NEDA Board approves P187.34B worth of projects

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board approved on Friday seven new projects worth P187.34 billion.

According to NEDA, three of the projects came from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), three are from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and one project is to be implemented by the Department of Health (DOH).

"Five out of seven of these new projects will be implemented outside the National Capital Region," Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said.

This shows that the administration is committed to develop growth centers in the regions and maximize the economic benefits of connectivity of communities," he added.

DOTr's first project is the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project which involves the delivery of a modern high priority bus system for Davao City. The second project is the maintenance and enhancement of the New Bohol International Airport.

Meanwhile, the third project of the DOTr is about the reconfiguration and renovation of existing facilities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as well as enhancing its operations and maintenance.

The first project of the DPWH is the Pasacao-Balatan Coastal Tourism Highway, which will provide access to various tourism sites and a direct link between Pasacao and Balatan in Camarines Sur.

DPWH's second project is the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project which aims to reduce travel time and reliability constraints experienced during the use of ferry services.

The third project of DPWH, the Camarines Sur High-Speed Highway, will meanwhile serve as an alternate route from Legazpi or Caramoan to Manila, and vice versa.

Meanwhile, DOH's project is the Development Objective Assistance Agreement (DOAg): Improved Health for Underserved Filipinos.

According to the statement, it "will respond to the issues on logistics and pharmaceutical management, shortages of qualified health professionals in underserved areas, and inadequate public sector capacity in policy development, financing and private sector engagement." —LDF, GMA News