Baguio: Officials from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) have voiced their support for the Cordillera region's quest for autonomy, linking it to enhanced livelihoods, robust local institutions, and sustained economic progress.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the 39th Cordillera Day anniversary at the Wangal Sports Complex, DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan emphasized the need for an autonomy that yields tangible benefits for the region's inhabitants. He underscored the importance of crafting an autonomy that not only addresses readiness but also focuses on its structure and outcomes.
Iringan highlighted that autonomy should offer farmers improved market access, support weavers and artisans in sustaining their livelihoods, open career opportunities for young Cordillerans, and involve Indigenous communities in development planning. He stressed the necessity for stronger institutions, capable local governments, resilient economies, and increased public participation to achieve this autonomy.
He further noted that while autonomy should not be hastened, readiness can be expedited by strengthening institutions, enhancing local government capacities, fostering economic growth, and broadening public involvement.
The Cordillera Administrative Region, established under Executive Order No. 220 in 1987, serves as a transitional framework towards an autonomous region, comprising Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Baguio City.
Iringan reaffirmed DILG's commitment to aiding local governments in becoming more capable and responsive. This involves improving governance, encouraging enterprise development, streamlining business processes, investing in digital readiness, and collaborating with Indigenous communities, the private sector, academia, and civil society.
He referenced Regional Development Council Resolution No. 60, series of 2026, urging all sectors to engage in promoting the region's autonomy agenda.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, through a video message, acknowledged the Cordillera region's role in exhibiting innovation and digital transformation as key drivers of regional development. He noted the region's economic growth of 4.4% in 2025, raising its gross regional domestic product to PHP395 billion, and a per capita figure reaching PHP207,000, the third highest nationally.
Balisacan stated that these developmental achievements align with the long-term national vision under AmBisyon Natin 2040 and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which focuses on productivity, digital transformation, food security, human capital development, infrastructure, and effective governance. He emphasized the potential of digital technologies to assist micro, small, and medium enterprises in exploring new markets and creating additional jobs across the region.
