Tacloban: The Regional Development Council (RDC) in Eastern Visayas has officially welcomed Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla as its newly appointed chairperson for the 2025-2028 term, following his designation by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, Petilla’s appointment is expected to further strengthen collaborative initiatives in infrastructure development, economic recovery, and regional competitiveness across Eastern Visayas, as stated by Meylene Rosales, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) regional director. Rosales, who also serves as the RDC vice chairperson, noted that the RDC Eastern Visayas Secretariat expressed its enthusiasm over Petilla’s return. She mentioned, “His return brings renewed energy and leadership as we continue working together for a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Eastern Visayas.”

Petilla’s appointment marks his return to the regional policy-making body, having previously chaired RDC from 2011 to 2012, before serving as Department of Energy secretary from 2012 to 2015. In a letter dated Oct. 16, 2025, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin informed DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan about Marcos’ approval of Petilla’s appointment. The document states that Petilla will serve as RDC VIII Chairperson for a three-year term, coinciding with his tenure as a local elective official.

As RDC chairperson, Petilla will lead the region’s highest policymaking and planning body in coordinating development efforts among local government units, national government agencies, and private sector representatives.