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The Eastern Visayas Regional Stakeholders' Chamber on the Sustainable Development Goals (RSC-SDG) is set to update the region's SDG catch-up plan. This initiative aims to enhance multi-sectoral coordination mechanisms necessary for the effective implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Director Wilma Perante, who chairs the RSC-SDG, emphasized that updating the catch-up plan is a priority for the first half of 2026. "Updating the plan ensures alignment with current regional priorities, SDG Watch indicators, and the latest progress assessments. The update is expected to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, enhance stakeholder engagement, and accelerate progress toward the region's 2030 SDG targets," Perante stated.

The PSA has reported a decline in progress for five of the 17 SDGs: Goals 5 (Gender Equality), 9 (Industry, Innovatio n, and Infrastructure), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action).

Adopted in 2015 by members of the United Nations, including the Philippines, the SDGs offer a universal framework of goals, targets, and indicators intended to guide national agendas and policies until 2030. These encompass 17 goals, 169 targets, and 232 indicators aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice.

The RSC-SDG, established in 2024 by the Regional Development Council, serves as a regional platform for SDG localization. It involves various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.