President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday unveiled the newly established Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), a groundbreaking initiative designed not only to formulate national development plans but also to guarantee the timely and proper completion of critical infrastructure projects across the Philippines.
Speaking at Malacañang as he presented the newly signed Republic Act 12145, or the Economy, Planning and Development Act, President Marcos Jr. emphasized DEPDev’s pivotal role in ensuring the judicious use of public funds and the tangible realization of government promises.
“Hindi lang po puro plano, dapat nakikita at nasusubaybayan natin ang progreso ng ating mga proyekto,” President Marcos Jr. stated, highlighting the administration’s commitment to accountability and tangible results. “Titiyakin natin na ang DEPDev na pagka may ipinangakong tulay, paaralan, health center, mga kalsada ay matatapos sa tinakdang panahon at magagamit ng sambayanan.”
The President underscored that DEPDev will oversee the proper implementation of significant long-term infrastructure projects and programs vital for national development and public benefit. This includes essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, school buildings, and health centers.
Through DEPDev, the government will be better equipped to identify national priority projects, allowing for efficient adjustments, expansions, or even cessation of initiatives in the public interest. “Kaya naman, maiiwasan na natin ang nasasayang na pondo, panahon, at pagkakataon sa paglilingkod,” President Marcos Jr. added, stressing the new department’s role in preventing wasted resources.
Signed into law by the President on April 10, RA 12145 reorganized the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) into the full-fledged DEPDev. As the government’s primary economic and planning agency, DEPDev is mandated to formulate the country’s 25-year long-term development framework and strategy, steering the nation towards sustainable growth and progress.
The Economy, Planning and Development Act will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
