President Marcos Jr. Reorganizes Economic and Development Council
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced a significant reorganization of the Economic and Development Council and its committees. This administrative order aims to reshape the council’s composition to enhance economic planning and development. Sources familiar with the matter reported that the changes were formalized under Administrative Order No. 37, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on August 13.
The order specifies that the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) will now serve as a member of the Economic and Development Council. This move highlights the administration’s focus on integrating investment and economic affairs more closely within the council’s decision-making processes.
New Roles and Committee Memberships Defined
Officials revealed that the SAPIEA will represent the Office of the President, including the Executive Secretary, in key committees such as the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC), Investment Coordination Committee (ICC), and Social Development Committee (SDC). This strategic positioning ensures that economic policies align with the President’s priorities.
Moreover, the SAPIEA has been designated as the Chairperson of the Economic Development Committee (EDCom). The Secretaries of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) and the Department of Finance (DOF) will serve as Vice Chairpersons, strengthening inter-agency coordination.
Finance and Budget Leadership Strengthened
Local leaders noted that the Secretary of Finance will co-chair the Development Budget Coordination Committee alongside the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management. This pairing is expected to streamline budget planning and fiscal policy implementation.
Expanded Membership in Social and Tariff Committees
The order also expands the Social Development Committee’s membership. The Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), the Director-General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission are now part of the SDC. Community members said this inclusion aims to address social development issues more comprehensively.
Additionally, the secretaries of DAR and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will join the Tariff and Related Matters Committee. This adjustment reflects an integrated approach to tariff policies considering environmental and agrarian concerns.
Implementation Timeline and Effectivity
The reorganization of the Economic and Development Council and its committees will officially take effect on April 27, 2025. However, the administrative order becomes effective immediately once published in the Official Gazette or a widely circulated newspaper, officials reported.
These changes are expected to promote more cohesive economic policies and development strategies across government agencies.
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