PopCom fetes partners in population management

By Sally Atento-Altea

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) recently honored its partners in the Bicol region for their efforts in implementing the action plan on population and development.

Joyce Dela Paz-Hilvano, the CPD regional director for Bicol, stated that the recognition aimed to highlight the significant roles that partners play in advancing the goals and strategies outlined in the Philippine Population and Development Plan of Action (PPD-POA) for the years 2023-2028.

“CPD Bicol holds this Stakeholder Appreciation Ceremony to recognize the efforts of our local government units (LGUs), our partners from regional line agencies, civil society organizations, and other individuals,” Hilvano said during the recent event in the province of Albay.

The PPD-POA 2023-2028 provides a roadmap for coordinated and organized efforts to optimize demographic opportunities and address persistent population issues at all levels.

This plan aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s development agenda and highlights the key role of local government units in driving local development through integrated population and development strategies.

“The last two years of implementation for the localization of the PPD-POA has been manifested through the small wins that we had with the LGUs,” Hilvano said.

The Philippine Information Agency Regional Office 5 was recognized as one of the awardees among 104 partners, including regional government offices, LGUs, civil society organizations, and individuals.

Hilvano urged LGUs to continue supporting the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for every Bicolano.

Eisha Penn Lita, the population program officer for LGU Daraga, stated that the recognition she received will serve as an inspiration for the effective delivery of their programs.

“I am very, very thankful for the opportunity and, of course, for the award we received. This gives me the will and encouragement to do better in population development programs,” said Lita.

Highlighting team effort and dedication in the implementation of their local programs, Marietta Nacario, population program officer of Iriga City, committed to aligning their efforts with the government’s Ambisyon Natin 2040.

“As an awardee, we are very grateful because our efforts were recognized. We need to achieve the government’s vision, Ambisyon 2040, where Filipino families move toward a stable, comfortable, and secure life,” she said. (With reports from Raiza Lucido/PIA Albay)