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RDC XII, DEPDev Regional Office XII, Prime Regional Government Center, Carpenter Hill, Koronadal (2026)

01/06/2026

RPMC XII monitors progress of IFP in SOCCSKSARGEN, the General Santos Fish Port Complex Expansion and Improvement Project

The Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) XII conducted a field visit on May 21, 2026, to assess the ongoing expansion and improvement of the General Santos Fish Port Complex (GSFPC) located in Barangay Tambler, General Santos City.

The monitoring aimed to evaluate the project’s physical progress, implementation status, and overall performance. Implemented by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), the project is a key initiative designed to enhance the capacity and efficiency of one of the country’s premier fish ports. It is also identified as a regional Infrastructure Flagship Project (IFP), playing a significant role in strengthening the fisheries sector and supporting economic growth in SOCCSKSARGEN. The activity provided an opportunity to identify implementation issues and recommend actions to ensure timely completion.

General Santos City, known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” is a major hub for commercial fishing, fish processing, and seafood exports. The project addresses operational challenges such as aging infrastructure, congestion in fish handling areas, and inadequate support facilities, which have become more pressing with increased demand for improved port operations.

Representatives from RPMC XII member agencies, along with the project implementer and site engineers, participated in the inspection. They were briefed on current developments, accomplishments, and remaining targets. The project involves the rehabilitation, expansion, and upgrading of key port facilities, including fish landing basins, wharves, market halls, refrigeration systems, roads, drainage, wastewater treatment plants, and other support infrastructure. New facilities—such as an ice plant, common service facility, Gender and Development (GAD) Building, fish handling canopies, and additional utilities—are also being constructed to improve efficiency and ensure compliance with food safety and environmental standards.

With a total cost of over PhP 2.48 billion covering two project packages, the project began on December 27, 2023, and is targeted for completion on March 11, 2027. As of April 2026, the project recorded an actual accomplishment of 58.72 percent, exceeding the programmed 49.25 percent and placing it ahead of schedule by 9.47 percent. Despite steady progress, the team noted challenges such as logistical constraints and weather-related delays and discussed measures to mitigate their impact.

Upon completion, the project is expected to enhance port operations, reduce post-harvest losses, strengthen the fisheries value chain, create employment opportunities, and reinforce and solidify General Santos City’s position as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines.

Port Manager Paris Uldarico Y. Ayon expressed appreciation to RPMC XII for its continued support in monitoring the project and providing recommendations. He reaffirmed PFDA’s commitment to maintaining compliance with standards and ensuring effective project implementation.

Prior to this visit, RPMC XII conducted monitoring activities from May 13 to 15, 2026, covering several priority projects, including the Glan Port Reconstruction Project, TESDA’s Regional TVET Innovation Center, flood mitigation structures, and various road and drainage projects in Sarangani Province and General Santos City. From May 20 to 22, 2026, the team also inspected other major infrastructure projects such as the General Santos City Underpass, General Santos International Airport developments, and multiple transport, irrigation, flood control, and farm-to-market road projects.

RPMC XII emphasized the need for sustained coordination among implementing agencies, contractors, and stakeholders to keep the project on track and aligned with development priorities. It reiterated its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in implementing government programs through regular monitoring and collaboration. (Rebecca Ruth S. Simtim, DEPDev XII-PMED).

21/05/2026

𝗕𝗔𝗦𝗔𝗛𝗜𝗡: 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘆𝗼, 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗵𝗼, 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗶𝘀𝗼: 𝗞𝘂𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗮 𝗦𝗢𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗞𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡?

Mangyaring tingnan ang kalakip na dokumento. Magbibigay pa kami ng karagdagang updates tungkol sa kalagayang panlipunan at pang‑ekonomiya ng rehiyon. Stay tuned!

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority, Department of Energy–Mindanao Field Office, Department of Agriculture XII, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

21/05/2026

USM-SERDAC conducts MaxQDA training for DEPDev XII personnel

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM), through its Socio-Economic Research and Data Analytics Center (SERDAC) headed by Dr. Romiel P. Basan, conducted a training workshop on MaxQDA for personnel of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII on May 19, 2026, in Koronadal City.

Professor Frans Bert D. Gomez of USM-SERDAC served as the main resource person and facilitator during the activity.

MaxQDA is a widely used software for qualitative and mixed-methods research, enabling users to systematically organize, code, analyze, and interpret data from interviews, focus group discussions, case studies, documents, and other sources.

The training formed part of the implementation of the study titled “Benchmarking SOCCSKSARGEN’s Transition into an Agro-Industrial Center and Agri-Eco-Cultural Tourism Hub,” with USM-SERDAC serving as the project’s servicing agency. Anchored on the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) 2015–2045 and aligned with the Regional Development and Innovation Research Agenda (RDIRA), the study aims to benchmark global and national development models, assess the region’s current economic and institutional landscape, and identify strategic actions, policy reforms, and priority investments to support SOCCSKSARGEN’s long-term transformation agenda.

Recognizing the highly technical and research-intensive nature of the study, DEPDev XII requested the integration of a capacity-building component during the project negotiation phase. In response, USM-SERDAC incorporated a hands-on training on MaxQDA, equipping participants with practical skills in qualitative and mixed-methods research, including data coding, organization, and analysis of various research materials.

In his welcome message, OIC Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal expressed appreciation to USM-SERDAC for the strong collaboration. He emphasized that the training would benefit not only the Research Project Team directly involved in the benchmarking study, but also DEPDev XII personnel engaged in graduate studies, thesis and dissertation writing, policy research, and other analytical work. He likewise conveyed his gratitude to USM President Jonald D. Pimentel for his continued support in strengthening the region’s research and development capacity.

The activity concluded with a message from Dr. Basan, who reaffirmed USM-SERDAC’s commitment to supporting DEPDev XII in advancing both the benchmarking study and ongoing capacity-building initiatives. (Angelique B. Beljot, DEPDev XII-DRD)

20/05/2026

DEPDev XII joins PHCB meeting, enhances General Santos City’s CLUP 2026–2037

The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Regional Office XII participated in the Public Hearing and Consultation Board (PHCB) Meeting of General Santos City to review and enhance the City’s draft Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2026–2037. The activity was held on May 13, 2026, at Icon Suites Hotel, General Santos City.

The meeting brought together city officials of General Santos, along with representatives from national government agencies and the private sector, to provide insights and feedback on the proposed plan. Representing DEPDev XII were OIC-Assistant Regional Director Guillermo R. Manrique Jr. and EnP James Domini L. Labiano from the Policy Formulation and Planning Division (PFPD). The team provided technical inputs aimed at refining the city’s data framework, as well as its proposed land use and spatial development strategies.

The PHCB meeting served as a critical step in strengthening the draft CLUP prior to its presentation to a wider group of stakeholders. Once finalized, the CLUP 2026–2037 will serve as the City’s primary policy framework, guiding land use, zoning regulations, infrastructure development, and environmental management over the next decade.

The formulation of the CLUP marks a significant milestone in General Santos City’s efforts to effectively manage rapid urban growth and reinforce its role as a key metropolitan and economic hub in Mindanao. As a highly urbanized city in the region, General Santos continues to position itself for sustainable and balanced development.

This initiative also contributes to the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by promoting integrated, participatory, and forward-looking urban planning.

Through sustained collaboration and technical support, DEPDev XII remains committed to assisting local government units in building well-planned, inclusive, and sustainable communities across the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. These efforts are aligned with the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP), the Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028 Midterm Update, national development policies, and the principles of resilient and sustainable urban growth.

As the lone Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in Region XII, General Santos City occupies a unique and strategic position in the regional economic development. Under the existing Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Memorandum Circular 005-2021 guidelines, the CLUP of highly urbanized cities is subject to review by the Regional Land Use Committee prior to its endorsement, ensuring consistency with the spatial framework laid down in the RPFP, principles outlined in the national framework for physical planning, and the broader development agenda of the region.

This mandate underscores the critical role of RLUC XII, chaired by DEPDev Region XII, in ensuring that the city’s land use strategies are technically sound, environmentally sustainable, and aligned with SOCCSKSARGEN’s long-term vision for balanced and inclusive growth. (James Domini L. Labiano, DEPDev XII-PFPD)

16/05/2026

RLUC XII reorganizes, strengthens SOCCSKSARGEN spatial planning

Land use and spatial planning in SOCCSKSARGEN has been reinforced through the reconstitution of the Regional Land Use Committee (RLUC) XII, which now spearheads the formulation of the long-term Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) for 2026 to 2056.

RLUC XII convened its first semester regular meeting for CY 2026 on May 13, 2026, at the SOCCSKSARGEN Hall, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII Building, Prime Regional Government Center, Barangay Carpenter Hill, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato. The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format, with local government units (LGUs) across Region XII participating via videoconference through their respective Provincial Land Use Committee (PLUC) Chairpersons.

The reconstitution of RLUC XII is in accordance with National Land Use Committee (NLUC) Resolution No. 1, series of 2026, titled “Reconstitution of the Regional Land Use Committees (RLUCs) under the Regional Development Councils (RDCs) in compliance with Section 33 of Republic Act (RA) No. 12145 or the Economy, Planning, and Development Act.”

The reconstituted RLUC XII is composed of seven member agencies: the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) XII, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) XII, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) XII, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, Department of Agriculture (DA) XII, DEPDev XII, and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) XII, which serves as Vice-Chairperson. The DEPDev XII Policy Formulation and Planning Division (PFPD) functions as the Committee’s secretariat.

Under RA 12145, RLUC XII is mandated to advise the RDC XII on land use and physical planning concerns. It is also responsible for formulating and updating the Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) and promoting the integration of land use, physical planning, and disaster risk management into regional socioeconomic plans and programs.

In addition, RLUC XII reviews the Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) of highly urbanized cities and the Provincial Physical Framework Plans (PPFPs) to ensure alignment with the RPFP and national policies.

DEPDev XII OIC Regional Director and RLUC XII Acting Chairperson, EnP Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, emphasized the growing importance of spatial planning in addressing external pressures affecting the region.

“During times like these, the role of planners becomes even more critical,” Tanghal said. “Through sound spatial planning and urban design, we can help mitigate the impacts of external shocks by promoting efficiency, resilience, and sustainability in how land and resources are used,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Technical Working Group responsible for the formulation of the SOCCSKSARGEN RPFP 2026-2056 presented its progress report to the Committee. The plan is currently at 24 percent complete and is targeted for completion by end of 2026. (Dayle Lois D. Tulang, DEPDev XII-PFPD)

14/05/2026

Sultan Kudarat Cong. Suansing visits DEPDev XII

Representative Bella Vanessa B. Suansing of the Second Congressional District of Sultan Kudarat paid a courtesy visit to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Regional Office XII on May 08, 2026.

Rep. Suansing was warmly welcomed by OIC-Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, OIC-Assistant Regional Director Guillermo R. Manrique, Jr., and the heads of the agency’s technical divisions.

During the visit, Rep. Suansing underscored the crucial role of reliable and timely data in sound policy formulation and decision-making. She also emphasized the need for proactive government interventions in preparation for the anticipated onset of the El Niño phenomenon by June, noting the importance of minimizing potential economic losses and mitigating its adverse impacts on local economies and Filipino families.

Discussion during the meeting focused on the region’s economic performance and development outlook, particularly for the Province of Sultan Kudarat. These include updates on Provincial Product Accounts, investment priorities, and priority programs and projects within the Second Congressional District.

Rep. Suansing currently serves as Assistant Majority Leader and Vice-Chairperson of the Committee on Appropriations. She is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Regional Development Council XII, further strengthening coordination between national legislators and regional development planners. (Jose Anthony Laurent P. Octavio, DEPDev XII-ORD)

08/05/2026

RTPB-IAC XII convenes organizational meeting to localize Trabaho Para sa Bayan Plan in SOCCSKSARGEN

The Regional Trabaho Para sa Bayan-Inter-Agency Council (RTPB-IAC) XII formally convened its organizational meeting, marking the start of coordinated efforts to localize and implement the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan 2025-2034 in SOCCSKSARGEN.

The meeting was presided over by OIC-Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII, who serves as Chairperson of RTPB-IAC XII. In attendance were regional directors and representatives of regional line agencies, and private sector representatives identified through Regional Development Council (RDC) XII Resolution Nos. 57 and 58, series of 2026.

Key operational matters were discussed, including the adoption of the RTPB-IAC XII CY 2026 Work Program, which outlines priority activities aligned with both national employment strategies and regional development objectives under the TPB framework.

In support of the TPB Act, OIC-Regional Director Raymond Fel F. Sajor of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XII, and Ma. Theresa T Chua, representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XII, presented their respective programs and initiatives. These presentations highlighted strong inter-agency synergies in employment facilitation, skills development, productivity enhancement, and enterprise growth.

Another major agenda item was a deliberation and approval of the Guidelines for the selection of four (4) Private Sector Representatives from the identified sectoral groups as regular members of the RTPB-IAC XII. The guidelines, approved in accordance with RA 11962 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, reaffirmed the vital role of the private sector in promoting employment generation and regional economic development.

To further strengthen coordination and program harmonization, the Council approved the creation of a Technical Working Group (TWG) through RTPB-IAC XII Resolution No. 4, series of 2026. The TWG is tasked with addressing skills-job mismatch and aligning livelihood and entrepreneurship initiatives across agencies.

Ms. Liza D. Lopez, RDC XII Private Sector Representative for South Cotabato and Chairperson of RDC XII Economic Development Committee (EDC) XII, was designated as TWG head. The TWG membership includes DOLE XII, DTI XII, TESDA XII, DOST XII, DA XII, DepED XII, CHED XII, DSWD XII, and DOT XII, reflecting a whole-of-government approach to employment promotion and workforce development.

The meeting concluded with a recap of resolutions and key agreements, setting a clear direction for sustained collaboration among member agencies and stakeholders in advancing the Trabaho. (Apollo Y. Manlawe, DEPDev XII-DRD)

07/05/2026

RLUC XII, PLUC Sultan Kudarat validate land use classifications in Lambayong

The Regional Land Use Committee (RLUC) XII, in partnership with the Provincial Land Use Committee (PLUC) of Sultan Kudarat, conducted its CY 2026 First Semester Field Validation Activity on 05 May 2026 in the Municipality of Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.

The activity aimed to verify the accuracy of land classification and existing land utilization patterns identified in Lambayong’s proposed Disaster Risk–Informed Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), ensuring consistency with national and regional land use policies and development frameworks.

The validation team was composed of PLUC Sultan Kudarat members and representatives from RLUC XII, including the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) XII, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) XII, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) XII, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, Department of Agriculture (DA) XII, and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII. A representative from the City of General Santos also participated, while officials from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) XII joined the activity via videoconference.

The field validation was graced by Honorable Francis Eric E. Recinto, Municipal Mayor of Lambayong, who led the discussion together with the municipal planning team and presented the LGU’s proposed spatial development directions. The Municipality of Lambayong proposed to expand its commercial zones and establish an industrial zone to support projected urban growth and local economic development.

During the validation, RLUC XII and PLUC Sultan Kudarat members confirmed that the municipality is actively advancing its development vision “to become the food basket of Sultan Kudarat Province and a leader in responsible natural resource management, governed by development-oriented leaders and spiritually abiding and empowered citizenry living in an ecologically balanced and safe environment and committed to sustainable peace and progress.”

While the Committee recognized Lambayong’s efforts to optimize its natural resource base and strategic geographic location, RLUC XII emphasized that the protection of environmentally critical areas must remain a priority to ensure sustainable and climate-resilient development. The Committee further recommended strengthening local monitoring mechanisms for zoning ordinance compliance and enhancing urban planning by integrating transport systems, housing needs, and public service facilities in anticipation of urban expansion.

In his message, RLUC XII Acting Chairperson and OIC Regional Director of DEPDev XII, EnP Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, emphasized that the activity aims to help resolve identified land use issues, facilitate the timely review and approval of the CLUP and Zoning Ordinance, and further strengthen inter-agency collaboration toward sustainable, orderly, and well-integrated spatial development in the region.

The field validation also plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of land use data, particularly in support of the updating of the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Physical Framework Plan 2026–2056.

The field validation initiative was conceptualized by RDC XII Private Sector Representative and Environmental Planner Celestino F. Desamito, Jr., and has been institutionalized by RLUC XII since 2017. This continuing effort underscores the Committee’s commitment to ensuring that local land use classifications are aligned with national and regional development priorities.

RLUC XII reiterates its commitment to supporting local government units in strengthening their CLUPs, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth, and advancing SOCCSKSARGEN’s vision of becoming the agro-industrial center and agri eco cultural tourism hub of Southern Philippines. (Gwyneth Grace B. Collado, DEPDev XII-PFPD)

06/05/2026

DPWH XII opens P500-million parallel bridges to boost regional connectivity and economic growth

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office XII, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Cotabato, formally inaugurated two newly constructed parallel bridges—the Lumayong Parallel Bridge and the Carmen Parallel Bridge—on Monday, May 4, 2026, marking a major milestone in strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth in Mindanao.

The inauguration ceremony was held in Barangay Kayaga, Kabacan, and was attended by key national, regional, and local officials, led by Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño Mendoza, Chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII. Also present were Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Director Olie B. Dagala, DPWH XII Regional Director Cayamombao D. Dia, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XII Officer in Charge Regional Director Romel Patrick E. Tanghal, and various local government officials.

The newly completed bridges are located along the Bukidnon–Cotabato Road, a vital national secondary highway linking Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) and Region X (Northern Mindanao). The projects are expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion and enhance the safe and efficient movement of people, goods, and services along one of Cotabato Province’s most important transport corridors.

The Lumayong Parallel Bridge, spanning 180 meters, was completed at a cost of ₱233.483 million, while the Carmen Parallel Bridge, measuring 240 meters, cost ₱266.376 million. Funded through multi phase allocations under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) FY 2020 and FY 2024, the projects represent a combined government investment of ₱499.86 million.

In her keynote address, Governor Taliño Mendoza emphasized the strategic importance of the bridges in strengthening inter regional linkages, improving mobility, enhancing the efficiency and convenience of transportation, and promoting inclusive economic growth across Cotabato and neighboring provinces. She expressed her appreciation for the exemplary standards demonstrated in both projects and conveyed her hope for the implementation of more initiatives of similar caliber to further advance community welfare and sustainable development.

DPWH XII Regional Director Dia highlighted that the projects reflect strong coordination between national and local government units, ensuring infrastructure development that is responsive to community needs and aligned with long term regional development goals.

The new bridges are expected to deliver substantial benefits to key sectors such as agriculture, trade, and tourism, providing faster and more reliable transport of goods and services. The municipalities of Carmen and Kabacan, identified as strategic growth centers, are anticipated to experience increased economic activity and investment due to improved accessibility.

In his closing message, DEPDev XII OIC Regional Director Tanghal noted that the successful completion of the projects demonstrates the positive outcomes of close collaboration among government agencies. He emphasized that the bridges will reduce travel time and create greater opportunities for trade and investment in the region.

Built using durable materials and modern engineering standards, the bridges are designed to withstand heavy traffic loads and adverse weather conditions, ensuring long term resilience and usability.

The event concluded with a ceremonial first crossing led by key officials, symbolizing the opening of new pathways toward stronger connectivity and a more prosperous future for Cotabateños and the entire SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

Following the inauguration, Governor Taliño Mendoza invited officials to inspect additional DPWH-implemented projects in the province, including a slope protection structure in Barangay Kamadzil and a flood control project, and to commend their high-quality workmanship and contribution to community resilience. (Roy B. Hatague, DEPDev XII-PMED)

RDC XII

01/06/2026

21/05/2026

21/05/2026

20/05/2026

16/05/2026

14/05/2026

08/05/2026

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06/05/2026

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