Some PSRs of the Regional Development Council of Region VIII and VII had an opportunity to learn from one another as the Orientation for RDC VIII PSRs Cum Sharing of Best Practices was conducted on February 21-23, 2018 at the Montebello Villa Hotel, Cebu City. It was participated in by 11 RDC VIII PSRs, three RDC VII PSRs, and members of the RDC VII and RDC VIII Secretariats. During the activity, the PSRs were briefed on their important role in the RDC, and shared with one another insights on how they can effectively contribute to the development of their region and the sector they represent.

In his message, RDC VII-Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC) Chairperson and PSR for Cebu City, Mr. Glenn Anthony Soco, warmly welcomed the RDC VIII participants, and shared the ongoing major programs and projects on various sectors, especially along infrastructure, being implemented in Region VII. He said that there are a lot of development initiatives, as well as challenges and successes in implementing programs and projects. He cited the orientation and sharing as a great opportunity for the PSRs from the two regions to learn from each other, especially on how the PSRs and the government can strengthen partnership and continue work hand-in-hand in addressing the unique and dynamic development challenges of their respective regions.

RDC VIII Co-Chairperson and PSR for Agribusiness Atty. Roy Bernard C. Fiel expressed his sincerest thanks to the RDC VII PSRs and all others involved from the two regions in realizing the activity. He shared that, based on his observation, he has seen an improved PSRs’ participation in the RDC VIII and expressed hope that the sharing will help continue to improve the partnership between the private sector and the government sector to achieve the desired development outcomes not only in Eastern Visayas but also in the entire Visayas.

Officials from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and PSRs from Region VII served as speakers and resource persons on these topics: (1) The Roles of PSRs in the RDC Based on Executive Order No. 325 Series of 1996; (2) The Role of the Private Sector in Budget Preparation; (3) Parliamentary Procedures; (4) Preparation of Project Proposals; and (4) Technical Aspects of the RDC-Regional Project Monitoring Committee, among others.

After the indoor session, the RDC VIII PSRs also conducted a learning tour in Holistic Coalition of the Willing and Materials Technology Innovation Center. Both places are examples of strong partnership between the government and private sectors of Central Visayas.

Meliza Bacolbas, DRD, NEDA VIII