Regional Profile

Region VII - Conde, Lazaro, Delos Santos

Region VIII - Collantes & Manalili
Region IX - Ronquillo & Vidal
Region X - Duzon & Miguel
Region XI - Dizon & Dela Paz
Region XII - Corrado, Gesite & De Vera
Region XIII - Arraz, Perez & Ignacio
ARMM - Tumalip, Silva & Rabelleza










Submitted to: Dr. Lorenzo Clavejo
Urban and Regional Economics
October 11, 2014
REGION 7 CENTRAL VISAYAS

HISTORY
Central Visayas first came to existence in on September 24, 1972, when the
provinces of the Philippines were organized into 11 regions by Presidential Decree No.
1 as part of the Integrated Reorganization Plan of President Ferdinand Marcos. The
region is composed of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor and the highly urbanized
cities of Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Mandaue City. Cebu City is its regional center.

GEOGRAPHY
Central Visayas is strategically located at the geographical center of the
Philippine archipelago between the major islands of Luzon and Mindanao. It is bounded
in the north by the Visayan Sea; in the east by the Camotes Sea and Camiguin
Channel; in the south by the Mindanao Sea; and in the west by Negros Occidental
Province. The region is composed of four island provinces: Bohol, Cebu, Negros
Oriental, and Siquijor. The region's premier urban and major business, industrial and
services center is Metro Cebu (Cebu City) located in the island province of Cebu. Other
major urban centers are Tagbilaran City in Bohol ,Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental
and Siquijor in Siquijor Province.
Central Visayas is the sixth smallest region in the country with a total land area of
1.49 million hectares (14,951 square kilometers). Among the provinces, Negros Oriental
accounts for the largest share of the regional land (36 percent), followed by Cebu (34
percent), Bohol (27.5 percent) and Siquijor (2 percent).

DEMOGRAPHY
As of the 2010 census, Central Visayas had a population of 6,800,180 people,
making it the 5th most populous of the country's 17 regions. At the 2007 census, the
population was 6,398,628 with a population density of 403.1 people per square
kilometer. The 2007 census showed an average annual population growth rate of 1.59%
from 2000 to 2007, significantly less than the national average of 2.04%.








Provinces
Province Capital
No. of
Cities
Population
(May 2010)
[1]

Area
(km)
Pop. density
(per km)
Bohol Tagbilaran 1 1,255,128 4,117.3 304.8
Cebu Cebu City 9 2,619,362 4,800.11 545.7
Negros Oriental Dumaguete 6 1,286,666 5,402.3 238.2
Siquijor Siquijor 0 91,066 343.5
265.1


Cities[edit]
City Province
City
Class
Income
Class
Population
(May
2010)
[1]

Area
(km)
Pop.
density
(per
km)
Mayor
Cebu
City
Cebu
Highly
Urbanized
Special
Class
866,171 315.00 2,749.75
Michael
L. Rama
Lapu-
Lapu
City
Cebu
Highly
Urbanized
1st Class 350,467 58.10 6,032.13
Paz C.
Radaza
Mandaue
City
Cebu
Highly
Urbanized
1st Class 331,320 25.18 13,158.06
Jonas C.
Cortes


ECONOMY
Central Visayas is a major regional economy outside of MetroManila and its two
contiguous regions (Central Luzon and Calabarzon). Accounting for 6.2 percent of
Philippine GDP, Central Visayas was among the top three fastest growing regions in
2009-2010 and 2010-2011, with annual average growth of 12.5 percent and 7.9
percent, respectively.
The Services sector accounts for 56 percent of the regions economy, with
Industry share of 36 percent. Tourism, business process outsourcing (BPO) and ICT-
enabled industries, retail trade, real estate and construction, and resurgent
manufacturing are the regions economic growth drivers, offering wide opportunities for
investors and traders. The region is host to special economic zones (SEZs) most of
them in Cebu for IT enterprises and FDI manufacturing,including one of only three
shipbuilding areas in the Philippines exporting bulk carriers. Bohol, Negros Oriental, and
Siquijor are largely agricultural-ecotourism-SME economies. BPOs have also
established in Negros Oriental.





DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES
PHYSICAL CONNECTIVITY
MDG CATCH-UP PLAN
Low Productivity
The Philippines, including Central Visayas has long been working to improve the
productivity of the three major sectors of production, namely; agriculture, industry and
services. Notwithstanding its productivity enhancement initiatives, the Philippines have
sustained low levels of productivity relative to its Asian neighbor countries.
In 2009, the Philippines recorded a productivity gap of almost 90 percent against the
Asian leaders Hong Kong and Singapore. Compared to the labor productivity of Korea,
Malaysia and Thailand, its labor productivity level in 2007 at $8,206 was 81 percent, 75
percent and 34 percent lower, respectively.
Weak Science and Technology, Research and Development Base
Its weak science and technology along with research and development base. A study
done by the Philippine Institute of Development Studies showed that the government
and the private sector have not spent sufficiently for Research and Development.
Science and Technology plus Research and Development prove to be essential in order
to keep up with the rapidly changing market. Moreover, the limited Research and
Development resources were inefficiently allocated among various sectors such that
sectors which have bigger contributions to the economic pie got smaller share of the
Research and Development resources.
Huge pool of Unskilled & Low-skilled Workers.
Its huge pool of unskilled and low-skilled workers. Data from the National Statistics
Office showed that out of the total number of workers in the region, around 41 percent
have not attended secondary education while about 75 percent have not attended
tertiary education. This means that only 25 percent of the workers in Central Visayas
are either undergraduates or graduates of college.

GOVERNANCE
Knowing Central Visayas, it is safe to say that Region VII has a very solid and
progressive economy. Looking at Cebu alone, it is very evident that a lot of people
residing in Cebu is Literate. Region VII is very rich with natural resources and culture.
Teeming with luxury resorts and hotels in Cebu, with the addition of white beaches in
Siquijor, plus the Chocolate Hills found in Bohol, last but not the least, the wide variety
in terms of agriculture in Negros Occidental, Region VII proves to possess great
potential for Economic Development of the Philippines. The best bet for this Region is to
be more innovative and cope up with the modern world without having to give up their
rich culture. Although they have a high literacy rate, they still need to improve on the
financially-challenged people residing in every province. If were talking about the
economic side of their region, promoting what their region has to offer may prove to be
easy on the eyes of foreigner and may attract potential investors and tourists.

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK
GOALS - To accelerate the growth of the regions labor productivity
STRATEGIES
Strengthen and harness science and technology and research and development
to make agriculture, industry and services more technologically competitive
Upgrade the skills of the regions manpower supply to enable them to compete in
the global market and to facilitate absorption of workers in dynamic industries
Improve credit access and utilization by farmers/fisherfolks and SMEs
Harness remittances for microfinancing
Intensify productivity improvement programs
Physical Connectivity
The Central Visayas Region is next to the National Capital Region that gives
different productivity and employment to the people not only in the region but
also in other regions. The service sector has become the primary sector that
gives opportunities to the people. It is important to provide this kind of service
because not all regions have the same productivity in terms of different products
and resources for short there are disparities in every region in different areas.
With this the Central Visayas Region have Programs, Activities and Projects that
can boost the economy of the region with other regions also benefiting from it.
Encourage Private sector Investments
Enhance LGU participation in Infrastructure development
Reduce cost of infrastructure services
Expand Service coverage
Upgrade Infrastructure
Adopt and Sustain environment friendly infrastructure
Better governance

Region 8: Eastern Visayas
Brief history
The Eastern Visayas is one of the three regional administrative divisions of the Visayas,
with Western Visayas and Central Visayas as the other two components.
Originally, Region 8 is composed of Leyte and Samar Islands. Leyte is the biggest
province of Leyte and Samar Islands. The other two provinces of the Leyte Islands then
are Southern Leyte and Biliran. Samar is constituted by the provinces of Northern
Samar, Eastern Samar, and Western Samar. Years later, on May 11, 1992, the sub-
province of Biliran was converted into a regular province. The original Leyte Province
was again trimmed down by 8 municipalities. As such, Eastern Visayas consists of the
islands of Leyte, Samar and Biliran
Geography
Eastern Visayas encompasses the two large islands of Leyte and Samar, the province
of Biliran and several minor islands. This region is the eastern boundary of the
Philippines. The San Bernardino Strait separates Eastern Visayas from Luzon in the
southeast while the Surigao Strait separates the province of Leyte from the northeastern
part of Mindanao. The Visayan and Camotes Seas separate the region from the rest of
the Visayas. On the east, the region faces the Pacific Ocean. The San Juanico Strait
separates the islands of Samar and Leyte. The terrain of the two large islands is entirely
different. Leyte has a high peaked mountain mass in the interior while Samar has low
rugged hills interspersed with valleys.
Map of Region 8










Demography

Population:3, 912, 963
Urban: 21,432 per 50,000 populations
Rural: 28,568 per 50,000 populations
Population Density: 168 persons per square kilometer
Religion:Roman Catholic- 93%Iglesiani Cristo, Seventh Day Adventist, or other
religions- 7%
No. of Household: 715,070 households
Average Household Members:5-7
Poverty Incidence:37.8%
Literacy Rate:90% of the population aged 10 years old and over (9 out of 10)
Average Family: Php 90,000 - 126,000 / year

Economy
Eastern Visayas is primarily an agricultural region with rice, corn, coconut, sugarcane
and banana as its major crops.
Primary sources of revenue are manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade and services.
Mining, farming, fishing and tourism contribute significantly to the economy
Manufacturing firms include mining companies, fertilizer plants, sugar central, rice and
corn mills and other food processing plants. Tacloban is the hub of investment, trade
and development in the region.
Other industries include mining, rice, corn and sugar milling, coconut oil extraction,
alcohol distilling, beverage manufacture and forest products. Home industries include
hat and basket weaving, metal craft, needlecraft, pottery, ceramics, woodcraft, shell
craft and bamboo craft

Development Challenges

MDG Catch-up Plan
According to NEDA, In Region 8,the MDG commitment is to attain a 100% elementary
net enrolment ratio and basic literacy rate. As of 2009, the actual accomplishment is still
far at 76.20% for elementary net enrolment and 90.10% for basic literacy. Maternal,
infant and under-five mortality rates are still high. As of 2009, maternal deaths recorded
reached 84 per 100,000 livebirths. Maternal mortality is related to the low proportion of
health facility-based deliveries and the persistent practice of delivery by untrained hilots.
The MDG target of 100% of births attended by skilled health personnel is still far-
fetched, with only an actual figure of 71.5% as of 2009. In 2008, deaths among infants
were placed at 45 per 1,000 live births. This is still way below the 2015 MDG target of
reducing it to 20.3. Among the under-five age group, mortality rate was 64 in 2008 also
far from the MDG target of 32.7. Around 37% of these deaths are among neonates.
Reasons include poor practice of the essential newborn care due to poor knowledge,
with the latest policy on the proper neonatal care still not yet widely adopted in birthing
homes of the region.

Governance



Strategic Framework

Goals
Choosing eco-tourism, agri-business, and ICT as the way to go in accelerating the
development of Eastern Visayas is a logical approach given its resources. Thus, in the
next six years, development programs, projects and policies shall be directed towards
the achievement of the following goals and objectives:
1. To develop the eco-tourism, agri-business, and ICT potentials of the region;
and
2. To develop a productive labor force that will support the eco-tourism, agri-
business, and ICT sectors


Region/LGU Economic Environment Social Administrative Overall Rating
Region VIII 1.94 3.05 3.32 3.8 3.02
Biliran 2.38 3.14 3.53 4.08 3.28
Leyte 1.67 3.18 3.24 3.83 2.98
Southern Leyte 1.87 3.17 3.66 3.92 3.16
Samar 1.69 2.84 2.91 2.61 2.51
Eastern Samar 1.67 2.99 3.43 4.38 3.12
Northern Samar 2.34 2.95 3.12 4 3.1
Strategy
1. Increase of Investments in Agriculture and Fishery
2. Increase of Investments in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
3. Access to Capital
4. Aggressive/intensive Promotion of and Marketing Assistance to MSMEs
5. Capacity Building/Empowerment of Farmers into Entrepreneurs
6. Improvement of Workers Conditions in the Workplace
7. Increase in Agricultural and Aqua-marine Productivity
8. Climate Change Adaptation in Agriculture and Fishery
9. Development of Eco-tourism Potentials
10. Promotion of Ecosystem-based Management Approaches, Conservation
Efforts, and Sustainable Environment to reduce climate change risks and
vulnerability of natural ecosystems and biodiversity
11. ICT Industry Promotion
12. Improvement of Health and Educational Status and Skills of the Labor Force
Promotion of Good Governance to facilitate growth of investments, generate
more employment and attract more tourists. This means creating an
environment that is responsive to the needs of the general public, respects
the rule of law, protects human rights and provides for an effective civil
society participation









Region IX: Zamboanga Peninsula
Brief History
The Zamboanga Peninsula is Mindanaos smallest region. Located in Southwest
Philippines, its 958 islands and islets make up the Diadem of the Philippine South. Two
bodies of water form a ring around it the Sulu Sea to the north and west, the Moro
Gulf to the south.
Three provinces and five cities make up the Zamboanga Peninsula Region the
provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay; and
the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian, Zamboanga City, and Isabela. Zamboanga,
Pagadian, and Dipolog are the major hubs of trade, commerce, industry, and education
in the region.
The region hosts one freeport and special economic zone and an international airport in
Zamboanga City. Ten other secondary airports operate in the region.
About a third of the Peninsulas population is made up of ethnic communities that give
the region its unique culture and color. These include the Tausugs, Samals, Yakans,
Badjaos, and Subanens. The Tausugs, Badjaos, and Samals were fishermen; some still
roam the seas. The Maranaos and Yakans were traders and artisans; theyve left their
imprint on traditional weaves and fabric that are still produced today.
Roughly half of the population speaks Chabacano, a dialect heavily influenced by
Spanish settlers. Spanish-speakers are sure to pick up on quite a few familiar words.
Each part of the Zamboanga Peninsula shines on its own, but there is a common
heritage. This is a region of beauty, history and culture. Its been blessed by nature. It is
cherished by its people.
This is what the early Chinese and Malays saw when they came over and made
Zamboanga the cynosure of Southern Philippines centuries ago. Up to today, the
Zamboanga Peninsula has an undeniable allure.









Geography



Zamboanga Peninsula, designated as Region IX, is located in Northwestern of
Mindanao, extending toward the Southwest part of Sulu Archipelago and Borneo. It has
an area of roughly 18,730.1 square kilometers. The peninsula is connected to the main
part of Mindanao through an isthmus situated between Panguil bay and Pagadian bay.
The boundary between the peninsula and the mainland is officially marked by the
border between Zamboanga del Sur and Lanao del Norte. Zamboanga Peninsula was
previously called Western Mindanao which was composed of two (2) sub regions. Sub
Region IX-A consisted of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi and Sub Region IX-B consisted of
the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte and highly urbanized
chartered Zamboanga City. With the enactment of Executive Order No. 36 on
September 19, 2001, Zamboanga Peninsula covers Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga
del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and highly urbanized chartered Zamboanga City.


Demographics








Economy
It has the first export-processing zone in Mindanao. Farming and fishing are the main
economic activities of the region. It also has rice and corn mills, oil processing, coffee
berry processing and processing of latex from rubber. Its home industries include rattan
and furniture craft, basket making, weaving and brass work.
Economic growth in Region IX experienced a boom and bust cycle, a high increase of
6.9 percent in 2005 then a 2.2 percent in 2006, a 7.2 percent in 2007 then a 2.0 percent
in 2008. Its GRDP reached a growth rate of 6.8 percent in 2009. The regional economy
is highly dependent on Agriculture and Fisheries which accounts for about 49 percent of
regional output and employment. Thus, due to the devastating typhoons and flash
floods that hit the agricultural sector in the region in 2006 and 2008 which damaged
irrigation systems, crops and farms, Agriculture and Fisheries sector registered a low
growth of 1.3 percent and 1 percent during this period, respectively, bringing down also
the growth of the economy to 2.2 percent and 2.0 percent during this period.
The industry sector contributes about 17 percent of total regional output in 2001-2009
with the manufacturing contributing the biggest share of almost 10 percent, followed by
the construction sub-sector. Services contributes about 34 percent to total regional
output with the Trade (12 percent); and Transportation, Communications and Storage
sub-sector (7 percent) accounting for the bigger share of Services output.



Total Population 3,397,838 3,221,922 2,831,412
Urban
1,156,754
9/
1,026,456
9/
802,809
Rural
2,250,599
9/
2,203,638
9/
2,288,399
Male 1,732,132 50.9% 50.7%
Female
1,665,706 49.1% 49.3%
0-14 years
1,217,918 37.5% 40.3%
15-64 years
2,045,212 58.7% 56.6%
65 years and over
134,708 3.8% 3.1%
Density (persons per square kilometer)
200 189 193
Growth rate 2.03 1.83 1.87
Average household size 4.7 5.0 5.2
2015 2014 2013
Population projection (medium assumption)
1/
3,842,400 3,771,400 3,700,400
DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES
Population
Region IXs population growth decelerated from a very rapid growth of 2.4 percent in
1990-1995 to 2.1 percent in 1995-2000, and declined further to 1.8 percent in 2000-
2007.This is lower compared to the countrys population growth of 2.36 percent in 1995-
2000 and 2.04 percent in 2000-2007. In 2000-2007, Region IX recorded the 6th fastest
growth rate in the country, next to ARMM, CALARBAZON, Central Mindanao, Central
Luzon, and NCR regions.
As of 2007, it has a larger population than the CAR, Cagayan Valley, MIMAROPA and
CARAGA. If its 2000-2007 growth rate continues, Region IXs population would be
about 4.205 million by 2020 and 4.893 million by 2030.
Arresting rapid population growth of 2 percent or more is one of the challenges in the
past planning periods as it tends to result in a population structure characterized by an
increasing number of dependents, meaning 15 years and below, and thus increasing
the dependency burden in the regional economy, aggravating economic and social
problems, e.g. employment, housing, enrolment, among others.

Employment
Region IX is one of the three regions in the country with the lowest unemployment rate,
registering an employment of more than 96 percent in 2008-2010, higher than the
national average of only more than 92 percent. However, Region IX is the 7th region
with the highest underemployment rate in the country, averaging more than 23 percent
during this period.
Labor Force participation rate in Region IX improved from 65.7 percent in 2008 to 66.8
percent in 2009, higher than the national average of 64.0 percent. Historical data
indicates that in terms of Class of Workers, about 45.5 percent are Own-Account
Workers, in which 38.2 percent comprise Self-Employed Workers and 7.32 percent are
Employers. Wage and Salary Workers comprise about 36.5 percent and Unpaid Family
Workers about 18 percent. Agriculture accounts for almost 50 percent of total
employment in the region. Except for Zamboanga City, wherein employment is heavily
concentrated in the Services Sector, the major concentration of employment for the
provinces in the region is in Agriculture.
Inflation
The region experienced double-digit inflation starting in May 2008 at 13.5 percent and
peaking to 20.3 percent in July 2008 compared to the average inflation figure of 8.6
percent in January-April of the same year. The 13.5 inflation rate in 2008 was largely
contributed by the relatively higher prices in the region of the following: (1) Food,
Beverages, Tobacco of about 17 percent against the national average of 12.9 percent;
(12) Fuel, Light & Water, 11.45 percent against the national average of 6.5 percent; and
(13) Services, 11.2 percent against the national average of 8.6 percent. The absence of
sharp surges in oil prices and favorable agricultural output helped stabilized prices in
2009 and 2010 (Source of Monthly Basic Data, NSO).
Poverty
Poverty is an overriding concern in the region, although there is some headway
realized, from 32.7 percent of its population living below the subsistence level in 2003 to
29.2 percent in 2006 (subsistence rate). Moreover, Poverty incidence among the
families fell from 44.0 percent in 2003 to 40.2 percent in 2006
Annual per capita food threshold increased from P6, 574.00 in 2000 to P9, 406.00 in
2006, while per capita poverty threshold also increased from P9, 128.00 in 2000 to P13,
129.00 in 2006.
Governance
A. Revenue Generation and Resource Mobilization
In the 2009 Local Government Performance Management Systems of the DILG, the
provinces, cities and municipalities of Region 9, except for the cities of Zamboanga,
Pagadian and Dipolog, were rated fair to very low in Revenue Generation. In a
performance scale of 1-5, where 5 is excellent, 68.0 percent of municipalities were
rated fair to very low and all the provinces and cities of Dapitan and Isabela
performed fair to low.
1. High Dependency on Internal Revenue Allotment: From 2004 to 2008, the Internal
Revenue Allotment or IRA remains to be the biggest source of revenue for local
governments in the region representing an average of about 82.0 percent of total
income of the provinces, around 76.0 percent that of the cities, and 88.0 for
municipalities. While the amount of IRA for both provinces and cities continues to rise,
its percentage contribution to total income is decreasing from 85.0 percent in 2004 to
83.0 percent in 2008 for the provinces, and from 77.7 percent in 2004 to 75.8 percent in
2008 for the cities. IRA of municipalities, on the other hand grew slightly from 87.9
percent in 2004 to 88.7 percent in 2008. Clearly, the IRA dependency rate remains
higher than the national average of 67.7 percent.
Local sources (tax revenues and non-tax receipts) of cities registered double-digit
increments (yearly average of 12.1 percent) surpassing the increase of IRA (8.3 percent
yearly average). For the provinces and municipalities, however, IRA continue to register
percentage increase by an average of 10.7 percent annually, while local sources only
managed an average yearly increment of 1.2 percent.
2. Low Tax and Non-Tax Revenues: The cities of Region 9 generate slightly more tax
revenues, an average of 12.5 percent of total local income, than non-tax revenues
which is about 9.6 percent. Understandably, business taxes account for the biggest
slice of total tax revenues at 61.0 percent, almost double that of Real Property Taxes
collected at only 32.5 percent of total tax income. The provinces, on the other hand,
have the biggest bulk of its local income from non-tax revenues (estimated yearly
average of 10.3 percent of total local income) coming mostly from receipts from
economic enterprise. Their tax revenue comes mostly from real property taxes
accounting for about 83.0 percent of total tax revenues, but is only 1.2 percent of total
local income.
Notwithstanding the decent performance, real property tax remains to be a challenge
because the resource base is still underutilized. Statistics gathered by the BLGF points
to the fact that only 24.0 percent of the LGUs nationwide are actually conducting
general revisions once every three years as mandated under the LGC.
This is compounded by the issues of low real property values and critical inadequacies
of assessment tools.
Business taxes continue to show a good performance by registering growth rates and
biggest contributor to cities, but not for provinces and municipalities whose business tax
figures fluctuate to just 11.0 percent of total tax revenues. Other taxes showed modest
increments which show that LGUs make the effort of exploring new tax sources but still
remain as a minor component of LGU financial sources.
The collection of user charges grew by a remarkable 98.0 percent for provinces in 2004-
2008 period, while cities registered only 14.0 percent average increase. This manifests
that more and more LGUs, particularly on the provincial level, are beginning to impose
user charges or cost recovery for services delivery.
Receipts from economic enterprises continue to increase for cities, but not for the
provinces, which registered an average 5.1 percent declining growth over the period
2004-2008. Enterprises funded through borrowings may need to be looked into
particularly bigger investments such as operation of hospitals and development of
utilities.
In summary, total revenues grew by a yearly average of 10.8 percent for provinces, 11.1
percent for cities and 7.6 percent for municipalities. However, the growth came mostly
from external revenue sources such as the IRA for provinces and municipalities, while
the cities registered more growth in locally sourced revenues.
The national average of percentage distribution of total income is 32.4 percent from
local sources, and 67.7 percent from external sources. For the region, provinces, cities
and municipalities fell below the national average, posting percentage distribution for
local revenues to only 12.3 percent, 22.1 percent and 9.5 percent, respectively.
3. Low Level Availment of Grants and Borrowings: Extraordinary receipts/aids, loans
and borrowings and inter-local transfers shares of financing have an average
distribution of 0.3 percent, 1.2 percent, and 0.1 percent, respectively, for cities, and 1.2
percent, 3.9 percent, and 0.2 percent, for provinces. Grants and aids are those primarily
coming from Overseas Development Agencies (ODA) through government conduits
which are largely not availed of by LGUs of the region. Loans and borrowings are
amounts borrowed through loans and bond flotation which are still way below the 20
percent debt service ceiling allowable under the Local Government Code.
Nevertheless, this implies the recognition by LGUs of borrowings as a developmental
tool and the potential for additional borrowings to fund critical projects. Inter-local
transfers are subsidy assistance normally of higher level LGUs to lower level
LGUs.2(Statement of Income and Expenditures, 2005-2008 Publication, BLGF)

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK
Goals
Better Population Management
Rapid population growth results in a population structure characterized by a large
proportion in the young ages 15 years and below. This means more dependents in the
household. Moreover, a decline in the death rate, especially in the younger age group
tends to augment population in two ways: (1) by slowing the attrition of the existing
population and (2) by increasing the number of women who survive through
childbearing and continue to produce children.
The thrust of population management in Region IX is towards responsible parenthood,
better health and education to help adolescents and youth avoid pre-marital sex,
teenage pregnancies, early marriages, sexually transmitted infections, and of attaining
population outcomes that are in harmony with available resources, carrying capacity of
place and sustainable environment and growth.
Couples, especially women, should have a choice in their lives and the means to
implement and make their decisions affecting fertility. A woman who is unable to
regulate and control her fertility would unnecessarily put in jeopardy her inviolable right
the right to a fuller health and well-being.
But in the long-run, responsible family planning would have a greater effect if women
have a measure of education (and autonomy). Educated women are more likely to use
contraceptive than those with little or no education. There is thus a need for universal
access of all medically, legally, ethically and culturally acceptable family planning
methods and services by couples and parents to plan their families, including sexuality-
laden values education for age-appropriate youth through formal and non-formal
educational systems.
The National Demographic Health Surveys and Fertility Surveys conducted by the
National Statistics Office suggest that for fertility decline to accelerate in the country and
in the region, overall contraceptive prevalence must increase significantly, with the
increase being due to modern methods. Shifting methods alone at still low levels of
overall contraceptive prevalence rates, while increasing the overall usage of
contraception, will not be sufficient to make a significant difference in fertility decline.
These strategies and policy will contribute to sustaining the declining population growth
in the region from a rapid growth of 2.42 and 2.12 per cent in 1990-1995 and 1995-
2000, respectively to 1.83 per cent in 2000-2007, and to about 1.5 per cent or less by
2016.
Accelerated Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction
Rapid growth objective should be supported by a broad-based employment strategy
coupled with rising productivity and income, and an increasing investment in health and
education to effectively reduce poverty in the region. For improved health and increased
education are essential components in poverty alleviation. These address the root
causes and symptoms of poverty. Complementing these strategies are the programs
and projects under agriculture and agrarian reform aimed at improving access of the
poor households, especially the farmers, to land, credit, infrastructure, farm inputs, and
post - harvest facilities.
More investments in physical infrastructures would bring about better physical and
functional integration of the region with the rest of the country and the world, particularly
BIMP-EAGA, Muslim countries in the Middle East, the New Zealand and the Australian
Bloc as it is the countrys Southern Gateway to the rest of the world. Gearing up the
workers competencies and capabilities to face new market challenges and adaptability
to changes in technology is a must to contend with the increasing demand for more
trained manpower abroad (and locally).
Reduce Underemployment
The Aquino administration emphasizes job creation as an anchor program to achieve
inclusive growth and address the disparity in income among the people. The thrust is to
create and sustain an economic and business environment where investments,
businesses and jobs can expand and improve.
Productivity Growth
Improving productivity is a key objective in the regions balanced agri-industrial
development strategy. This becomes imperative in view of the relatively lower
laborproductivity of the region in industry and services sector as compared to the
national average, although its labor productivity in the Agriculture and Fishery sector is
much higher than the national; average given the tremendous fishery resource
endowment and industry in Region IX.
The areas of concerns here include, among others, the following: (1) equipping both
prospective and presently employed workers with demand-driven skills and additional
technical education to make them more competitive, (2) adopting the most suitable land
uses in crop production; and (3) aside from raw materials, maximizing the opportunities
for technological transfers with the countries in the BIMP-EAGA towards agri-
processing. Areas for development include joint venture agreements with the private
sector (and Public-Private Partnerships) on deep sea fishing, cold storage networks,
fish canning and processing, among others.
The prevalence of underemployment in the region is partly attributable to the seasonal
work of many farmers engaged in agriculture, the significant number of unpaid family
workers, and the prevalence of workers being paid their wages below the prescribed
minimum wage, among others.
Stable and Single-Digit Inflation
An integral component of the regions development objective is to maintain a low and
single- digit inflation in next six (6) years or so. Price stability is important to sustainable
economic growth and improved standard of living. It is central to reducing risks of
private investors and businessmen, and is necessary for their confidence in investing
and employing more people. Given the regions low inflation averaging only 3.7 per cent
in 2009-2010 (January-May), except in 2008 where it reached 13.5 per cent, the
inflation target for 2011-2016 is in the range of 4-7 per cent, one that is stable and low.




Strategies
The spatial strategy for Region IX in the medium term is anchored on the multi-polar
strategy. This is in cognizance of the emergence of other primary growth centers and
corridors of development in the region Dipolog City, Pagadian City and the growth
corridor in Zamboanga del Norte. In addition, there are also fifteen (15) integrated
development areas in the region clustering of adjacent municipalities and a growth
centre with common resource endowments and development problem.

Agri-Industrial Development Strategy
The prospects for attaining accelerated, broad-based, and sustained growth depend on
how rapid over-all productivity in the region can be raised. This is a matter of focusing
on the most likely endeavor which has the greatest promise of achieving gains in
productivity and propelling the growth of other sectors in the regional economy. Majority
of the people and workers are in agriculture and depends on it for livelihood. Whenever
workers productivity improves, their incomes and purchasing power also expands.
Besides food, they can buy other things as well, principally the products of industry. This
in turn expands the domestic demand and stimulates more investments and
employment, raising real wages and increasing greater savings. As this process
expands, cutting across all the major arteries of domestic production, it has the
cumulative effect of accelerating economic growth and development in the region.
Among the strategies and measures to pursue are as follows:
1. The establishment of a network of agri-processing centers comprising the
Zamboanga Economic Zone and Free Port in Zamboanga City, the Provincial Industrial
Center in Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte, and its establishment in Ipil, Zamboanga
Sibugay and Zamboanga del Sur. These will bring about greater processing of
agricultural raw materials, diversification towards higher value products, and promotion
and development of agri-based and resource based industries. Commodities to be
processed include coconut, mango, fish and marine products, seaweeds, rice and corn,
among others;
2. Establishment of trading posts and marketing centers in strategic areas in the region
for selling and buying of agricultural products. This aims to accelerate regional
agricultural development through market-oriented and farmer based development
strategies. It calls for setting up of strategically located Central-Market Centers (CMCs),
Municipal Market Centers, and Trading Posts.
3. Modernization of the agriculture sector;
4. Strengthening linkages between rural-urban and agriculture-industry linkages;
Corridor Development
Complementing agri-industrial development strategy is the Corridor Development,
specifically, in the special economic zone area in Zamboanga del Norte, or DDPKRM as
it comprises the Dapitan-Dipolog-Polanco-Katipunan-Roxas-Manukan Industrial Growth
Corridor. Roxas is the site of the Provincial Agri-Industrial Center a major component
of the DDPKRM. DDPKRM can be closely linked to the Cagayan-Iligan Corridor, while
the Zamboanga-Pagadian growth Corridor would be more closely linked to the Davao
City, GenSan-Parang and Maguindanao Corridor

Region X: Northern Mindanao
History
Northern Mindanaos topography is varied. There are plains, forests, mountains, hills
and coastal areas. The area supports agriculture and aquaculture. The soil is rich in
minerals. There are hydro-electric plants to provide a steady supply of electricity.
Northern Mindanao has a wealth of natural resources.
Although Mindanao was never fully conquered by Spain, traces of Catholic influence
can be seen throughout the region: the site of the first Christian settlement in Bayug,
Lanao del Norte; the Monastery of the Transfiguration (home of an impressive boys
choir) in Malaybalay; and the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral (famous locally for its
giant pipe organ) in Ozamiz.
The areas cuisine has a strong Malay influence. Seafood is a staple. Spices such as
turmeric, garlic, ginger, roasted coconut, and chilies are used liberally.
The regions attractions are a mix of the historical, the natural, and the man-made.
There are several beaches good for diving and snorkeling. You can go on mountain
climbing expeditions. For the more adventurous, theres rappelling in Katibawasan Falls.
You can even see the fierce Philippine Eagle up close. Or go squid fishing and visit the
Giant Clams Ocean Nursery in Kantaan, Guinsiliban.




Geography

Northern Mindanao has a total land area of 2,049,602 hectares (5,064,680 acres).[3]
More than 60% of Northern Mindanao's total land area are classified as forest land. Its
seas abound with fish and other marine products.
Northern Mindanao (Region X) comprises the five provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin,
Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental. It has two highly urbanized
cities (Cagayan de Oro and Iligan) and six component cities (Gingoog, Malaybalay,
Valencia, Ozamiz, Oroquieta and Tangub). It has a total of 85 municipalities and 2,022
barangays with 13 congressional districts.
Demography




Economy
Northern Mindanao is the biggest regional economy in Mindanao. In the previous plan
period, its share to the islands gross regional domestic product (GRDP) increased from
27.2 percent in 2004 to 28.1 percent in 2009. The region maintained a higher GRDP
annual growth rate than that of Mindanao regions and the countrys average. The
regions growth rate was well within the target except for 2009 which was the height of
the global financial crisis when its GRDP growth was overtaken by Regions IX and XI.
With a GRDP of PhP73.207 billion in 2009 (at constant 1985 prices), the region has the
third highest per capita GRDP nationwide, next to the NCR and CAR.
While the region is experiencing a gradual economic transformation from a traditionally
agriculture-led to being more of a services and industry-oriented economy, during the
times of economic crisis, it is the agriculture sector which provides the needed growth.
In 2008, when the national domestic economy grew by only 3.7 percent, the regions
GRDP grew by 5.2 percent, the highest in the country, courtesy of the 3.1 percentage
points contribution by the agriculture sector as the industry and services sectors
provided only 1.3 and 0.8 percentage points, respectively. In the following year,
realizing a growth of only 2.9 percent, the agriculture sector again provided the biggest
source of growth with 1.3 percentage points while the industry and service sectors
contributed 0.9 and 0.6 percentage points, respectively. Thus, during the crisis years,
the agriculture sector gained in terms of relative contribution to GRDP. While the
services sector was still the biggest contributor with a share of 38 percent, the
agriculture sector dislodged the industry sector gaining 1.2 percentage points over the
period while the latter declined by 0.6 percentage points.

Development Challenges
Despite the gains in the overall economic performance of the region in the previous plan
period, the following development constraints and challenges shall be surmounted to
usher inclusive growth where everyone participates, contributes and benefits from the
fruits of development:
Reducing poverty incidence and income inequality;
Sustaining a high growth path;
Improving access and quality of basic social services;
Enhancing productivity and competitiveness of basic sectors in the economy;
Accommodating into the job market the increasing working age population;
Improving logistics and support systems;
Adapting to the changes in climatic patterns and reducing disaster risks;
Protecting the already threatened natural resources;
Overcoming the negative perception on the peace and order situation; and
Improving public safety in all communities.

Progress towards the MDGs
Based on the probability of attaining the targets, the region will highly likely to achieve
the targets along reducing malnutrition among children, reducing child and maternal
mortality, reducing the incidence of malaria, improving simple literacy, and making
available the benefits of communications. Meanwhile, there is moderate likelihood of
achieving the targets in eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, and gender equality in
secondary education.
The region will have difficulty in attaining the targets of achieving universal access to
primary education, gender equality in primary education, universal access to
reproductive health, sustainable access to safe water and improved sanitation, and
environmental sustainability.
With just five years before the 2015 MDG deadline, doubling of efforts of all
stakeholders and duty bearers is an imperative. Getting as close as possible to the
targets, if not surpass them, is crucial in realizing a truly transformative development.

Good Governance
Improving governance is a key to poverty reduction and sustained economic growth. It
is the vulnerable sector who suffers the most from the consequences of weak
governance. Efficiency, ecffectiveness, accountability, responsibility and transparency in
terms of structures, mechanisms, processes and procedures, information sharing,
capacity-building, among others, are therefore examined to strengthen and enhance the
role of government in attaining inclusive patterns of economic growth.

National Development Agenda
The national government shall focus on creating adequate employment opportunities for
more Filipinos to significantly reduce poverty in an inclusive and sustainable growth
framework while at the same time strategically positioning the country towards a more
integrated ASEAN community by the end of the plan period.
The national development priorities focus on translating the Presidents development
agenda as contained in his Social Contract with the Filipino People into strategies,
policies and programs and activities for the plan period, 2011 2016. The Social Contract
envisions a country with an organized and widely shared rapid expansion of our
economy through a government dedicated to honing and mobilizing the peoples skills
and energies, as well as the responsible harnessing of our natural resources. Further,
the social contract focus on the following five key result areas: a) transparent,
accountable and participatory governance; b) poverty reduction and empowerment of
the poor and vulnerable; c) rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth; d) just and
lasting peace and the rule of law; and e) integrity of the environment and climate
change adaptation and mitigation.

Regional Development Vision and Agenda
Northern Mindanao is envisioned to be the leading industrial core and trade center in
southern Philippines with dynamic men and women enjoying equal opportunities in
harnessing and sustaining its agriculture and natural resources in building a decent,
harmonious, and safe environment.
With a number of competitive advantages and facilitating factors over the other regions
in Mindanao and even in the Visayas and Luzon, the region presents itself as the most
competitive, efficient and attractive transshipment hub and venue for industrial ventures
in the country. As the regional economy undergoes transformation, more value-adding
activities such as processing and manufacturing shall be intensified to fully harness and
sustain its rich agriculture and resource-based endowments and potentials. With this
scenario, it is expected that the share of the industry and services sectors to the
economy shall likely increase with agriculture providing the foundation of development.
Thus, in the next six years, Region X shall assert its role as the leader in high value
agri-based and fishery products and as the gateway, and industrial core and trade
center in the southern part of the Philippines.

Strategic Framework
The region shall continue to adopt the twin spatial strategies, namely: a) Polycentric
Development Strategy (PDS); and b) Corridor Development Strategy (CDS) (Map
Nos. 5 & 6).
Poverty incidence and its gravity increases as the distance from the development center
increases. Under the polycentric development strategy, development of more strategic
centers throughout the region shall be encouraged to influence growth in their nearby
localities. As the major cities and urban centers continue to play their roles as
development catalysts, development of emerging centers shall be supported in order to
form a network of centers that will improve access to economic services in the
countryside.
Spatial Development Clusters (SDCs)
Based on the commonality of resources, potentials and challenges, the following
strategic development clusters are identified to guide the desired direction given their
functional role to the regions and countrys economy, and likewise seize the
opportunities brought by globalization.
SDC 1: Realizing the Cagayan-Iligan Industrial and Trade Corridor Cluster 1
includes the western side of Misamis Oriental, eastern part of Lanao del Norte, and
northern part of Bukidnon. This expanded Cagayan-Iligan Corridor, which will be the
center of industrial development, stands to fully realize its potentials of becoming a
rapidly industrializing area with a large export base. Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, with
their existing base of heavy and large industries, serve as twin development poles that
will draw more expansions along manufacturing and processing. There are also several
emerging growth centers in the corridor to disperse development, as well as link
resource-rich rural areas to growth and market centers. This spatial layout creates
potential for intra-regional linkages and complementary growth in the whole island of
Mindanao.
SDC2: Capitalizing on the Agri-Fishery and Eco-Cultural Tourism Endowments of Lanao
del Norte and
Misamis OccidentalThis cluster covers the western part of the region and radiates its
influence to Lanao del Norte and Misamis Occidental, capitalizes on the Agri-Fishery
and Eco-Cultural Tourism endowments of the two provinces covered. Improving
physical accessibility and the utilization of productive resources shall be the focus of
activities in the next six years to hasten economic growth and eventually make the area
self-reliant and productive.
SDC3: Boosting Agri-business Ventures and Eco-Tourism in Bukidnon
Cluster 3 mainly covers the province of Bukidnon. The central part of Bukidnon shall
continue to be the main source of agricultural products and raw materials for the
processing plants in the region.While the two cities of Malaybalay and Valencia are the
main growth centers that will drive development of the SDC, the emerging urban center
of Maramag is expected to spur development in the southern part of the area. Potentials
along eco-tourism and recreation shall also be developed especially with the opening of
major roads linking the province to Davao and Cotabato.
SDC4: Harnessing the Gingoog-Camiguin Tourism Adventure Loop
For Camiguin to become a major tourist destination in the country, the framework is to
create an integrated adventure-type coastal and/or expanded tourism highway. While
working on the improvement of access to tourism sites and facilities, tour packages
shall be arranged to connect tourists in Cagayan de Oro passing the tourism sites in
Misamis Oriental, such as Mantangale in Balingoan and Duka Bay in Medina to
Camiguin, and then to Bohol and Cebu and vice versa, through the nautical highway.
This would complement the development of adventure tourism in Bukidnon and other
areas of the region.

DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK
The Macroeconomic Development Framework (Figure 5) sets the overall development
agenda of the region including the major targets to be attained during the plan period.
Thus, the regional development agenda and priorities are laid down to fully attain its
desired role while ensuring a sustainable and shared prosperity across all areas in the
region.

Region XI - Davao Region
Davao Region is one of the regions of the Philippines, designated as Region XI.
It is located on the southeastern portion of Mindanao, and consists of five provinces,
namely: Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and the
newly created, Davao Occidental. The region encloses the Davao Gulf and its regional
center is Davao City.
Davao is a melting pot of various cultures, which include minority indigenous
groups such as the Bagobo, Mandaya, Mansaka, and Maguindanaos. The locals, who
refer to themselves as Dabawenyos and Dabawenyas, are a friendly bunch who shares
a fierce pride in their home and heritage.
Brief History
Region XI was originally called Southern Mindanao. At that time, Compostela
Valley was still part of Davao del Norte. In addition to the three Davao provinces, the
region previously included Surigao del Sur and South Cotabato. Republic Act No. 7901,
signed on February 3, 1995 by President Fidel V. Ramos, transferred Surigao del Sur to
the newly created Caraga Region (Region XIII). Finally, on September 19, 2001,
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo issued Executive Order No. 36 and reorganized the
regions and provinces in Mindanao. South Cotabato was moved to SOCCSKSARGEN.
Southern Mindanao was then renamed as Davao Region.
Many historians believe that the name "Davao" is actually the mixture of the three
names that three different tribes, the earliest settlers in the region, had for the Davao
River. The Manobos, an aboriginal tribe, referred to the Davao River as Davohoho.
Another tribe, the Bagobos, referred to the river as Davohaha, which means "fire", while
another tribe, the Guiangan tribe, called the river as Duhwow.
The history of the region dates back to the times when various tribes occupied
the region. It is believed that the Manobos, Mandayas and the Bagobos actually
occupied the area. These are the same tribes that created the small settlements and
communities that eventually became Mindanao.

B. Geography










Davao Region is located in the southeastern part of Mindanao surrounding the
Davao Gulf. It is bounded on the north by the provinces of Surigao del Sur, Agusan del
Sur of Caraga Region and Bukidnon of Northern Mindanao Region. On its west is
Central Mindanao and on its east is the Philippine Sea. It faces Micronesia in the
Southern Pacific Ocean to the east and Eastern Indonesia through the Celebes Sea to
the south.
Davao Region consist of 4 provinces and 5 cities namely, the province of Davao
del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley Province and the
Cities of Davao, Panabo, Tagum, Digos and Island Garden City of Samal.
Davao Region has a total land area of 19,671.83 square kilometers corresponding to
6.6 percent of the total land area of the Philippines and 19.3 percent of Mindanao. The
regions land area is composed of 62.5 percent forestland and 37.5 percent alienable
and disposable land. The soil is rich and suited for agricultural crops.
Davao Region is blessed with good climate with rainfall evenly distributed
throughout the year. It is outside the typhoon belt. Fair weather is usually experienced
during the months of December to June. The prevailing wind is slightly variable and
generally moves from the northeast to southwest. During this time, the southwest
monsoon wind known as Habagat prevails. From July to October, the region also
experiences the east to west wind, locally known as Amihan.

C. Demography

Registered
Voters (2010)
2,555,783
Population (as of May
1, 2010):
4,468,563
Number
of
provinc
es
5
No.
of
Citi
es
6
Number of
municipalit
ies
43
Number
of
baranga
ys
1,162
PROVINC
ES

Province Code
Income
Class
Info
Registered
Voters
1
(20
10)
Populatio
n
(as of May
1, 2010)
COMPOS
TELA
VALLEY
11820000
0
1st Class
11 Mun.
237
Bgys
297,595 687,195
DAVAO
DEL
11230000
0
1st Class
8 Mun. 3
Cities
425,486 945,764
NORTE 223 Bgys
DAVAO
DEL SUR
11240000
0
1st Class
14 Mun.
2 Cities
519 Bgys
1,176,758 868,690
DAVAO
OCCIDEN
TAL
11860000
0

5 Mun.
105 Bgys
- 0
DAVAO
ORIENTA
L
11250000
0
1st Class
10 Mun.
1 City
183 Bgys
234,576 517,618

D. Economy





Development Challenges
A. Physical Connectivity
The diagnostic analysis of the region revealed that its core problem is its inability
to sustain high economic growth levels Poor governance is thought to be largely
responsible for corruption and red tape, low investments in human resource
development, and limited capacity to monitor program implementation and to perform
regulatory functions. Corruption and red tape have resulted to inadequate and inefficient
infrastructure and logistics support, and high transaction costs. Low investment in
human resource development did not create the ideal workforce that would have
improved the effectiveness of basic service delivery and a pervasive consciousness for
innovation and technology. These, in turn, inhibit the region to fully develop its people
and resources, thus creating the vicious cycle of poverty.
The competitiveness of the regions industries is mainly challenged by the
acknowledged high cost of doing business in the region that deters the influx of more
investments. This is the result of a myriad of other factors, among which are, generally,
poor governance environments across all sectors, high interest rates, corruption and red
tape, high transportation and shipping costs, inadequate and inefficient infrastructure
and logistics support, and the low assimilation of technology and inclination for
innovation.
The regions human capital has to contend with generally low investments in
human resource development by government at both the national and local levels,
which, in turn, results in the NGAs and LGUs ineffectiveness in delivering the basic
entitlements of families. This is often compounded by a pervasively low consciousness
for technology and innovation.
An alarmingly degraded natural resource coupled by inadequate capacities for
disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation undermine the communities
resilience in the face of threats from natural hazards. Again, poor governance is
identified among the major reasons for the weak enforcement of environmental laws
and the lack of livelihood opportunities in the region that exacerbate the degradation of
its forests.





B. MDG Catch-up Plan
Overall Development Strategy
For the region to achieve its goal of a faster decline in its poverty levels, it has to
pursue a host of key strategies that are aimed at impacting directly on the foregoing
objectives. Investing substantially in human capital is an imperative, more than ever, in
order to empower the regions workforce toward being able to compete globally.
Developing a mindset for technology in schools, workplaces and businesses shall
engender a self-motivated workforce, provide a mechanism that shall continuously and
instinctively upgrade educational standards everywhere, and bring business
establishments at par with their competitors the world over. Pursuing the industry
clustering strategy using the value chain approach shall be the main option for
developing the regions micro, small and medium enterprises toward attaining high and
sustained growth.

Spatial Development Strategy
The onset of this Plan coincides with the phasing in of the Medium-to-Long Term
Phase (i.e., Phase II) of the Davao Regional Physical Framework Plan, 2003-2030,
covering the decade 2010-2020. This stage prescribes the region to focus on the
development of its Nodal Growth Centers (NGCs) toward their transition into agro-
ecozones and industrial estates. The maiden phase of the Framework ending in 2010
put emphasis on the regions Linear Urban Corridor while calling for concurrent focus on
the NGCs as both the primary sources of production inputs of the Corridor and as the
regions distribution centers. The regions Linear Urban Corridor is the strip from Digos
City in Davao del Sur through Davao City, the regional center, and terminating at
Tagum City in Davao del Norte. The NGCs, on the other hand, are Malita in Davao del
Sur, Mati City in Davao Oriental, Nabunturan in Compostela Valley, and the Island
Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte. The combination of the Linear Urban Corridor
and the Nodal Growth Centers is Davao Regions preferred spatial development
strategy until 2030.
During this Plans implementation, development shall spill over from the Linear
Urban Corridor into the NGCs, thus resulting in their transition into agro-ecozones and
industrial estates. Simultaneous with the development of the agro-ecozones and
industrial estates, sub-provincial growth centers shall be developed to diffuse the
concentration of industries and population. Market linkages and services shall be
enhanced in these growth centers by providing their basic facility requirements. Their
municipal and farm-to-market roads and land transport services shall be improved to
provide access from the production centers to the sub-provincial market/trading centers.
This spatial development strategy significantly supports the thrust for an inclusive
growth outcome for the region by connecting the regions rural areas to its growth
centers.

C. Governance
The government plays a vital role in development and governance has been
recognized as one of the key determinants of growth. Good governance is about
creating a climate wherein people will want to invest their money and get the economy
going, creating jobs and opportunities for better life. With good governance, government
effectively and efficiently provides the basic services, generates and allocates revenues
for its programs and projects.
Good governance prevails when corruption is minimized, and when the views of
the minority are taken into account and the voices of the most vulnerable in society are
heard in decision-making. Good governance is forefront to achieving one of the
countrys goals of doing the right thing that will translate into economic value and for a
transformed leadership. As envisioned, it is government that is free from corruption, that
empowers people and that provides them with opportunities. It is also a government
where the citizenry has full trust in its leaders for having integrity and competence.
Fund Sourcing
The main sources of LGU income are internally generated revenues (tax and non
tax revenues) and external sources (IRA and borrowings). LGUs could generate their
funds from grants, loans and locally sourced revenue that, among others, include real
property and local taxes, receipts from economic enterprises and service/user charges.
For the locally sourced revenue-to-total income ratio which determines the local
revenue collection effort, Tagum City consistently had the biggest proportion of locally
sourced revenue at 47 percent in 2008 and 46 percent in 2009. The Citys high locally-
sourced income is being attributed to the twenty (20) percent discount that it offers for
advance payments of real property taxes.

Resource Allocation
In 2009, LGUs spent 19 percent of their total budget for social services, which is very
important in empowering the people to be more productive; while 17 percent was spent
for the economic sector, the rest to debt service. The biggest chunk went to general
expenditures that include salaries and wages of personnel.
The low spending for these important sectors is manifested in the low participation in
elementary and secondary education, increase in maternal mortality rate, and
increasing housing needs.


Strategic Framerwork
The challenges of the infrastructure sector in the Davao Region shall be
addressed by enhancing its connectivity internally between and among Davao City and
other urban and developing areas, as well as externally within and outside Mindanao,
and in the Southeast Asian region with quality transportation facilities and services.
Improved irrigation facilities and services shall be pursued to support food security and
agriindustrial development. Reliable and sufficient power and electrification facilities
and services shall respond to the needs of industries and services for higher growth and
productivity. Improved and greater access to information, communication and
technology (ICT) facilities and services shall enable the region to be connected to the
digital highway for participation in the global economic arena. The provision of improved
and more social infrastructure facilities and services like potable water supply, school
buildings, hospitals, waste management and sewerage facilities shall support the
human development needs in line with the attainment of the Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs), and contribute to human resource development for employment and
productivity. With these facilities and services, the provision of strategic and sustainable
infrastructure shall be attained and seen to contribute to the achievement of the
objective on high and sustained economic growth, leading to the improved quality of life
for all by 2016.
A. Goals
Goal
Enhanced Connectivity and Quality of Infrastructure Services for Sustained
Economic and Inclusive.
Objectives
By 2016, the following objectives shall have been achieved by the sector, viz:
1. Improved internal circulation, mobility and external linkages by:
- Paving 100 percent of the total arterial roads and 78 percent of the total secondary
roads;
- Upgrading/improving all temporary bridges to permanent (steel/concrete bridges);
and
- Opening/construction of 1,982 farm-to-market roads to allow easier link of the farms
to the arterial/secondary roads.
2. Improved access to water facilities by ensuring that ninety-five (95) percent of the
households have access to water facilities, broken down as follows:
- For Level 3 water facilities 40 percent;
- For Level 2 water facilities 35 percent; and
- For Level 1 water facilities 20 percent
3. Improved irrigation services by increasing the proportion of serviced area to potential
irrigable area to 80 percent.
4. Improved sufficiency and reliability of power by:
- increasing supply of power generated from within the region from 240 MW to 540
MW;
- increasing the number of households energized from 66 percent to 80 percent; and
- energized ninety (90) percent of puroks/sitios.
5. Improved access to information and communication technology by providing all
barangays with appropriate ICT facilities; and increasing the total number of cellsites,
particularly located or distributed in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley, and along
sections of the national arterial road network which are currently unable to receive
CMTS
6. Improved education and health facilities by:
- Reducing by 75% the backlog in the classroom requirement;
- Completing the construction of barangay health stations in all barangays in the
Davao Region; and
- Completing the construction and repair of all main health stations.


B. Strategy
Cross-cutting Strategies
1. Pursue strategic infrastructure planning for transport, energy and power, ICT, and
water resources to address sustained economic growth
2. Ensure security and safety of critical infrastructure services of the region through
coordination with local government units, military and police officials.

3. Harness the participation of private sector in infrasturcture development through
private-public partnership, corporate social responsiblity and other modes of partnership
and collaboration.
4. Strengthen governance for sustainable infrastructure services by adopting results
monitoring and evaluation system for performance management and implementing anti-
corruption programs such as Integrity Development Action Plan, Citizens Charter, ISO
accreditation, etc.
Strategies Supportive of High Sustained Economic Growth
Improving Internal Circulation and Physical Linkages
1. Improve road network by pursuing the opening of roads and conversion of local roads
of strategic importance to national roads to ensure regular maintenance and
rehabilitation.
2. Improve national arterial and secondary roads and provincial roads that connect the
municipal centers and provincial market/trading centers to promote efficient flow of
people, goods and services.
3. Develop urban mass transport system for Davao City and its environs to provide safe,
affordable and reliable commuter service in the short-run, and to contribute to the
reduction of carbon (green house gas) emission and climate change adaptation (CCA)
in the long-run.
4. Implement travel demand management approaches and integrate land use and
transport management in urban areas to complement the development of mass
transport system to make efficient the transport system and manage congestion.
5. Improve capacity for cargo and berthing of major seaports and alternate ports to
meetcurrent and future demands of passenger and commodity transport within and
outside the region.
6. Develop rural airport system for tourism and more importantly as proactive response
to disaster and security emergency situation.
7. Develop water (gulf) transport system that will serve the coastal provinces of Davao
Region and Central Mindanao with the Island Garden City of Samal as the transport hub
enhancing the flow of people and goods and the regions tourism highway.
8. Implement an integrated road-based transport network that shall promote the
reduction of vehicle emission, as well as social and economic drain due to road traffic
accidents.
Enhancing Digital Connectivity
1. Expand ICT infrastructure such as cellsites, CATV and broadband internet
connectivity.
2. Establish tele-centers or community e-centers in all cities and provincial growth
centers
3. Modernize public telecommunication facilities and postal operations in the
municipalities including the public calling offices and internet facilities
Improving Energy Sufficiency and Reliability
1. Develop the Davao Region power mix by pursuing the identification and development
of potential renewable energy sources in Davao Region as a long term strategy, and by
investing in the short-term power sources, particularly by setting up diesel power plants
and barges to arrest the expected shortage in power in the immediate future.
2. Identify and develop potential renewable energy resources in the region.
Improving Irrigation Services
1. Improve irrigation services in the region by strengthening the capacity of irrigation
associations to implement the irrigation management transfer (IMT),
restructuring/streamlining of the National Irrigation Administration to address financial
and operational problems and implement on a pilot basis the volumetric pricing scheme.
Strategies Supportive of Providing Equal Access to Development
Improving Access to Household Energization
1. Accelerate household energization particularly in hard-to-reach areas by enforcing
the missionary electrification
Improving Access to Water Resources
1. Develop community based water supply systems including the employment of
rainwater harvesting technologies for non-potable use.
Providing Access to Quality Social Infrastructure and Other Facilities
1. Ensure strategic allocation of school building projects to needy schools
2. Pursue adopt-a-school program
3. Maximize support by the LGUs in financing school building programs through their
special education fund and the construction of barangay health stations through local
government support
4. Integrate disaster resilient and climate proofing design aspects on school buildings
and community health centers
5. Protect communities from floods
6. Pursue the proper management of wastewater and solid waste

Region XII - SoCCSKSarGen
SoCCSKSarGen is a region of the Philippines, located in central Mindanao, and is
officially designated as Region XII. The name is an acronym that stands for the region's
four provinces and one of its cities:
South Cotabato, Cotabato,Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City.
A. Brief History

The region is more formally known by its older name Central Mindanao. The regional
center is Koronadal City located in the province of South Cotabato. Cotabato City,
though geographically within the boundaries of the province of Maguindanao, itself is
part of SOCCSKSARGEN, and is independent of that province. Maguindanao
province is, in fact, a part of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM),
which has its seat in Cotabato City. SOCCSKSARGEN and the province of
Maguindanao were once part of the original Cotabato province.

The Central Mindanao Region was created on July 7, 1975 under P.D. No. 742.
Under this decree, Central Mindanao was then composed of the provinces of
Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao, and
the cities of Iligan, Cotabato and Marawi. The extent of regionalization was further
seen in the establishment of Autonomous Region in Central and Western Mindanao
(Region XII and IX) by virtue of P.D. No. 1618.

On August 1, 1989, RA No. 6734 was signed into law and provided for the creation
of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), the composition of which
include Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao provinces. The former Regional
Autonomous Government of Central Mindanao was therefore reverted to an
administrative region. EO 429 was issued on October 12, 1990 defining the new
composition of Central Mindanao with Koronadal City as its Regional Administrative
Center. However, a restraining order was issued against the implementation of the
executive order. Thus the original composition of Region XII prior to the issuance of
EO 429 (e.i.Cotabato Province, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte,Cotabato City,
Iligan City and Marawi City) remained status quo. Cotabato City remained as
Regional Administrative Center for Region XII. It has been likewise designated as
the temporary regional center of ARMM.

On February 23, 1995, RA 7901, An act creating Region XIII to be known as the
Caraga Administrative Region and for other purposes was enacted. Section 3 of the
said law provided for the transfer of Sultan Kudarat to Region XI following
Surigaodel Surs transfer from Region XI to the Caraga Region. However, in 1998,
RA 8744 was passed transferring back to Region XII the province of Sultan Kudarat.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Final Peace Agreement signed between the
Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation
Front (MNLF) on September 6, 1996, EO No. 371 was issued by His Excellency
Fidel V. Ramos on October 2, 1996 which established a Special Zone of Peace and
Development (SZOPAD) in Southern Philippines encompassing five regions,
including Region XII.

On August 14, 2001, a plebiscite was conducted in the SZOPAD to determine the
areas that shall comprise the ARMM, pursuant to RA No. 9054. The cities of Marawi
in Region XII and Isabela in Region IX joined the ARMM. As a result, an
administrative measure following the reconfiguration of ARMM, President Gloria
Macapag Arroyo issued EO No. 36 dated September 19, 2001, which realigned the
regions in Mindanao. The province of Lanao del Norte and Iligan City of Region XII
was transferred to Region X. The provinces of South Cotabato, Sarangani and the
cities of Koronadal and General Santos of Region XI became part of the new Region
XII.
B. Geography



The SOCCSKSARGEN Region or Region XII is strategically located at the heart of
Mindanao (Figure 1.1). It has a total land area of 19,165.87 square kilometers or
about 17% of the total land area of Mindanao.
The region is composed of four provinces, five cities, 45 municipalities and 1,192
barangays. The provinces are Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sarangani and Sultan
Kudarat. The cities are Cotabato, General Santos, Kidapawan, Koronadal, and
Tacurong. Koronadal City is the administrative center of Region XII and is located in
South Cotabato (Figure 1.2). The municipalities and cities of the region are grouped
into seven congressional districts.
Among the provinces, Cotabato has the largest land area with 6,019.78 sq. km., or
about 30.4% of the regions land area, while Sultan Kudarat has the smallest at
4,401.06 sq. km. Of the cities, General Santos City has the biggest land area at
668.49 sq. km., while Tacurong City has the smallest at 161.96 sq. km.
The physiographic characteristics of the region vary from flat, fertile plains to
irregular landscapes to wide valleys, scattered hills and intensive mountain ranges.
Its coastline is extensive and stretches to 320 kilometers, particularly along the
Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City coastal zone.
The region falls under the 4th Climatic Type having rainfall that is more or less
evenly distributed throughout the year. This rainfall pattern contributes to the high
production levels in agriculture of the region.
The region is also richly endowed with abundant watersheds and water resources
more than adequate to supply the regions requirement for irrigation, domestic and
industrial uses. There are several river basins in the region. Five of these basins
have been proclaimed and given priority for their conservation and development.
These watersheds are Siguel River, Allah Valley, Lake Sebu, Mt. Matutum and
Malitubog-Maridagao River. Among the major rivers that traverse the region are the
Rio Grande de Mindanao and the Ala River. In addition, SOCCSKSARGEN is
located within the second largest basin in the Philippines which is known as the
Mindanao River Basin.
C. Demography

Registered Voters (2010) 1,987,427
Population (as of May 1, 2010): 4,109,571
Number
of
province
s
4
No.
of
Cities
5
Number of
municipalities
4
5
Number
of
barangay
s
1,195
PROVINCES
Province
Income
Class
Info
Registered
Voters
1

(2010)
Population
(as of May 1,
2010)
COTABATO (NORTH
COTABATO)
1st Class
17 Mun. 1 City 543
Bgys
556,097 1,226,508
COTABATO CITY
(Not a Province)
1 City 37 Bgys 117,025 271,786
SARANGANI 2nd Class 7 Mun 141 Bgys 221,832 498,904
SOUTH COTABATO 1st Class
10 Mun. 2 Cities
225 Bgys
628,161 827,200
SULTAN KUDARAT 1st Class
11 Mun. 1 City 249
Bgys
344,424 747,087

D. Economy


Development Challenges
Physical Connectivity
Over the past six years, the region pursued strategies towards increasing
economic growth and job generation, the provision of basic social and infrastructure
services, and sustainable peace and good governance.
Actual performance of regional development indicated low and erratic economic
growth trend and high poverty incidence. These two major challenges were attributed to
low economic productivity and low income because of lack of access to productive and
decent employment.
Persistent challenges such as inadequate access of the people to basic services,
low infrastructure support, inadequate and unreliable power supply for socioeconomic
development, environmental degradation, and poor governance, further push economic
productivity down and poverty levels up. If these challenges are not addressed, the
development of the region would remain unbalanced. Majority of its people will remain
poor and would not benefit from the little gains of economic growth.
MDG Catch-up Plan
A. Low Economic Productivity
The economic productivity of the region is measured by the gross regional
domestic product (GRDP). Over the years, the GRDP posted irregular trends and
recorded a slight shift in the structure which remains predominantly agriculture.
Gross Regional Domestic Product
The GRDP measures the contribution of all the industry sectors to total
regional economic output and growth. For the period 2004 to 2009, the GRDP
grew at an average annual rate of 4.6%. This is lower than the targeted growth
range of 5.8% 6.4% in 2009. Figure 3.2 reflect the fluctuating annual growth
rate pattern of GRDP. The regional output was adversely affected by both natural
and man-made calamites that hit the region during the period.
The agriculture, fishery and forestry (AFF) sector contributed the biggest
share to total GRDP. However, a slight decrease was noted in its contribution to
the regional output from 43.6% in 2004 to 41.5% in 2009.

The decline in fishery production was attributed to a drop in commercial
fishing. This was due to the three-month ban on fishing using aggregate device
or FAD that was imposed by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries
Commission during the spawning period of tuna to accelerate its restocking.. The
closure of high sea pockets in the Pacific Ocean due to overfishing of various
types of tuna had also adversely affected the regions tuna production.
Furthermore, the observed scarcity of tuna withinPhilippine fishing grounds and
the rising prices of oil and fuels adversely affected commercial fishing production.

On the other hand, the share of industry increased from 29.8% in 2004 to
31.8% in 2009. The sources of growth were from intensified manufacturing and
construction activities in the region. A turnaround was noted in construction and
mining and quarrying as they recovered from their negative growths in 2005.
Sharp decline was recorded in 2008 due the global financial crisis. The share of
the Services GVA to total GRDP remained constant at around 27% during the
two periods. It recorded a 5.8 % growth in 2005, from a 5.0% growth in 2004. But
the services expanded in 2009 with almost all of its subsectors posting
accelerated growths except for ODRE.
Tourism as one of the sources of growth in the Services GVA posted
sluggish growth. Tourist arrivals was recorded at 557,463 in 2004 and 659,163 in
2009, registering an average annual growth rate of 3.44%. Hotel occupancy rates
showed minimal increase from 2004 to 2009 and is observed to be supported
heavily by domestic travels consisting 98.67% for the last five years.
In 2009, SOCCSKSARGEN GRDP ranked third among the Mindanao
regions in terms of its contribution to the total Mindanao (Figure 3.3). The largest
share came from Region X at 28%, followed by Region XI at 26%. Region XII
contributed about 19% to total Mindanao GDP.
Investments and Exports

Total investments consistently increased, from 2.77 billion pesos in 2004
to 6.49 billion pesos in 2008, registering a high annual average growth rate of
25.78%. Increases were attributed to the establishment of small and medium
enterprises (SMEs) through investment mission, business matching, business
name registration, and investment facilitation; and, the conduct of information
and communication technology (ICT) activities.
Exports recorded fluctuating trends and these were affected by market-
based regulations. Exports value was recorded at $346.81 million US dollars in
2004 to $541.98 million in 2009, registering an average annual growth rate of
10.92%. The marine sector dominates regional export trade accounting for 50%
of aggregate exports with canned and fresh tuna taking up a combined share of
45%. Fruits and vegetables comprise the second largest exports with canned
and fresh pineapples accounting for 27% of total. Resource-based products are
the third largest exports with crude coconut oil accounting for 17% of total
exports. Exports are supplied by General Santos City, South Cotabato and
Sarangani. Cotabato Province is also an exporting province; however, its
products are mainly shipped via ports in Davao City. The United States remains
to be the regions largest individual export destination, followed by European
Union and Japan. On the whole, Region XII contributes less than 1% to the
national export performance.
Prices

The region targeted to maintain below 5 percent inflation rate from 2004 to
2010. However, in 2004, inflation rate was over the target at 6.6 percent and
increased to 6.7 percent in 2005. While it dropped to 5.3 percent in 2006 and 3.4
percent in 2007, it surged anew to 11.6 percent in 2008. The double-digit inflation
rate during the period was attributed to the escalating prices of fuel and rice.
The average inflation rate in 2004-2009 was estimated at 6.2 percent. The
commodity groups that posted high inflation rates were: a) Fuel, light and water
which recorded at an average inflation rate of 8.7 percent; b) Food at an average
rate of 7.4 percent, due to price increases in corn, cereals, rice, cereal
preparation, fruits and vegetables and dairy products; and c) Services with an
average of 6.1 percent, due to price increases in transportation and
communication, medical and educational services.
The purchasing power of the peso in 2004 was estimated at 0.84
considering the year 2000 as the base period. This means that the one peso
(P1.00) in 2000 has a real value of eighty four cents (P0.84) in 2004. In 2006,
purchasing power of peso was 0.75 and further decreased to 0.62 in 2009. The
declining purchasing power of peso is due to the increasing prices of goods and
services.
B. Low Income and Lack of Access to Productive / Decent Employment
Population

The 2007 census reported that the population of Region XII was about 3.8
million. Among the 17 regions nationwide, Region XII ranked 12th in terms of
population count. Its population is also about 18 percent of the total population of
Mindanao and 4.3 percent of the total population of the country.
The population of the region grew at an annual average of 2.41% between 2000
and 2007, which is 0.37 percentage point higher than the national growth rate of
2.04 percent.
Average Family Income

Average Annual Family Income (at current prices) in the region increased
by about P40,000.00, from P114,000.00 in 2006 to P154,000.00 in 2009. The
2009 figure is P52,000.00 lower than the average annual family income of
P206,000.00at the national level. (Table 3.2)
At constant prices, average annual family income in the country in 2009
was P129,000. This is about 3.2% higher than the 2006 figure of P125,000.00. In
the region, 2006 average annual family income was P85,000.00. It increased by
about 12.9% in 2009 that recorded an average income of P96,000.00.
Poverty and Food Threshold

The annual per capita poverty threshold is the amount needed by an
individual to satisfy the food and other basic needs for the year. In 2009, the
threshold in Region XII was estimated at P15,762.00 (Table 3.3). This was higher
by P3,232.00 compared with the 2006 poverty threshold. Cotabato City posted
the highest poverty threshold at P16,520.00, while Sarangani Province had the
least P14,987.00.
The annual per capita food threshold of the region was P11,014 in 2009.
This amount was higher by P2,257 than the P8,757 estimate in 2006. This
implies that a family of five would be needing P55,070 per year (or P4,589.16 per
month) for its food requirements.The total number of families whose earnings
cannot cope their food requirements was estimated to be about 10,204 families
or about 11.3% of the total families in the region. Poverty incidence of most of the
sectors showed improvement between 2000 and 2006. However, the fishermen
group remained almost in the same poverty situation.
Poverty Incidence

While the average family income rose from 2006 to 2009 based on the
Family Income and Expenditure Survey, poverty incidence among families in
2009 was estimated at 28.1% or an increase of 1.0 percentage point from the
2006 estimate of 27.1%. This means that out of the total 321,370 families of the
region in 2009, 28.1% or about 90,305 families were living below the poverty
threshold or whose earnings were not enough to meet their basic needs. The
Region XII poverty incidence was 7.2% higher than the national estimate of
20.9%. Nonetheless, the Region XII incidence was about 9.9 percentage points
lower than the MTRDP target of 38%.
Among the eight basic sectors, the children sector posted the most
number of poor individuals, followed by the women sector in 2006 (Table 3.4). In
terms of poverty incidence, it was highest among fishermen (47.3%); followed by
children (47.2%), farmers (41.0%), and women (38.1%).
Poorest Municipalities in Region XII
Based on the 2003 Small Area Poverty Statistics, the poorest municipality
of Region XII was Tboli in South Cotabato with poverty incidence of 66.50%. At
the national level, it ranked 107th. The rest of the ten poorest municipalities in the
region are: Malapatan, Lake Sebu, Maasim, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Palimbang,
Bagumbayan, Columbio, Kalamansig and Esperanza. Figure 3.5 shows the top
20 poorest municipalities of the region. Thirteen of these have poverty incidence
of more than 50%.
Livelihood and Employment

a. Employment, Unemployment and Underemployment

A declining labor force participation rate was recorded from 68.8%
in 2004 to 65.1% in 2007, but showed a slight increase in 2009 at 66.6%.
The average annual growth rate was 66.5%. On the average, around 65%
of the employed were males and 35% were females. By major occupation
group, 55% were absorbed by the agriculture, fishery and forestry
activities; while 37% were engaged in services. The remaining 8% were
into industry activities. Conversely, unemployment rate dropped from 9.6%
in 2004 to 3.6% in 2009.

While the regions employment rate showed increasing trend,
underemployment remained to be high. Underemployed persons are
employed persons who expressed the desire to have additional hours of
work in their present job or in an additional job, or to have a new job with
longer working hours. The desire is caused mainly by low paying jobs and
the need to augment income to satisfy the basic needs of the family.
Underemployment rate was recorded at 21.7% in 2004. This increased to
30.4% in 2005. However, it went down to 20.6% in 2009.

b. Livelihood and Employment Opportunities
Even with high and increasing employment in the past six years,
there is a need to intensify the provision of livelihood and employment
opportunities, particularly for the vulnerable groups. Livelihood and
microfinance assistance should be boosted to provide a highly sustained
source of income particularly for self employed individuals. The influx of
skills not needed by the industries also contributes to unemployment and
underemployment. The job mismatch problem must be addressed to
encourage competitiveness and productivity.
Inadequate Access to Quality Basic Social Services

The high incidence of poverty in the region, underpins the critical role of
the social development sector in ensuring equal and broader access to quality
basic social services. These services must enable families and individuals to live
a life of dignity, as mandated in the Constitution. With the growing number of
people living below the poverty line, it is but unfortunate that the services,
policies, programs, and structures that the government needs to provide are not
sufficient to meet the burgeoning demand for these services.

Education

a. Basic Education

The State mandates that basic education should be free in all
public schools to ensure that even the poorest would have access to basic
education. In Region XII, out of its total 1,194 barangays, there were still
66 barangays which had no day care centers, as of 2010.
The Net Enrolment Rate (NER), commonly known as the
Participation Rate, showed a declining pattern during the first half of 2004-
2010 (Table 3.17). An improvement was observed with 72.99% in SY
2007-2008 to 77.01% in SY 2009-2010 (the latter represents data for
public schools only). The region would need an increase of about 23
percentage points to meet the the MDG target of 100% NER in 2015. The
secondary level attainment of MDG targets is similarly situated.
The growth in Cohort Survival Rate (CSR) has not likewise been
sustained. The CSR in the elementary level showed minimal increases
between SY 2006 to 2008. The figure sharply dropped by 4.07 percentage
points in SY 2009-2010, placing the CSR at 61.94. The region needs to
fast track providing the necessary interventions to close the gap between
61.94% and the EFA target of 95% by 2015.

The MDG target for school leaver rate by 2015 is zero. However,
regional figures went up during the period 2007-2008 to 2009-2010, from
8.33% to 12.44%, respectively.
Data showed that the NER, CSR and the SLR for the secondary
level are even much lower hence the likelihood to achieve the MDG and
EFA goals is even more remote, and the gap is more acute. There is also
a need to review the accreditation policies and curriculum standards of
madaris to boost the quality of and access to education by the Muslim
school-going population. Lastly, instructional classroom backlog is severe
at 1,973 in the elementary level, and 1,102 in the secondary level.
Teacher backlog is also high at 1,330 for elementary teachers and 1,136
for secondary teachers as of 2010. School facilities and resources have to
be upgraded to contribute to the attainment of lifting the standards of
education to its highest desired level.

b. Higher Education and Manpower Development

Total enrolment in both public and private higher education
institutions (HEIs) showed fluctuating trend over the period 2004-2009.
Compared to SY 2004-2005, a deceleration in enrolment was observed for
SY 2005-2006 and SY 2007-2008. The decline in enrolment may be
attributed to the high cost of school fees and other incidental expenses,
poverty and economic difficulties brought about by external shocks like oil
price hike and economic recession. However, total enrolment showed
increments in SY 2006-2007 to SY 2009-2010. Generally, it was observed
that concomitant to the increased number of enrollees in the
aforementioned school years were the increases in the number of
scholars/grantees/ beneficiaries of government-funded scholarship
programs during the same period. Enrolment in public HEIs grew at an
average of 0.61 percent, while enrolment in private HEIs grew at an
average of 0.37 percent.

Access to quality and higher education has been found wanting in
the region. The higher education sector must similarly address the
mismatch in education sector outputs with the manpower requirements of
an agri-industrial economy. Appropriate curricula must be developed to be
attuned to the needs of industries in the region. The region is in urgent
need of a Regional Training Center to cater to the increasing number of
young boys and girls who dropped out of school for lack of financial
capability to pursue degree programs. The center shall also serve the
unemployed and employed who need up-skilling and or re-skilling to
respond to the needs of the labor market, both domestically and
internationally.

Health and Nutrition

Basic health services are aimed at nurturing healthy individuals to make
them productive members of the society. The lack of access to health and
nutrition is due to non-availability, non-affordability, and poor quality of health
services. With very little improvements, there is small likelihood to meet MDG
targets by 2015.

The incidence of maternal deaths remains high and the probability of
hitting the MDG target is very remote. The infant mortality ratio and the under-five
mortality ratio showed declining trend, indicating good results on efforts to bring
down IMR and Under Five (U5) mortality rate. However, there is still a need to
intensify interventions designed to thwart incidence of child deaths. Record
shows that Full Immunization of Children (FIC) in the region (89.09% in 2009
against the target of 95%) is still low. Also, the proportion of births delivered
utilizing health facilities (RHUs, hospitals, clinics) remained low (40% only).
Some of the birth deliveries in far-flung areas, especially those outside of health
facilities, were not attended by the trained health personnel. The number of
dengue cases in the region is increasing. Some cases of HIV-Aids have also
been reported. On manpower resources, there is an acute need for doctors,
medical technologist, sanitary engineers and inspectors especially in district
hospitals and municipalities.

Land and Land Rights

Ensuring greater access of the vulnerable groups of indigenous people to
land and land rights, and mainstreaming them into the society remain to be the
major challenge of the sector. In 2009, 54 applications for certification
precondition were received by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples,
but only one was issued with the said certificate, 4 were issued with certification
of non-overlap (CNO).

Other concerns that need to be addressed include concerns on social
justice and preservation of indigenous culture, rights and traditions; and, the lack
of knowledge by the target groups on the IPRA law.

Housing

The demand for decent housing in Region XII is still unmet despite past
efforts to address the problem. There is still a need to increase the supply of low-
cost housing, especially for the poor who have less or no access to financing or
credit. To address local housing needs, LGUs should endeavor to formulate or
update their respestive shelter plans. The participation of the private sector is
likewise needed to address the housing backlogs in the region.

C. Inadequate Infrastructure Support

The presence of infrastructure support facility provides an enabling environment
that contributes to accelerated economic growth and poverty reduction. Areas of
strategic importance are still not linked by road network and not yet served by
transportation facilities. As an agricultural economy, the need for farm-to-market roads
and production support facilities need to be sustainably addressed.

Roads and Bridges

There is a need to provide an integrated and effective transportation
system that connects to other industrial and social services facilities, and
provides linkage with other institutions. The sector is still faced with several
challenges. Many sections of concrete pavement along arterial national roads
have already deteriorated. Several stretches of roads of strategic importance,
roads along potential economic corridors, roads that connect growth centers and
access roads to tourism sites still await construction and/or improvement. The
deterioration of major roads and bridges may be attributed tothe overloading of
vehicles due to non-observance of tonnage limit. The two-lane width of most
arterial national roads and bridges is no longer appropriate for the increasing
volume of traffic along these major highways. Road signage and road safety
structures need to be placed in required sections of the roads, particularly, along-
accident prone areas. There is a lack of bicycle and motorcycle lanes along
major thoroughfares.

Seaport and Airport

Facilities of some seaports in the region are still inadequate, while those of
the airports need upgrading/improvement. Despite being categorized as an
international airport, the General Santos Airport still lacks facilities to make it at
par with international standard. Passengers have to deal with a lot of
inconvenience boarding and disembarking the airplane and walk some length
under the heat of the sun. Even the trolleys which are supposed to be a
necessity for moving luggage are used by passengers for a fee. The airport
needs a jet bridge, an enclosed, movable connector which extends from the
airport terminal gate to the airplane that will allow passengers to board and
disembark without having to go outside. Trolleys and other airport facilities
should be made available for free considering that passengers already pay
terminal fees.

Water Resources Development

a. Irrigation

There is low and poor maintenance of irrigation facilities in the
region. Only about 55.19% of the total potential irrigable area of 173,410
hectares in the region is provided with irrigation facilities. About 77,705
hectares of agricultural land still await irrigation development.
From 2006 to 2009, the rate of irrigation development of the region
increased by 6.58%. However, in 2007 there was a slight decrease due to
the closure of communal irrigation systems (CIS) in Sultan Kudarat
Province (Lebak CIS and Senator Ninoy Aquino CIS ) and some CIS in
Cotabato Province that underwent major rehabilitation funded by the
Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP).
Other reasons for the drop in areas for irrigation development include the
conversion of irrigated land into residential areas and the flash flood in
2009 caused by typhoon Frank which damaged irrigation facilities and
affected about 3,500 hectares of irrigated land in particularly in
Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.

b. Water Supply

The access of the regions households to safe water supply
remains inadequate. About 11.19 percent of the regions total household
still have no access to safe water as of December 2009, despite
abundance of water sources, e.g. springs, rivers, underground water. Most
local government units do not have water supply master plan.
While the region is on track in attaining its Millennium Development
Goal (MDG) in terms of the population having access to safe drinking
water, there remains a number of households which have unsafe sources
and without access to water supply facilities. In 2009, the total number of
households served with potable water was estimated at 713,391
households or 88.81 percent of the total households in the region. Among
the provinces, Cotabato posted the highest access to potable water with
92.88 percent of its household already served with potable water, while
Sultan Kudarat had the lowest access with only 80.19 percent.

c. Flood Control and Drainage

Recent years saw the occurrence of flooding that resulted to
displacement of people, destruction of property and infrastructure facilities,
disruption of economic activity resulting to income loss, and realignment of
budget from basic social services to rehabilitation. The flooding is
attributed to river siltation caused by denuded forest. In settlement areas,
flooding in is due to poor drainage and improper garbage disposal.
Interventions are inadequate to address the flooding problem in the
region.

Communications

During the last four years, from 2005 to 2009, mobile phone companies
were into a massive construction of cell site towers to expand and improve
cellular phone signal in the region. In 2006, a total of 131 cell site towers were
constructed and this increased to 233 in 2009. Aside from the provision of
cellular sites, a total of 22 Local e-Centers were established in the region in CY
2006. These e-Centers provide internet services to the municipalities in the
region.
In spite of these investments infused in Region XII to improve communication
services in the region, the challenge of linking many areas in the region which do
not have cellular sites or where signals are weak, remain. Some areas
experience difficulty in linking telecommunication services among private
telephone companies, especially landline long distance communications to other
provinces within the region and local inter-connection calls within the city areas.
Due to increasing demand for the use of internet for generating information and
networking, the establishment of internet connections at municipal centers has
been found to be very necessary.

Energization

The region is continually being confronted with inadequate and unreliable
energy supply due to continued increase in demand for energy. While the region
is host to various sources of energy, these sources have remained untapped due
to lack of investors in the energy sector. In 2009, the region attained 94.79%
barangay energization. However, this is still short of the target of 100% by 2010.
The Mindanao gross power generation mix has an average of 7,758.67 Gigawatt-
hour (GWh) from 2006-2008. This includes all types of generating facilities, such
as, hydro, oil-based, solar, coal and geothermal. However, in 2009, there was an
abrupt decline in power generation of 3,909 GWh, a huge decrease of more than
fifty percent in the supply of power for Mindanao. The drop in generation capacity
was due to the decrease in power generation in Agus-Pulangi Hydro Complexes
in Iligan City.
Region XII is solely dependent on the Mindanao Grid. In 2009, the Mindanao
Grid continued to experience deficiency in power supply generation. Widespread
power outages have become prevalent in Region XII. As the grid continues to
experience deficiency in power supply generation, Region XII also suffered
much. Most of the Electric Cooperatives (ECs) in the region implemented power
rationing within their franchise areas. In highly urbanized cities, business
establishments have incurred considerable losses caused by widespread and
continuing power outages.
The existing generating capacity can no longer meet the future demand for
energy in the region. Although the region hosts the Mt. Apo Geothermal Plant in
Kidapawan City and the Southern PhilippinesPower Corporation in Alabel,
Sarangani, these power plants still transmit their power outputs to the Mindanao
Grid. From the grid, power is transmitted to the electric cooperatives in the region
through the facilities of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).
NGCP, thus, dictates how much load is to be forwarded to each electric
cooperative (EC) in the region.

D. Environmental Degradation

The general trend of forestland utilization particularly for activities such as
commercial monocrop farming, road development, formation of settlements, continued
harvesting and/ or cutting of forest cover, result in widespread loss of biodiversity,
erosion and sedimentation of water bodies.

Forest Condition

The Mindanao River Basin (MRB) has a forest area of about 1,048,648
hectares. Only about 19 percent of the forest land has a closed canopy, meaning
with mature trees covering >50 percent; 18 percent is open canopy with mature
trees covering less than 50 percent while 63 percent of the forest land has been
converted to various land uses. Subbasins that greatly impact in the region, such
as Ala, Arakan, Banga, Buayan-Malungun, Buluan, Cotabato, have forestlands
with mixed uses as follows: 49%, 80%, 89%, 78%, 80%, and 96%, respectively.
If no interventions are put in place to reverse the state of the MRB, perennial
problems on erosion of the uplands and sedimentation of water bodies will
continue and subsequently cause other disasters such as flooding in settlements
and production areas. While new reforestation is being undertaken every year,
the sector also maintains the forest plantations it has completed for the previous
years.
Accomplishment on forest maintenance was alarmingly low considering that the
annual targets of 2,408 hectares for forest maintenance and 1,245 hectares for
forest protection have not been met. There is a need to reverse the declining
trend noted in forest protection program which was attributed to limited funds
allotted for the program. Hence, activities were sustained to only those areas
identified with high stumpage value.

Flooding in Settlement and Production Areas

Flooding such as those brought about by Typhoon Frank was attributed to
the siltation of major rivers in the region such as Ala, Mindanao and Tamontaka;
siltation of Liguasan Marsh which functions as a natural flood control; and, the
accumulation of water hyacinths which congested the Mindanao River and
diverted the flow of upstream waters in the low-lying areas of Cotabato City,
Sultan Kudarat and other neighboring areas. A total of 49,135 families were
affected and the damage was estimated at P2.483 billion pesos. Poor solid waste
management and pollution of waterways have also contributed to flooding in
settlement areas.

Low Rehabilitation Rate of Degraded Forest and Mangrove Areas

While appropriate forest cover is only about 37 percent as indicated by the
closed and open canopy cover aforementioned, accomplishments of the sector
show minimal interventions relative to the areas needing immediate
rehabilitation. Management of the Coastal and Marine Resources were also
undertaken in support to the rehabilitation efforts of degraded forest and
mangrove areas in the region. However, the sector needs to seriously consider
pushing more efforts in the establishment of mangrove plantations to other areas
not yet covered while simultaneously maintaining those that were already
established.

Weak Enforcement of Environmental Laws

Environmental laws to address concerns on poor air and water quality as
well as problems on solid wastes are in place. Potential sources of air pollution
were monitored based on the compliance to DENRs emission standards. The
high cost of installing Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS)
prevented the achievement of the target of 28 units to be installed for the whole
plan period. Companies practicing self-regulation by requesting the services of
Accredited Third Party sampler to monitor the emissions of their Air Pollution
Source Equipment and Control Facilities were regularly monitored.

Efforts toward enhancing water quality in Sarangani Bay and Silway River
have been initiated with the designation of Sarangani Bay and Silway River as
Water Quality Management Areas (WQMA).
Solid waste is one of the pressing problems which is being addressed by the
Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Under the law, LGUs are required to
establish Sanitary Landfill (SLF), Material Recovery Facilities (MRF) and other
forms of technology to manage solid waste. Twenty one (21) LGUs in the region
have either closed or converted their open dumps to controlled dumps.

E. Sustaining Peace and Development

In Region XII, among the strategies toward attaining peace and development
include the acceleration of barangay-focused rehabilitation and development in the
conflict affected areas; mobilizing and strengthening peace and order councils;
intensification of activities to establish presence of government in far-flung communities;
and the review and assessment of the accomplishments of the 1996 Final Peace
Agreement (FPA) between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the
Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).

Rehabilitation and Development in Conflict-Affected Areas

With the aim of accelerating the rehabilitation and development of conflict-
affected areas in Region XII, barangay-focused interventions were implemented.
Through the concerted efforts of concerned local government units and regional line
agencies, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines and donor agencies, several
barangays in the region have been recipient of various peace and development
projects.
Among the programs and projects implemented were: (a) Salaam Projects,
Police Centers and Conflict Management and Peacebuilding activities; (b) The ACT for
Peace Programme, that are aimed at strengthening communities; (c) KALAHI - The
KapitBisig Laban saKahirapan (KALAHI) is the Governments Program for Poverty-
Reduction; (d) Socio-economic Reconstruction and Development in Conflict Affected
Areas in Mindanao (SERD-CAAM) Project; and, (e) Mindanao Trust Fund for
Reconstruction and Development Project (MTF-RDP).
Peace and Order Councils

The Regional and Local (Provincial/City/Municipal) Peace and Order Councils
(R/LPOCs) in the region were strengthened, particularly along finding solutions to peace
related pressing issues and concerns, as well as, in mitigating possible escalation of
hostilities and untoward incidents in their respective areas of concern. In 2006, there
were about 1,248 Regional/ Provincial/City/Municipal Peace and Order Councils
organized. A total of two hundred sixty four (264) meetings were conducted at all levels
to address local peace and order concerns.

Presence of Government in Far-flung Communities

The region likewise strengthened its efforts to establish government presence in
far-flung communities. This is to make people appreciate and be aware of the various
government services available for them. Various line agencies, including the Regional
Development Council (RDC) XII, have initiated convergence projects among the poorest
communities in the region. The government military forces, on the other hand, continued
to extend technical, manpower and equipment assistance to communities in need.

Spaces for Peace

The Spaces for Peace is a Grassroots Peace Process resulting from the efforts
of the Church, Non-Government Organizations, the Local Government Unit (Municipality
and Barangays), and the residents themselves to finally put an end to confrontation and
evacuation and establish lasting peace in GiNaPaLaDTaKa. Having experienced the
long suffering brought about by armed hostilities between the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), seven (7) barangays in
the Municipality of Pikit, Province of North Cotabato decided to declare their
communities as Spaces for Peace.

Peace Talks with Various Groups

The region remains supportive in pursing governments peace agenda toward
the completion of comprehensive agreements with rebel groups resulting in the
permanent cessation of armed hostilities. The government has existing peace
negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); the Communist Party of the
Philippines New Peoples Army National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).



Public Order, Peace and Security

The effective enforcement of the law coupled with the active participation of the
different LGUs and citizenry in maintaining peace and order have minimized conflicts
that resulted to peaceful environment in most areas of Region XII. The region lagged
behind In terms of the ideal police to population ratio of 1:500.
Moreover, the military played a vital role in securing government flagship projects
and vital installations, as well as, in rendering support to the LGUs and government
agencies in implementing development projects, particularly those in remote areas of
Region XII. To facilitate its operations, the AFP created Task Forces/Task Groups to
address imminent threat and danger posed by terrorist groups for the major urban areas
of the region.
Governance
Despite fiscal, as well as, political constraints in the implementation of programs
and projects geared toward the attainment of good governance, the region made
progress in institutionalizing some reforms which resulted to gaining the trust and
confidence of the population. This has been proven with the active participation of the
civil society in most of the governments efforts for development.
Reforms in Institutions
Efficient and Effective Governance.The provision of capability building
programs/trainings was institutionalized in almost all government entities at all levels.
These were aimed at enhancing the workersskills, as well as, engendering
commitments to provide honest and dedicated public services to the population. Rights-
based approach to development had been integrated in all these trainings which were
conducted/facilitated by all government entities in the region.

Elimination of Graft and Corruption.Efforts towards the goal of eliminating graft and
corruption in government service was likewise pursued. However, considering the
absence of data, the regions stride towards eliminating graft and corruption was difficult
to assess. Nonetheless, with the introduction and implementation of different
government systems, particularly on the processing of documents, delivery of services,
employment of qualified work force, disseminating information, indicate the regions
quest of minimizing, if not, eliminating graft and corruption in all levels of governance.

Administration of J ustice.To uphold the dignity of the government workforce,
administrative cases, both disciplinary and non-disciplinary, filed against some
government personnel from 2007-2010 were given priority actions by the concerned
government agency.

Advocacy.To make government services accessible and known by its constituents, the
region continually intensified its advocacy on government activities and services.
Websites were developed. Radio, print and TV were utilized. With the cooperation of all
agencies and LGUs, this collegial effort was also geared towards marketing the region
as a potential investment and tourism area to ward off the negative image tagged to
Region XII.

Monitoring and Evaluation.Regular monitoring and evaluation of Official Development
Assistance and nationally funded projects in the region were also regularly undertaken
by the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) XII and various agencies and
monitoring bodies to ensure efficient and effective implementation of development
programs and projects and quality and timely delivery and completion of projects in the
region. At the local level, monitoring of locally funded programs and projects were
undertaken by the local monitoring bodies. In addition, post monitoring meetings, as
well as, problem solving sessions were conducted to discuss findings and issues
gathered during the monitoring activities and generate recommendations for the
resolution of issues discussed.
Mainstreaming Gender Concerns.Gender concerns on the other hand, have already
been mainstreamed in the development planning process in the region, as evidenced by
the implementation of gender-sensitive programs and projects. At the local level, some
LGUs gave priority on gender-related concern, such as the putting up of womens
desks, women training centers and the organization of Local Council for Women.
Promotion of Human Rights.Geared towards promoting social justice, respect for
human rights and ethnic tradition, police investigation were mostly undertaken in close
coordination with other agencies, particularly with those concerned with legal/judicial
services for the affected population. Representation of indigents in judicial cases,
investigation of human rights violations, inmates and parolees welfares, parolees and
other services were likewise provided during the period. Among the programs and
projects implemented were free legal services to the indigent members of the
community, legal documentation assistance, and investigation of human violations,
mediation and conciliation services, and legal assistance extended to walk-in clients
with regard to human rights violations.

Strengthening of Regional and Local Development Councils and Other Special
Bodies.In its effort to strengthen the linkage of regional and local planning and
programming, the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII has been steadfast in
exercising its mandate to coordinate and facilitate the preparation of the plan and
investment program for the region. It likewise, spearheaded the conduct of regional
budget reviews to ensure that the regional priorities are appropriately addressed by the
regional line agencies through their respective budget proposals. In addition, the RDC
reviewed and forwarded appropriate recommendations on the issues/concerns affecting
the implementation of laws and policy proposals affecting regional development, among
others.
In response to the administrations thrusts on mitigating the effects of global financial
crisis, the RDC facilitated the formulation of Economic Resiliency Plan with inputs
coming from all regional line agencies and local government units.
Parallel to RDC, the local development councils (LDCs) have also been focusing to
local level governance as mandated under the Local Government Code of 1991. Aside
from the LDCs, there are other special bodies at the local level which tackle issues that
need action from the concerned local entities, such as the Local Health and Local
School Boards.
The region has likewise, been active in pursuing and supporting development agenda
for Mindanao, in general, and Region XII in particular through the Regional
Development Committee (RDCom)-Mindanao.
Development Goals and Strategic Outcomes

To attain its development vision, the region shall address the challenges that are
confronting it. Its desire to move forward has been hindered by its low and erratic
economic growth and high poverty incidence.

These two major challenges are the combined effects of low economic
productivity, low income and lack of access to productive/decent employment,
inadequate access to quality basic services, inadequate infrastructure support, and
environmental degradation, as well as, the concerns on sustaining peace, inadequacy
of power supply, and governance.

The regions stakeholders have therefore agreed to work together and take
advantage of its strength in agriculture, eco-tourism and rich natural resources to propel
its socioeconomic development. This shall be attained through higher and sustainable
growth which would provide productive employment and adequate income and redound
to the reduction of poverty incidence among families and individuals in the region.

Such growth is expected to provide productive employment opportunities; better
and equal access to development. This shall be attained through opportunities for all
sectors; and implement effective social protection, particularly for the vulnerable groups.

Inclusive growth and poverty alleviation

Consistent with the Social Contract of His Excellency PresidentBenigno S. Aquino III
and the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), 2011-2016, the overarching development
goals of SOCCSKSARGEN are inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

The attainment of the following strategic outcomes is expected to contribute to the
achievement of inclusive growth and poverty reduction, viz; (a) increased and sustained
growth in the regional economy, particularly in agriculture, fishery and industry; (b)
adequate income and access to productive employment for families; (c) equal access to
quality basic social services has been covered; (d) efficient infrastructure support to
socioeconomic development efforts; (e) adequate and reliable power supply for local
industries and households; (f) green and healthy environment; (g) sustained peace,
development and security; and, (h) good governance.


A. Achieving 7% Economic Growth by 2016
The regional economic growth as measured by the Gross Regional Domestic
Product (GRDP) is targeted to grow from 5.0% in 2011 to 7.0% in 2016.

All the industry groups are expected to post positive growths during the period.
Nonetheless, the agriculture, fishery and forestry (AFF) shall remain as the lead
contributor to the economy of the region.

The expected growth of the regional economy shall be bolstered, among others,
by the following:

a. Increasing Growth Rates in Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry, from 4.6%
in 2011 to 6.5% in 2016
i. Increase in palay production with the support of irrigation development, use of
high yielding varieties, utilization of new production technologies, and proper post
harvest management.
ii. Expansion of commercial crop export base, such as corn, pineapple, banana,
coffee, coconut, sugarcane, oil palm, and rubber.
iii. Expansion of the aquaculture farming areas for pangasius, crabs, tilapia,
bangus and prawn products in Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani Provinces, as well
as, in Cotabato City.
iv. Reduction of underlying risks to food security and adoption of appropriate
technologies to mitigate potential negative impacts of climate change to
agriculture, fishery and forestry production. Reforestation activities in different
areas of the region shall likewise supplementthe output of the AFF.
b. Higher Growth Rates in Industry, from 5.4% in 2011 to 7.4% in 2016
i. Increased processing activities for the major export winners of the region:

Philippines), coconut, asparagus, coffee, banana and rubber
-processing activities in South Cotabato (Kablon Farm Corporation,
Tboli Agro Development Corporation, Pioneer Hybrid Seeds, Bioseed) and in
Sultan Kudarat.
ii. Mining development, particularly the implementation of preparatory activities
for the
Tampakan Copper-Gold Project. This involves the construction of its
infrastructure facilities such as: pipelines, transportation support, drainage pond,
tailings/dam, housing units, power plant.
The project is expected to pour in P2 Billion of investments in the region starting
2010 and another P2 billion by 2011. Additional investments are expected to be
poured in by the project from P5 Billion in 2012 to P25 Billion each year starting
2013 until 2015. The bulk of these investments shall go to constructions and
partly in agriculture and forestry production, as well as, in the services. Mining
activities are expected to start towards the end of the plan period, from which the
project is expected to yield P10 Billion investments.
iii. Increased construction activities in power generation, establishment of
schools, commercial and housing facilities, etc:
-fired power plant in Sarangani which is targeted to generate P1.0 Billion
investment starting January 2011.
of the region, including the construction of SM Mall in General Santos City in
2011, entry of
Gaisano Commercial Center and hotels/suites in Koronadal City.
School of
Medicine in and the Philippine Science High School in South Cotabato.
iv. Development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). While most of
the MSMEs push the growth of the industry sector, other MSMEs have activities
which also contribute to AFF and Services.
c. Increasing Growth Rates in Services, from 5.1% in 2011 to 7.1% in 2016
i. Increased activities in transportation, communication and government services.
ii. Strengthening trading, finance, tourism, ICT activities.
Tourism services shall be improved considering the rich tourism potentials of the
region, such as, Mt. Apo in Cotabato province; Lake Sebu, in South Cotabato;
the presence of caves, waterfalls, rivers and the conduct of several festivals
celebrated in the different areas of the region.
iii. Operationalization of power plants and transmission lines. The ongoing
P1.626 Billion worth of General Santos-Tacurong 138 KV Transmission Line
Reinforcement Project by the
National Grid Corporation of the Philippines shall contribute to the growth in the
service sector. Moreover, the 200 megawatt coal-fired power plant in Sarangani
is targeted to be operational by 2013.
iv. Expansion and opening of new commercial and business establishments,
particularly in the urban centers of the region. The SM Mall in General Santos
City, for example, is expected to open by 2011 which would offer a lot of services
and employment opportunities in the region. Similarly, the Gaisano Commercial
Center is also expected to start operation in the same year. Additional
department stores, restaurants, and sports and recreational centers are also
expected to be opened in Cotabato City, Koronadal City, Kidapawan City and
Tacurong City, as well as, in the secondary growth centers of the region.


B. Meeting the MDG Poverty Reduction Targets by 2015
With the expected growth in the regional economy during the plan period, greater
number of jobs is expected to be created which would provide higher and more
stable source of income, particularly for the vulnerable sectors. Adequate income
and access to productive employment are expected to translate into the
reduction of the poverty levels in the region.

a. Reducing Poverty Incidence to 23.4%
The poverty incidence of population in the region is targeted to be reduced from
46.8% in 2000 to 23.4% by 2015; and, the poverty incidence among families from
40.7% in 2000 to 20.4% in 2015 (Table 5.2). These targets are consistent with
the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) target of halving the proportion of
people living in extreme poverty between 1990 and 2015. In the case of Region
XII, latest available poverty data for the reconfigured region (SOCCSKSARGEN)
is in year 2000.
To achieve the target of 23.4 % poverty incidence of population by 2015, major
programs and projects shall be vigorously implemented to increase and sustain
economic growth, generate more jobs and ensure equal access of the population
to quality basic social services. This shall be supported by the improved
infrastructure facilities, sustained peace and order condition and strengthened
government-non-government partnership in development activities at all levels.
b. Providing Livelihood and Employment
To support the employment and underemployment targets, increased economic
activities which would contribute to job generation in the agriculture, fishery and
forestry sector; as well as, in the industry and services sectors shall be pursued.
Most of the underemployed are those engaged in agriculture, fishery and forestry
activities.Likewise, the provision of skills training for out-of-school youth and
jobless individuals by government agencies and local government units shall be
expanded, as well as, the introduction of new livelihood skills to low income
families for additional source of income.Educational institutions shall undertake
job matching programs, considering the forecasted skill/job requirements in the
region and the courses being offered by these institutions.

C. Management of Population Growth Rate
The rapid population growth in the Philippines has been seen as a factor that
hindered economic
growth and poverty reduction over past decades. In the case of Region XII, its
average annual population growth rate of 2.41% from 2000 to 2007 is relatively
higher than the national growth rate of 2.04%. The population is expected to
double in 2036 or about 25 years after 2011.
The region shall therefore strive to manage its population growth by intensifying
the implementation of programs and projects that focus on responsible
parenthood, family health, and other health-related programs, including advocacy
on acceptable reproductive health measures.
Utilizing medium growth population assumptions, the region is expected to
achieve a lower population growth of 2.06% by 2016.

D. Stable inflation rate
The region shall strive to maintain an inflation rate of not more than 5% within the
plan period.
Regular price monitoring shall be implemented to avoid higher price mark up by
the business sector/traders.

Increased and Sustained Growth in Agriculture, Fishery and Industry

a. Basic Food crops (rice and corn)
To enhance cereal production the following shall be pursued:
i. Rehabilitation, expansion and/or development of new irrigation systems, protection
dikes and other related facilities.
The MALMAR Irrigation Project (MMIP) is expected to propel production of palay in its
service areas in North Cotabato. This shall be supported by all other National Irrigation
Systems (NIS) and Communal Irrigation Systems (CIS) operating in the region. The full
operationalization of Kabulnan-2 Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project (K2MIPP) in
the next 6 years is expected to serve the potential irrigable areas of about 19,330
hectares, covering three municipalities of Sultan Kudarat and one municipality
ofMaguindanao Province of the ARMM.
ii. Provision of support to regulate the high cost of production inputs and low farm gate
price of basic food crops and institutionalize support for farm inputs through
cooperatives.
iii. Intensifying LGU extension, promotion, advocacy and adoption/application of new
and efficient technologies on basic food crops production.
iv. Regulation on the land conversion of irrigated areas and other productive agricultural
lands. LGUs shall be engaged in monitoring land conversion.
v. Intensifying advocacy initiatives to increase awareness on the management and
preservation of key production areas.
vi. Intensifying of promotion and advocacy on the adoption of organic farming using
organic fertilizer and providing incentives for organically grown foods. Support shall be
provided for the establishment of composting facility for organic fertilizer
production.Efforts towards the establishment of a Local Certification System or body for
organically grown food shall also be pursued.
vii. Establishment of infra support facilities, such as, , grains terminal/trading pre- and
post- harvest facilities, Cold Storage Plant and Warehouse for fruits and vegetables.
viii. Ensuring the adherence of producers/growers to market regulations.
ix. Establishment integrated soil laboratory at strategic locations in the region.
x. Liberalizing the investment environment through investment policies/code, tax
incentives or tax holidays in order to encourage more investors in agricultural
production.
xi. Promotion on collective farming and marketing through consolidation of single crop to
develop a plantation type of agriculture.

b. High Value Commercial Crops (HVCC): coffee, banana, mango, rubber, oil
palm, coconut,
other fruits and vegetables

The region has been a consistent top producer of coffee, banana, mango, pineapple, oil
palm and rubber. On the other hand, coconut-based crude oil continues to be a major
export product.
Various fruits and vegetables are likewise produced and sold to other regions, namely:
Durian,
Lanzones, Rambutan and Papaya for fruits, and the pakbet ingredients for vegetables.
Production of these commodities shall continue with increased productivity as an
overriding goal.
The latter shall be achieved by value-adding through the establishment of micro, small
and medium scale industries while pakbet vegetables shall be sold as fresh
vegetables.
The following strategies shall be pursued to enhance production and productivity of
Priority
Industry Clusters (coffee, muscovado, banana, mango, rubber and oil palm) and other
high value crops:
i. Intensifying the support for the expansion of production areas for priority industry
clusters for coffee, sugar (muscovado), banana, mango, rubber and oil palm
ii. Financial support shall be provided to HVCC growers (fruits and vegetables) with
lessrequirements. Plant now pay later scheme shall be implemented for coffee,
rubber, oil palm and other HVCC. Key production areas shall be designated for tradable
HVCCs, e.g. rubber, oil palm, to strengthen production, processing and marketing. Post-
harvest facilities for other
HVCCs shall likewise be provided in key production areas.
iii. Contract growing shall be promoted for the expansion of coconut areas, as well as,
abaca.
iv. Other strategies shall involve ensuring adherence of producers/growers to market
regulations; establishment of quarantine choke points for crops; and, establishment and
institutionalization of Halal Food requirements/certification.
c. Livestock
To increase productivity in livestock, the following strategies shall be employed.
Livestock production targets are shown in Table 5.9.
i. Government representation in marketing of products not affected by national issues,
e.g. Foot and Mouth Disease/Ebola, bird flu, etc. Region XII shall pursue its advocacy
for the declaration of SOCCSKSARGEN as a separate bio-security region.
ii. Upgrading of livestock through the establishment of techno-demo and breeding
centers and by infusing high quality stock through natural and artificial insemination;
iii. Establishment of marketing or bagsakan centers, as well as, quarantine choke points
for livestock; and,
iv. Establishment and institutionalization of Halal Food Requirements/Certification.
d. Fishery
It is expected that the leading companies in aquaculture farming in Sarangani shall
expand their operation in the province. In the same manner, municipal marine fishing in
the coastal areas of
Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani shall be increased, as well as, the municipal inland
fishing in the
regions fresh water like Lake Sebu, Ligawasan Marsh and Buluan Lake. Restocking
and fingerlings dispersal program shall continue to support fish production in the
municipal waters of the region.
In its efforts to provide world class fishery products, the region shall pursue the
implementation of the following strategies:
i. Promotion and enhancement of the productive capacity of the private sector through
implementation of appropriate and profitable technologies supported with
comprehensive capability building and technical assistance. This shall be carried out
with the active collaboration among the stakeholders;
ii. Harnessing the optimum production potentials of the region through establishment of
mass production facilities and other support infrastructure with the active participation of
investors, LGUs, peoples organizations and other relevant government agencies;
iii. Strengthening of the regulation functions of the office for adherence to domestic and
international standards and in support to sustained productivity and trades; and,
iv. Advocacy of policies for improved utilization of fishery resources within and outside
the region.

Raising the Quality of Education and Training for Globally Competitive Human
Resource

a. Equal Access to Quality Basic Education

The region shall ensure to provide equal access to quality basic education and keep up
with the highest standard of teaching and learning processes through synergy, equity
and strategies. It shall continue to pursue the strategies and targets in providing equal
access to quality early and basic education. The active participation and full support of
all stakeholders and the community shall be enjoined in this endeavor. Local policy
institutional support, such as the local school boards, shall be strengthened.

b. Equal Access to Technical Vocational Education and Training
During the plan period, the technical-vocational education and training aims to produce
quality middle-level skilled graduates who shall be competitive both in the domestic and
international labor market. The sector is committed to provide quality technical
education and skills training to develop a Filipino workforce with world-class
competence, as well as, positive work values.
Efforts shall also be undertaken to match labor market supply (available skills) and
demand (requirements of industries).

c. Equal Access to Higher Education
It is recognized that increased investments for human capital, such as education for the
population, is one way of reducing poverty and building national and global
competiveness. In this regard, the region shall continue its efforts to broaden the access
of students to quality higher education. It shall likewise take necessary steps towards
realizing the matching of education outputs with labor market demand/requirements.

Effective Infrastructure Support

a. Roads and Bridges

As of December 2010, the region had a total length of 1,511.94 kilometers (km.) of
roads, of which, 257.84 km. are asphalt (17.02%); 679.79 km. are concrete (44.96%);
and, 574.81 km are gravel (38.02%). There are also a total of 297 bridges of which, 242
are concrete (9,532.03 lineal meter lm.); 34 steel bridges (1,244.71 lm.); and, 21
bailey bridges.
To improve the current state of the regions road network, plans for roads and bridges
for 2011-2016 would involve the construction and improvement of inter and intra
national roads and bridges.
This will cover construction, rehabilitation, improvement, concreting, widening and
completion; bridge construction; replacement of damaged Portland Cement Concrete
Pavement (PCCP); implementation of foreign-assisted projects and various
infrastructures including local projects; and, establishment of loading and unloading
bays along national roads.
b. Port Development
Several activities shall be undertaken for the improvement of facilities in various ports in
the region, particularly at the ports of General Santos City, Kalamansig, Cotabato City,
Glan, and
Timako (new port in Cotabato City).
c. Airport Development
The proposed rehabilitation and improvement activities for major airports in the region
during the plan period include the Cotabato/Awang Airport and General Santos Airport.
d. Railway Development
The region shall push for the inclusion of General Santos City among the stations of the
proposed Mindanao Railway System.

Region 13 CARAGA
Region Profile
Brief History
Caraga Region (Region XIII) was created through Republic Act No. 7901 on February
25, 1995. The "Kalagans", called "Caragans" by the Spaniards, occupied the district
composed of the two provinces of Surigao, the northern part of Davao Oriental and
eastern Misamis Oriental. The two Agusan provinces were later organized under the
administrative jurisdiction of Surigao and became the independent Agusan province in
1914. In 1960, Surigao was divided into Norte and Sur, and in June 1967, Agusan
followed suit. While Butuan then was just a town of Agusan, the logging boom in the
1950s drew business to the area. On August 2, 1950, by virtue of Republic Act 523, the
City Charter of Butuan was approved. It is reported that during the early years of the
Caraga region, its inhabitants came from mainland Asia, followed by Malayans, Arabs,
Chinese, Japanese, Spanish and Americans. Migrants from the Visayan and Luzon
provinces later settled in the area. Most of its inhabitants speak Cebuano and reside in
the rural areas.
Geography


The Region is located in the northeastern section of
Mindanao. It is bounded on the north by the Bohol Sea; on
the south by the provinces of Davao, Compostela Valley
and Davao Oriental of Region XI; on the west by Bukidnon
and Misamis Oriental of Region X; and on the east by the
Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean.



Demography
Based on the final results of the 2000 census, the total population of the region was
2,095,367 which was 7.86% higher than the 1995
population of 1,942,687. The annual population
growth rate over the last five years was pegged at
a manageable 1.63%, one of the lowest in the
country. Among the four provinces, Agusan del
Sur registered the largest population at 559,294,
and Surigao del Norte was the smallest at
481,416. Surigao del Norte was the fastest
growing province with an annual average growth rate of 1.84% over the last five years,
while Surigao del Sur was the slowest at 1.35% over the same period. Butuan and
Surigao cities were included in the census tabulation in 2007 with total populations of
267,279 and 132,151, respectively. Butuan City registered an annual growth rate of
1.70% in the last five years, while Surigao City posted 2.65%.
Language - Cebuano is widely spoken by 33.79% of the households in the region.
Surigaonon is spoken by 33.21% of the households, followed by Butuanon by 15%;
Kamayo, by 7.06%, and Manobo, by 4.73%. The rest speak Boholanon, by 5.87%;
Hiligaynon, by 2.87%; and other dialects by 7.20%.
Population census of Caraga
Year Pop. %
1990 1,764,297
2000 2,095,367 +18.8%
2010 2,429,224 +15.9%
Source: National Statistics Office
Religion - The 1995 census revealed that the dominant religion in the region was
Roman Catholic, with the population of 1,397,343 or 79% of the total household
population in Caraga.
Cultural groups -The majority of the inhabitants of the region are of Visayan heritage.
The province is home to several minority groups, totaling 675,722 in 1995, representing
34.7% of the region's population. Most numerous were the Manobos with 294,284 or
43.55% of the total population of ethnic minorities. Other cultural groups in the region
with significant population were the Kamayo, Higa-onon, Banwaon, Umayamnon, and
Mamanwa.

Economy














Sources:
http://www.neda.gov.ph/?page_id=1018
http://www.palompon
leyte.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=257&Itemid=277
http://www.nnc.gov.ph/related-links/item/144-region-viii-eastern-visayas
https://www.scribd.com/doc/33045254/Demographic-Profile-of-Region-VIII
https://www.scribd.com/doc/33045254/Demographic-Profile-of-Region-VIII
http://www.neda.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/RegXI_RDP_2011-2016.pdf
http://davaoagribiz.da.gov.ph/index.php/profiles/davao-region
http://www.philippine-islands.ph/en/davao_region-philippines.html
http://davaoagribiz.da.gov.ph/index.php/profiles/davao-region
http://countrystat.bas.gov.ph/?cont=16&r=11