The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) called on businesses to invest in the provinces to help alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila.
“We support the development of neighboring provinces like Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas, as well as regional centers such as Clark and Pampanga, Laoag, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bacolod, General Santos City, and others,” said NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan.
Balisacan said proper urban planning is crucial to resolving Metro Manila’s traffic woes.
“The rapid growth of our economy has led to a significant increase in the number of people traveling for work, running businesses, and even for leisure and tourism. This has caused traffic congestion,” Balisacan said. “We need to consider our entire transportation system and infrastructure, along with the development of our industries, commercial centers, and even residential areas.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., along with NEDA and other government agencies, crafted the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to outline a comprehensive strategy addressing these issues.
“We are expediting the construction of mass-transit infrastructure, such as subways, railways, expressways, and bridges, in Metro Manila and neighboring areas to meet the needs of our economy and citizens,” Balisacan said.
“Proper planning is essential to guide infrastructure development and ensure effective adherence and implementation of these plans,” he said. “Furthermore, we must ensure progress and opportunities are felt not only in NCR but also in our provinces.”
NEDA also cited the need to expand the reach and improve the quality of public services.
“Residents in the provinces should have access to quality services so they don’t have to travel to Manila for schooling, medical treatment, or to obtain documents from government offices,” Balisacan said.
The strategy also includes strengthening digital connectivity. “The internet has provided opportunities for additional livelihoods and has assisted businesses in selling their products regardless of location,” he said.
“Addressing the traffic problem is a complex challenge that requires collaboration among national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and the private sector,” the economic development chief said.