Message: Provincial Development Council Meeting

Message of Deputy Speaker and Antique Congresswoman Loren Legarda

Provincial Development Council Meeting

24 September 2019 | ANIAD Building, New Capitol

A pleasant day to all of you.

As the former Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, I introduced a special provision in this year’s General Appropriations Act that ensures that local development plans are formulated based on a comprehensive consultation among the local development council, the local peace and order council, and the local disaster risk reduction management council, along with other local sectoral councils/committees.

By emphasizing the important role of the local development councils, the coordination and relationship among local and provincial offices and agencies are strengthened, which are the keys to achieving inclusive, equitable, resilient and sustainable development not only for our province, but also for the entire nation.

It is our responsibility to make sure that

national policies, plans, and programs rightfully and effectively address the needs of our people.  We at the local level feel the pulse of the masses; we are closest to them.  It is therefore our duty to bridge the gap between them and the national government.  That is the essence of Section 106 of the Local Government Code.

My fellow public servants, you are gathered here today by a single purpose and that is to drive Antique to progress. May this meeting remind you of such purpose and result in meaningful possibilities and opportunities for Antiqueños, our kasimanwa.

It is my hope that, at the end of the day, you are able to assess the state of development in our province and formulate solutions through policies and programs.

While I may not be able to join you physically today, rest assured that I am working hard on continuing to provide for resources for numerous government programs for our province under the national budget that the House just passed.

Thank you and good day.