Zamboanga City — The Regional Development Council (RDC-9) has taken significant steps to address the alarming poverty incidence in the Zamboanga Peninsula, which was recorded as the highest in the Philippines for 2023. During its 184th Regular Meeting held on Friday, September 13, at the Garden Orchid Hotel, RDC-9 Chairman and Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe presided over discussions that highlighted the urgent need for action in the region.
Poverty Statistics
Preliminary estimates for 2023 revealed that the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen) topped the list of regions with the highest poverty incidence among families, registering at 24.2%. This placed it ahead of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with 23.5%, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor at 22.6%, and the Bicol Region at 20.3%. In contrast, the National Capital Region (NCR) had the lowest poverty incidence among families, contributing to a national poverty incidence average of 10.9%.
Resolution for Comprehensive Information
To better understand the region’s status and inform policy decisions, the council members approved Resolution No. 012, Series of 2024, urging the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA-9) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA-9) to provide comprehensive information on why ZamPen ranked No. 1 in poverty incidence. The resolution seeks detailed data on the socio-economic conditions contributing to the region’s high poverty rate.
Mayor Dalipe emphasized the importance of having accurate and detailed information to craft policies that would effectively address the root causes of poverty in ZamPen. “Understanding the dynamics behind this alarming statistic is essential for us to develop and implement strategies that will uplift our communities,” Dalipe stated during the meeting.
Endorsement of P35 Billion in Proposed Projects
In addition to addressing the poverty issue, the RDC-9 endorsed P35 billion in proposed projects and activities for 2025-2028. These projects, submitted by various local government units (LGUs) and regional agencies, are expected to drive development and economic growth in the region. The endorsed proposals aim to improve infrastructure, boost local industries, and provide essential services, all with the goal of reducing poverty and improving the quality of life in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Attendance Mandate for RDC Members
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the reminder that regular RDC members must personally attend future council sessions. It was emphasized that representatives or proxies cannot make decisions on behalf of their respective agencies or LGUs. This measure aims to ensure active participation and direct accountability among the council’s decision-makers.
Moving Forward
The Zamboanga Peninsula’s high poverty incidence highlights the urgent need for coordinated and comprehensive efforts to address economic disparities in the region. With the RDC-9 pushing for clearer data from NEDA-9 and PSA-9 and endorsing significant funding for future projects, local leaders hope to turn the tide on poverty and create sustainable progress for the region.
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