Photo courtesy of Eastern Samar Public Information Office/PNA
The Eastern Visayas Regional Development Council approved on Tuesday a Php196.47 billion package of projects for the 2027 fiscal year, aiming to boost development across the region.
Council officials said the plan covers roughly 2,257 programs and initiatives spanning multiple sectors, designed to address social, economic, and infrastructure needs.
The largest allocation, Php90.83 billion, is for social services, including education, healthcare, social protection, housing, and employment programs for underserved communities.
“Proposals in the social sector focus on strengthening essential services delivery. They include projects from state universities and colleges for constructing and upgrading classrooms, laboratories, and research facilities to enhance higher education and innovation,” the council said.
Infrastructure projects were tagged Php88.2 billion, while economic development programs received Php62.96 billion. Additional funding of Php6.81 billion and Php1.54 billion went to administrative and environmental initiatives, respectively.
RDC Chairperson Carlos Jericho Petilla said he hopes most proposals will be approved but acknowledged that cuts may be necessary due to the current energy emergency.
If approved, the budget will support key projects that strengthen infrastructure, social services, and economic programs, benefiting residents throughout Eastern Visayas.
The council said the 2027 budgeting process followed enhanced Public Investment Management guidelines, involving consultations with sectoral committees, the full council, local government units, and private sector representatives to ensure inclusive planning.
