MAY 29, 2025 — The Marcos administration has reiterated its commitment to the development of the Ilocos Region through the effective implementation of critical Infrastructure Flagship Projects, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with the officials of the Regional Development Council (RDC) I on Friday (May 23) at the CSI Stadia in Dagupan City, Pangasinan to assess the status of the projects and discuss critical development issues affecting the region. The meeting underscored a national-local approach to addressing regional vulnerabilities and sustaining long-term growth.

Joining President Marcos at the meeting was DEPDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, who emphasized the importance of sustained support from the national government, particularly in strengthening the region’s resilience.

“The President’s continued support for development efforts in the Ilocos Region is vital as we work to address vulnerabilities to natural hazards, potable water scarcity, and the need for improved road network redundancy. This meeting highlights the essential role of RDCs as direct conduits to the national government, centered on improving the quality of life for Ilocanos and Pangasinenses,” he said.

DEPDev Undersecretary Carlos Abad Santos led the presentation of updates on major infrastructure projects, development challenges and interventions. He apprised President Marcos of the progress of key infrastructure initiatives in Northern Luzon.

The President cited the critical role of several projects in the region such as the Tarlac-Pangasinan-Laoag Expressway (TPLEX) Extension, the Ilocos Norte-Ilocos Sur-Abra Irrigation Project (INISAIP), the Bauang-San Fernando-San Juan Bypass Road, and the Dagupan-Mangaldan-Calasiao Circumferential Road in realizing the government’s growth targets. These initiatives are expected to stimulate economic activity, improve mobility, and enhance food security in Region I.

Presidential Management Staff Undersecretary Rodolfo John Robert C. Palattao IV underscored ongoing efforts led by the Office of the President and national agencies, noting advancements in various sectors. These include boosting agricultural productivity, expanding airport and seaport capacities to improve mobility, and addressing gaps in basic education resources.

Members of RDC I also affirmed their full support for the Marcos administration’s infrastructure and development agenda, recognizing its role in accelerating progress and fostering long-term, inclusive resilience in the region. Local leaders and private sector stakeholders expressed concern over the impact of climate-related disasters such as typhoons, floods, and droughts which continue to damage infrastructure, disrupt water supply, and undermine agricultural productivity. They also emphasized the urgent need for stronger interventions in the health and education sectors.

In response, President Marcos directed concerned agencies to expedite the rollout of disaster risk reduction programs, adopt smarter land use planning, and implement comprehensive water resource management strategies. He also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in accelerating project execution and acknowledged that delays often stem from internal government processes. To address this, the President ensured that critical projects should be considered in the government’s budget.

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*media release from DEPDev Regional Office 1