Baguio city: With the Cordillera region's major infrastructure projects nearing completion, the focus is now shifting toward economic and financial development, according to Apayao Governor and Regional Development Council (RDC) Chairperson Elias Bulut Jr. In an interview, Bulut emphasized that most key infrastructure needs have already been addressed, allowing investments and economic activity to become the new priority.
According to Philippines News Agency, Bulut stated that significant infrastructure projects have been completed, with only smaller projects like farm-to-market and linkage roads remaining. As of January 2025, the Department of Public Works and Highways-Cordillera reported that 98 percent of the region's 2,323 km of national roads have been paved. Additionally, of the 350 national bridges, only two remain under construction, and 68,528 linear meters of flood control structures have been built.
Following these developments, the region is turning its attention to sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable mining, and the development of economic zones. These initiatives are particularly focused on areas with large tracts of land available for responsible investment. In Apayao, Bulut revealed that several renewable energy companies are in the process of securing permits to initiate hydropower projects, ensuring that Indigenous Peoples receive fair shares and benefits.
Bulut highlighted that this shift toward investment is expected to introduce new revenue streams, strengthen local economies, and enable inclusive growth across the Cordillera region. He emphasized the goal of achieving true inclusive development.
It was also noted that Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who serves as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development Secretary for Cordillera (CORDS), acknowledged the region's abundance of natural resources. He pointed out the significant energy potential of 6,600 megawatts, although currently, only 350 megawatts are being produced.
Balisacan encouraged the region to explore its resources carefully with suitable partners to avoid wasteful or harmful practices. He urged collaboration to build a better community and uplift the region and its people.
