AUG 12, 2016

NR # 4290B

Solon seeks sustainable development council for Mindoro province

Rep. Reynaldo Umali (2nd District, Oriental Mindoro) has filed a bill seeking to
establish a council that shall strategically manage, implement and provide direction to the
development goals of the whole Mindoro province.
House Bill 31 or the Sustainable Development Council for Mindoro Island Act
shall serve as the administrative machinery promoting human development, economic
growth including the development, conservation, management, protection and utilization
of the natural resources of Mindoro Island.
The Council has been conceptualized because of the potential for development of
the island which is composed of two provinces. It shall also address the socio-economic
concerns and geo-political challenges we are currently facing, said Umali.
Under the bill, the Council shall create a Strategic and Integrated Development Plan
(SIDP), which is a comprehensive framework promoting the ideals of people-centricdevelopment, inclusive growth and green development particularly in the crafting of
Mindoro Island Strategic and Integrated Development Plan.
Umali said Green development shall mean human development through poverty
alleviation, attaining economic development through strengthening the sectors of
agriculture, tourism, enhancing the natural resources and protecting the endangered
environment of the island.
The framework shall also serve as a guide for local government of the two
provinces of Mindoro and the national government agencies concerned in the formulation
and implementation of plans, programs and projects affecting both provinces.
The Council is mandated to coordinate with the local governments to ensure that the
plans, programs and projects are aligned with the plans, programs and policies of SIDP.
They shall also recommend to the Congress of the Philippines such matters that
may require legislation in support of the objectives of the SIDP.
Further, the Council shall also have the authority to adopt, amend and repeal rules
and regulations, impose penalties for the effective implementation of the SIDP and the
other provisions of the Act.
Mindoro Island has all the potential for development and a lot of strengths and
assets can fuel the progress of the country, it is beneficial if development efforts would be
approached and orchestrated at the island-wide level, Umali added. (30) nap