Davao Region’s Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program – Information and Communication Team (BP²P – ICT) convened for its CY 2021 3^rd Quarter Regular Meeting on 7 September 2021 to discuss the current operationalization of the BP²P Communication Plan and important updates on the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program implementation in Davao Region.

The BP²P Communication Plan, which was approved by the Regional Development Council (RDC) XI through RDC XI Resolution No. 130, series of 2020, aims to educate Davaoeños on the BP²P; enlist the support of national government agencies, GOCCs, state universities and colleges and other development partners; advocate for supportive policies; and, provide venues for feedback and consultation. The 3^rd Quarter Meeting marks the first reporting period for the BP²P ICT. Discussed were the accomplishments of partner agencies, the advocacy activities conducted in support of the BP²P, as well as ways forward towards effective communication and advocacy of the BP²P in the Region.

The BP²P ICT agreed to promote and assist other LGUs’ participation to the BP²P. To date, Davao del Norte is the sole Davao Region province implementing the program, with the successful dispatch of the first batch of Program beneficiaries consisting of 6 families and 19 individuals. As of August 2021, the National Housing Authority XI reported that 44.39% of the total 2,888 applicants prefer to relocate in Davao del Sur, 23.96% are applying for Davao del Norte, 14.99% for Davao Oriental, 14.09% Davao de Oro, and 2.56% for Davao Occidental.

The BP²P ICT also adopted the Program’s core message “Komportable at Masaganang Buhay sa Probinsya” (“A Prosperous and Comfortable Life in the Provinces”), as part of the Region’s commitment towards the reintegration of relocatees to the local community. The Communication for Development Network (C4DNet) XI, which is the Regional Development Council XI’s communication arm, shall spearhead a whole-of-society approach towards advocating the BP²P, with all partner agencies, SUCs, and LGUs expected to implement projects and activities towards the integration of the BP²P in their existing organizational Communication & Advocacy Plans.

–Laurence Gido, NEDA XI