CAGAYAN DE ORO– Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr. underscored the importance of stronger coordination between the national government and local stakeholders to sustain Northern Mindanao’s economic growth and development during the 145th Full Council Meeting of the Regional Development Council (RDC-X) and the 2026 State of the Region Address (SORA).
Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Lagdameo said Regional Development Councils play a crucial role in aligning national priorities with the needs of local communities, emphasizing that development is most effective when national agencies, local government units, the private sector, and civil society work together.
“The President has consistently emphasized that growth must be felt by ordinary Filipinos. Economic gains are meaningful only when they translate into greater opportunities for every family,” Lagdameo said, adding that this reflects the administration’s vision of Bagong Pilipinas.
Lagdameo also highlighted several major infrastructure initiatives expected to strengthen Northern Mindanao’s competitiveness, including the modernization of Laguindingan Airport through a public-private partnership, the nearing completion of Bukidnon Airport, the rehabilitation of the Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Complex, the development of Sultan Naga Dimaporo Port, and the planned Central Mindanao High Standard Highway.
He said these projects demonstrate what can be achieved through sustained collaboration among government, the private sector, and development partners.
He reaffirmed the Palace’s commitment to supporting the region’s priority programs and urged stakeholders to continue strengthening partnerships to improve the lives of Northern Mindanao residents.
“As we move forward, let us continue to build on the gains we have achieved. Let us remain open to new ideas, strengthen our partnerships, and keep our focus on improving the lives of the people we have all been called to serve,” Lagdameo said.
The event featured the first State of the Region Address (SORA) of RDC-X Chairperson Henry S. Oaminal, who presented Northern Mindanao’s socio-economic performance, key accomplishments, development priorities, and future programs.
The gathering also included discussions on regional development concerns and recognition of outstanding government agencies, volunteers, and achievers across the region.
During the program, 1,135 students became new beneficiaries of the One Family One Professional program under the Office of the Special Assistant to the President. They received P10,000 each.
