Manila: The Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) will kick off the first Regional Development Council (RDC) Week in Negros Island Region (NIR) here on Sept. 21. Aimed at promoting awareness of regional development initiatives in Negros and Siquijor, the activity led by the RDC's Development Administration Committee is themed "NIR Rising: Shaping a Smarter, Greener, and Stronger Island Region".
According to Philippines News Agency, the theme "NIR Rising" encapsulates various aspects of regional development. In this context, 'R' stands for regional government services caravan, 'I' for intangible heritage and cultural assets, 'S' for sports development, 'I' for interagency collaboration, 'N' for nature-based solution, and 'G' for generativity. The concept of generativity in development planning is focused on creating lasting value and opportunities that benefit communities over the long term.
The RDC Week logo draws inspiration from the RDC logo elements, featuring an organic, dynamic visualization with the NIR map at its center. A sun element with a smiling face symbolizes the region's enthusiasm and energy, as well as the dynamism and resilience of its people. Additionally, the logo incorporates sugarcane and other agricultural products, highlighting the region's agricultural prowess. The blue waters and palm tree elements represent some of the natural assets of the region that contribute to tourism and the wider services sector.
The opening activity on Sept. 21 will feature a government services caravan at SM City Bacolod. "RDC-NIR will bring government services closer to the people. Various agencies will come together to provide information, assistance, and access to programs and services, all in one venue," the agency stated. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about available government programs, raise questions, and receive guidance on accessing the services they need.
Scheduled events include a heritage learning visit in Sibulan and Dumaguete City on Sept. 22, a tree planting activity in Canlaon City and a pickleball tournament in Dumaguete City on Sept. 23, and a closing program in Dumaguete City on Sept. 24. The RDC Week celebration is in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 1164 dated Feb. 24, 1998, which mandates its observance every fourth week of September to commemorate the birth of the RDCs as key structures for regional planning and integrated local planning and programming.
