The National Economic and Development Authority underscored the importance of the Development Academy of the Philippines’s continued support for the country’s development plans and its role as a catalyst for change in the government.
NEDA Secretary and chairperson of the DAP board of trustees Arsenio Balisacan joined DAP in celebrating the academy’s 50th anniversary with the theme “Kapwa, Kakayahan, at Kaunlaran: Limampung Taon ng Kahusayan sa Paglinang ng Bayan.”
The NEDA chief recalled the history of DAP as a think tank, capacity-builder and change catalyst within the Philippine bureaucracy.
“The DAP’s hard work is aptly captured by this year’s anniversary theme, signaling the academy’s commitment to deliver the highest quality of service to its clients and stakeholders, and provide elegant solutions and innovative technologies to address development concerns or problems,” said Balisacan.
The DAP was the brainchild of then retired Education Secretary, Onofre Corpuz, who later became the academy’s first president and the former chairman of the Development Bank of the Philippines Leonides Virata in 1973.
“It was envisioned as an institution capable of enabling other government agencies to fulfill their proper roles, particularly in terms of molding not only their officials and employees, but also their clients and employees, in order to fully utilize their resources and capabilities,” said Balisacan.
The DAP was established by Presidential Decree No. 205 on June 7, 1973, and was formally inaugurated by former President Ferdinand Marcos on June 23, 1973.
“Back then, the president said that we were in dire need of institutions like DAP that could transform and produce more leaders: leaders coming from diverse fields, leaders who are dedicated and effective, and leaders who are idealistic, motivated, and productive,” he said.
Balisacan also underscored the importance of aligning DAP’s directions and programs with the Philippine Development Plan or PDP 2023-2028, the country’s medium-term development blueprint.
“Despite the challenges and formidable tasks that may lie ahead for this esteemed institution, I encourage each and every one of us to remain resolute in our commitment and dedication to fulfilling our mandate and serving the Filipino people,” said Balisacan. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sent a video message congratulating DAP on its golden anniversary.