Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri is proposing the reorganization of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) into the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPD), saying this change is essential for aligning economic plans with government policies.
“For decades, NEDA has been at the forefront of our economic planning, doing its utmost to navigate economic challenges and capitalize on favorable conditions,” Zubiri stated during the sponsorship of Senate Bill No. 2878, known as the Economy, Planning and Development Act.
“However, economic growth cannot be achieved by one agency alone. We need a whole-of-government approach to follow through on our economic plans,” he added.
The proposed DEPD aims to elevate NEDA’s current role by granting it the full authority and status of an executive department.
Zubiri, who chairs the Senate Economic Affairs Committee, explained that this transformation will empower the DEPD to advocate for the implementation of economic policies across government agencies and to engage more effectively with foreign stakeholders.
“As the Department of Economy, Planning and Development, it will be better positioned to promote the implementation of its economic plans and policies, and to engage with other government agencies and foreign political actors with the full authority of an executive department,” said Zubiri.
The Bukidnon legislator emphasized the necessity of strengthening regional development as part of the DEPD’s expanded mandate.
“Development must originate from the ground up. It is neither wise nor sustainable to create a comprehensive plan without first considering local conditions,” he stressed. “The establishment of the DEPD and its Regional Offices will be essential in this regard.”
Zubiri also addressed concerns regarding the financial implications of the reorganization, assuring the public and stakeholders that the proposal involves minimal additional costs.
“This measure does not create a new agency. It simply reorganizes NEDA and institutionalizes its expanded powers and functions,” he clarified. “The reorganization is expected to require the addition of only 170 new positions, amounting to P116 million.”
The DEPD’s enhanced regional presence will enable the evaluation of project proposals, land use plans, and other development initiatives, ensuring alignment with the country’s overall economic strategies.
Zubiri emphasized that this approach ensures inclusive growth across the Philippines.
“We must anchor our economic plans in the realities of our regions and our people. By basing our strategies on local conditions, we can create a more effective and inclusive economic growth plan,” the senator said.
Zubiri also positioned the DEPD as a crucial institution for maintaining the country’s competitiveness in Southeast Asia, a region that is rapidly becoming a hub for global investments.
“This is a pivotal moment for Southeast Asia, but we must compete for our place at the table,” he said. “This is why we need the DEPD to lead the way for our economic growth.”
Highlighting the long-term benefits of the reorganization, Zubiri noted that the DEPD would institutionalize economic planning and ensure continuity across administrations.
“This reorganization puts us on stronger footing, enabling the Philippines to become a dynamic force in Southeast Asia,” he said.
