y CESAR JOLITO III

The Regional Development Council of the Negros Island Region (RDC-NIR) has approved the creation of a regional inter-agency technical working group (TWG) to strengthen the implementation of the Panahon ng Pagkilos: Philippine Community Resilience Project (PCRP).

The decision was finalized during the council’s meeting on March 24, 2026, held at the Siquijor Provincial Capitol, where members expressed full support for the initiative aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and reducing vulnerability among communities.

The council, chaired by Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, emphasized that the establishment of the Regional Inter-Agency TWG will improve coordination among government agencies and stakeholders, ensuring the effective rollout of the resilience program in the region.

The approval follows an earlier endorsement by the Social Development Council (SDC) on March 6, which recognized the PCRP’s alignment with national priorities on resilience-building and poverty reduction.

The SDC subsequently elevated the proposal to the RDC for final action.

Officials from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also reaffirmed their support for the initiative during the meeting.

Among those present were Regional Director Arwin Razo and PCRP officer-in-charge Deputy Regional Program Manager John Christian Dumancas, who highlighted the program’s role in empowering vulnerable sectors and strengthening local resilience systems.

The newly approved TWG is expected to serve as a central coordinating body, streamlining efforts and ensuring that project goals are met efficiently.

With the council’s backing, officials said the PCRP is now set to advance with stronger institutional support, marking a significant step toward building more resilient communities throughout the NIR./CJ, WDJ