice ensure their integration into communities.
systems; (b) improve access to quality
Table 14.2.1 shows the indicators and targets to enhance the administration of justice.
Table 14.2.1 Core Indicators to Enhance Administration of Justice

INDICATOR
Percentage of successful
prosecution improved 96.76% DOJ Annual
96.77% 96.78% 96.79% 96.80% 96.81% 96.82% DOJ
(conviction vis-à-vis (2021) Report
acquital)
Completion rate of cases PAO Annual
47.86%
handled improved 48.10% 48.68% 49.27% 50.05% 50.85% 51.67% Accomplishment PAO
(2021)
Report
Number of Justice Zones 1 DOJ Annual
0 2 0 3 0 4 DOJ
established increased (2022) Report
Public Attorney to court PAO Annual
1:2
ratio improved 1:1 Accomplishment PAO
(2021)
Report
Prosecutor to court 45.6
45.6 55 73 82 91 100 DOJ Plantilla DOJ
percentage ratio improved (2021)
Average congestion rate
145%
in jail and prison facilities 138% 124% 111% 100% 90% 81% BJMP report BJMP
(2022)
reduced
Strategy Framework
The strategy framework emphasizes the The enhanced administration of justice
need for coordinated action to enhance supports the attainment of SDG 16: Peace,
justice administration. Efforts will be Justice, and Strong Institutions, and
made on the improvement of the quality will continue to pursue a stable, secure,
and disposition of cases; access to quality, and comfortable life as espoused in the
free, or affordable legal services; and Ambisyon Natin 2040.
quality of life of the PDL.
Figure 14.2.2 Strategy Framework to Enhance Administration of Justice
Strategies
Outcome 1: Quality and efficiency in
disposition of cases improved
Establish and strengthen The JZ in Naga City, will introduce
coordination mechanisms to and implement new mechanisms of
improve sector efficiency and coordination and cooperation of relevant
accountability. The justice sector will agencies to speed up and deliver the
improve and reform court procedures to resolution of cases filed in court and
improve judicial efficiency and integrity decongest jails. The establishment of
to maintain the trust and confidence additional JZs in the region will be pursued
of the people in the region. Access to a specifically in Legazpi City, Masbate City,
justice system that is accountable and and Virac, Catanduanes. Moreover, the
independent will be provided in a manner creation of Justice Hubs in other LGUs
that is prompt, fair, efficient, and effective. will be explored to bridge access to justice
The DOJ Region 5, through the JSCC, will for all and build effective, accountable,
improve its coordination mechanisms and inclusive institutions at all levels.
to streamline criminal investigation, It will serve as a one-stop venue for
prosecution, and case management collaboration with other legal defenders
processes, including heinous crimes as well as a dedicated community of legal
and illegal drugs. The capacity and skills practitioners, together with prosecutors,
of the justice sector professionals and public attorneys, the police, and the jail
institutions will be enhanced to strengthen officers to enhance the administration
governance and the overall justice system. of criminal justice services. Also,

legislation and policies will be pursued provided to facilitate case disposition with
to institutionalize coordination among minimal delays.
prosecutors and law enforcers such as the
PNP and NBI, among others. Advance the use of Alternative
Dispute Resolution mechanisms
Create a Central Evidence Unit at all levels. Available rules of courts or
(CEU) to Store and Handle other judicial recourse will be explored to
Evidence in Criminal Cases. The include the Alternative Dispute Resolution
region will adopt the national priority on (ADR) mechanisms, such as the Barangay
the establishment of CEU to store and Justice System or the Katarungan
handle case records of the Justice Hubs. Pambarangay. In collaboration with DILG,
It will provide operational support for this will reassess exemptions of cases
the systematic and organized procedure that may be brought before the Lupong
of storage of evidence. This system will Tagapamayapa, particularly concerning
facilitate the electronic and physical residence and thresholds of criminal
validation and documentation of cases. It will also include the expansion of
evidence gathered by law enforcement, its limited dispute jurisdiction involving
prosecution, courts, and other relevant parties that reside within or adjoining
agencies. This will also ensure that data cities/municipalities, and the adjustment
seized during the investigation remains of penalties based on the Revised Penal
unaltered through trial. Code.
Improve human resource The use of ADR in the public and private
allocation in the justice sector. sectors in the region will be guided by
Rationalization of human resources in the Philippine legal framework following
the justice sector of the Bicol region will international standards. Capacity building,
adopt its nationwide policy on a sector- advocacy, and informative programs on
based approach in creating new and the different ADR mechanisms will be
appropriate positions by matching the undertaken.
creation of courts with corresponding
increases in the number of prosecutors, Maximize the use of digital
public attorney’s positions, and create technology and build a robust,
more justice sector positions to deal with efficient, and disaster-resilient
the workload and cause congestion. ICT architecture for the justice
sector. The electronic and multimodal
Adopt sectoral training for all means of providing services and
stakeholders in commercial communication will be further
disputes. The region will adopt the enhanced by maximizing the use of
national level initiative on the sector-based digital technology in the overall justice
approach in the settlement of commercial automation and digitalization of processes.
disputes, to include intra-corporate The implementation of Continuous Trial
cases, intellectual property cases, cases Guidelines which reduces time gaps
involving admiralty and maritime laws, between trial procedures will further the
financial rehabilitation and liquidation of digital transformation of the justice sector
insolvent debtors, competition cases, and processes by introducing digital justice
cybercrime cases, among others. Sectoral procedures, such as online hearings and
capacity building will be conducted, and digital case management systems.
information exchange activities will be
Specifically, the Bicol region will promote also be clarified to ensure that courts are
and support the implementation of the compliant with issuing partial judgments
National Justice Information System at the different stages of expropriation
(NJIS) through the Single Carpeta cases. This will include the jurisdiction of
System, otherwise known as the Inmate the NCIP on claims of IPs and indigenous
Management Information System. This cultural communities on ancestral
is a nationwide comprehensive case domains in the region. Also, the Bicol
monitoring and information system that region will support the SC in designating
collects and shares case information special courts for land dispute settlement.
into a centralized database for sentence
monitoring and management of Moreover, the region will participate in
detainees, PDL, parolees, and pardonees. the crafting of simplified special rules
The automation will simplify the system of procedure, through civil or criminal
of court-bound and court-issued papers, proceedings, to handle multi-party cases,
where templates, as well as relevant public such as mass injury cases.
information, will be made available in the
eCourt system portal. Automate consumer complaints
handling. The regional and provincial
Implement the integration of the offices of the DTI will develop and
unified crime index to improve implement the Online Dispute Resolution
the uniformity of crime data. The System, which will serve as a web-based
region will be in sync with the national- consumer complaint portal, and automate
level implementation of a unified crime the entire consumer complaints-handling
index database of the PNP in support of process of the government. This will
the technology-based case management be done by interlinking all the relevant
solutions rollout. Applicable processes will national and sub-national government
follow the exact language or terminology agencies of the Consumer Network.
of the index database that is compliant
with the international standard for crime Provide private sector-led redress
statistics. mechanisms. The business owners in
the region will be encouraged to establish
Streamline the rules on the respective consumer welfare desks or
disposition of specialized and an equivalent customer relations office
multi-party cases. The rules on land inside their establishments, and develop
disputes will be streamlined to impose a mechanism for speedy resolution as
the mandatory consolidation of causes of well as provide immediate redress for
action relating to the same real property, consumer complaints. This will prevent
whether for possession, ownership, or additional case build-up for the regional
damages. The rule on expropriation will court.
Outcome 2: Access to quality free or

affordable legal services improved
Promote Free Legal Service underprivileged to address scarce legal
Access. The national and regional services. The said rule manifests that law
government will fully implement the schools are required to establish legal
Revised Law Student Practice Rule under aid clinics and provide accredited law
Rule 138-A of the Rules of Court for the students the opportunity to assist those

who do not have representation in court. program will support the development
of a more effective and accessible judicial
The justice sector of the region will system. It will alleviate the backlog of
promote and tap the services of the cases and make justice more available
Integrated Bar of Philippines (IBP)-Bicol to remote areas with no functioning
Chapters, volunteers from the Bicol law courts. Modeled after similar projects in
schools and legal aid providers, and other nations, the JOW will make use of
other non-governmental organizations buses to reach underserved communities
which offer alternative lawyering to and serve as both a courtroom and a
underprivileged populations, such as mediation center. The expanded JOW
the Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap program will bring the courts closer to
Panlegal (SALIGAN), a legal resource the complainants in local communities in
NGO based in Naga City, which provide the region, which will thereby ensure the
legal education to empower and equip speedy resolution of cases or disputes.
the marginalized with knowledge “to
fight for their rights”. This will enable the Strengthen victim legal
organizations to discharge their public protection and assistance. Access
responsibilities more effectively and to justice in the region will be made more
improve the overall administration of inclusive, especially among marginalized
justice in the region. sectors such as women, children,
PWDs, senior citizens, and indigenous
Establish Free Legal Aid Public peoples, through victim-centered,
Directory and Referral System. child-friendly, and gender-sensitive
Localized efforts by the LGUs in the assistance mechanisms. Coordination
Bicol region will be provided in creating among the DOJ, PNP, and DSWD will
a directory of free legal aid providers. be strengthened through their regional
In a collaboration between SC, DOJ, offices to address fragmented mechanisms
PAO, IBP, the Philippine Association of in existing witness protection and victim
Law Schools, and other legal aid service assistance programs. The accessibility
providers, the data-banking for referral and administration of the Victims
and contact system for free legal aid that Compensation Program will be improved,
can be availed of by regional localities will and increasing the compensation for
be strengthened. Specifically, online legal victims of unjust imprisonment and
aid will be provided to ensure that law violent crimes will be pursued.
enforcers and detainees have immediate
access to free legal aid. Moreover, the Commission on Human
Rights (CHR) Region 5 will intensify
The DOJ Region 5 will primarily oversee its efforts to improve access to justice
the establishment and maintenance of the through the following: (a) empowering
DOJ Action Center wherein complaints, the poor and marginalized to seek
requests for legal assistance and queries responses and remedies for injustice; (b)
of walk-in clients will be facilitated and improving legal protection, awareness,
provided with immediate action. and aid; (c) improving civil society and
parliamentary oversight; (d) addressing
Expand the Justice on Wheels human rights violations in the justice
Program. The Bicol region will leverage sector; (e) strengthening linkages
the expanded Justice on Wheels (JOW) between formal and informal structures;
program to address focus areas in the and, (f) monitoring and evaluating such
region, such as tenurial agrarian issues, interventions.
environmental cases, etc. The JOW
Outcome 3: Quality of life of PDL improved,
and productive re-integration of PDL in the
community ensured
Undertake construction and The Bicol will support the establishment
repair of penal facilities. Jail facilities and implementation of a Unified
will be constructed, and health and safety Reintegration Strategy, wherein a
protocols in penal facilities will be enforced. comprehensive and holistic program
New jail facilities will be established, and for the reintegration of PDL post-
the existing penitentiary will be expanded incarceration will be created. This will
to adequately address the jail congestion include employment opportunities in the
problem and properly house the PDL. The public sector and providing incentives for
construction and repair of penal facilities the private sector that will accept PDL as
of international standards will be given employees.
priority to guarantee the dignity and
health of detainees, as well as effectively Expand the e-Dalaw system,
support their rehabilitation, and eventual livelihood and entrepreneurial
reintegration into society. opportunities for PDL, and
multi-disciplinary rehabilitation
To facilitate the resolution of cases mechanisms. Emanating from the
and help in the decongestion of jails, national, the e-Dalaw system in the region
strict observance of the rules of court will be operationalized and expanded
for the speedy disposition of cases will to afford unhampered access to justice
be undertaken. Parole and mediation and enforce social reintegration. Digital
cases, especially those involving senior infrastructure will be put in place to
citizens, will be monitored regularly and support video conferencing for visitors,
legal assistance will be provided. The jail as well as the conduct of virtual hearings.
management system will be harmonized This will reduce possible risks associated
and unified, and mechanisms relative to with in-person contact, such as the
the status and prioritization of inmate smuggling of prohibited items.
cases will be established. The grant of
good conduct time allowance (GCTA) The transformative power of education,
to deserving PDL and plea bargaining especially for people behind bars, will
in drug cases will be adopted to further be promoted, e.g., College Behind Bars,
reduce jail congestion. to provide options for those in prisons
who struggle to earn educational
Establish a unified penology and degrees. This will include the provision
corrections system. The region will of support facilities such as college
support the proposal for a single agency buildings, and coordination with SUCs
that will be created to manage all national will be facilitated. Furthermore, lifelong
prisons and city, district, municipal, and development such as providing better and
provincial jails all over the country and sustainable learning, such as vocational
administer rehabilitation programs for and technical training, will be promoted
convicted offenders. This new agency and to be mainstreamed in the education
the courts will work together through platforms for PDL to facilitate and enable
information sharing to guarantee the sustainable livelihood.
timely release of detainees or convicted
offenders. To provide livelihood opportunities for

PDL, capacity training will continue to and Development Program for PDL,
be provided by the DTI, specifically on which includes: (a) spiritual services; (b)
handiwork skills and product development. guidance and counseling; (c) educational
These will provide opportunities for PDL services like the Alternative Learning
to earn for their upkeep and their families. System (ALS); (d) skills training and
The government will also provide tax livelihood program and services; (e)
incentives or other non-monetary Therapeutic Community Modality
incentives and recognition to business Program (TCMP); and (f) Katatagan,
establishments and employers that will Kalusugan at Damayan ng Komunidad
provide capacity-building, livelihood (KKDK).
or employment, and entrepreneurial
opportunities to PDL. The Bicol region Operationalize the unified
will provide input to the government’s referral and monitoring system
conduct of the study to determine the for former PDL. The national and sub-
viability of the complete deletion of national governments will collaborate to
criminal records being adopted in other assess the post-incarceration outcomes
jurisdictions. This will remove the stigma through facilities for psychiatric support
associated with incarceration. and supportive residential housing, such
as halfway houses. This will ascertain
A holistic reintegration program classes of offenders, such as, in drug
will be implemented for formerly cases, the rehabilitation program will be
incarcerated offenders, consisting of a designed to address underlying problems
multi-disciplinary program that will of substance abuse that might lead to re-
ensure the successful rehabilitation of offending.
convicted offenders. The program will be
directed toward improving the offenders’ Furthermore, the functions of the
behaviors, skills, mental health, social Barangay ADACs in the Bicol region will
functioning, and access to education and be expanded to include monitoring of
employment. former PDL to assist in their complete
rehabilitation and reintegration into
Moreover, the BJMP Region 5 will communities.
sustain its activities under its Welfare
Legislative Agenda
Table 14.2.2 presents the proposed policy reform to enhance administration of justice.
Table 14.2.2 Legislative Agenda to Enhance Administration of Justice

Amendment of Batas Pambansa Redistribute/create new courts proportionate to the DOJ
Blg.129 population per proposed court location, historical volume
of filing, or the existing load of dockets in the courts of that
location.
CHAPTER 15
Practice Good Governance

and Improve Bureaucratic
and Regulatory Efficiency  
A high-trust society and efficient bureaucracy through good governance are essential
to attaining a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society. Good governance is the
foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth, which creates accountability,
transparency, and efficiency at all levels of government.  
This chapter presents the strategies to attain clean and efficient governance, to
promote stronger collaboration between RLAs and LGUs, and to improve overall
regulatory efficiency and competitiveness.  

Assessment local level are being promoted.  
In RDP 2017-2022, the sector outcome Over the past years, the DILG has
relating to good governance and issued several circulars to promote the
bureaucratic efficiency was partially active engagement of CSOs in national
attained, as several new policies and and local government processes and
measures were implemented. While programs. The recently released DILG
most of the targets were achieved, its Memorandum Circular (MC) 2022-083,
performance fell short of the end-of-plan or the “Guidelines on the Accreditation
targets. of CSOs and Selection Representatives
to the Local Special Bodies (LSB),”
To advance transparency and promote further strengthened the private sector
accountability, the DILG created the partnership and empowered citizens in
Full Disclosure Policy (FDP) Portal in participatory governance.  
2012. The portal served as a transparency
mechanism that allows LGUs to fully The RA 11292 or the “Seal of Good
disclose their financial transactions to Local Governance (SGLG) Act of 2019,”
keep their constituents informed on how provides a progressive assessment system
the budget was managed. As of the fourth to give distinctions to remarkable LGU
quarter of 2021, 98 provinces, cities, and performance based on assessment criteria.
municipalities (PCM) have fully complied In 2021, under the SGLG assessment, the
with the requirements of the FDP: 16 have DILG recorded 20 participating LGUs
high-partial compliance, 1 has low-partial in the SGLG field testing, but this was
compliance, and 4 are non-compliant only half of the target participants for
PCMs. The increase in usage of the FDP, assessment. In 2022, the DILG expanded
transparency, and accountability at the the assessment criteria from seven to ten
Chapter 15 Practice Good Governance and Improve Bureaucratic Efficiency | 238

to boost LGU performance. The SGLG COVID-19 pandemic, the CSC utilized
maintains the “all-in” principle where the an online appointment system to
LGUs must pass all assessment areas to manage the volume of walk-in clients
receive recognition. One of the ways to for the Administrative Justice Program.
improve the participation of LGUs in the The program aims for an efficient and
assessments is the eligibility of awardees effective disposition and resolution of
to the SGLG Incentive Fund and other cases. However, the administrative case
intervention packages. The incentive fund disposition rate declined from 83.87
may be used by awardee LGUs to finance percent in 2019 to 55.14 percent in 2022,
local development initiatives. However, while the case resolution rate increased
the LGU participation in the region for the from 92.16 percent to 95.68 percent. The
SGLG assessment remains low. The DILG CSC will strengthen its Administrative
will create interventions to improve the Justice Program to increase the
participation of LGUs in the assessments. administrative case disposition rate above
the pre-pandemic level.
The Bicol Region continues to pursue
excellence and better bureaucratic The issuance of EO 170, or the “Adoption
efficiency. Compared to last year, the of Digital Payments for Government
number of LGUs qualifying in the top Disbursements and Collections,”
ten in the different areas of the Cities and provided the digitalization of payments
Municipalities Competitiveness Index for government disbursement and
(CMCI) increased from 9 cities and collections in line with the government’s
municipalities to 17. In 2022, the cities thrust to develop an inclusive and digital
of Naga and Legazpi were awarded as finance ecosystem. It is consistent with the
the 1st and 2nd overall most competitive EODB-EGSD Act of 2018 which further
component cities, respectively. The strengthens the efforts for more efficient
municipality of Paracale was awarded service delivery.  
the most improved 3rd to 4th class LGU,
while Daet was awarded the 3rd most The PhilSys of the PSA has now registered
competitive in economic dynamism for more than 3.48 million Bicolanos. In
1st to 2nd class municipalities. line with this, the PSA launched PBRAP
to support the registration process for
In strengthening the human resources PhilSys. The PBRAP aims to facilitate the
in RLAs, the Civil Service Commission issuance and eliminate the barriers to the
(CSC) continues the implementation registration of birth certificates especially
of the Program to Institutionalize in GIDAs, with the assistance of DILG
Meritocracy and Excellence in Human and LGUs. These programs will be able to
Resource Management (PRIME-HRM). transform service delivery and accelerate
The PRIME-HRM is a mechanism that our transition to a digital economy by
empowers government agencies by promoting a unified ID system for all
assessing the maturity levels of their Filipinos.   
competencies, systems, and practices in
various human resource (HR) systems. In The Mandanas-Garcia Supreme Court
2022, the CSC accredited only one agency ruling will strengthen the local autonomy
with the PRIME-HRM Bronze award, prescribed in the Local Government
which is lower than the previous year’s Code (LGC) of 1991. It will accelerate
performance of six agencies. the development of LGUs in the region.
   However, along with the increase in the
Due to the restrictions caused by the share from the National Tax Allocation,

the responsibilities and obligations of engagement needs to be improved
brought by the full devolution also to ensure meaningful participation and
increased. The challenges that the LGUs proper representation of their respective
have to confront will be addressed, such sectors. The CSOs require deeper and more
as the lack of capability and resources to significant engagement in government
implement big-ticket projects, the fast processes and a chance for proper
tracking of Devolution Transition Plans, representation of their organization and
and the implementation of effective constituents.  
public financial management. Necessary
actions have to be undertaken to ensure Strengthening competitiveness in
that the LGUs are equipped and prepared the public sector. Strengthening the
to contribute to the success of full competitiveness of the public sector
devolution.   remains a challenge considering
new development trends including
The DICT has been continuously technological advancement and the
implementing the Free Wi-Fi for All threats of disasters and climate change.
Program across the country. In 2021, These include the need to enhance the
121 sites were established in 36 different competencies of its human resources and
locations in Albay. The free internet improve facilities including information
facilities were placed in public areas such technology. The competitiveness of
as municipal halls, RHUs, SUCs, and the government sector to perform its
public parks. The program has to focus on functions effectively and efficiently was
GIDAs to improve access. The improved further tested with the occurrence of the
digital connectivity will also aid LGUs in COVID-19 pandemic which calls for the
their compliance with the FDP. acceleration of the digital transformation
of government processes, and ensuring
Challenges that services will not be disrupted in the
event of a disaster.  
Improving citizenry participation.
Governance is not merely a responsibility Improving transparency and
of the government sector but the ensuring efficient delivery of public
combined effort of all the members services. Improving transparency
of society wherein everyone is given and accountability in the government
the chance to be heard and be able to sector plays a critical role to improve
participate in decision-making. Through bureaucratic efficiency. Although various
the years, efforts have been conducted efforts have been implemented to improve
to promote participatory governance in transparency and efficient delivery of
the region. However, maintaining and services, various issues remain including
creating a venue that allows the citizenry weak feedback mechanisms and layers
to actively participate in nation-building of unnecessary bureaucratic processes
remains to be a challenge. Despite the which need to be streamlined to facilitate
increase in participation of the private government transactions.
sector in government processes, the level
Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 aims to: increase the number of LGUs compliant
(a) strengthen PCM based on local with FDP; (c) improve the administrative
development council (LDC) standards; (b) case disposition and resolution rate; (d)

increase the number of PCMs conferring with PRIME-HRM bronze award; and (g)
with the SGLG; (e) increase the number establish Integrated Business Permits and
of PCMs recognized in the CMCI; (f) Licensing System (IBPLS) in the region.
increase the number of agencies accredited
Core Indicators
Table 15.1 presents the indicators and targets to practice good governance and improve
bureaucratic and regulatory efficiency.
Table 15.1 Core Indicators to Practice Good Governance and Improve Bureaucratic and
Regulatory Efficiency

INDICATOR
PCMs compliant with LDC Prov -

functionality standards 100%
increased (%) C/MLGU - Increasing DILG Report DILG
49.12%
(2021)
Percentage of PCMs fully
85%
compliant with the Full 85% DILG Report DILG
(2022)
Disclosure Policy (%)
Percentage of administrative Average
case disposition rate Rate -
66% Increasing 100% CSC Report CSC
77.65%
(2019-2021)
Percentage of case Average
resolution rate Rate -
80% Increasing 100% CSC Report CSC
94.16%
(2019-2021)
The percentage of PCMs
9
conferred with SGLG 10 12 14 16 18 20 DILG Report DILG
(2022)
increased
No. of PCMs Recognized in 7
Increasing DTI Report DTI
the CMCI (2022)
Number of agencies
5
accredited with the PRIME- 5 Increasing CSC Report CSC
(2022)
HRM Bronze Award
No. of established negosyo
91
centers in the PCMs in the Maintained DTI Report DTI
(2022)
region
No. of established iBPLs in 10
Increasing DICT Report DICT
the LGUs in the region (2022)

Strategy Framework
Figure 15.1 Strategy Framework to Practice Good Governance and Improve Bureaucratic
and Regulatory Efficiency
Strategies
The practice of good governance and the attainment of good governance while
improved bureaucratic and regulatory strengthening government functions,
efficiency will be achieved by intensifying systems, and mechanisms, and public
participatory governance, strengthening servants’ support will help improve
public accountability and government bureaucratic and regulatory efficiency.
systems, and ensuring competent public The following are the strategies to attain
servants. Participatory governance and the chapter outcome:
public accountability will contribute to
Outcome 1: Participatory governance

deepened  
One of the foundations of a high-trust preparation processes, LSB, programs
society is to empower the citizens through and projects, and People’s Councils.
participatory governance. To attain this: Both agencies will further strengthen the
(a) sufficient participatory platforms will involvement of CSOs to provide inclusive,
be provided to citizens; (b) the public’s sufficient, and participatory spaces. LGUs
access to information will be made and government agencies will comply
seamless and reliable; (c) the participation with the various issuances of DBM and
of CSOs in government processes will be DILG to promote functional participatory
encouraged; and (d) efforts to increase spaces in their offices and affiliated
citizen participation in elections will be committees.
promoted.  
The DILG will capacitate CSOs for them
Ensure functional participatory to be familiarized with government
spaces and improve the quality programs and processes, such as in LSBs,
of participation. Involvement of the LDC, and Local Health Boards, among
private sector in government processes will others. Capacity-building activities will
be ensured through creation of effective encourage CSOs to fully participate
participatory spaces. In recent years, both in government processes and improve
DBM and DILG have been promoting their quality of representation in their
the participation of CSOs in budget respective sectors. DBM and DILG will

continue to create issuances, further of 2018 to ensure the timely release of
enhancing the quality of participation data. In line with the said Act, ARTA
from private sectors to government released MC 2020-07 entitled “Guidelines
bodies. To support this, the RLAs, on the Designation of a Committee on
committees, councils, bodies, and LGUs Anti-Red Tape in Agencies Concerned
will provide an opportunity for CSOs in Compliance with RA 11032, and its
to contribute significant and relevant Implementing Rules and Regulations”.
participation based on their expertise. The The said MC ensures that the agencies will
Open Government Partnership, an be able to comply with the EODB-EGSD
international organization from various Act of 2018 and further enhance their
sectors, will also support the recognition existing mechanisms and services.
of CSOs in local legislative bodies.  
Compliance with the FDP and Freedom
Further, the IPs shall be well represented of Information (FOI) will be ensured to
to promote their rights in congress, local promote transparency and contribute to
legislative bodies, and policy-making the accessibility of public information. The
bodies. coverage of EO 2, s. 2016 will be expanded
to allow the public to review all official
Broaden public access to information from government agencies
information. Broadening public to promote meaningful and increased
access to information, transparency, participation in government decision-
better connectivity, and seamless access making, as well as in transparency and
to information play a vital part in accountability.  
participatory governance. All RLAs will
be encouraged to establish websites where The DICT will continue to improve and
frequently asked data, annual reports, increase the coverage of the Free Wi-Fi for
development plans, agency plans, and All programs for better, free, and reliable
other relevant information are easily internet connectivity for Bicolanos,
accessible.   especially those in remote areas. The
enhancement of digital connectivity
Request for information to RLAs will be will promote better public access to
compliant with the EODB-EGSD Act information (See Chapter 13).
Outcome 2: Public accountability and integrity

bolstered  
In attaining strong public accountability Enhance public feedback
and integrity, transparency and prevention loops. With the current increase in
of corruption will be addressed. connectivity and digital technology
Functional mechanisms for people to capacities, accessibility to public feedback
voice their concerns are in place but will loops will be made easier, such as the
be strengthened to increase trust and Contact Center ng Bayan, EODB-EGSD
satisfaction among citizens. Improvement Act, and ARTA services, by ensuring
of local governance assessment and that these can be accessed online.
transparency platforms, such as the FDP The harmonized Client Satisfaction
and FOI, will be promoted.   Measurement (CSM) issued by ARTA will

be implemented by government agencies ensure that assets and liabilities, including
to improve and standardize client feedback business and financial interests, are
mechanisms and government services. declared under oath.
To further enhance feedback loops, the
mechanisms will seek a higher and faster The Commission on Audit will continue
resolution rate, and utilize current digital to implement the Intensified Management
capacities to further improve service Program on Integrity to ensure a sustained
delivery to the citizens.    culture of integrity in the public sector.
DILG will also monitor the LGUs and act
Intensify transparency in public on corruption-related complaints filed
spending. All agencies and LGUs will against local officials and executives.  
broaden public access to information
on public spending. DILG will further Improve local governance
capacitate the LGUs in using the FDP assessment and participation. The
to intensify efforts toward transparency. conduct of the SGLG will continue to boost
The FDP, which serves as one of the main LGUs’ performance and commitment to
tools for advancing transparency and improve based on the various governance
accountability, allows the constituents areas. To promote LGU participation,
of an LGU to understand how the local DILG will further capacitate and provide
budget is allocated. RLAs will observe technical assistance to LGUs to better
the open contracting data standards in prepare them during the assessments of
their procurement processes to facilitate SGLG. DILG will employ the aid of local
the disclosure and publication of all committees, councils, and bodies to create
procurement data.   issuances for LGUs to participate in the
SGLG assessments. In line with this, the
Strengthen implementation and National Governance Index Development
monitoring of anti-corruption will be rolled out for adoption in the
laws. Anti-corruption laws will be region. The Index shall serve as the local
strengthened to ensure that public money counterpart of the global governance
is spent to improve public service. Filing indices which aims to evaluate the
of Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and sustainability of a country’s regulatory
Net Worth (SALN) will continue to framework and infrastructure in
promote transparency, full disclosure, facilitating natural, social, and intellectual
and preservation of integrity in the civil capital.  
service. Monitoring of SALN will help
Outcome 3: Government functions,

systems, and mechanisms rationalized and
strengthened  
Streamlined government processes subchapter outcome includes strategies
provide better services for the citizens, on the right sizing and the whole-of-
and facilitate the government’s efforts government approach in systems and
to achieve a digital economy. Efficient procedures, digital transformation in
government functions will reduce government processes, and raising
operational costs, provide faster delivery the productivity and performance of
of service, and show better results. This government agencies.  

Pursue rightsizing and the services, whether internal to government
whole-of-government approach employees, between government agencies,
in reengineering systems and or with external clients.  
procedures. In November 2022, the
House Committee on Government With the lessons learned during the
Reorganization approved the National COVID-19 pandemic, the region will
Government Rightsizing Bill which support the proposed E-Governance
intends to pursue the rightsizing measures Act of 2022, or House Bill No. 3 that will
in the executive branch of the government. facilitate the digital transformation in the
The bill seeks to create the Committee government through a faster, safer, and
on Rightsizing the Executive Branch more efficient way to deliver services, and
in charge of reorganizing, merging, reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19.
streamlining, or abolishing agencies and The implementation of the PhilSys
officers that will improve the performance program will also be continued to assist
and service delivery of national agencies in accelerating the digital transformation.
based on their core functions, roles, The said program will be supported by all
mandates, structures, size, and processes. government agencies to facilitate digital
Acknowledging its importance in regional transformation in government.  
development, particularly in improving
public service delivery, regional line Raise the productivity and
agencies will support any efforts related to performance of agencies. The
this particularly once passed into law. implementation of the Government
Quality Management Program will
With the passage of EO No. 138, s. 2021, be pursued to enhance the frontline
the delineation of functions of agencies services of agencies for the benefit of its
under the executive branch and LGUs clients. The QGMP will promote the
involved may change. Thus, the Regional adoption of International Organization
Committee on Devolution (ComDev), led for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2000
by DBM and DILG, will oversee and guide Quality Management Systems among
the transition during the roll-out of the government agencies. The ISO
Mandanas-Garia SC ruling. To support certification will assist in standardizing
this, the agencies as well as the LGUs and streamlining government processes
will continue to create and implement to ensure productivity and performance.
their respective Devolution Transition Once certified, government agencies will
Plans. The ComDev will continue to assist continue to improve and increase their
both the agencies and LGUs to ensure enrolled processes during re-certification
the effective transition of the devolved activities. As such, this will ensure the
functions. continuous improvement of performance
and service delivery to the public. The
Accelerate digital transformation harmonization of CSM created by ARTA
in government. The E-Government will be used to measure the effectiveness
Masterplan (EGMP) 2022 of DICT will of current practices and services and
be implemented to streamline procedures improve on it based on client feedback
and enhance the ICT capacities of which in turn will be used as a basis to
government agencies. The National improve productivity performance. The
Government Portal (NGP) will be use of the Productivity and Performance
completed and the EGMP will be the Management System as well as the
frontline program. The NGP will provide Results-Based Management Framework
users with easy access to government will be promoted across levels.

Promote green and sustainable join the annual energy efficiency awards
practices in the public sector. In of the DOE to promote and recognize
support of the country’s commitment to the best-performing entities in terms of
the SDGs, including reducing disaster energy conservation.
and climate-related risks, sustainable
practices will be promoted across levels Green Public Procurement (GPP) is a
of the government sector. In line with mechanism to include environmentally
adaptation and mitigation initiatives, relevant technical specifications in bid
government agencies will pursue projects documents for government agencies.
to generate renewable energy, such as The practice of GPP will be adopted and
solar energy being the most common, in promoted by government agencies in the
their respective offices. Renewable energy region to foster sustainability, achieve
will reduce the monthly electrical bills in long-term benefits, reduce pollution,
the offices and will ensure that some of and improve the overall lives of future
the basic office facilities, such as lighting generations. In essence, GPP is the same
and Wi-Fi, will work despite the frequent as the conventional principles of public
power outages and even during disasters. procurement but adds more emphasis on
Diversifying the energy supply will lessen sustainable development in government.
the dependency on local energy suppliers. These include the procurement of
services ranging from food and catering,
Government agencies will improve their training, and venues to appliances, such
energy efficiency practices within the as air conditioning, refrigerators, and
office as stated in RA 11285, or the “Energy computers, to daily cleaning materials
Efficiency and Conservation Act.” The in the office, among others. The Bids
DOE regular energy efficiency audit will and Awards Committees of the various
be supported by government agencies agencies in Bicol will make use of “The
and comply with their recommendations Philippine Green Public Procurement
to improve current energy efficiency Roadmap” to advance their current
practices. Government agencies will also procurement methods.
Outcome 4: Competent, motivated, agile, and

resilient public servants supported  
The productivity and efficiency of Guarantee complete and
an organization rely largely on the capable human resources in
competence, motivation, agility, and government. The CSC will continue to
resiliency of its employees. This chapter implement the PRIME-HRM assessment
supports increasing the capacities and and the CSC Agency Accreditation
skills, and promoting the health of public Program to develop agencies toward
servants. The subchapter outcome will human HR excellence. Both onsite
deal with job satisfaction, work happiness, and online technical assistance will be
organizational commitment, and provided by CSC to agencies based on
employee engagement to promote public their needs which will address gaps and
servants and ensure overall bureaucratic meet their desired outcomes. The PRIME-
efficiency.   HRM will be promoted to agencies to

increase the capacities of human resources creative, productive, and motivated. To
in government agencies. Government achieve this, various initiatives will be
agencies that have received PRIME-HRM implemented. On the physical aspect,
awards will aim to meet the next higher agencies will be encouraged to observe
levels of PRIME-HRM to guarantee compliance with various policies such
complete and capable human resources in as observance of proper ventilation,
government.   space, and lighting as prescribed by the
DOLE and DOE to ensure the comfort
The region will also support the bill which of the employees and build resilient
seeks to institutionalize the creation infrastructure facilities following
of human management resource office the National Building Code. Government
(HRMO) in all LGUs in the country. agencies will be encouraged to adopt
Currently, the accountability of HR is a prescribed minimum specification
lodged with the local chief executives for information and communications
(LCE), which could result in HR matters technology equipment to improve
being politicized. As such, the creation of efficiency and productivity in the office.
HRMOs in LGUs will help in developing Agencies will also consider the CSC MC
competent and credible employees, as well on Physical Fitness Program to promote
as boost HR concerns within the LGUs.   health, sports, and camaraderie within the
agency. At the same time, agencies will be
Promote conducive working encouraged to register in the PhilHealth
environments. A conducive work Konsulta Package to cover annual physical
environment is where employees feel consultations, and to monitor and improve
appreciated, acknowledged, and valued. their employees’ overall health status.  
In turn, the employees become more
Outcome 5: Regulatory burden on businesses

and individuals reduced
The greater regulatory burden on and streamline business processes, DICT
businesses and individuals can act as a will implement the iBPLS, an improved
barrier to entering business ventures, successor to the Electronic Business
which may result in the reduction of Permits and Licensing System. In line
healthy market competition. Heavy with the EODB-EGSD Act of 2018, which
regulatory burdens may also lead to requires LGUs to automate their business
exploitation, such as bribery and fixers. permitting systems until 2021, ARTA
To address this shortcoming, initiatives encourages LGUs to adopt the iBPLS
to reduce regulatory burdens to attract software, which will allow the electronic
new businesses and overall investment processing of building permits, occupancy
in the region will be implemented. It will permits, and business permits. All LGUs
also hasten service delivery to individuals in the region, in coordination with DICT,
and businesses with transactions with the will adopt the use of iBPLS.  
government.  
The RA 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act,
Expedite efforts to automate and mandates the establishment of NCs in
streamline processes for business all PCMs in the region. These centers
registration, renewal, closure, promote ease of doing business and
and pivot. In the efforts to automate facilitate access to services for MSMEs

while at the same time supporting MSME respective Citizen’s Charters to identify
development. Serving as the regional arm and eliminate costly, redundant,
of the MSMEs Development Council, the unnecessary, ineffective, and outdated
DTI performs oversight and fulfills the regulations. As such, all agencies in the
functions of the NCs. While the majority region will implement the EODB-EGSD
of PCMs in the region have functioning Act to aid in eliminating redundant,
NCs, DTI, and LGUs will fast-track the duplicative, and overlapping regulations
establishment of NCs in the remaining to promote faster and more efficient
areas of the region. Manpower will be transactions.  
devoted by LGUs to NCs functions to
ensure service delivery to businesses in Adopt the National Policy on
their designated areas. DTI will continue Regulatory Management System.
to provide NCs services in the region In 2022, ARTA released MC No. 2022-06,
and improve overall coordination with with the title “Establishing the National
relevant government agencies and LGUs.   Policy on Regulatory Management
System (NPRMS),” to create a whole-of-
Eliminate redundant, duplicative, nation approach to regulatory reform
and overlapping regulations. by reducing regulatory burden and
Redundant, duplicative, and overlapping improving regulatory quality and
regulations in the government can coherence. The NPRMS has been laid
create uncertainty, conflicting rules, and out in the PDP 2023-2028 in support of
an increase in transaction costs while the current administration’s eight-point
providing no added benefits to the public. agenda. In line with the PDP 2023-2028,
In 2020, the Office of the President of the Bicol RDP 2023-2028 will adopt the
the Philippines issued AO 23, s. 2020 NPRMS in the region and strengthen the
to eliminate overregulation to promote capacity of NGAs and LGUs to implement
the efficiency of government processes. the system. ARTA will regularly provide
Under RA 9845, as amended, ARTA will regulatory management training
coordinate with government offices to programs to capacitate NGAs and LGUs
review issuances and processes and repeal in the implementation of the NPRMS. The
outdated and redundant government critical roles of agencies and LGUs will
processes relating to public transactions. ensure the improvement of the regulatory
In line with this, under Rule IV of the environment and strengthen overall
IRR of the EODB-EGSD Act of 2018 and business confidence and competitiveness,
the ARTA MC 2020-07, all government at the same time reducing permit
agencies are required to review their corruption in the processes.
Legislative Agenda
To achieve the chapter outcome, the government will pursue legislation outlined in
Table 15.2.  
Table 15.2 Legislative Agenda to Practice Good Governance and Improve Bureaucratic
and Regulatory Efficiency  

National Government Rightsizing This will be the primary basis for transforming and DBM
Bill   streamlining the structure of agencies under the executive
branch based on their functions, mandates, roles, and
processes. Its enactment will ensure the correct staffing
requirements for agencies.  

E-Governance Bill   This aims to unify and streamline service delivery processes DICT
and services in all government offices to digitization. The bill
shall provide the highest level of convenience to Filipinos in
their transactions with the government.  
Budget Modernization Bill   The budget modernization bill seeks to institutionalize the DBM
cash-based budgeting system to strengthen fiscal discipline in
the allocation and use of budget resources.
Amendment of the LGC for the A house bill was proposed for the creation of HRMOs in the DILG
Creation of HRMOs in LGUs   LGUs. The bill was proposed since the accountability of HR is
lodged in the LCEs, which could result in HR matters being
politicized. As such, the creation of HRMOs in LGUs will help
in developing competent and credible employees, as well as
boost HR concerns within the LGUs.  

CHAPTER 16
Accelerate Climate Action

and Strengthen Ecosystem
and Disaster Resilience
Building resilient communities, institutions, and ecosystems is critical to attaining
the medium-term goal of economic and social transformation for a prosperous,
inclusive, and resilient society. Taking into consideration the challenges brought
by climate change, the Bicol RDP 2023-2028 acknowledges the need for collective
action to mitigate the climate crisis and build resilient institutions, communities,
and ecosystems.  
To increase community and institutional resilience, the region will focus on

enhancing the risk assessment process based on scientific and up-to-date data,
as the basis for providing appropriate interventions to address existing risks in the
various sectors. The construction of resilient facilities and the strengthening of the
EWS will be pursued. Capacity building at various levels will be conducted to ensure
that all duty-bearers can perform their jobs in pre- and post-disaster events.
To enhance ecosystem resilience, the conservation, protection, rehabilitation, and

management of the region’s natural resources will be pursued by operationalizing
the integrated ecosystem-based management approach and adopting nature-based
solutions. Natural resource-based industries and enterprises will be promoted by
strengthening the region’s green and blue economies and promoting sustainable
consumption and production.
To enable a low-carbon economy transition, the region will strengthen climate

change mitigation initiatives by supporting the implementation and localization of
the Nationally Determined Contribution policies and programs. Market opportunities
for low-carbon technologies and products will be expanded by providing support to
MSMEs, innovators, and research institutions in the development of climate-smart
products and the adoption of green technology towards sustainability.
Lastly, governance and intersectionality of climate change and natural hazard

resilience will be improved by strengthening risk financing and risk-transfer
mechanisms, intensifying partnerships with different stakeholders, particularly the
private sector and CSOs, implementing innovative data-driven technology solutions,
and strengthening the region’s ecosystem valuation system for better planning and
programming of initiatives.
Chapter 16 Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen Ecosystem and Disaster Resilience | 252
Assessment billion in 2022. For Bicol, data on the
local climate change expenditure tagging
Over the years, Bicolano resilience has (CCET) showed that 45 percent of the
been constantly tested by various disasters total investments of LGUs from 2016 to
because of Bicol Region’s geographic 2020 were attributed to climate change
location that is prone to various natural adaptation and mitigation activities. In
hazards. In 2019 alone, many communities terms of climate projection using both the
suffered the brunt of three consecutive TCs Representative Concentration Pathway
QRU, which onslaught caused widespread (RCP) 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios, an
and significant damage to properties and increase in the seasonal mean temperature
lives, and negative impacts on economic in all the provinces of the region is
opportunities.   projected (PAGASA). The increase in
mean temperature ranges from 1.0 °C
The MGB data showed that around 27 to 2.3 °C. The highest projected mean
percent (4,632 sq. km.) of the region’s temperature of 30.3 °C is noted in the
total land area has high to very high province of Masbate in the months of
susceptibility to landslides and debris March, April, and May.
flow. Approximately 1,405.72 sq. km. or
eight percent are categorized as highly to On mainstreaming DRR-CCA in policies
very highly susceptible to flooding. Most and development plans under RA 10121
of these areas are found within the Bicol and RA 9729, only 22 of the 114 LGUs
River Basin area. have the approved DRR-CCA enhanced
CLUPs which incorporated climate and
According to PHILVOLCS, Bulusan and disaster risk assessment; and one out
Mayon Volcanoes are considered as two of of six provincial LGUs with approved
the most active volcanoes in the country. DRR-CCA enhanced PDPFP, still for
The region lies near the center of the ratification. Of the 120 LGUs (including
Philippine Fault Zone, which is considered provinces), 72 Local Climate Change
a major earthquake generator in the Action Plans were submitted to CCC, as
country. Around 315 sq. km. of Bicol’s of November 2022. As of writing, various
coastal area along the eastern seaboard LGUs are in the process of updating their
is prone to a tsunami with an inundation respective plans.
depth of more than five meters.
Given these various hazards and the
Bicol is frequently affected by TCs. existing vulnerabilities of Bicol, different
Historical data from PAGASA shows that interventions were conducted, both by
from 1945 to 2020, a total of 161 TCs the public and private groups, to ensure
crossed the Bicol Region, 55.3 percent of that the disaster and climate-related
which occurred in the last quarter of each risks of the region will be minimized.
year. These include the conduct of various
training and capacity-building activities
Data from the Climate Change at all levels; preparation of disaster and
Commission (CCC) showed that the climate change risk assessment including
national budget allocated for climate geohazard survey and vulnerability
change-related initiatives increased assessment; conduct of drills and exercises;
from PHP195 billion in 2017 to PHP289 and implementation of community-based

DRR activities. However, despite these implementation, and monitoring of
efforts, intensifying the adaptive capacity post-disaster rehabilitation and recovery
and resiliency of the region remains a programs for typhoon-ravaged areas.  
challenge considering the increasing
frequency and intensity of climate- Regular monitoring of air and water
related hazards. In the past years, the quality was conducted in the past years.
region has suffered various damage and Based on the Annual Air Quality Index,
losses brought by disasters. Data from data from EMB showed that in 2021,
the PDNA showed that for TC Nina, air quality in Bicol is generally in good
around PHP25 billion in cost of damage condition. On water quality, major sources
and losses were recorded in the region, of pollution are domestic, livestock, and
while for TCs QRU, the cost of damage industrial wastes. Most of the 77 classified
and losses reached PHP80.40 billion. water bodies in the region are under Class
This was exacerbated by the impact of the B to C which means that the water supply
pandemic which made the response and requires complete treatment to meet the
early recovery efforts more challenging. National Standards for Drinking Water.
On solid wastes, 2019 data showed that
Initiatives to address the environmental each Bicolano generates an estimated
concerns are being implemented such 0.30 kg of solid waste every day. Domestic
as the continuous reforestation program waste has the largest contribution covering
that resulted in the increase of the region’s around 63 percent of the total generated
forest cover from 199,379 ha in 2015 to solid waste, with only 29 sanitary landfills
208,457 ha in 2020. The Intensified Forest (SLF): 9 LGU-operated, and 20 private
Protection and Anti-Illegal Logging SLF. In the coming years, waste generation
Program of the DENR were among the is expected to increase.
priority initiative implemented in the
region to ensure the protection of the On land administration and management,
forest ecosystem. For 2021, 181 Forest there were 1,895 residential and 636
Protection Officers (FPOs) were hired agricultural free patents issued by the
to augment the conduct of foot patrol DENR covering an area of around 596 ha
and assist in Landscape and Wilderness in 2021. Land titling was also strengthened
Identification (LAWIN) activities. through the Rapid Land Tenure Appraisal
Several mangrove planting activities were Program.
conducted in all the provinces as the
region’s effort to rehabilitate the mangrove Enforcement and monitoring of
areas. Monitoring of these areas was also compliance of the mining operators
conducted particularly within the Ticao- with environmental policies were also
Burias Pass Protected Seascapes. Further, conducted. In 2021, 27 Mineral Product
the restoration and rehabilitation of the Sharing Agreement contracts were
Bicol River Basin are identified as one of approved. Two Minahang Bayan areas
the priorities especially when a series of were declared in Aroroy, Masbate and
tropical cyclones ravaged the region in Paracale, Camarines Norte, wherein five
2020. Among the efforts conducted are small-scale mining (SSM) contracts in
the dredging activities in various localities Camarines Norte were approved under
and the tree planting activities. These the Minahang Bayan Program. SSM is
were implemented by the Bicol Region prevalent in various mining areas of the
Task Force Build Back Better which region. In the municipality of Paracale,
was created by virtue of EO 120, s. 2020 about half of the population is engaged
to expedite and lead the preparation, in different aspects of SSM 1. The
establishment of Minahang Bayan will aid of climate change, necessary mitigating
to eliminate the illegal SSM which poses actions need to be put in place to reduce
threat to the sustainability of the resources greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under
and the safety of the miners. the country’s commitment based on the
Nationally Determined Contributions.
Challenges However, difficulty in identifying regional
and locally determined contributions, and
Intensifying the adaptive capacity the lack of mechanisms to monitor GHG
and resiliency of Bicolanos. With the emissions, particularly at the local level,
increasing intensity, frequency, and remain to be among the major issues.
duration of extreme weather events, Other than this, the region’s dependence
strengthening the region’s adaptive on fossil fuel and the high cost of
capacity remains to be a big challenge. investment required to acquire low-
carbon technology remains to be an issue
Although mainstreaming DRR-CCA in considering the LGUs’ lack of capacity
various development plans and policies is to access various climate risk financing
continuously advocated, the application institutions.
of this remains to be a challenge in most
LGUs due to various issues such as lack Addressing the deterioration of
of capacity, and the lack of data available the ecosystem. Considering various
to be used in the conduct of climate and environmental issues in the region such
disaster risk assessment. In the past years, as forest degradation, pollution, and
it was noted that the occurrence of strong biodiversity loss, there is a pressing need
tropical cyclones brought socioeconomic to continuously protect, conserve and
disruption to many Bicolanos, at worst rehabilitate the natural ecosystems. The
even loss of lives. The commonly affected lack of environment-related data such as
sectors are agriculture, education, the status of groundwater; inconsistent
housing, and infrastructure including data from different agencies/ LGUs;
lifeline facilities. The established EWS and mismatch between nationally-
in various localities was proven to be of produced maps and actual data on the
great help in saving lives; however, issues ground hamper effective planning,
on generating real-time data and its implementation, and monitoring of the
dissemination to all community members resources.
especially those residing in secluded areas
remain as challenges. In terms of land use, issues such as rapid
land conversion and encroachment exist.
Difficulty to track and assess the progress Data showed that encroachment of built-
of the climate agenda is also experienced up areas in forest and timberland was
at the regional and local levels with weak observed in various locations in the region
monitoring mechanisms including the covering an area of around seven sq. km.
monitoring of actual expenditures by Meanwhile, around 640 ha of agricultural
government entities on climate-resilience land were converted to various land uses
initiatives. from 2000 to 2021. This strengthens the
call for the passage of a policy that will
The need to scale up climate change unify all existing land use-related policies
mitigation measures. While adaptation towards efficient management of the
measures are critical to combat the impact region’s land resources.

Targets
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 aims to: (a) increase the mitigated greenhouse gas
attain zero casualties in terms of death, emissions; and (d) increase participation
injured, and missing especially in times of POs/ CSOs in development bodies.
of disasters; (b) increase forest cover; (c)
Core Indicators
Table 16.1 presents the indicators and targets to enhance adaptive capacity and resilience
of communities and ecosystems to climate change and natural hazards.
Table 16.1 Core Indicators to Enhance Adaptive Capacity and Resilience of Communities
and Ecosystems to Climate Change and Natural Hazards   

INDICATOR
The number of deaths, missing persons, and directly affected persons attributed to disasters per 100,000 population decreased  
• Number of deaths
15
attributed to disasters 0 OCD Report OCD
(2022)
decreased
• Number of missing
14
persons attributed to 0 OCD Report OCD
(2022)
disasters decreased
• Number of
directly affected 428,576 Decreasing
OCD Report OCD
persons attributed to (2022)
disasters decreased
Forest cover increased 11.82 Accomplishment
11.83 11.88 11.96 12.03 12.10 12.20 DENR
(2022) Report
Mitigated GHG emissions increased*/ GHG emission reduced (CH4)  

• Industrial 0
0.33 0.39 0.47 0.54 0.62 0.71 EMB Report EMB
(2019)
Number of LGUs with member CSOs/ POs in development bodies (LDC, LDRRMC)
• LDRRMC 90
100 103 108 111 115 120 DILG Report DILG
(2022)
• LDC 98
100 103 105 111 115 120 DILG Report DILG
(2021)
Strategy Framework
Accelerating climate action and resilience of communities and institutions
strengthening disaster and ecosystem increased; (b) ecosystem resilience
resilience will contribute to the economic enhanced; and (c) low carbon economy
and social transformation for a prosperous, transition enabled. These outcomes will
inclusive, and resilient society. By 2028, be supported by improved governance
the following subsector outcomes will and intersectionality of climate change
be achieved: (a) climate and disaster risk and natural hazard resilience.
Figure 16.1 Strategy Framework to Enhance Adaptive Capacity and Resilience of
Communities and Ecosystems to Climate Change and Natural Hazards
Strategies
The following strategies will be pursued presented issues and challenges above.
to achieve the outcomes, and address the
Outcome 1: Climate and disaster risk resilience

of communities and institutions increased
Implementation of prevention, Vulnerability and Risk Assessment project
mitigation, and preparedness initiatives of the MGB Region 5 will continuously be
will be scaled-up to prevent or at least conducted including the preparation and
minimize disaster-related damages, and updating of 1:10,000 and 1:50,000 scale
ensure the readiness of the responders geohazard maps. All disaster and climate-
and communities. Heightened efforts will change-related data will be made available
be observed at all levels to safeguard not and accessible especially at the local
only the lives of Bicolanos but also the level in order to facilitate the conduct
economy and the ecosystem. of risk assessment. Results will then be
integrated into various development
Enhance the risk assessment plans and policies such as the DRRM
process. Appropriate technology and plans, comprehensive development plans,
strengthening the capacities of duty and CLUPs to guide the duty bearers
bearers will be adopted in analyzing in decision making particularly in the
hazards, increasing the adaptive capacities, identification of appropriate interventions
and reducing the vulnerabilities of the to address the risks.
region. Standardization of risk assessment
tools and methodologies will be pursued, Build resilient infrastructure
and the adoption of probabilistic risk facilities. The construction of disaster-
assessment processes will be promoted resilient infrastructure facilities that can
to the extent possible using geospatial stand the impact of extreme weather
data for more reliable and evidence- events and strong earthquakes will be
based information. The PAPs such as the promoted. Climate-smart and green-

infrastructure designs will be adopted simple but effective communication
especially in urban areas such as the channels such as mobile text alerts, social
cities of Legazpi and Naga. The region media, and house-to-house warning
will support the updating of the National announcements. This will ensure that
Building Code to ensure that buildings are these warnings will reach the desired
resilient to withstand any hazards. The population on time. Further, monitoring
construction of permanent facilities will of these EWS devices will be intensified
be located in safe areas, especially those in collaboration with LGUs and other
frequently accessed by the population such stakeholders.  Implementation of various
as schools and hospitals. The government initiatives such as the “Establishment
will support and closely work with the of Near-Real Time Landslide Warning
private sector especially those in the System Using Rainfall Thresholds Based
power, water, and communications sectors on a Network of Gauging Stations and
to explore new designs that will prevent Satellite Rainfall Project” of MGB will be
lifeline facilities from being damaged or pursued.
destroyed which become obstructions
during and after a disaster. The building Rigorously undertake capacity
of resilient social infrastructure facilities building and institutional
such as housing, education, and health strengthening. Institutional and
facilities will be pursued to support the individual capacities will be strengthened
attainment of liveable communities that to ensure that the skills and the technical
is safe from various hazards (See Chapter know-how of the duty bearers involve in
13). This includes the Construction of DRR-CCAM initiatives are up-to-date.
Disaster Resilient Evacuation Centers Efforts of regional and local key players in
in Strategic Areas Program under the advocating socioeconomic resilience will
DPWH Region 5. be harmonized through close coordination
across agencies. IEC materials will be
Strengthen the EWS. Strengthening disseminated at the local level to increase
the four key elements of EWS (risk awareness of communities and duty
knowledge; forecasting and warning; bearers. This includes the use of Disaster
dissemination and communication; and Preparedness Manuals of DILG, and the
preparedness and response) to achieve hazard maps of MGB and PHIVOLCS.
effective “end-to-end” EWS will be
prioritized in the region. New EWS and Pre-disaster initiatives focusing on
devices such as telemetered automated disaster preparedness, prevention, and
weather stations and flood forecasting mitigation will be strengthened from the
systems will be established and installed regional to sub-regional levels. Capacity
in strategic locations. The use of multi- development such as the conduct of
hazards EWS will be adopted to include training on the preparation of contingency
the use of innovative forecasting and continuity plans, trainings on the
technologies. Mechanism to facilitate Basic Incident Comment System, and
the generation of real-time data will be Emergency Operations Center will be
strengthened to ensure that information continued by both the private and public
will be used effectively by duty bearers institutions including the OCD. Other
to protect and save lives. Warning capability building programs such as the
messages based on the standardized acquisition of equipment and machinery,
alert levels such as those being used by and conduct of community emergency
PAGASA for TCs will be disseminated drills to better prepare communities
by concerned agencies and LGUs using for slow and rapid onset events will also
be pursued. Stockpiling in preparation Committee (RPMC) of the RDC and
for emergencies will continuously be the Regional Project Monitoring and
practiced. Evaluation Team (RPMET) of the
Regional DRRM Council for monitoring
The monitoring and evaluation of of PAPs under the regional DRRM Plan
the effectiveness of CCA and DRR and the rehabilitation and recovery plans.
initiatives will also be strengthened CCET will also be strengthened across
using the established monitoring systems levels. Further, the capabilities of the
and mechanisms. As such, areas for security forces and emergency responders
collaboration among different monitoring will continuously be improved to ensure
groups in the region will be explored, responsiveness and efficiency during
such as the Regional Project Monitoring emergencies (See Subchapter 14).
Outcome 2: Ecosystem resilience enhanced

The implementation of various initiatives sites to ensure the sustainability of the
to enhance ecosystem resilience natural ecosystem (See Chapter 8).
will be pursued. Acknowledging the Implementation of policies that will allow
interconnectedness of the different the ecosystem to regenerate for a certain
ecosystems, which transcend political period will be implemented, as necessary,
boundaries, the implementation of these such as the closed fishing season in the
efforts will require the convergence of major fishing grounds under the Philippine
various sectors or a whole-of-society Fisheries Code. The restoration and
approach. Sustainable consumption and rehabilitation of the Bicol River Basin and
production (SCP) will be accelerated by other major rivers in the region will also
operationalizing the Philippine Action be pursued by implementing initiatives
Plan for SCP which highlights the priority such as the Bicol River Basin Management
policies and action nodes aiming to Program which involve various activities
internalize and integrate the social and including tree planting/growing activities,
environmental impacts of economic dredging, and the construction of
activities in the market system. gabions/ gabion check dams.   Projects
related to the management, conservation,
Intensify ecosystem conservation, rehabilitation and protection of various
protection, rehabilitation, and protected areas and key biodiversity areas
management. The sustainable in the Bicol Region such as the Tugbo
management of resources will be watershed, Mayon Volcano Natural
intensified by operationalizing the Park, and Ticao-Burias Pass Protected
integrated ecosystem-based management Seascape will also be implemented.
approach and adopting nature-
based solutions. Initiatives to ensure Monitoring of compliance of
the conservation, protection, and various establishments and entities
rehabilitation of natural resources will to environmental policies will be
be continuously implemented through strengthened, including compliance
various programs, such as the National with the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act,
Greening Program and the Biodiversity Solid Waste Management Act, and the
Conservation Program of the DENR. As Philippine Mining Act, among others,
a renowned ecotourism destination in to ensure environmental quality (See
the country, the region will observe the Subchapter 4.3). This includes intensified
carrying capacity of various ecotourism and regular monitoring of mining

operators’ compliance with environmental the implementation of the Enhanced
policies, which will be spearheaded by the National Greening Program and the
MGB Region 5 in collaboration with the Community Based Biodiversity Friendly
LGUs. Programs such as the establishment Social Enterprises for Rural Communities
of Minahang Bayan will be pursued to of the DENR, which aims to contribute
address mining-related issues such as the to reducing poverty among poor
proliferation of illegal SSM. Further, the households, indigenous people, and in
implementation of payment for ecosystem coastal and urban areas by providing
services and the polluters’ pay principle livelihood and economic opportunities.
will be pursued, and the adherence of With the region’s comparative advantage
government and private establishments in the blue economy considering its vast
to the RA 9003 by practicing good waste coastal and marine resources, marine-
management practices in the workplace based enterprises such as mud-crab
will be promoted. fattening and prawn and milkfish growing
will be supported by providing marketing
Promote natural resource-based support and capacity-building assistance
industries and enterprises. Natural to these MSMEs. The government and
resource-based industries and enterprises the private sector will work together to
will be promoted and expanded by promote biodiversity-friendly enterprises
implementing various initiatives that will and ecotourism sites. To guide the region’s
strengthen the green and blue economies implementation of tourism initiatives to
of the region toward sustainable natural deliver a more competitive, sustainable,
resource management. The region will and inclusive tourism sector, the Bicol
support enabling policies and programs Regional Tourism Development Plan will
that will provide more livelihood and be pursued. In turn, these initiatives will
economic opportunities, particularly generate opportunities for Bicolanos (See
for the poor and vulnerable upland and Chapters 8, 9, and 10).  
coastal communities. These include
Outcome 3: Low carbon economy transition

enabled
While climate change adaptation will be strengthened across levels. The
initiatives are vital to address the impact development of the national carbon
of climate change, it is important to registry to monitor transactions will be
implement initiatives that will reduce the supported including the establishment
region’s GHG emissions in line with the and localization of mechanisms to monitor
country’s commitment to combat climate carbon footprint and GHG emissions.
change. The strategies to enable a low- Efforts to mitigate GHG emissions will be
carbon economy transition are as follows: pursued. As such, the region will support
the localization of the NDC PAMs to
Support the Implementation increase the capacity and contribution of
of the Nationally Determined LGUs to national mitigation actions.
Contribution policies and
measures (NDC PAMs). Existing Initiatives to reduce fossil fuel
measurement, monitoring, and consumption will be supported and
verification systems on climate change promoted by slowly shifting to the use
in line with internationally agreed of renewable energy sources such as
modalities, procedures, and guidelines solar and wind power. Programs such
as Energy efficiency and conservation start-up businesses. This includes helping
measures will be scaled up (See Chapter MSMEs, local export producers, and
13) in support of the National Energy suppliers access possible markets by
Efficiency and Conservation Program strengthening their compliance with
of the DOE. The full implementation of sustainability standards and enhancing
incentive mechanisms under existing their competitiveness (See Chapters 8
laws, such as the Renewable Energy Act, and 9). Initiatives such as the SETUP of
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, DOST Region 5 will be implemented to
Electric Vehicle Industry Development encourage and assist MSMEs in adopting
Act, Organic Agriculture Law, and Green technological innovations, including low-
Jobs Act will be supported to promote carbon technologies and products.
resource-efficient and cleaner production,
particularly in the energy, transport, and The R&D agenda of the region related to
industry sectors. sustainability, climate-smart products,
and green technology will be supported
The region will also support the particularly by the RRDIC. The RRDIC
establishment of areas for carbon offsetting was established under the RDC to serve
to advance the implementation of REDD+ as the governing body of the R&D and
activities. Further, acknowledging the innovation initiatives in Bicol (See
important role of the coastal ecosystem, Chapter 10).  
including mangroves and seagrasses, in
absorbing and restoring carbon dioxide, To influence consumer behaviour and
efforts to protect and rehabilitate this blue shift preferences toward green and
carbon ecosystem will be strengthened sustainable products and services,
by implementing various initiatives such various initiatives will be implemented
as mangrove planting activities, regular in partnership with business enterprises
clean-up drives, establishing buffer zones to include ecolabelling and other green
between coastal habitats and adjacent certification schemes. Guided by the
development, and strict implementation Philippine Green Public Procurement
of related environmental policies aiming Roadmap, the regional agencies and
to protect this ecosystem. LGUs will support the implementation of
the Green Public Procurement Program
Expand market opportunities which seeks to procure goods, services,
for low-carbon technologies and works with a reduced environmental
and products. Support for impact throughout their life cycle
technology development, production, when compared to goods, services and
and commercialization of green and works with the same primary function
climate-smart products for the domestic that would otherwise be procured (See
and global markets will be provided, Chapters 9 and 15).
especially for local entrepreneurs and

Cross-cutting Strategy: Governance
and intersectionality of climate
change and natural hazard resilience
improved
Strengthen climate risk financing or financial institutions. Initiatives to
and risk-transfer mechanisms. enhance PPP climate-smart investment
Strengthening financial resilience promotion will also be supported.
will address disaster impacts and
high economic losses brought by the Strengthen alliance and
frequent occurrence of extreme weather partnerships of stakeholders.
events, and enable the fast recovery of Acknowledging the important
economic activities in disaster-affected contribution of various sectors,
communities. This is vital, especially particularly the CSOs, community
for Bicol which is frequently affected by volunteers, and private sector to attain
disasters. Thus, risk financing and risk resilience, building alliances and
transfer mechanisms will be strengthened partnerships with these groups will be
at various levels. Disaster risk-transfer strengthened. Initiatives such as the
options will be enhanced by intensifying establishment of a feedback mechanism,
promotional activities and strengthening the regular updating of directories of
the capacities of agencies, LGUs, and partners, and ensuring the membership
communities to access available risk- of the private sector and CSOs in various
transfer mechanisms such as crop and bodies to actively participate and push for
other insurance policies. These insurance their respective development advocacies
policies will shift the burden of financial will be observed at the local and regional
loss to other parties which will protect levels. For instance, the RDC will ensure
individuals and communities from that the private sector and CSOs, through
future damage and losses brought by its private sector representatives who are
disasters. Programs of the GSIS will members of the RDC will be provided
be maximized including the insurance the venue and opportunities to actively
for physical assets of the government participate in nation-building activities
sector including buildings. Information (See Chapter 15).
sharing with various stakeholders on the
identification of possible funding sources, Implement innovative data-
and implementation of policies related driven technology solutions. The
to risk transfer will also be strengthened. information management system will be
Further, access to various risk financing improved by implementing innovative
options for climate/ risk reduction finance data-driven technology solutions,
such as the People Survival Fund and including space science and technology
Green Climate Fund will be enhanced applications for climate resilience and
by building the capacities of LGUs and low-carbon development, which will
communities through the provision of contribute to addressing the gaps in
up-to-date and appropriate information, data discrepancy and reliability. The
training, and other readiness activities, development of the database or the Risk
and linking them to concerned agencies Registry will be promoted and be made
accessible to RLAs and LGUs. The data the preparation of the feasibility study
registry will contain up-to-date DRRM- of proposed programs and projects as
related information and baseline data such well as the Project Evaluation Reports
as hazard maps, and vulnerability and risk wherein the cost and benefits of the
assessments, including data on localized environment are being considered.
climate models and projections, as well Capacity-building activities on the use of
as regional spatial data. The information various methodologies and tools to weigh
management system will be enhanced by the cost and benefits of proposed projects
formulating policy measures to ensure in the environment, such as multi-criteria
information reliability and consistency analysis, will be conducted. Further, the
at all levels. Climate and disaster-resilient Roadmap to Institutionalize Natural
technology for farmers and fisherfolks, Capital Accounting in the Philippines will
including remote sensing technologies, be utilized as a guide in the implementation
will also be promoted (See Chapter 7). of related initiatives. Considering that
Sorsogon and Catanduanes were identified
Scale up Ecosystem Valuation as two of the Priority Ecosystem Sites for
System. To guide decision-makers Ecosystem Accounting in the Philippines
towards better planning and programming by 2035-2040, initial preparation to
of initiatives, the Ecosystem Valuation include capacity-building activities in
System will be strengthened in the undertaking NCA will be pursued.
region. This will be observed through
Legislative Agenda
Table 16.2 presents the priority legislations proposed to accelerate climate action and
strengthen ecosystem and disaster resilience.
Table 16.2 Legislative Agenda to Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen Ecosystem
and Disaster Resilience

National Land Use Bill This will be the primary basis for transforming and streamlining the DENR, NEDA, LGUs
structure of agencies under the executive branch based on their
functions, mandates, roles, and processes. Its enactment will ensure
the correct staffing requirements for agencies.  
Carbon Taxation and Institutionalize the provision of incentives to households/ businesses DENR, CCC
Carbon Credit/Incentives that promote the use of renewable energy sources. Also include the
Policy establishment of a Carbon Footprint Monitoring System.
Amendments to the Water Provide a legal framework for the institutionalization and DENR
Code operationalization of integrated water resources management
to respond to the current trends and challenges such as climate
variability affecting water supply and availability, and address
institutional gaps and weaknesses.
Natural Capital Accounting Policy on the Philippine Valuation System for Ecosystem Services DENR, PSA
(NCA) Act or the Philippine will ensure that the cost and benefits of the environment are fully
Valuation System for taken into consideration in the decision-making process including
Ecosystem Services Act the identification of necessary initiatives that will lead to sustainable
development.
Relatedly, the Philippine Environmental Assessment System needs

to be strengthened as a planning and monitoring tool to ensure that
possible environmental consequences of policies, plans, and programs
are full—accounted for at the earliest stage of decision-making.

Land Administration This bill aims to upgrade, systematize, and integrate the DENR
Reform Act administration, management, and operations of the country’s land
resources. It also aims to improve, rationalize, and systematize land
records, titling, documentation, and information systems into an
open, updated, and reliable system. Land security enhances people’s
capacity to effectively manage their land resources and implement
measures to adapt to climate change impacts  
CHAPTER 17
Plan Implementation,
Monitoring, and Evaluation
The Bicol RDP 2023-2028 will provide strategies towards the achievement of
the headline targets that will prioritize inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and
resiliency. Its strategies will address issues and challenges on these priority areas
and aim to regain the Bicol Region’s pre-COVID-19 pandemic status as one of the
fastest-growing regions in the country. Hence, the strategies will focus on economic
and social transformation for a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient society. The
strategies specified in each chapter will be operationalized by translating them into
doable policies and PAPs that will be implemented by the RLAs, GOCCs, GFIs, LGUs,
SUCs, and other agencies, as well as the private sector.
Policy Formulation and Project

Development
The set of policies and regional priorities notes, and discussion papers will be
were determined in the RDP under each prepared by the concerned duty-bearers.
chapter. Initial policies that will support For the project ideas or proposals,
and usher in new strategies have been project concept notes, proposals, pre-
identified, and new policies will be feasibility, feasibility studies or detailed
formulated and advocated by the RDC in engineering and design, as the case may be,
Congress, as necessary. Specific PAPs will will be prepared by the concerned duty-
be identified by the agencies and LGUs bearers to ascertain its overall feasibility
that will bring about the desired outcomes and anticipate implementation problems.
of the Plan. In the course of policy formulation,
and project development, consultations
To ensure a more focused, integrated, with the various stakeholders will be
cohesive, and convergent implementation ensured. All aspects of a policy, and
of various PAPs, the Operational Plan project will be considered from the social,
(OP) will be prepared, highlighting the list environmental, economic, and political
of policies, programs, and project ideas points of view.
that will contribute to the attainment of
each sector outcome. The OP, containing Cross-cutting concerns such as Disaster
the project investment list or the list of Risk Reduction and Management
projects which are candidates for project (DRRM), Climate Change Adaptation
development, will bridge the planning and Mitigation (CCAM), Gender and
and investment programming activities Development (GAD), good governance,
into viable, and implementation ready human rights, and peace and security
PAPs that are supportive of the RDP.   were considered in the planning stage and
the same parameters will be used in the
For the policy recommendations, policy early project development stage.
Chapter 17 Plan Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation | 270

Investment Programming and
Financing
As provided under EO 325, s. 1996, the Programming Guidelines (CIPG) which
RDCs will coordinate the implementation provides the principles, processes,
of the RDPs and will review, prioritize, and requirements of the Bicol RDC in
and endorse to the national government identifying and prioritizing PAPs for
the annual and multi-year sectoral inclusion in the RDIP and the annual
investment programs of the region for budget proposals of the agencies. The
funding and implementation. Thus, CIPG covers the priority PAPs of the
viable PAPs approved by the RDC RLAs, GOCCs, LGUs, SUCs, and special
will be integrated into the RDIP, the development bodies in the region that
accompanying document of the RDP. require national government support. The
RDIP is a dynamic document where PAPs
Project concept notes, proposals, pre- are updated and revalidated annually
feasibility studies, feasibility studies, to ensure consistency with the national
detailed engineering and design, as the and regional development priorities. The
case may be, will be prepared by the annual time slice will be taken as the
concerned duty bearers to ascertain overall Annual Investment Program that serves
feasibility and anticipate implementation as the basis for the annual budgets of the
problems. The proponents will be different agencies and SUCs.
encouraged to consult and coordinate
with various stakeholders, including the Funding for the implementation of
local communities to ensure that all issues the government’s PAPs will be sourced
and concerns will be addressed. The PAPs from the GAA, Official Development
will be reviewed and evaluated by the Assistance, corporate funds of GOCCs,
concerned RDC sectoral committees for GFIs, and locally generated revenues.
endorsement to the RDC for appropriate The private sector will be tapped for PPP
action. projects or joint venture agreements with
the LGUs as provided for under the LGC
The preparation of the RDIP will be of 1991.
guided by the Comprehensive Investment
Implementation Arrangements
The implementation of these policies, its status and immediate effects will be
programs, activities, and projects (P/ regularly reported and monitored. After
PAPs) will be undertaken by the concerned implementation, project impacts will be
government agencies, SUCs, and LGUs in assessed to determine project efficiency
partnership with the private sector. Close and effectiveness in contributing to the
coordination among these entities will various strategies and ultimately to the
be observed, particularly for big-ticket sub-sector and sector outcomes, and the
programs/ projects that are inter-sectoral RDP intermediate goal.
in nature. During project implementation,

Monitoring and Evaluation
The progress of the government’s status of projects at each level, including
interventions, periodic reviews, and the problems that impede implementation
evaluations will be regularly monitored will be made available. This facilitates
using existing monitoring and evaluation subsequent recommendation to address
mechanisms.   issues during project implementation.
Results Matrix. The RDP Results The Bicol RDC will enjoin all RLAs,
Matrices (RMs) serves as one of the GOCCs, SUCs, LGUs, PSOs, and other
accompanying documents of the Bicol concerned stakeholders to carry out the
RDP 2023-2028. Consistent with the monitoring function by their respective
management for results that the public mandates, levels, and responsibilities.
sector is pursuing, the RMs will be used It will involve the evaluation of
as a tool in monitoring the progress of accomplishments against the plan
the plan’s implementation. It contains objectives and targets.
statements of the goals and outcomes
with corresponding indicators, baseline Regional Development Report.
information, annual and end-of-plan An annual RDR will be prepared to assess
targets, means of verification, responsible the Bicol RDP implementation using the
agencies, assumptions, and risks.   RMs. Through the RDR, the achievements
and gaps vi-a-vis the objectives and
Regional Project Monitoring targets indicated in the Bicol RDP will
and Evaluation System. The be determined. Focus group discussions
implementation of the PAPs will be and/or sectoral and regional integration
monitored by the RDC through the workshops will be conducted with
Regional Project Monitoring Committee, stakeholders in the government and
guided by the Regional Project Monitoring private sector to gather information on
and Evaluation System (RPMES). The the extent to which the strategies, policies,
RPMES is a system that provides a scheme programs, and projects implemented
for monitoring and evaluating projects at have contributed to achieving the Bicol
the national, regional, provincial, and city/ RDP objectives. Other information
municipal levels, with the extensive and that will be generated includes the
active participation of various government contributing factors or best practices
agencies, LGUs, and the private sector that facilitated project implementation,
at all levels. It aims to facilitate program factors that delayed or hampered project
and project implementation, and devolve implementation, and proposed actions
project facilitation, problem-solving, that will facilitate project implementation.
monitoring, and evaluation to the
regional, provincial, city, and municipal Regional Statistical Development
levels.   Program 2024-2029. The Bicol
Regional Statistical Development
The RPMES will be used to gather, Program (RSDP) 2024-2029 sets the
process, and organize the status of the medium-term directions, strategies, and
implementation of PAPs that contribute to priorities in the Regional Statistical System
the achievement of Bicol RDP outcomes for the generation and dissemination of
and outputs. Through the RPMES, statistical information to be used in policy
information on the physical and financial analysis and formulation, planning and
Chapter 17 Plan Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation | 272

programming, decision-making, and information that can be used as bases in the
monitoring and evaluation. The Bicol assessment of Bicol RDP implementation
RSDP 2024-2029 will serve as a blueprint include, but are not limited to, the Bicol
of priority statistical development Development Updates, agency or LGU
programs and activities to be undertaken annual reports, the Regional Economic
by the region in addressing the data Situationer, the regional project
requirements of the Bicol RDP 2023-2028. monitoring and evaluation reports, and
other reports that contain information on
Other reports. Other sources of PAPs.
Advocacy
To ensure regional synergy, the Plan of the RDP among regional government
will be strongly advocated by all the entities, LGUs, private sector and CSOs,
stakeholders to gain support, particularly the academe, media partners, and the
from the private sector. The effective public. The Committee will be chaired by
implementation of the RDP, therefore, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)
calls for efficient coordination and Region 5 and co-chaired by DILG Region
collaboration between and among 5 with members from the following
government agencies at all levels, agencies: NEDA, DOH, DepEd, CHED,
the private sector, civil society, and TESDA, DHSUD, DOLE, DSWD, DA,
development partners. DTI, DOT, DENR, DOST, DPWH, PPA,
DICT, NIA, OCD, PNP, and PA, and three
The Regional Plan Advocacy Committee to five RDC-accredited private sector
(RPAC) was created as an ad hoc committee organizations.
solely to advocate the implementation
Midterm Review and Updating

A midterm review and updating of the (Development Administration,
RDP 2023-2028 will be conducted in 2025 Economic, Social, and Infrastructure) that
to assess its performance and come up with will serve as the Planning Committees.
catch-up strategies to achieve the desired The NEDA will provide technical and
outcomes. The RDC will lead the updating administrative support to these four
through its four sectoral committees planning committees.

List of Acronyms
4Ps Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program
9ID 9th Infantry Division
A&D Alienable and Disposable
ACPC Agricultural Credit Policy Council
ADR Alternative Dispute Resolution
ADSDPP Ancestral Domain Sustainable and Protection Plan
AFF Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing
AFP Armed Forces of the Philippines
AI Artificial Intelligence
ALMASOR Albay – Masbate – Sorsogon
ALPAS Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat
ALS Alternative Learning System
AMIA Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture
AO Administrative Order
APIS Annual Poverty Indicator Survey
AQMS Air Quality Monitoring Stations
AQRF ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework
ARTA Anti-Red Tape Authority
ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations
ASF African Swine Fever
BAC Bids and Awards Committee
BARMM Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao
BCARRD Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural
Resources Research and Development
BCHRD Bicol Council for Health Research and Development
BCIERRTRD Bicol Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging
Technology Research and Development
BEFF Basic Education Facilities Fund
BHS Barangay Health Station
BIA Bicol International Airport
BINs Barangay Information Networks
BJMP Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
BMC Bicol Medical Center
BPATs Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams
BRGHGMC Bicol Region General Hospital, and Geriatric Medical
Center
BRHMC Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center
BRTC Bicol Regional Tourism Committee
List of Acronyms | 276

BRTTH Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital
BS Bachelor of Science
BSP Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
BSTC Bicol Science and Technology Centrum
BSWM Bureau of Soils and Water Management
CAA-CVAs Conflict Affected and - Vulnerable Areas
CAAP Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
CALABARZON Cavite - Laguna - Batangas - Rizal - Quezon
CARP Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program
CatSU Catanduanes State University
CBDR Community-based Drug Rehabilitation
CBSUA Central Bicol State University of Agriculture
CCAM Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
CCC Climate Change Commission
CDC Center for Disease Control and Prevention
CDRA Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment
CEU Central Evidence Unit
CHED Commission on Higher Education
CHR Commission on Human Rights
CICL Children In Conflict with the Law
CIPG Comprehensive Investment Programming Guidelines
CLUP Comprehensive Land Use Plan
CMCI Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index
CMTS Cellular Mobile Telephone Service
CNSC Camarines Norte State College
ComDev Committee on Devolution
CPH Census of Population and Housing
CPP-NPA-NDF Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army -
National Democratic Front
CREATE Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises
CSC Civil Service Commission
CSE Crime Solution Efficiency
CSO Civil Society Organization
CSPC Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges
CSPP Conflict-Sensitive and Peace-Promoting
CTG Communist Terrorist Group
DA Department of Agriculture
DAR Department of Agrarian Reform
DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources
DepEd Department of Education

DHSUD Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development
DICT Department of Information and Communications
Technology
DILEEP DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Program
DND Department of National Defense
DOF-BLGF Department of Finance - Bureau of Local Government
Finance
DOH Department of Health
DOJ Department of Justice
DOLE Department of Labor and Employment
DOST Department of Science and Technology
DOT Department of Tourism
DOTr Department of Transportation
DPWH Department of Public Works and Highways
DRR Disaster Risk Reduction
DRR-CCA Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation
DRRM Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
DSWD Department of Social Welfare and Development
DTI Department of Trade and Industry
DTP Devolution Transition Plan
EBEIS Enhanced Basic Education Information System
E-BOSS Electronic Business One-Stop Shops
EBT Enterprise-Based Training
ECA Environmentally Critical Areas
ECLIP Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program
ECs Electric Cooperatives
EGMP E-Government Master Plan
EHAP Emergency Housing Assistance Program
ENIPAS Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System
EO Executive Order
EODB-EGSD Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service
Delivery
ePFMAT Enhanced Public Financial Management Assessment Tool
ESC Educational Service Contracting
ESG Environmental, Social, and Governance
EWS Early Warning System
F1K First 1000 Days
FDA Food and Drug Administration
FDI Foreign Direct Investment
FDP Full Disclosure Policy

FIES Family Income and Expenditure Survey
FMRs Farm-to-Market Roads
FOI Freedom of Information
FPOs Forest Protection Officers
FSRF Financial Subsidy to Rice Farmers
FTA Free Trade Agreements
GAA General Appropriations Act
GAD Gender and Development
GAHP Good Animal Husbandry Practices
GAP Good Agricultural Practices
GAqP Good Aquaculture Practices
GASTPE Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private
Education
GCTA Good Conduct Time Allowance
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GERD Gross Expenditure on Research and Development
GFA Geographic Focus Areas
GFIs Government Financial Institutions
GHG Greenhouse Gas
GIDAs Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas
GII Global Innovation Index
GIP Government Internship Program
GIS Geographic Information System
GMP Good Manufacturing Practice
GOCCs Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations
GPP Green Public Procurement
GRDP Gross Regional Domestic Product
GSIS Government Service Insurance System
GVA Gross Value Added
HADR Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response
HCPN Health Care Provider Network
HDMF Home Development Mutual Fund
HEI Higher Education Institution
HFEP Health Facilities Enhancement Program
HHs Households
HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HLS Health and Life Science
HR Human Resource
HRH Human Resources for Health
HRMO Human Resource Management Office

HUCs/ICCs Highly Urbanized Cities and Independent Component
Cities
IAD Integrated Area Development
IATF-EID Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging
Infectious Diseases
IBP Integrated Bar of the Philippines
ICC Investment Coordination Committee
ICC/IP Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples
ICT Information and Communications Technology
IEC Information, Education, and Campaign
IEC Information, Education, and Communication
ILO International Labour Organization
IMT Industrial, Manufacturing, and Transport
INSEAD Institut Européen d'Administration des Affaires
IP Indigenous Peoples
IPA Investment Promotion Agency
IPMRs Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives
IPOPHL Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines
IPRA Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act
IR Industrial Revolution
ISF Informal Settler Families
ISO International Organization for Standardization
IT-BPM Information Technology and Business Process Management
ITO Information Technology Outsourcing
IWRM Integrated Water Resources Management
JOW Justice on Wheels
JSCC Justice Sector Coordinating Council
JZ Justice Zone
KADIWA Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita
KAYA Kapital Access for Young Agripreneurs
KIST Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology
KKDAT Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo
KKDK Katatagan, Kalusugan at Damayan ng Komunidad
KMME KAPATID Mentor ME
KonSulTa Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama
KPH Kilometers Per Hour
KPO Knowledge Process Outsourcing
KSA Key Shelter Agencies
LADAC Local Anti-Drug Abuse Council
LAWIN Landscape and Wilderness Identification

LBP Land Bank of the Philippines
LCE Local Chief Executives
LDC Local Development Council
LEDIPO Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion
Office
LET Licensure Examination for Teachers
LFPR Labor Force Participation Rate
LGC Local Government Code
LGU Local Government Unit
LIS Learner Information System
LMI Labor Market Information
LMIS Labor Market Information System
LSB Local Special Bodies
LSDF Luzon Spatial Development Framework
LUCs Local Universities and Colleges
LUDIP Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan
LUZIS Land Use and Zoning Information System
Mbps megabits per second
MC Memorandum Circular
MCCT Modified Conditional Cash Transfer
MCM million cubic meters
ME Micro-Entrepreneurs
MGB Mines and Geosciences Bureau
MIS Management Information System
MPCF Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation
mPhilGEPS Modernized Philippine Government Electronic
Procurement System
MRC Medical Reserve Corps
MRF Material Recovery Facilities
MSMEs Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises
MT metric tons
MUP Military and Uniformed Personnel
NAMRIA National Mapping and Resource Information Agency
NAT National Achievement Test
NBS Nature-based Solutions
NCA Natural Capital Accounting
NCR National Capital Region
NCs Negosyo Centers
NDC PAMs Nationally Determined Contribution Policies and Measures
NDHS National Demographic and Health Survey

NDRRF National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework
NDRRMP National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan
NEDA National Economic and Development Authority
NFA National Food Authority
NGA National Government Agency
NGCP National Grid Corporation of the Philippines
NGOs Non-governmental Organizations
NGP National Government Portal
NHA National Housing Authority
NHIP National Health Insurance Program
NHRHMP National Human Resources for Health Master Plan
NIA National Irrigation Administration
NIASD National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document
NICER Niche Centers in the Regions
NIMP National Irrigation Master Plan
NJIS National Justice Information System
NMS National Migration Survey
NNC National Nutrition Council
NPRMS National Policy on Regulatory Management System
NQI National Quality Infrastructure
NSFI National Strategy for Financial Inclusion
NSSMP National Sewerage and Septage Management Program
NTA National Tax Allotment
NTC National Telecommunications Commission
NWSRM National Water Security Road Map
OCD Office of Civil Defense
OFWs Overseas Filipino Workers
OPAPRU Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation,
and Unity
OPT Operation Timbang
OSAEC Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children
OSY Out-of-School Youth
OTOP One Town, One Product
OWWA Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
PA Philippine Army
PAGASA Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical
Services Administration
PAMANA Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan
PAO Public Attorney’s Office
PAPs Programs, Activities, and Projects

PBRAP PhilSys Birth Registration Assistance Project
PCG Philippine Coast Guard
PCIC Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation
PCIEETRD Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging
Technology Research and Development
PCM Provinces, Cities, and Municipalities
PCPN Primary Care Provider Network
PCVE Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism
PD Presidential Decree
PDCs Pyroclastic Density Currents
PDEA Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
PDL Persons Deprived of Liberty
PDNA Post-Disaster Needs Assessment
PDP Philippine Development Plan
PDPFP Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan
PEAC Private Education Assistance Committee
PES Payment for Environmental Services
PESO Public Employment Service Office
PEZA Philippine Economic Zone Authority
PHFDP Philippine Health Facility Development Plan
PHIC Philippine Health Insurance Corporation
PHILGUARANTEE Philippine Guarantee Corporation
PhilSys Philippine Identification System
PHIVOLCS Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
PIA Philippine Information Agency
PMNP Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project
PNPKI Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure
PNR Philippine National Railways
POC Peace and Order Council
POEA Philippine Overseas Employment Administration
POPCOM Commission on Population
POs People's Organizations
PPA Philippine Ports Authority
PPAN Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition
PPP Public-Private Partnership
PQF Philippine Qualifications Framework
PRC Professional Regulation Commission
PRIME-HRM Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in
Human Resource Management
PSA Philippine Statistics Authority

PSF Philippine Skills Framework
PSOs Private Sector Organizations
PSTO Provincial Science and Technology Offices
PUV Public Utility Vehicle
PWD Persons with Disability
PWSSMP Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan
QRU Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses
QS Quacquarelli Symonds
R&D Research and Development
RA Republic Act
RAP-LGU Resettlement Assistance Program for Local Government
Units
RCCCT Regular Cash Conditional Cash Transfer
RCEF Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund
RCEP Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
RCP Representative Concentration Pathway
RCSP Retooled Community Support Program
RCTWG Regional CBIA Technical Working Group
RDC Regional Development Council
RDI Research, Development, and Innovation
RDIP Regional Development Investment Program
RDP Regional Development Plan
RDR Regional Development Report
RDRRMC Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
RE Renewable Energy
REDD Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest
Degradation
ResPFP Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning
RGADC Regional Gender and Development Committee
RHU Rural Health Unit
RIIC Regional Inclusive Innovation Center
RLAs Regional Line Agencies
RMs Results Matrices
RORO Roll-on/roll-off
ROTC Reserve Officers’ Training Corps
ROW Right-of-Way
RPAC Regional Plan Advocacy Committee
RPFP Regional Physical Framework Plan
RPMES Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System
RPOC Regional Peace and Order Council

RRCY Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth
RRDIC Regional Research, Development, and Innovation
Committee
RSDF Regional Spatial Development Framework
RTF-ELCAC Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed
Conflict
RTWPB Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board
S4CP Science for Change Program
SAFDZ Strategic Agricultural and Fisheries Development Zones
SALIGAN Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panlegal
SALINTUBIG Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig para sa Lahat
SALN Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth
SBDP Support to Barangay Development Program
SBFP School-Based Feeding Program
SBM School-Based Management
SC Supreme Court
SCP Sustainable Consumption and Production
SDGs Sustainable Development Goals
SEC Securities and Exchange Commision
SETUP Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program
SGC School Governing Council
SGLG Seal of Good Local Governance
SHFC Social Housing Finance Corporation
SHS Senior High School
SHS VP Senior High School Voucher Program
SIAD Sub-Integrated Area Development
SLF Sanitary Landfills
SLH South Long Haul
SLM Self-Learning Module
SLP Sustainable Livelihood Program
SMERA Small and Medium Enterprise Roving Academy
SMP Septage Management Programs
SPES Special Program for Employment of Students
SREs Service and Repair Enterprises
SSM Small-Scale Mining
SSR Self-Sufficiency Ratio
SSS Social Security System
STEAM Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture and
Mathematics
STI Science, Technology, and Innovation
STPs Septage Treatment Plants

SUCs State Universities and Colleges
SURE Survival and Recovery
SWM Solid Waste Management
TB Tuberculosis
TCMP Therapeutic Community Modality Program
TCs Tropical Cyclones
TD Tropical Depression
TEP Total Electrification Program
TESDA Technical Education and Skills Development Authority
THE Times Higher Education
TMT Technology, Media, and Telecommunication
TNK Trabaho Negosyo Kabuhayan
TOE Tourism-Oriented Establishments
TR5 Toll Road 5
TRAIN Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion
TRE Tourism-Related Enterprises
Triple C Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes
TSS Teachers’ Salary Subsidy
TTMF Temporary Treatment Monitoring Facilities
TUPAD Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced
Workers
TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training
UFRD Urban Functions in Rural Development
UHC Universal Health Care
UHC-IS UHC Integration Sites
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organization
VAWC Violence Against Women and Children
VCP Victims Compensation Program
VIP Vaccine Institute of the Philippines
WGI Worldwide Governance Indicators
WHO World Health Organization
WJP World Justice Project

Bicol RDP 2023-2028
Planning Committees
Development Administration Committee
Armed Forces of the Philippines
Bureau of Fire Protection
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
Cooperative Development Authority
Commission on Human Rights
Civil Service Commission
Department of Budget and Management
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development
Department of the Interior and Local Government
Department of Finance-Bureau of Local Government Finance
Department of Justice-National Prosecution Service
National Intelligence Coordinating Agency
Office of Civil Defense
Philippine Information Agency
Presidential Management Staff
Philippine National Police
Philippine Statistics Authority
Secretariat: NEDA - Policy

ProjectFormulation
Monitoring and Evaluation Division
Planning Division
Economic Development Committee

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
Department of Agrarian Reform
Department of Agriculture
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Department of Labor and Employment
Department of Science and Technology
Department of Tourism
Department of Trade and Industry
Planning Committees | 288

Mines and Geosciences Bureau
National Food Authority
Philippine Fiber Development Authority
Philippine Coconut Authority
Secretariat: NEDA - Project Development, Investment Programming and

Budgeting Division
Infrastructure Development Committee

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
Department of Energy
Department of Transportation
Department of Public Works and Highways
Department of Information and Communications Technology
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board
Land Transportation Office
Maritime Industry and Naval Authority
National Electrification Administration
National Irrigation Authority
National Telecommunications Commission
Philippine Ports Authority
Secretariat: NEDA - Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division
Social Development Committee

Commission on Higher Education
Commission on Population and Development
Department of Education
Department of Health
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development
Department of Labor and Employment
Department of Social Welfare and Development
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples

National Nutrition Council
National Youth Commission
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
Technical Education Skills Development Authority
Secretariat: NEDA - Development Research Division
Other Agencies
Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research
and Development
Bicol Consortium for Industries, Energy and Emerging technology Research
and Development
Bicol Consortium for Health Research and Development
Climate Change Commission
Environmental Management Bureau
Philippine National Railways
National Bureau of Investigation
National Commission for Culture and the Arts
National Housing Authority
Philippine Economic Zone Authority
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
Securities and Exchange Commission
State Universities and Colleges

Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology
Bicol University
Camarines Norte State College
Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges
Catanduanes State University
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture
Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and
Technology
Partido State University
Sorsogon State University

Private Sector Representatives
Romeo S. Tan, Business Rosemarie Q. Rey, Albay
Carlos Bernardo S. Lozano, Benigno R. Elevado, Camarines Norte
Camarines Sur
Rev. Fr. Eric B. Martillano, Fishers Santiago K. Cervantes, Farmer
Elmer T. Sto. Domingo, Jr., Naga City Rev. Fr. Renato R. Dela Rosa,
Catanduanes
Jennifer M. Arao, PWD Al P. Orlanes, Masbate
Jose M. Medina, Jr., Tourism Caroline M. Ubalde, Sorsogon
Aurora R. Chavez-De Guzman, Alfred M. Nimo, Youth and Students
Women
Dante L. Encinas, Labor
Local Government Units

Provincial Governments
Provincial Government of Albay
Provincial Government of Camarines Norte
Provincial Government of Camarines Sur
Provincial Government of Catanduanes
Provincial Government of Masbate
Provincial Government of Sorsogon
City Governments
City Government of Iriga City Government of Naga
City Government of Legazpi City Government of Sorsogon
City Government of Ligao City Government of Tabaco
City Government of Masbate
Municipalities
Aroroy Basud Cabusao
Baao Bato, Camarines Sur Calabanga
Bacacay Bato, Catanduanes Camalig
Bagamanoc Batuan Camaligan
Balatan Bombon Canaman
Baleno Buhi Capalonga
Balud Bula Caramoan
Baras Bulan Caramoran
Barcelona Bulusan Casiguran

Castilla Malilipot Prieto Diaz
Cataingan Malinao Ragay
Cawayan Mandaon Rapu-Rapu
Claveria Manito Sagñay
Daet Matnog San Andres
Daraga Mercedes San Fernando,
Camarines Sur
Del Gallego Milagros San Fernando, Masbate
Dimasalang Milaor San Jacinto
Donsol Minalabac San Jose
Esperanza Mobo San Lorenzo Ruiz
Gainza Monreal San Miguel
Garchitorena Nabua San Pascual
Gigmoto Oas San Vicente
Goa Ocampo Sipocot
Gubat Palanas Siruma
Guinobatan Pamplona Sta. Elena
Irosin Pandan Sta. Magdalena
Jose Panganiban Panganiban Sto. Domingo
Jovellar Paracale Talisay
Juban Pasacao Tigaon
Labo Pilar Tinambac
Lagonoy Pili Tiwi
Libmanan Pio V. Corpuz Uson
Libon Pioduran Viga
Lupi Placer Vinzons
Magallanes Polangui Virac
Magarao Presentacion
Civil Society Organizations

Caritas Virac Justice and Peace
CN Federation of Cooperatives
Coastal Community Resources and Livelihood Development, Inc.
EcoDev
Lingap para sa Kalusugan ng Sambayanan, Inc.
Malaya Ka, Inc.
Socio Pastoral Action Center Foundation, Inc.
Sorsogon Pili Producers Cooperative
Tabang Bikol Movement

Bicol RDP 2023-2028
Secretariat
Office of the Regional Policy Formulation and
Director Planning Division
RD Luis G. Banua Gilberto A. Abion
ARD Edna Cynthia S. Berces Jubemay A. Mangalino
Sheena G. Obing Nancy K. Fernandez
Richel S. Arrogancia
Michelle B. Brosas
Ruby Anne B. Lorca
Luis Carlo S. Banua
Project Development, Project Monitoring and

Investment Programming, and Evaluation Division
Budgeting Division
Ma. Dinna Lynne L. Ordoña Ellezer P. Adan

Gieza R. Esparraguerra Joel R. Lustina
Ester B. Barria Arlyn A. Ramirez
Armylene B. Posada Grace C. Torres
Argel Joseph S. Tria Rianne B. Blanza
Emmanuel Chivic O. Llaguno Gabriel B. Burac
Pamela May V. Lovendino
Development Research Regional Development

Division Council Unit
Jasmin C. Zantua Joie Anne Y. Cultivo

Anna Liz B. Bellen Catherine O. Rivera
Mary Ann M. Banua Mariz Anne B. Columna
Larry S. Bonto
Khryza Beth T. Lladoc Information Technology Unit
Chesna Thane E. Sipin
Ronaldo B. Bañas
Charlie A. Manalo
Secretariat | 294
Finance and Administrative Division
Gwendolyn S. Bitare Preciosa Bautista

Maria Venus M. Cabaltera Sol C. Longasa
Dave A. Briones John Paul R. Buella
Mary Margaret L. Ansano Arcadio O. Sala
Diana Joy B. Marco Marinee L. Obing
Almira J. David Yancy Ramon C. Solano
Margie Ann Cantuba Franchesca B. Monforte
Seralyn R. Sarza Bienvenido C. Mendoza
Jesson B. Berces Ricky B. Pante

Bicol RDP 2023 2028

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Bicol RDP 2023 2028

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Bicol Regional

Chapter 1 : Overview of the Regional Economy, Development 4

Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework 22

Chapter 3: Overview of the Regional Development Plan 50

PART II: DEVELOP AND PROTECT CAPABILITIES OF INDIVIDUALS 58

Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing 86

Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability 106

PART III: TRANSFORM PRODUCTIVE SECTORS TO GENERATE 120

Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry 134

Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services 144

Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development, 154

Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments 170

PART IV: ENABLING ENVIRONMENT 178

Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public 180

Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance 214

Chapter 15: Practice Good Governance and Improve 236

Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen 250

PART V: PLAN IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING, AND 266

Chapter 17: Plan Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation 268

List of Acronyms 276

Bicol RDP 2023-2028 Planning Committees 288

Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework

Chapter 4: Promote Human and Social Development

Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing

Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability

Chapter 7: Modernize Agriculture and Agribusiness

Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry

Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services

Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development,

Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments

Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public

Chapter 13: Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance

Chapter 15: Practice Good Governance and Improve

Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen

Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework

Chapter 3: Overview of the Regional Development Plan

Chapter 4: Promote Human and Social Development

Chapter 5: Reduce Vulnerabilities and Protect Purchasing

Chapter 6: Increase Income-Earning Ability

Chapter 8: Revitalize Industry

Chapter 9: Reinvigorate Services

Chapter 10: Advance Research and Development,

Chapter 11: Promote Trade and Investments

Chapter 12: Promote Financial Inclusion and Improve Public

Chapter 13: Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

Chapter 14: Ensure Peace and Security, and Enhance

Chapter 16: Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen

Chapter 2: Regional Spatial Development Framework

Chapter 13: Expand and Upgrade Infrastructure

The formulation of the PDP 2023-

xx | Regional Development Plan 2023-2028

Overview of the Regional

Chapter 1 Overview of the Regional Economy, Development Context and Trends | 6

Source: Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA)

Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing

7 | Regional Development Plan 2023-2028

2000 2010 2020

Chapter 1 Overview of the Regional Economy, Development Context and Trends | 8

9 | Regional Development Plan 2023-2028

Population Affected by Natural Hazards

Chapter 1 Overview of the Regional Economy, Development Context and Trends | 10

Poverty and Marginalized Communities

Masbate 4.44   -     2.07   4.98   -    

Sorsogon 47.05   24.43   12.25   6.92   3.31  