Manila: The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) has emphasized the need for a reinforced whole-of-nation approach to expedite the country's progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Secretary Arsenio Balisacan made this appeal during the national presentation of the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) on August 27.
According to Philippines News Agency, Balisacan highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration across sectors, including national and local governments, civil society, businesses, the academic community, and development partners, to institutionalize efforts and meet critical SDG targets. He urged for collective action, innovation, and inclusivity to drive the 2030 Agenda forward.
The SDGs, established in 2015, consist of 17 global objectives aimed at eradicating poverty, safeguarding the planet, and fostering peace and prosperity. The 2030 Agenda emphasizes a balanced approach that integrates economic growth, social advancement, and environmental preservation. The 2025 VNR offers a detailed evaluation of the nation's progress based on 2024 data, and it highlights responses to commitments made in the third VNR (2024), as well as innovations in statistical systems for data-driven interventions.
The latest VNR report indicates that the Philippines has made notable progress in several areas, including SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 4 (Quality Education), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land). These achievements demonstrate the country's ability to tackle complex development challenges and its commitment to inclusivity.
However, challenges persist, particularly in SDG 3 (Good Health and Well Being), necessitating improvements in healthcare delivery. Progress in SDG 5 (Gender Equality) also needs acceleration, especially in eliminating child marriage and enhancing women's leadership roles. Climate change and economic inequality remain significant threats to sustainable development.
Balisacan stressed that the VNR is an evolving narrative of progress, resilience, and innovation, and he emphasized the importance of aligning efforts across government, local communities, and stakeholders. He also announced the launch of the Stakeholder Partnership Accelerator for Convergence and Engagement (SPACE) web application, a digital platform designed to facilitate coordination, information-sharing, resource mobilization, and SDG monitoring.
