MANILA—The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is currently holding consultations in various regions in the country in preparation for the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) 2011-2016 as mandated by Memorandum Circular No. 3 issued in September 2010.

The MTPDP 2011-2016 embodies the goals, objectives, and strategies of President Benigno Aquino’s “Social Contract with the Filipino People.”

According to NEDA National Planning and Policy Staff OIC-Director Myrna B. Asuncion, the regional consultations are being held to ensure wide participation in the planning process.

Asuncion added that regional inputs are essential in the plan. Initial inputs and concerns were integrated in the draft MTPDP which is also being presented to various stakeholders during regional consultations.

Heads and representatives from the regional line agencies, local government units, legislative office, government-owned and controlled corporations, business groups, academe and civil society organizations are expected to participate in the regional consultations.

Earlier, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) led a three-day annual workshop on the regional development plan for the National Capital Region.

The “Social Contract with the Filipino People” of President Aquino envisions a country that has achieved inclusive growth. This rapid growth, sustained and broad-based and gives attention to the creation of more jobs and new opportunities to achieve full employment and significant reduction in poverty.

Policies and strategies of the country’s development plan shall focus on: attaining a high and sustained economic growth that provides productive employment opportunities; accessing development opportunities across geographic areas, different income and social spectrum; and implementing effective and responsive social safety nets to catch those who will be left behind by the character of a high sustained growth.

The MTPDP 2011-2016 consists of nine chapters: Macroeconomic Policy, Competitive Industry and Services Sectors, Competitive and Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries, Accelerating Infrastructure Development, Financial Sector Development and Capital Mobilization, Good Governance and the Rule of Law, Social Development, Peace and Security, and Conservation, Protection and Rehabilitation of Environment and Natural Resources towards Sustainable Development.