Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan called for stronger innovation and closer collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate inclusive growth across the country.
Speaking at the 17th Regional Development Council-Private Sector Representatives National Convention in Davao City on Wednesday, Balisacan said regional development becomes more effective when government and businesses work together.
He said placing innovation at the center of development is among the key priorities guiding the country’s regional development agenda. He said these priorities should translate into concrete programs and investments in cities, provinces and communities.
“Innovation must take root where opportunities and challenges are most visible—and where development outcomes are most directly felt—in our cities, provinces, and communities,” Balisacan said.
He also underscored the need to strengthen public-private partnerships to sustain regional growth, citing development gains in the Davao Region.
The region posted a 6.3-percent gross regional domestic product growth in 2024 and generated about P1.03 trillion in economic output. This performance made it the fourth fastest-growing region in the country.
“We remain committed to strengthening engagement with private sector partners and regional stakeholders as we advance our national and regional development agenda,” Balisacan said.
