At the 17th Regional Development Council–Private Sector Representatives (RDC-PSR) National Convention, Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) delivered a clear mandate: the future of Philippine economic growth lies in localized innovation and deep-rooted public-private partnerships.
Speaking on March 11, 2026, to a delegation of 250 leaders, Secretary Balisacan highlighted that regional progress is no longer just a national directive but a collaborative mission.
“Regional development is strongest when government and the private sector work together,” Balisacan stated. “Innovation must take root where opportunities and challenges are most visible—and where development outcomes are most directly felt.”
A primary focus of the convention was the Philippines’ recent climb in the Global Innovation Index (GII). In 2025, the country achieved its highest ranking ever, placing 50th out of 139 economies. This milestone surpasses the initial targets set in the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028.
To sustain this momentum, DEPDev aims to:
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Decentralize Innovation: Moving beyond the capital to ensure national priorities translate into provincial investments.
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Align Planning and Budgeting: Utilizing Regional Development Councils (RDCs) to bridge the gap between high-level policy and local community needs.
Balisacan cited the Davao Region as a prime example of what coordinated regional action can achieve. In 2024, the region recorded:
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6.3% Growth in Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP).
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PHP 1.03 Trillion in total economic output.
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4th Fastest-Growing Region status nationwide.
These figures, according to the Secretary, are the direct result of “sustained coordination” between local government units and private investors.
Held from March 11 to 13, 2026, under the theme “Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Regional Development Through a Strong Public-Private Partnership,” the event gathered representatives from all 17 regions and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The convention serves as the premier platform for aligning investment programs and ensuring that the private sector remains a primary engine in the country’s journey toward inclusive prosperity.
