ilocos region regional development report124.107.243.174/uploads/ppfd/rdr2018_ilocos_final.pdf ·...

Regional Development Report

ILOCOS REGION

2018

2018 Regional Development Report-ILOCOS REGION

ii

2018 ILOCOS REGION

Regional Development Report (RDR)


iii

Message from NEDA RO1 Regional Director

As we come close to realizing the medium-term goal of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), 2017-2022, and its accompanying Regional Development Plans (RDPs) which is to lay down the foundation for inclusive growth, a high-trust and resilient society, and a globally-competitive knowledge economy by 2022, we are confident that our pursuit of a Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na buhay para sa lahat or our long-term vision called AmBisyon natin 2040 is not far-fetched. Guided by our collective development strategies of Malasakit, Pagbabago and Patuloy na Pag-unlad, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has taken necessary measures to ensure the effective

and efficient coordination, implementation, and monitoring of the P/RDP. This Regional Development Report (RDR) 2018 provides the Ilocos Region’s actual performance, assessment, and endeavors, consequent to the RDP. Although the initial and crucial phase of the plan implementation is over, harmonization of efforts continues and necessary steps need to be undertaken to address new challenges and unforeseen events. Building on the accomplishments in 2018, the region hopes to sustain the economic growth and continue to realize the targets laid out in the RDP. With the midterm updating of the RDP, priority strategies are recommended that would catapult the region to a situation where there is inclusive growth, a high-trust and resilient society and globally competitive knowledge economy. At a broad perspective, these strategies include: building a constituency for reforms, creating opportunities for more people, encouraging investments in key areas, strengthening adaptability and resiliency, building social cohesion, promoting connectivity, maintaining ecological integrity and other more reforms. It is our fervent wish that all of Region 1’s stakeholders will continue with their initiatives and work hand in hand for the achievement of the region’s vision to become the agribusiness and tourism hub in Northern Philippines. NESTOR G. RILLON Regional Director, NEDA Region 1


iv

Table of Contents

PART I: INTRODUCTION

Introduction 2

PART II: ENHANCING THE SOCIAL FIBER “MALASAKIT”

Chapter 1 -Ensuring People-Centered, Clean, and Efficient Governance 8

Chapter 2 -Pursuing Swift and Fair Administration of Justice 15

Chapter 3 -Promoting Philippine Culture and Values 18

PART III: INEQUALITY-REDUCING TRANSFORMATION "PAGBABAGO"

Chapter 4 -Expanding Economic Opportunities in Agriculture, Forestry and

Fisheries (AFF)

23

Chapter 5 -Expanding Economic Opportunities in Industry and Services through

Trabaho and Negosyo

31

Chapter 6 -Accelerating Human Capital Development 38

Chapter 7 -Reducing Vulnerability of Individual and Families 48

Chapter 8 -Building Safe and Secure Communities 54

PART IV: INCREASING GROWTH POTENTIAL "PATULOY NA PAG-

UNLAD”

Chapter 9 -Reaching for the Demographic Dividend 60

Chapter 10 -Vigorously Advancing Science, Technology and Innovation 64

PART V: ENABLING AND SUPPORTIVE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Chapter 11 -Ensure Sound Macroeconomic Policy 70

Chapter 12 -Leveling the Playing Field through a National Competition Policy 77

PART VI: FOUNDATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Chapter 13 -Attaining Just and Lasting Peace 81

Chapter 14 -Ensuring Security, Public Order and Security 84

Chapter 15 -Accelerating Infrastructure Development 89

Chapter 16 -Ensuring Ecological Integrity, Clean and Healthy Environment 97


v

List of Tables


Introduction: Table A: Accomplishment versus targets, Region 1 4


Chapter 1 –Table 1.1 Chapter 1 Results Matrix 11

Table 1.2 Supplemental strategies to Chapter 1 14

Chapter 2 - Table 2.1 Chapter 2 Results Matrix 16














Table 8.2 Supplemental strategies to Chapter 8

58


UNLAD”



Chapter 10 -Table 10.1 Chapter 10 Results Matrix 66











vi








vii

List of Figures


Introduction: Figure A: RDP 2017-2022 Overall Strategic Framework 3


Chapter 1 - Figure 1: Strategic framework to ensure people-centered, clean and

efficient governance

8

Chapter 2 - Figure 2: Strategic framework to achieve swift and fair administration

of justice

15

Chapter 3 - Figure 3: Strategic framework to promote Philippine culture and values 18


Chapter 4 - Figure 4: Strategic framework to expand economic opportunities in

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery

23

Chapter 5 - Figure 5: Strategic framework to attain a robust and competitive in

Industry and Services sector

31

Chapter 6 - Figure 6: Strategic framework to accelerate human capital development 38

Chapter 7 - Figure 7: Strategic framework to reduce vulnerability of individuals

and families

48

Chapter 8 - Figure 8: Strategic framework to build safe and secure communities 54


UNLAD”

Chapter 9 - Figure 9: Strategic framework to reach for demographic dividend 60

Chapter 10 - Figure 10: Strategic framework to vigorously advance Science,

Technology and Innovation

64


Chapter 11 -Figure 11: Strategic framework to sustain a stable and sound

macroeconomic environment

70

Chapter 12 -Figure 12: Strategic framework to promote competitiveness in the

region

77


Chapter 13 - Figure 13: Strategic framework to attain just and lasting peace 81

Chapter 14 - Figure 14: Strategic framework to ensure security, public order and

safety

84

Chapter 15 - Figure 15: Strategic framework to accelerate infrastructure

development

89

Chapter 16 - Figure 16: Strategic framework to ensure ecological integrity, clean

and healthy environment

97

Part I

INTRODUCTION


2

PART I

INTRODUCTION

As per Executive Order (EO) No. 5, s. 2016, Philippine Development Plans (PDPs) to be crafted

and implemented until 2040 shall be geared towards the achievement of AmBisyon Natin 2040.

The AmBisyon Natin 2040 or the country’s long-term vision (LTV) presents picture of the future

which includes set of personal life goals and ideals for the country. It is encapsulated in this

vision statement: “By 2040 , the Philippines will be prosperous, predominantly middle-class

society where no one is poor, our people will live long and healthy lives, be smart and

innovative, and will live in a high-trust society” or simply “Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag

na buhay para sa lahat”.

The Ilocos Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 is the first medium-term plan

anchored on Ambisyon Natin 2040. Achieving the targets set in the Ilocos RDP requires that the

government, along with the private sector, work together in an integrated and holistic manner.

This is mandated by EO 27, s. 2017, directing all departments, offices, and instrumentalities of

the national government, including government-owned and controlled corporations and local

government units to adopt, disseminate, and undertake efforts for the full implementation of the

development plans. Hence, all sectoral, thematic, and agency plans are to be consistent and

aligned with the targets and strategies in the PDP as well as the RDPs.

While much has been done within two years since EO 27 was issued, most of these are to lay

down the groundwork for change towards more inclusive growth, a high trust and resilient

society, and a globally-competitive knowledge economy. The strategies to achieve the above

targets are grouped under three major pillars, namely: “Malasakit”, “Pagbabago”, and “Patuloy

na Pagunlad”. These shall be supported by cross-cutting strategies that will provide enabling

and supportive environment, and foundations for sustainable environment (Figure A). While the

region fully adopted the country’s overall strategic framework, it will also give focus on the

priority industries in the region and aspirations of its peoples.

Following is an overview of the major groundwork laid down in 2018 along with the

recommended priority strategies for 2019. The list is not exhaustive; a more detailed

enumeration is discussed in the subsequent chapters of this report.


3

Figure A. RDP 2017-2022 Overall Strategic Framework

Assessment of Headline Targets

On becoming the agribusiness and tourism hub in Northern Philippines. Region 1 showed

its ability to remain a significant contributor to national development by being the sixth ranking

region contributing to the gross value added (GVA) in agriculture, forestry and fisheries (AFF)

Sector despite its drop in the growth rate by 2.30 percent in 2018. Meanwhile, tourist arrivals

continued to increase for the past three years from 1.6 million from 2015 to 2.4 million in 2018.

On having a strong and robust economy. Ilocos Region’s economy remains robust and

growing at a healthy pace at 6.5 percent in 2018. The region’s economic growth in 2018 was

even higher than that of the national level. This is higher by 0.7 percentage points from the

region’s 5.8 percent growth in 2017, putting the economy well on track in achieving the target

growth of 6.2 to 7.5 percent. The remarkable double digit growth of the Industry sector and the

slightly accelerated growth of the Services sector fueled the sustained economic growth of the

region amidst the weak performance of the agriculture sector which is vulnerable to natural

disasters and climate change. Meanwhile, the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) per

capita in the region grew by an average of 4.9 percent in 2017-2018, faster than the growth

experienced at the national level (4.6%).


4

On achieving inclusive growth. Poverty situation for the first semester of 2018 improved over

the last three years. Poverty among families in the region declined from 20.4 percent in the 1st

semester of 2015 to only 8.7 percent in the same period of 2018, or a drop of 11.7 percentage

points. Likewise, the poverty incidence among population decreased from 25.8 percent in the 1st

semester of 2015 to 11.8 percent in the 1st semester of 2018, or an improvement of 14.0

percentage points. The region’s poverty situation is better than the national figures of 16.1

percent among families and 21.0 percent among individuals for the period. These are indications

that 2018 numbers are better than in 2015, given the increased economic growth and the

moderate food inflation (7.5% in 2018). However, the target for succeeding years may be at risk,

if inflationary pressures are not addressed effectively and immediately.

On reducing unemployment rate. The employment situation in the region improved for 2018

recording higher employment rate from 91.1 percent in 2017 to 93.2 percent in 2018. Likewise,

unemployment rate decreased from 8.9 percent in 2017 to 6.8 percent in 2018.

On reducing youth unemployment. Youth unemployment rate for 2018 is at 14.9 percent,

much lower than its 2017 rate at 18.6 percent or a decrease of 3.7 percentage points. This is an

indication of more jobs available for the youth in the region for the said period.

Table A: Accomplishment versus targets, Region 1

Indicator

Baseline Annual Plan Target Accom-

plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Gross Regional

Development

Product (GRDP)

Growth Rate

5.8% 6.2-7.5% 6.4-8.0% 6.8-8.0% 6.5% PSA

Percent Contribution to the GRDP by Industry of Origin

AFF 19.4% 17.6% 16.5% 15.4% 17.8%

Industry 28.8% 31.9% 33.3% 34.7% 30.2%

Services 51.8% 50.5% 50.2% 49.9% 52.0%

Tourist Arrivals 2,382,903 2,763,546 3,260,426 3,757,306 2,447,401

Poverty Incidence

(Among Families)

9.6%* 10.3% 8.7%

**

Poverty Incidence

(Among

Population)

13.1%* 7.6% 11.8%

**

Employment Rate 91.1% 91.6% 92.1% 92.5% 93.2%

Unemployment

Rate

19.9% 18.7% 18.7% 16.3% 22.1%

Youth

unemploy-ment

18.6% 14.9%

Inflation Rate (All

items)

2.0 2.0-4.0% 6.0

Note: *Data as of 2015

**Data as of 1st Semester 2018


5

The Year 2019: Development Outlook

Ease and further streamline government transactions and processes. This can be done by

reviewing and relaxing the Commission on Audit (COA) rules and regulations that seem already

antiquated, unnecessary, and ineffective and that only impede expeditious public service delivery

as observed by analysts. This will allow COA to focus and intensify efforts on areas and sectors

most vulnerable to corruption. In addition, regulatory impact assessment, cost compliance

analysis, and other related tools must be institutionalized. To speed up procurement and

implementation, agencies should develop capacities to plan and program their projects, to

formulate well-designed contracts, and to properly and smoothly administer contracts.

Support the full implementation of the National identification (ID) system- Phase 1. In line

with the recent approval of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) Implementation Plan,

the procurement of the technology and issuance of actual IDs to priority segments of the

population – like cash transfer beneficiaries – will proceed as scheduled in 2019. The PhilSys

provides for a national identification system that seeks to unify all government IDs into one. It

will provide identification to both citizens and resident aliens of the country to facilitate public

and private transactions. Phase 1 (January to December 2019) of the implementation plan

involves the procurement, testing of core technology infrastructure, organizational development

of the PhilSys Registry Office (PRO), and launch of target registration across all the regions.

Enhance the resiliency of the sector to the adverse effects of climate change and other

weather disturbances and boost private sector involvement in AFF to promote technology

transfer. Intensify the adoption of appropriate production inputs, farming systems and

technologies that are adaptive to the adverse effects of climate change and other natural and

man-made disturbances. The availment of crop insurance as a risk transfer strategy is also

advised. Plans and programs that would entice the private sector to invest in technologies will be

formulated to boost production and improve post-harvest processing. This will support value

chain development and improve the competitiveness of small producers, millers, and processors.

Strengthen the linkage of the industry sector and the AFF sector, through manufacturing.

From the four major sub-industries, manufacturing showed the slowest growth rate in 2018. With

the region’s capability to produce high volume of agri-fishery commodities, the manufacturing

industry can be mobilized to take advantage of this. Moreover, this strength of the region must be

well communicated with prospective investors including the MSMEs in the region. There is a

need to strengthen backward linkages of economic zone locators to the domestic economy.

Support the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act. Amid accomplishments made

in 2018, several critical issues and challenges remain to be addressed in improving nutrition and

health in the region. These include: (a) increasing teenage pregnancy, (b) increasing child

mortality; (c) weak implementation of health interventions; (d) fragmentation in the delivery of

primary, secondary, and tertiary care services due to non-functioning SDNs; and (e) continued

gaps in the health information system due to lack of interoperability. The full implementation of

the UHCA is with high hopes in addressing the issues and problems stated above for a healthier

Filipinos.


6

Fast track projects under the Build Build Build Program. The fast tracking of these projects

will support the development of logistics and infrastructure needed by the Industry and Services

sectors. This includes the widening and concreting of the remaining sections along the Manila

North Road (MNR), which serves as the major economic backbone of the region. Also, the

Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Toll Expressway or TPLEX will continue to be the main alternate

link of the region to its neighboring regions.

Implementation of the Ilocos Region Traffic Management Strategy (TMS). With the

completion of the Ilocos Region TMS, better traffic management will be realized. Among the

proposed strategies for possible adoption of Local Government Units (LGUs) and other

government entities include the improvement of the quality of infrastructure, improvement of

road worthiness of vehicles, enhancement of institutional mechanisms or arrangements,

improvement in air quality, and increase in awareness of road users and the public.

Strengthen the regulatory and monitoring functions of mandated agencies on

environmental quality management. To intensify compliance with environmental laws, the

DENR should continuously (a) undertake regional inventory and classification of waterbodies to

ensure its effective management; (b) support the installation of fully-operational water quality

monitoring instruments; (c) conduct regular monitoring of effluent standards; and (d) assess the

need to establish water management systems in the priority water bodies. Funding assistance or

incentive mechanisms should be promoted to engage the LGUs, water districts, and the private

sector to participate in the implementation of waste collection and treatment facilities. The air

quality compliance monitoring activities of the DENR and the vehicle emission-testing program

and non-contact apprehension policy of the Land Transportation Office may be complemented

with the installation of high definition cameras, public listing of violators, and establishment of

more emission-testing centers.

The subsequent chapters will present and discuss the accomplishments based on the overall

strategic framework of the RDP 2017-2022 (Figure A).


7

Part II

Enhancing the Social Fabric

“Malasakit”


8

Chapter 1

Ensuring People-Centered, Clean, and Efficient Governance

Abstract

The RDP 2017-2022 espouses good governance as its major developmental strategy to attain

inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development. To gain people’s trust and confidence,

the government intends to create a conducive social, economic, political and legal environment

that enables the people to enjoy the benefits of development by engaging in decision-making

process. Government efficiency must be upheld through automation, internet connectivity, and

streamlined processes to ensure transparency and speedy provision of public services.

The governance sector in Region 1 has consistently complied with the requisites of good

governance. The local government units (LGUs) and national government agencies (NGAs) in

the region actively worked to combat corruption so that public funds are used accordingly.

Interventions were implemented to strengthen civil service at all levels. They also continuously

invest in technologies that facilitate easy and fast access to government transactions and establish

mechanisms that provide feedback on the quality of public service. Tax collections also

improved which imply that more funds can be used to finance public programs and projects.

Figure 1: Strategic framework to ensure people-centered, clean and efficient governance


9

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Accountability and efficiency in governance measures improved

For CY 2018, Region 1 maintained an accountable and efficient governance since 2017 as all

LGUs, being at the forefront in the delivery of public services, complied with the 7 out of 8

indicators of accountability and efficiency.

All LGUs have maintained 100.0 percent compliance to the full disclosure policy (FDP) which

ensured transparency in all government transactions. This needs to be sustained to ensure that

public funds are properly used, and to provide information on where these funds are expended.

Moreover, all LGUs adopted the Business and Permit Licensing System (BPLS) that guaranteed

fast and easy registration and securing of permits and licenses.

All LGUs also maintained their functional Local Peace and Order Council (LPOC) that handled

peace and security concerns in their jurisdictions. All LGUs also complied with the provisions

of the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) that ensured hassle-free transactions with the government. All

LGUs also maintained compliance to Child-friendly Local Governance in 2018. To tackle

climate change and disaster vulnerability, 100.0 percent of LGUs in the region likewise

maintained their 6-year Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) using the Climate and

Disaster Risk Assessment (CDRA) / Vulnerability Assessment Tool.

Notwithstanding the outstanding performance of LGUs along the parameters mentioned above,

passing the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) remained a challenge to most of them.

While Region 1 had the most number of LGU passers nationwide in 2018, there were less LGUs

conferred with the SGLG which caused the below-target performance for 2018 compared to the

previous year. Only 39.5 percent of LGUs in Region 1 fully complied with the standards and

requirements of SGLG in 2018 compared to the more than half (53.0%) awarded in 2017. It was

also below the target of 64.0 percent of LGUs to be conferred with SGLG. This was mainly due

to the upscaling of criteria and requirements in 2018.

Among the provinces, Pangasinan had the least proportion of LGUs which passed the SGLG at

15.9 percent. La Union obtained the highest percentage of LGUs awarded with SGLG at 35.00

percent. Ilocos Sur had 28.12 percent of its LGUs awarded while 23.81 percent of LGUs in

Ilocos Norte SGLG award.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Public access to information enhanced

National Government Agencies (NGAs) and LGUs in Region 1 invested in information and

communication technologies to improve the delivery of public services and to promote

transparency. The creation of Facebook accounts and maintenance of websites served as

platform to better disseminate information on the services provided, to facilitate public

participation in governance, and to establish feedback mechanism.


10

All NGAs in the region maintained their facebook accounts both in 2017 and 2018 which

exceeded the target of 99.0 percent in 2018. At the same time, all of these NGAs updated their

websites compared to 98.0 percent in 2017. On the other hand, only 44 LGUs (35.0%) updated

their websites compared to 48 LGUs (38.0%) in 2017 and below the target of 81 LGUs (65.0%)

with updated websites. There were 85 LGUs (68.0%) which created or maintained their facebook

accounts as against the 80 LGUs in 2017 although it was still below the target of 90 LGUs for

2018. Based on the consultation with the LGUs in the province of La Union, it was pointed out

that social media as a platform for information dissemination is preferred because it is free and

easier to maintain. Maintaining a website according to the LGUs is more costly because of the

website fees and would entail training of employees on website maintenance. In addition, the

financial viability of establishing and maintaining wifi/ internet may have deterred both service

providers and LGUs to keep internet connection which explains the low number of LGUs

maintaining websites and Facebook accounts.

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Revenue collections enhanced

The revenue collection efficiency rate in the region decreased by 30.9 percent compared to its

2017 rate. It also fell short on its target for 2018 at 100 percent collection rate. Meanwhile, there

was an increase in amount of facilitated national collections deposited in 2018 amounted to 2.9

billion compared to the 2.6 deposited in 2017 or an increase of 11.5 percent. However, it did not

meet the 2018 target of 4.6 billion or a comparative underperformance of 37.0 percent. All

provinces registered improved performance. Pangasinan yielded the highest deposit at 1.3 billion

which is an increase of 29.0 million from 2017. La Union posted the second highest deposit at

960.0 million or an increase of 64 million. Ilocos Norte ranked third generating 340.0 million or

an increase of 256.0 million in 2017 and Ilocos Sur had the least deposit with 310.0 million, an

increase by 201.0 million from 2017. In terms of share, Pangasinan contributed the highest with

44.9 percent followed by La Union with 32.9 percent; Ilocos Sur with 10.6 percent and Ilocos

Norte with 11.6 percent.

Region 1 also increased its amount of remitted fidelity bonds or the amount deposited as an

insurance which guarantee performance of official of institutions and offices, from 23.6 million

in 2017 versus 34.9 million in 2018 or a 47.9 percent increment. All provinces of the region

registered improved performance. Pangasinan registered a 4.6 million increase, from 11.8

million to 16.4 million; Ilocos Sur increased by 3.0 million; Ilocos Norte increased by 3.1

million while La Union posted the lowest increase at 770.0 thousand. In terms of share to total,

Pangasinan had the highest contribution to the total fidelity bonds at 46.9 percent, followed by

La Union at 28.7 percent, Ilocos Norte at 12.6 percent and Ilocos Sur at 11.7 percent.


11

Table 1.1: Chapter 1 Results Matrix

Indicator Province Baseline

Annual Plan Target Accom-

plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Percentage of

LGUs

complying to

the Full

Disclosure

Policy

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Percentage of

LGUs which

adopted BPLS

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Percentage of

LGUs

conferred

with SGLG

Region 1 53.0 64.0 75.0 98.0 39.5 DILG

Ilocos

Norte 38.0

48.0 58.0 68.0 23.8

Ilocos Sur 46.0 58.0 70.0 82.0 28.1

La Union 48.0 68.0 78.0 98.0 35.0

Pangasinan 67.0 82.0 92.0 100.0 15.9

Percentage of

LGUs with 6-

Year LCCAP

using the

CDRA/

Vulnerability

Assessment

Tool

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Percentage of

LGUs with

Functional

LPOC

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

ARTA

Compliance

Rate (LGUs

and RLAs)

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0


12



plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Percentage of

LGUs

conferred

with Seal of

Child-

Friendly

Local

Governance

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Percentage of

NGAs with

updated

websites

Region 1

98.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 NGAs

Percentage of

NGAs with

Facebook

accounts

Region 1 100.0 99.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 NGAs

Percentage of

LGUs with

updated

websites

Region 1 38.0 65.0 70.0 75.0 35.0 DICT

Ilocos

Norte

35.0 29.0

Ilocos Sur 33.0 34.0

La Union 40.0 38.0

Pangasinan 43.0 37.0

Percentage of

LGUs with

Facebook

accounts

Region 1 64.0 72.0 76.0 80.0 68.0 DICT

Ilocos

Norte

39.0 63.0


La Union 80.0 76.0


Revenue

collection

efficiency rate

Region 1 123.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 85.0 BIR

Ilocos

Norte 116.0 80.0


La Union 123.0 76.0


Amount of

Facilitated

National

Collections

Deposited

(‘000)

Region 1 2,634.0 4,610.0 5,070.0 5,480.0 2,920.0 BoTr

Ilocos

Norte 256.0 340.0


La Union 896.0 960.0

Pangasinan 1,281.0 1,310.0


13



plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Amount of

Remitted

Fidelity

Bonds

Region 1 23.6 M 27.4 M 31.2 M 31.6 M 34.9 M BoTr

Ilocos

Norte 1.3 M 3.4 M 4.4 M 4.5 M 4.4 M

Ilocos Sur 1.1 M 3.7 M 4.1 M 4.1 M 4.1 M

La Union 9.3 M 9.2 M 10.0 M 10.1 M 10.0 M

Pangasinan 11.8 M 11.1 M 12.7 M 12.8 M 16.4 M

Moving Forward

The government continuously finds ways to improve the delivery and quality of public services.

The SGLG has become an effective mechanism in improving performance and accountability of

LGUs. Thus, provision of technical support and assistance to LGUs will be intensified to ensure

compliance with all the requirements of SGLG and to improve passing rate for Region 1 as it

translates to local governance improvement in terms of efficiency, transparency and

accountability. Strengthen and intensify the Barangay SGLG to ensure the community

engagement in local governance in the forefront of service delivery.

The use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) through e-governance systems

to improve the efficiency and quality of public service will be strengthened. Technical assistance

will be provided to LGUs which do not have websites or Facebook accounts yet and most especially in setting up their electronic-Business Processing and Licensing System (e-BPLS).

The implementation of the Ease of Doing Business Act which simplified and shortened

government transaction processes will be intensified. The provision of access to internet and free

wifi to 4th

and 5th class municipalities will be expanded and fasttracked.

The LGUs need to intensify their local tax collection through the conduct of regular tax mapping

and surveillance to ensure that all establishments pay their dues and taxes. This will increase

their local funds that will enable them to provide more and better public services.

Moreover, being financially and technically challenged, the 4th

to 6th

class municipalities should

be prioritized. The Assistance to Municipalities (AM) mechanism need to be strengthened to

hasten the provision of assistance to accelerate the development of lagging municipalities.


14

Recommendations

Table 1.2: Supplemental strategies to Chapter 1

Implementing Agency Challenges Recommended Strategy

LGUs Lack of skills and training

for local civil servants

To complement the capacity

building of LGUs, continuous

capacity building programs and

activities for civil servants will be

undertaken to ensure

responsiveness and efficiency in

the bureaucracy as it holds a critical

role in the delivery of public

services.

LGUs Weak monitoring and

evaluation for Government

Owned and Controlled

Corporations (GOCCs)

operated by LGUs

GOCCs operated by LGUs need to

be monitored and evaluated with

the aim of improving earning

potentials. They can be significant

sources of local funds and job

generation.


15

Chapter 2

Pursuing Swift and Fair Administration of Justice

Abstract

The swift and fair administration of justice gains and sustains the trust and confidence of the

public. It espouses the aspiration of the Filipinos to have a secure life, and their rights protected.

Responsive, transparent and accountable administration of justice, on the other hand, supports

the long-term vision of attaining good governance.

Region 1 partly attained the subsector outcome of enhanced responsiveness, transparency and

accountability in the administration of justice. All cases were resolved in a speedy and fair

manner. Individuals involved in legal conflicts were given access to adequate legal assistance.

Offenders serving their jail terms are protected and after serving their sentences, they are given

the chance to be reintegrated into the society.

Though there are trial courts in each political district, accessibility to justice can still be

improved if eCourts will be established in the absence of a trial court in each municipality.

Nonetheless, all barangays in the region have established their Lupon Tagapamayapa (LT)

which tries and resolves cases through amicable settlement. As per Department of Interior and

Local Government (DILG), the LT has been an effective mechanism of case resolution and

disposition.

Figure 2: Strategic framework to achieve swift and fair administration of justice


16

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Responsiveness, transparency and accountability in the administration of

justice enhanced

The disposition rate on investigation and prosecution of criminal offenders remained high,

though it went down from 100.0 percent in 2017 to 91.1 percent in 2018. It has underperformed

by 8.9 percentage points compared to 2018 and by 7.8 percentage points relative to the 2018

target of 99.0 percent. Ilocos Sur is the only province with improved performance in 2018 while

the other three provinces had declined performance.

Moreover, Region 1 sustained the 100.0 percent conduct of necessary pre-parole investigations

in 2017 and 2018, and 2018 target. All cases of pre-parole investigations in 2018 were conducted

in Ilocos Sur and Pangasinan. There was no investigation undertaken in Ilocos Norte and La

Union in 2018 while pre-parole investigations were conducted in Ilocos Sur and La Union in

2017.

The region’s accomplishment in terms of courtesy pre-parole or executive clemency referrals

registered a 100.2 percent performance which exceeded both the 100.0 percent performance in

2017 and target for 2018 as cases left in 2017 were carried over in 2019. Meanwhile, all

provinces registered a decline in the disposition of cases. Ilocos Sur recorded a 100.0 percent

courtesy pre-parole or executive clemency referrals but still fell below its 105.0 percent

performance in 2017. Pangasinan recorded a 95.1 percent of cases referred from 101.0 percent in

2017; La Union had 92.5 percent referrals compared to 93.0 percent in 2017 while Ilocos Norte

dropped from 100.0 percent referrals to 92.0 percent in 2018.




plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Investiga-

tion and

prosecution

of criminal

offenders

Region 1 100.0 99.0 99.0 99.0 91.1 DOJ-

PPA Ilocos

Norte 99.0 98.3


La Union 94.0 88.1


Pre-Parole

Investiga-

tion

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DOJ-

PPA Ilocos

Norte - -


La Union 100.0 -

Pangasinan - 100.0


17



plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Courtesy

Pre-parole

and

Executive

Clemency

Referrals

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.2

DOJ-

PPA

Ilocos

Norte 100.0 92.0


La Union 93.0 92.5


Moving Forward

Though swift and fair administration of justice in Region 1 has been relatively attained, efforts to

sustain efficient delivery of justice should be pursued through the following:

1. Fasttrack the establishment of eCourts system where filing, payment and tracking of

cases can be done through online system.

2. Establish municipal trial courts to bring justice system closer to the people especially to

the poor and vulnerable sectors of the region.

3. Improve, sustain and expand the rehabilitation and reintegration programs for the

offenders post-serving their sentence.

4. Harmonize procedures and establish data criminal information system that can be

accessed and used by the entire judicial ecosystem such as the police, court lawyers,

judges, and prison officers. This will ensure expansive, effective, swift and fair

adjudication of cases.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agencies

Challenges Recommended Strategies

DOJ

The poor and the vulnerable can

barely afford lawyers to represent

them in courts.

Organize lawyers who are willing to

provide free legal assistance to the poor,

women and children, and marginalized

sectors who are in conflict with the law.

DILG, LGUs There is a need to strengthen LT

being an effective mechanism of

amicably settling conflicts and

disputes at the barangay level.

Continuous capacity building of LT

members.


18

Chapter 3

Promoting Philippine Culture and Values

Abstract

Shared culture and strong positive values make a region strong. Region 1 is distinguished for

having a rich and diverse culture and heritage. Cultivating and enriching the region’s culture,

values and heritage can enhance unity and harmony that strengthens governance and supports the

long-term vision of Filipinos to have a strong sense of community. Thus, it is an important

ingredient to attain inclusive and sustainable development.

Various activities were undertaken and institutionalized in Region 1 to promote and stimulate

public awareness and deepen understanding of the region’s culture. The Culture Summit held in

2017 paved the way for the conduct of more cultural initiatives and inclusion of the concerns of

culture as part of local development planning. Capacity building trainings on promoting cultural

awareness and mainstreaming of culture in development planning were conducted for national

government agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs) and private sector. Cultural

festivities and cultural tourism spots in the region are being highlighted and promoted. The

National Commission for the Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has been actively coordinating and

collaborating with the Sub-committee on Culture in crafting plans and programs that seeks to

enhance and strengthen various aspects and components of the regional culture. These platforms

contributed to the heightened awareness and further enrichment of the region’s culture.

The efforts of the LGUs and the academe also contributed to the strengthening of the regional

culture. For one, the integration of the use of the local dialect in school curriculum is a major

step to sustain cultural application, practice and awareness.

Figure 3: Strategic framework to promote Philippine culture and values


19

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Enhance community engagement by instilling values of culture and

concept of cultural diversity

Enhancing people’s understanding and instilling the values of culture served as the foundational

step to promote and sustain cultural reflection and awareness. IP representation in government is

mandated under the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) to ensure the promotion of the

welfare of the IPs. The number of IP representatives in Region 1 increased from 183 in 2017 to

209 in 2018 which is above the RDP target of 200 in 2018. As to provinces, Ilocos Norte

remained to have six IP representatives in 2017 and 2018. La Union obtained the highest number

of IP representatives with 105 representatives, higher than the 2017 accomplishment and 2018

plan target of 94 and 98 IPs, respectively. There were 78 IP representatives in Ilocos Sur in 2018,

up by 14 from 64 IPs in 2017. It also exceeded the 2018 plan target of 77 IPs. Moreover, there

were 20 IP representatives in Pangasinan in 2018 which increased by 1 IP representative

compared to the 2017 and 2018 plan target.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Strong regional culture

NGAs, LGUs and the private sector have been actively collaborating to undertake activities to

promote and increase awareness on the region’s culture. LGUs regularly showcase national,

regional and local culture during fiestas and special culture and heritage events. The academe

likewise stages cultural presentations during special school events.

Moreover, all of LGUs in the region had enacted their respective ordinances and local issuances

that promote local cultural tourism indicate high level of commitment and support to strengthen

the region’s culture. Furthermore, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)

maintained six cultural information database system in 2017. It also conducted two IP festivals,

although fewer than the five festivals it conducted in 2017 and also below the planned target of

five in 2018.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) also undertakes activities that promote culture in the region.

It assisted and participated in the staging of 20 cultural festivals in 2017. These undertakings

have become an added attraction that contributed to the increasing tourism arrivals in the region.


20




plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

IP

Representa-

tives

Region 1 183 200 200 200 209 NCIP

Ilocos

Norte 6

6 6 6 6

Ilocos Sur 64 77 77 77 78

La Union 94 98 98 98 105

Pangasinan 19 19 19 19 20

Percentage of

LGUs with

ordinances

and local

issuances

that promote

local cultural

tourism

Region 1 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 DILG

Ilocos

Norte 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Ilocos Sur 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

La Union 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Pangasinan 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Number of

IP Festivals

Conducted

Region 1 5 5 5 5 2 NCIP

Moving Forward

Awareness on the concept and practice of the region’s culture is gradually increasing. There is a

need to continuously implement interventions that will sustain awareness, ensure sustainability

and practice of the region’s culture. This can be done through the following:

a. Mainstream culture and heritage in local development plans to ensure that local

traditions, behavior and values become an instrument for genuine local development.

b. Pursue cultural resources mapping and baseline data gathering in all LGUs to facilitate

evidence-based planning and formulate appropriate strategies and interventions

accordingly.

c. Use the data and information gathered from the cultural resources mapping to preserve,

conserve, and restore culturally significant sites and structures.

d. Provide technical assistance and support in formulating and mainstreaming culture in

their local development plans to LGUs considering the important role of culture in

fostering local development.

e. Institutionalize mechanisms that will facilitate integration, coordination and collaboration

of cultural plans and programs of NGAs and LGUs.

f. Promote and popularize the regional and local cultures through quad media (print, TV,

radio and social media).

g. Establish cultural office in LGUs where tourism and culture development form

significant part of the local economy.


21

Recommendations

Table 3.2: Supplemental Strategies to Chapter 3

Implementing

Agencies

Challenges Recommended Strategies

NCCA, DILG,

NCIP, LGUs

Absence of Local Cultural

Offices in LGUs responsible in

integrating cultural dimension

in local development plans and

programs, and promote local

culture and heritage.

Encourage LGUs to create their Local

Cultural Office

NCCA, NCIP,

DepEd, DOT,

LGUs

Low level of culture awareness Pursue the annual conduct of Culture

Summit and Cultural Orientation among

LGUs to increase awareness and

appreciation of the important role of culture

in fostering genuine and participatory local

development.

Enjoin LGUs, in collaboration with DepEd,

DOT and NCIP, to devote a night during

fiestas for cultural presentations.

Incorporate cultural programs as an offering

among local tourist destinations.

Integrate culture and heritage in the school

curriculum.


22

Part III

Inequality-Reducing Transformation

“Pagbabago”


23

Chapter 4

Expanding Economic Opportunities in Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (AFF)

Abstract

Region 1 puts the AFF sector as one of its top priorities. The growth and development of the

sector reflects the realization of the region’s vision of becoming the agribusiness and tourism hub

in Northern Philippines. This sector’s vision will promote more inclusive development in the

region thereby attaining the inequality-reducing transformation or “Pagbabago”. As such,

concerted efforts of NGAs, LGUs, private sectors and other stakeholders are continuously being

pursued to achieve this end goal through a robust and competitive AFF sector. The strategic

framework to realize the AFF sector’s goal is shown in Figure 4 below.

Notwithstanding the sectors’ drop in the growth rate by 2.3 percent in 2018, Region 1 showed its

ability to remain a significant contributor to national development by being the sixth ranking

region contributing to the Gross Value Added (GVA) in AFF sector. The region continues to be

the top producer of major commodities including cereals and other high value crops. Meanwhile,

the negative growth rate of the sector shows the vulnerability of the sector to the adverse effects

of weather disturbances. In which case, enhancing the resiliency of the sector should be given

priority to maximize the full potential of the sector especially in increasing income and

productivity of the farmers and fisherfolks.

Figure 4: Strategic framework to expand economic opportunities in Agriculture, Forestry

and Fishery


24

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Farmers/Fisherfolks’ Productivity Sustained

The region continues to play the role as a major contributor to the GVA of the AFF in the

Philippines. It ranks sixth with a 6.9 percent share of the country’s GVA in AFF. This is amidst

the damages and losses incurred with the onslaught of typhoons and other weather disturbances.

AFF Sector growth rate dropped in 2018 with its GVA recording a negative growth rate of 2.3

percent. This is the lowest growth rate that the sector experienced since 2010. In 2017, it was

able to register a 2.4 percent growth rate, bouncing back from its two consecutive years of

negative growths rate of 1.3 percent and 1.7 percent in 2015 and 2016 respectively. This makes

the sector far below its target between 4.1-5.4 percent for CY2018 as set in the RDP. The decline

is attributed to the vulnerability of the sector to the ill effects of weather disturbances. Typhoons

Ompong and Rosita, Tropical Storm Inday, Tropical Depression Josie, and long monsoon rains

hit the country last year that left a considerable amount of damages and losses to the agriculture

and fishery products.

In relation to the decline in the AFF sector’s growth rate, its share to the GRDP also went down

to 17.8 percent from 19.4 percent in 2017. Although the share almost achieved its target for 2018

of 17.6 percent, the slower growth rate and the lower level of production as compared to the

targets made the accomplishment remain undesirable as the region aims for improved growth of

all the major industry sectors including the AFF sector.

Rice production in Region 1 is the 4th

highest in the country even with the decreased level of

production. Even with the considerable drop of the AFF sector’s growth rate, Region 1 was still

a significant contributor to the country’s overall accomplishment. Rice production which was

estimated at 1.7 million metric tons represents 9.0 percent of the total national production of 19.0

million metric tons and was the highest among all regions in the country. This was despite the

decline by 8.1 percent from its 2017 production level which was 1.9 million metric tons. The

decline was attributed to typhoons and monsoon rains that hit the region reducing the area of

production by 1.4 percent and yield by 6.80 percent, aside from the damages and losses incurred.

The high rice production output was made possible through the implementation of key production and productivity enhancing technology interventions such as utilization of high

quality seeds (Hybrid and Inbred), technology demonstrations with field days, distribution of

farm production and post-harvest machineries and equipment/facilities, research and

development, and capability building activities for farmers and agricultural extension workers.

Production of corn, mungbean and cassava continues to grow. Compared to other commodities,

only corn, mungbean and cassava recorded increases in production for the past two years. Corn

production was at 560,885 metric tons which is higher by 0.8 percent compared to the 2017

production of 556,462 metric tons. This was also the highest corn production in the country in

2018. This was due to the suitability of the soil in the region for corn production. Likewise,

mungbean and cassava production increased by 0.5 percent and 2.8 percent in 2018, respectively.


25

Despite the decline in the production of majority of commodities under the “other crops”

category, the total output was able to surpass the GVA target for 2018 by 51.0 percent

The Ilocos Region remains the top producer of mango, pinakbet vegetables, peanut, garlic,

mungbean, onion, and tobacco. The aggregate production of these commodities totaled to

345,971.7 metric tons. Of these commodities, only mungbean and eggplant (from the pinakbet

vegetables) grew in 2018 in terms of production. Also, the production of these commodities

remain higher compared to the production of other regions. This is attributed to the continuous

distribution of high quality seeds and planting materials, provision and establishment of

production, irrigation, and post-harvest equipment and facilities, and facilitation of market

development and extension support services under the High Value Crops Development Program.

The fisheries sub-sector experienced a 3.82 percent decline in the volume of production, i.e. from

161,336.90 metric tons in 2017 to 155,178.20 metric tons in 2018 largely due to the decline of

aquaculture and commercial fisheries production with aggregate volume of 7,017 metric tons.

Meanwhile, municipal fisheries production posted a positive growth rate of 16.8 percent in 2018

which primarily came from the marine municipal fisheries that totaled to 24,236 metric tons. The

share of marine municipal fisheries to the total municipal fisheries production is 93.2 percent.

The Ilocos region was the top milkfish producing region in the country. The total milkfish

production of Region 1 in 2018 was estimated at 105,893.4 metric tons representing 26.5 percent

of the total production nationwide. Amidst its decline by 5.9 percent from the 2017 production

which was recorded at 112,486.9 metric tons, Region 1 remains to be the top producer in the

country.

Livestock and poultry sub-sectors slightly improved. On the aggregate, the production of the

livestock and poultry subsectors grew and even surpassed the RDA targets in 2018. Livestock

production increased by 3.7 percent or an estimated output of 142,958.8 metric tons. The

increase was due to the higher production in hog, goat and dairy products. Likewise, poultry

production increased by 8.9 percent in 2018 or a total output of 6,092.7 metric tons with majority

of poultry commodities showing improvement in the level of production.

Food sufficiency level in almost all commodities in the region remained more than sufficient.

Almost all commodities in the region were way beyond the 100 percent sufficiency level, except

for vegetable commodity which is only at 88 percent. Major commodities such as rice and corn

recorded sufficiency levels of 168 percent and 226 percent, respectively. In relation to the 2018

targets, corn, root crops, legumes and meat commodities were able to achieve the targets.

Land distribution to improve agricultural productivity continued. A total of 157.5 hectares of

land were distributed to 426 farmer beneficiaries in Ilocos Sur and Pangasinan. In the province of

Ilocos Sur, 48.2 hectares were distributed to 105 farmer beneficiaries while in Pangasinan, 109.5

hectares were given to 321 farmer beneficiaries. The program provided more opportunities for

small farmers to increase their income and fully enjoy the benefits of their harvest with the

expansion of their landholdings.


26

Sub-Sector Outcome 4: Adaptation to Climate Risks and Disasters Increased

More farmers and fisherfolks are insured in 2018. A total of 290,470 farmers and fisherfolks

were recorded to have availed insurance for agri-fishery commodities in 2018 representing a 270

percent increase from the 78,381 farmers and fisherfolks in 2017. Region 1 farmers and

fisherfolks are becoming more prudent to ensure that they will be able to remain resilient amidst

the unpredictable weather conditions.


Indicator Region/

Pro-

vince

Baseline Annual Plan Target Accomplish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

GVA

Agricul-

ture

Growth

Rate

Region 1 2.4 4.1-5.4 4.3-5.9 4.6-5.8 -2.3 PSA

GVA

Agricul-

ture

Percent

Share to

GRDP

Region 1 19.4 17.6 16.5 15.4 17.8 PSA

Number of

SMEs

engaged in

agri-based

enterprises

Ilocos

Norte

Ilocos

Sur

La Union

Pangasi-

nan

12

12

12

24

12

12

12

24

12

12

12

24

DOST

Ave.

income of

families in

the

agriculture

and

fishery

sector

increased

(in Pesos,

At

Region 1 PSA


27

Indicator Region/

Pro-

vince


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Constant

2000

prices)

Poverty

Incidence

among

farmers

Region 1 12.2

(2015)

12.8 PSA

Poverty

incidence

among

fishermen

Region 1 22.0

(2015)

17.1 PSA

Employm

ent in

Agricul-

ture

Growth

Rate

Region 1 -14.9 PSA

Percent

Share of

Agricul-

tural

Employ-

ment to

Total

Employ-

ment

Region 1 27.5 30.1 30.1 30.1 PSA

Number of

extension

support,

education

and

training

services

provided

Region 1 DA

Value of

Agricultur

e and

Fishery

Produc-

tion

(constant

prices, in

Region 1 PSA


28

Indicator Region/

Pro-

vince


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

million

pesos)

Cereals 21,197.0 21,487.0 21,781.0 22,079.0 19,856.8

Other

crops

13,479.8 8,484.8 8,547.0 8,609.7 12,896.0

Livestock 7,474.2 7,612.7 7,753.8 7,897.4 7,789.0

Poultry 5,595.1 5,684.9 5,776.0 5,868.6 6,092.7

Fishery 10,900.0 11,104.1 11,312.0 11,523.8 10,455.9

Volume of

Agricul-

ture and

Fishery

Produc-

tion (in

‘000 MT)

Region 1 PSA

Cereals 2,428.5 2,549.6 2,676.8 145.1 2,280.9

Other

crops

931.6 932.5 933.2 933.9 904.3

Livestock 137.7 140.1 142.6 145.1 142.8

Poultry 97.6 99.2 100.7 102.3 106.3

Fishery 161.3 143.3 127.3 113.1 155.2

Food

Suffi-

ciency

Level

Region 1 DA

Rice 180 181 182 183 168

Corn 191 192 193 194 226

Fruits 248 249 250 251 177

Root

crops

108 109 110 111 171

Vege-

tables

171 172 173 174 88

Legumes 110 111 112 113 111

Meat 124 125 126 127 125

Agricul-

ture Labor

Produc-

tivity

Region 1 60 60 60 PSA


29

Indicator Region/

Pro-

vince


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Total area

distributed

to ARBs

(in has.)

Ilocos

Norte

535

158 DAR

Ilocos

Sur

0 0

La Union 74 48

Panga-

sinan

323 110

Value of

Agricul-

ture

Produc-

tion and

Fishery

Produc-

tion

Losses

and

Damages

due to

Weather

and

Climate-

Related

Disasters

(in million

Php)

Ilocos

Norte

6.7

OCD

Ilocos

Sur

19.8

La Union 5.9

Panga-

sinan

1.2

Number of

farmers/

fisherfolks

insured

Ilocos

Norte

13,586 21,088 27,414 35,639 59,151 PCIC

Ilocos

Sur

17,766 36,903 47,974 62,366 44,813

La Union 17,766 29,874 38,836 40,487 44,559

Panga-

sinan

29,262 52,719 68,535 89,095 141,947


30

Moving Forward

Enhance the resiliency of the sector to the adverse effects of climate change and other weather

disturbances. The sudden drop of the growth rate of GVA in the AFF sector in 2018 is largely

attributed to the vulnerability of sector to the adverse effects of climate change and other weather

disturbances. Hence, there is a need to intensify the adoption of appropriate production inputs,

farming systems and technologies that are adaptive to the adverse effects of climate change and

other natural and man-made disturbances. The availment of crop insurance as a risk transfer

strategy is also highly recommended.

Strengthen research and development, and extension services. Continuing researches must be

pursued for all types of commodities especially for rice crops. In 2018, even with a relatively

good performance compared to other regions, rice production suffered the largest decline among

the commodities. Typhoons and monsoon rains hit the region while rice crops are mostly at their

vegetative and reproductive stages. The optimal use of mature technologies should be the focus

of extension services of the research institutions through technology transfer and doption..

Strengthen forward linkage with the manufacturing subsector. The region should strive to take

advantage of the region’s relatively higher agricultural production. Pushing for agribusiness

ventures require, among others, a strong linkage with the manufacturing sector. This should be

aligned with the commodities’ needed interventions as presented by the various commodity

roadmaps already prepared.

Recommendations



DA, BFAR, SUCs, LGUs,

DOST, Private Sector

Vulnerability to the adverse

effects of weather

disturbances

Intensify research and

development, and funding of

extension services for the adoption

of appropriate technologies.

DA, DTI , LGUs, Private

Sector

Weak linkage with the

manufacturing industry

National agencies to undertake

facilitation services to link farmers

and fisherfolks with prospective

industries, as well as open

opportunities for SMEs

engagement.


31

Chapter 5

Expanding Economic Opportunities in Industry and Services through

Trabaho and Negosyo

Abstract

The Industry and Services (I&S) sector remains steadfast to keep the region’s economy at a

continuing upward trend. Contributing largely was the industry sector registering a growth rate

of 11.9 percent due to improved performance in the construction, and gas, electricity and water

supply sub-industries. The services sector also grew steadily with 6.8 percent but short of the

RDP 2018 target of 6.9 percent.

The performance of the I&S sector was geared towards a robust and competitive industry and

services sector that would create more jobs and income as well as boost economic activities in

the region. This is important to realize the aspiration of attaining inequality-reducing

transformation or “Pagbabago” as presented in Figure 5 below.

Figure 5: Strategic framework to attain a robust and competitive in Industry and

Services sector


32

Accomplishments

Sub-sector Outcome 1: Industry and Services Growth Sustained

Industry sector grew by 11.9 percent surpassing its annual plan target of 7.9 percent (upper

limit). The overall GVA of the industry sector increased to Php 87.39 billion in 2018 from Php

78.10 billion in 2017. The sector drew its strength from the improved performance of the

construction, and gas, electricity and water supply sub-industries with a combined contribution

of 79.3 percent to the total GVA of the sector and with growth rates of 16.2 percent and 12.1

percent, respectively. Mining and quarrying also improved its performance with 8.5 percent

increase in 2018 from 4.3 percent in 2017. The growth of manufacturing, on the other hand,

slowed down with only 1.6 percent increase in 2018 from 5.4 percent in the previous year.

Construction sub-industry continues to register a double-digit growth rate. From 11.5 percent

growth rate in 2017, the construction sub-industry even performed better in 2018 with 16.2

percent growth rate. The total GVA in construction was estimated at Php 37.85 billion which

was attributed to the construction of residential buildings as well as commercial and institutional

buildings.

Services sector grew at a steady pace. The services sector recorded a growth rate of 6.8 percent,

slightly higher by 0.1 percent from 2017. This growth rate however, is short of the 2018 target of

6.9 percent (lower limit). This was due to the deceleration of the growth rate of majority of the

sector’s components, namely: transportation, storage and communication (3.7%), trade and

repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles, personal and household goods (5.0%), and real estate,

renting and business activities (5.1%)

Region 1’s economy was predominantly services-based. The services sector GVA continued to

be the largest contributor to the region’s economy as it accounted for 52.0 percent of the GRDP

in 2018. Furthermore, the sector’s share to the GRDP of the region has been constant in its

upward trend in the past eight years. In 2010, the GVA of the services sector accounted for 48.0

percent of the economy of the region.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Higher Productivity Achieved

Technology improvement and logistics facilitation for Micro, small and medium enterprises

(MSMEs) slightly increased. In 2018, 62 MSMEs were recipients of the Small Enterprise

Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) of the Department of Science and Technology

(DOST). This represents a slight increase by 1.7 percent from 61 MSMEs assisted in 2017. This

was also higher than the RDP target of 60 MSMEs to be assisted. A total of 23 MSMEs were

assisted in the province of Pangasinan, 15 in La Union, and 12 each in the provinces of Ilocos

Norte and Ilocos Sur. This continuing assistance provided by the DOST opens opportunities to

the MSMEs of Region 1 to improve their productivity and increase their income.


33

More TVET graduates were assessed and accredited. TESDA increased the number of assessed

and accredited TVET graduates in 2018 with a total of 96,456 and 86,635 graduates,

representing an increase from 2017 level by 12.5 percent and 9.6 percent, respectively.

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Access to Financing Enhanced

Loans granted increased. The total loans granted in 2018 reached Php 30.8 million, three times

the amount of loan granted in the previous year which was Php 10.0 million. This can be

attributed to the continuing advocacy activities in promoting access to formal lending

institutions, coupled with improved performances of the industry and services sectors.

However, the loans to deposit ratio in 2018 decreased by 0.4 percentage points from 2017 which

was at 24.5 percent. This indicates that although the amount of loans granted tripled, the increase

in total deposits was higher than the increase in loans. While 24.1 percent loans to deposit ratio

shows the liquidity of the banks, this ratio may also show the need to intensify loan availment to

increase banks’ income as well as to utilize these financial resources for capital formation.

Investments infused in the economy increased. The total generated investments in 2018 from

BOI-Approved Foreign and Local Investments, and Investments from Business Name

Registration and DTI-assisted SMEs amounted to Php 9.3 billion. This represents an increase by

14.9 percent from the previous year’s generated investments of Php 8.1 billion and also higher

by 24.4 percent than the 2018 target amounting to Php 7.5 billion. The 14.9 percent increase,

however, was lower compared to the growth rate of investments generated in 2017 which was

58.5 percent. The provinces of La Union and Pangasinan accounted for the bulk of the

investments generated amounting to Php 3.4 billion (36.2%) and Php 2.5 billion (26.6%),

respectively.

Sub-Sector Outcome 4: Access to Market Expanded

Amount of sales generated decreased. The total market sales generated by the region in 2018

amounted to Php 570.8 million or a decrease of 9.1 percent from 2017. The 2018 sales generated,

however, only represent the provinces of Ilocos Norte (Php 157.9 million), La Union (Php 40.1

million), and Pangasinan (Php 272.7 million) while the 2017 data only represents Ilocos Norte

(Php 163.3) and Ilocos Sur (Php 464.9). Nevertheless, the Department of Trade and Industry

(DTI) continued to expand the number of enterprises covered with the provision of necessary

marketing assistance. A total of 1,085 enterprises were assisted in 2018 compared to 616 in 2017

or a 76.1 percent increase.

Sub-Sector Outcome 5: Tourism Arrivals Sustained

More domestic tourist arrivals recorded in 2018. The number of tourist arrivals grew in 2018 but

at a much lower rate at 2.7 percent compared to its growth rate in 2017 which was 14.0 percent.

A total of 2,447,401 tourist visited the region where majority were domestic accounting for 96.6


34

percent or a total of 2,363,259. Among the four provinces, Pangasinan had the biggest share of

tourist arrivals at 32.4 percent, followed by Ilocos Norte and La Union with both 26.9 percent

and the remaining 13.8 percent belonged to Ilocos Sur.

Notwithstanding the slower growth of tourist arrivals in 2018, the improvement of the tourism

sector can be attributed to the continuous implementation of the DOT programs and projects in

the region. These includes accreditation of tourism-related facilities and services, conduct of

cultural festivals, provision of technical assistance to tourism industry manpower and LGUs.

Sub-Sector Outcome 6: Access to Tourism-related Services Enhanced

Tourism-related facilities and services accredited increased. The number of accredited tourism-

related facilities increased by 69.9 percent or a total of 836 in 2018 from 492 in 2017. This

accomplishment in 2018 surpassed the RDP target by 67.2 percent. Majority of the accredited

facilities and services were located in the provinces of Ilocos Norte and Pangasinan with 356 and

213, respectively. The significant increase in the number of accredited facilities made them more

attractive to domestic and foreign tourists.


Indicator Region/

Province


plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

GVA

Industry and

Services

Growth Rate

Region 1 PSA

Industry 6.4 6.6-7.9 6.8-8.4 7.2-8.4 11.9

Services 6.7 6.9-8.2 7.1-8.7 7.4-8.6 6.8

GVA

Industry and

Services

Percent

Share to

GRDP (at

constant

2000 prices)

Region 1 PSA

Industry 28.8 31.9 33.3 34.7 30.2

Services 51.8 50.5 50.2 49.9 52

Number of

MSMEs

provided

with

improved

Region 1 61 60 60 60 62 DOST

Ilocos

Norte

12 12 12 12 12

Ilocos

Sur

13 12 12 12 12


35

Indicator Region/

Province


plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

technology

and logistics

facilitated

La Union 12 12 12 12 15

Panga-

sinan

24 24 24 24 23

Number of

trainings and

technical

assistance

provided to

tourism

industry

manpower

and LGUs

Region 1 36 70 75 80 45 DOT

Number of

tourism-

related

facilities and

services

accredited

Region 1 492 500 525 550 836 DOT

Number of

TVET

graduates:

Region 1 TESDA

Assessed 85,741 81,297 81,297 81,297 96,456

Certified 79,032 69,102 69,102 69,102 86,635

Amount of

Investments

Generated (in

Php M)

Region 1 8,122.9 7,501.2 8,107.5 8,762.9 9,329.7 DTI

Ilocos

Norte

1,799.1 1,522.1 1,693.9 1,885.0 1,684.9

Ilocos Sur 1,724.4 1,752.4 1,780.9 1,809.8 1,786.0

La Union 1,722.1 2,214.8 2,848.5 3,663.5 3,380.8

Panga-

sinan

2,877.3 2,214.8 2,848.5 3,663.5 2,478.1

Amount of

Loans

Granted (in

Php M)

10.0 31.0 BSP

Loans to

Deposit

Ratio

Region 1 24.5 24.1 BSP

Ilocos

Norte

19.3 19.2


La Union 20.9 20.8

Panga- 26.1 26.4


36

Indicator Region/

Province


plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

sinan

Amount of

Sales

Generated (in

Php M)

Region 1 628.2 570.8 DTI

Ilocos

Norte

163.3 157.9

Ilocos Sur 464.9 -

La Union - 140.1

Panga-

sinan

- 272.7

Number of

enterprises

provided

with

marketing

assistance

Region 1 616

1,085 DTI

Visitor

Arrivals (in

thousands)

Region 1 2,383 2,764 3,260 3,757 2,447 DOT

Ilocos

Norte

637 731 840 948 659

Ilocos Sur 395 555 775 997 337

La Union 591 742 930 1,119 657

Panga-

sinan

759 737 715 694 794

Domestic

Tourists

Region 1 2,276 2,363

Foreign

Tourists

Region 1 105 84

Overseas

Filipinos

Region 1 2

Moving Forward

Strengthen the linkage of the industry sector and the AFF sector, through manufacturing. From

the four major sub-industries, manufacturing showed the slowest growth rate in 2018. With the

region’s capability to produce high volume of agri-fishery commodities, the manufacturing

industry can be mobilized to take advantage of this. Moreover, this strength of the region must be

well communicated with prospective investors including the MSMEs in the region.

Intensify investment promotion activities through the leadership of the Local Chief Executives

(LCEs). The potentials of the region particularly for agribusiness and tourism-related activities

must be aggressively pursued. Initial activities were undertaken to put all concerned institutions

and their investment promotion activities together through the Investment Promotions Group, a

technical working group under the Economic Development Sectoral Committee of the RDC.


37

The active participation and leadership of the LCEs of the four provinces is key to the realization

of boosting investment activities in the region.

Improve participation and market-access of enterprises. The success of the MSMEs depends on

their capacity to mainstream themselves into the major markets. Hence, improving access to

modern markets through trade fairs and expositions, and conduct of market matching and fishery

fora must be sustained.

Intensify promotion of existing and other potential tourism destinations of the region. There is a

need to intensify the promotion of tourism destinations in the region to sustain an upward growth

rate of tourist arrivals. Tourism facilities and services must be improved and maintained to meet

quality standards to attract more tourists and extend their stay in the region. Furthermore, the

region has potential for other tourism activities such as cruise tourism and agri-tourism that can

be developed.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency

Challenges Recommended Strategy

DTI, DA, Investment

Promotion Group,

Private Sector

Minimal contribution

of manufacturing to the

GVA of industry sector

Strengthen linkage with the AFF sector thru

intensified promotion of the region’s strategic

commodities as input to manufacturing.

DTI Decline in the amount

of sales generated

despite increase in the

number of enterprises

provided with

marketing assistance

Close monitoring of enterprise development

program to maximize the benefit of marketing

assistance provided

Continuing capability development on

entrepreneurial skills to MSMEs

DOT, PLGUs Slower growth rate of

tourist arrivals

Fastrack the formulation and implementation

of provincial tourism development plans to

include other potential tourism activities in

the region such as farm and cruise tourism.


38

Chapter 6

Accelerating Human Capital Development

Abstract

The region showed improving trends in human capital resulting from the increase in access to

quality social services. For the health sub-sector, the region recorded an improved maternal

health, increased facility based deliveries, decreased prevalence of stunting and wasting, and

higher Tuberculosis treatment success rate during the year. The continued and sustained

implementation of the Maternal, Newborn, Child Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) Program,

establishment of the Service Delivery Network (SDN), enhancement of health facilities, and

provision of Human Resource for Health (HRH) contributed in the improved performance of the

health sector of the region.

Access to basic education in secondary level, likewise, improved in 2018. However, there is a

need to focus on the socioeconomic conditions and psycho-social perspective of the students,

particularly the elementary level students as manifested by the decline in the net enrollment,

cohort survival and completion rates.

Access to affordable higher and technical vocational education also improved in 2018 which can

be attributed to the implementation of Republic Act 10931 or the ‘Universal Access to Quality

Tertiary Education Act’ which provides free tuition and other school fees in state and local

universities and colleges, and technical-vocational institutions. Higher rates in tertiary level

enrollment and graduates were also recorded in 2018 as well as increases in TVET enrollees,

graduates, assessed and certified.

Figure 6: Strategic framework to accelerate human capital development


39

Accomplishments

Sector Outcome A: Healthy and educated population achieved

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Access to Health Services Improved

Maternal health indicators improved in 2018 through the establishment of the Service Delivery

Network (SDN), continued implementation of the Health Facilities Enhancement Program

(HFEP), and Health Human Resource (HRH) deployment, among others. Maternal Mortality

further declined to 51.6 per 100,000 live births during the year, better than the target of 52

maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. This can also be attributed to the 99.5 percent facility-

based deliveries in the region in 2018 as part of the continued implementation of the Maternal,

Newborn, Child Health and Nutrition (MNCHN) strategy. On the proportion of mothers with

four or more ante natal care, it declined by 2.1 percentage points from 58.3 in 2017 to 56.2 in

2018 but still way below the plan target of 98.7 percent.

On the other hand, Infant and Under-five Mortality Rates increased in 2018. Infant mortality rate

increased from 4.7 percent in 2017 to 6.4 percent in 2018 while under-five mortality rate

increased from 7.9 percent to 8.8 percent. Both indicators, likewise, did not attain the plan targets

for the year. The underperformance in infant and child health indicators can be attributed to the

further decline in the full immunization coverage of children in the region, from 68.1 to 66.2

percent, mainly due to the Dengvaxia Scare.

In terms of children’s nutritional status, the prevalence of underweight and overweight among

children under five years old slightly increased in 2018 by 0.08 and 0.03 percentage points,

respectively. On the other hand, the prevalence of stunting and wasting among children in the

region declined in 2018. Despite this, the region still fell short in meeting the plan targets for the

prevalence of all types of malnutrition. Among the provinces, the province of Ilocos Norte had

the highest prevalence for the underweight, stunting and wasting among children, while the

province of Ilocos Sur had the highest prevalence of combined overweight and obese. Hence, the

region must implement all the strategies in the Regional Plan of Action on Nutrition (RPAN) to

improve the malnutrition status of children.

Meanwhile, for tuberculosis treatment, the region recorded 76.6 percent treatment coverage in

2018, slightly lower than the 77.5 percent treatment coverage in 2017. Despite the slight decline,

the region was still able to attain its 65 percent annual target. Similarly, the tuberculosis

treatment success rate was maintained at 95 percent, even higher than the 92 percent annual plan

target. With this accomplishment, the region must continue to implement the TB control program

to sustain its high performance.


40

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Universal Quality Basic Education Achieved

For elementary education, the elementary net enrollment rate (NER) continued to decline by 0.7

percentage points from 93.2 percent in SY2017-2018 to 92.5 percent in SY2018-2019. Cohort

survival and completion rates, likewise, declined in SY2018-2019 by 0.8 and 2.3 percentage

points. The declines were brought about by socioeconomic conditions, illness, indifference of

parents, and psycho-social perspective of the learners in attending school.

In terms of secondary education, the net enrollment rate and cohort survival rate improved for

SY 2018-2019 but the completion rate was lower by 0.3 percentage points for the school year.

The reasons for the decline in the completion rate for both elementary and secondary were

attributed to child labor, insufficient family income to send children to school, distance between

home and school, and bullying, among others. Hence, despite the increasing number of schools

in the region (2,909 for elementary and 946 for secondary), there is still a need to intensify

interventions to reach out to the out-of-school youths and convince the students to finish their

schooling.

Sector Outcome B: Highly skilled and globally competitive workforce achieved

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Access to Quality and Affordable Higher Education Improved

For tertiary education, enrolment rate rose by 2.9 percent for both male and female enrollees

from 114,793 in SY 2016-2017 to 118,152 in SY 2017-2018. Females recorded higher enrolment

with 62,153 compared to males with only 55,999. For the graduate rate, the region produced

31,817 graduates in SY 2017-2018, again higher compared to the 26,365 level in SY 2016-2017.

Still, more female graduates were recorded in the region. Moreover, both the total enrollees and

graduates in the region even exceeded the plan target for the school year.

The improved performance in tertiary education for the year can be attributed to the

implementation of Republic Act 10931 or the ‘Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education

Act’ which provides free tuition and other school fees in state and local universities and colleges,

and technical-vocational institutions.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Access to Industry-Driven Skills Training Improved

In terms of technical-vocational education, the total TVET enrollees in the region increased from

153,146 in 2017 to 180,723 in 2018, thus recording 18.0 percent increase and even exceeding the

plan target by 19.6 percent. Moreover, there were more female TVET enrollees in the region

than male during the year. Among the provinces, Pangasinan recorded the highest TVET

enrollees at 83,189, followed by the province of Ilocos Norte at 45,668. Meanwhile, the province

of La Union recorded the lowest number of enrollees for the year at 24,622.

Out of the 180,723 total TVET enrollees in the region, there were 171,787 who graduated in

2018, recording 95.1 percent graduation rate. This figure represented an increase of 18.3 percent


41

from the level during the previous year and exceeded the annual plan target of 146,971 graduates

per year.

The number of assessed and certified TVET graduates, likewise, continue to increase in 2018 at

96,456 and 86,635, respectively. The figures also exceeded the annual plan targets for the year.

By sex, there were more female TVET graduates assessed and certified in the region. Among

provinces, Pangasinan still recorded the most number of assessed and certified TVET graduates.

It was followed by Ilocos Norte, La Union and Ilocos Sur.

The increasing TVET enrollees, graduates, assessed and certified in the region can be attributed

to the continued implementation of TESDA scholarship programs like Private Education Student

Financial Assistance (PESFA) and Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).


Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Prevalence of

malnutrition

among

children

under 5 years

old

Region 1 NNC

Under-

weight

2.4 2.1 1.7 1.5 2.5

Stunting 5.9 4.7 3.8 3.0 5.0

Wasting 2.4 1.9 1.9 1.3 2.2

Overweight 2.6 2.5 2.5 2.4 2.6

Male 1.3

Female 1.2

Ilocos

Norte

4.5

Ilocos

Sur

2.9

La Union 3.4

Panga-

sinan

1.8

Proportion of

fully

immunized

children

Region 1 68.1 66.2 DOH

Male 35.4 95.0 95.0 95.0 49.2

Female 32.7 45.7


42

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Ilocos

Norte

66.9 65.5

Ilocos

Sur

73.5 72.0

La Union 56.9 52.3

Panga-

sinan

70.2 69.1

Maternal

Mortality

Rate

Region 1 58.1 49.0 46.5 44.3 51.6 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

41.4 31.8

Ilocos

Sur

34.6 9.1

La Union 91.3 115.5

Panga-

sinan

63.2 52.2

Infant

Mortality

Rate

Region 1 4.7 3.9 3.2 2.6 6.4 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

3.5

Ilocos

Sur

2.3

La Union 10.7

Panga-

sinan

6.5

Under-Five

Mortality

Rate

Region 1 7.9 8.8 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

4.7

Ilocos

Sur

3.2

La Union 16.3

Panga-

sinan

8.4

Percentage of

facility based

deliveries

Region 1 98.7 99.8 99.8 100.0 99.5 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

100.0

Ilocos

Sur

99.8

La Union 99.7

Panga-

sinan

99.4


43

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Proportion of

mothers with

4 or more

ante natal

care

Region 1 58.3 98.7 98.8 98.8 56.2 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

56.1

Ilocos

Sur

62.1

La Union 44.9

Panga-

sinan

57.4

TB

Treatment

Success Rate

Region 1 94.3 95.0 95.0 95.0 93.6 DOH

Ilocos

Norte

92.8 92.1

Ilocos

Sur

93.5 94.1

La Union 93.1 92.2

Panga-

sinan

95.2 95.8

Net

Enrolment

Rate

Region 1 DepEd

Elementary 93.2 97.2 97.7 98.3 92.5

Secondary 80.1 86.5 87.0 87.5 85.7

Cohort

Survival Rate

Region 1 DepEd

Elementary 98.7 100.0 100.0 100.0 97.9

Secondary 89.2 99.5 99.8 100.0 89.7

Completion

Rate

Region 1 DepEd

Elementary 97.8 99.5 100.0 100.0 95.5

Secondary 88.2 92.0 97.0 98.0 87.9

Number of

schools

Region 1 DepEd

Elementary 2,886 2,909

Secondary 917 946

Gender

Parity Index

Region 1 DepEd

Elementary 1.0 0.9

Secondary 1.1 0.9

Tertiary

Education

Region 1 114,793 144,306 181,407 228,047 118,152 CHED


44

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Enrollment

Male 52,596 55,999

Female 62,197 62,153

Tertiary

Education

Graduates

Region 1 26,365 28,603 31,032 33,666 31,817 CHED

Male 10,419 13,044

Female 15,946 18,773

Ratio of

Male and

Female

Region 1 1.2 1.1 CHED

Number of

TVET

Enrollees

Region 1 153,146 151,109

151,109 151,109 180,723 TESDA

Male 62,983 90,361

Female 90,163 90,362

Ilocos

Norte

33,460 45,668

Ilocos

Sur

24,080 27,244

La Union 19,845 24,622

Panga-

sinan

75,761 83,189

Number of

TVET

Graduates

Region 1 145,216 146,971 146,971 146,971 171,787 TESDA

Male 58,898 85,959

Female 86,318 85,828

Ilocos

Norte

30,548 45,902

Ilocos

Sur

22,517 27,805

La Union 18,914 20,498

Panga-

sinan

72,237 77,582

Number of

assessed

TVET

Graduates

Region 1 85,741 81,297 81,297 81,297 96,456 TESDA


45

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Male 42,197 46,644

Female 43,544 49,812 TESDA

Ilocos

Norte

16,423 14,377

Ilocos

Sur

14,884 13,297

La Union 10,281 14,391

Panga-

sinan

44,153 54,391

Number of

Certified

TVET

Graduates

Region 1 79,032 69,102 69,102 69,102 86,635 TESDA

Male 38,387 40,879

Female 40,645 45,756

Ilocos

Norte

8,392 13,455

Ilocos

Sur

6,793 12,214

La Union 3,500 12,474

Panga-

sinan

21,960 48,492

Number of

TESDA

Scholarship

Beneficiaries

Region 1 TESDA

PESFA 220 889 889 889 921

TWSP 18,602 6,764 6,764 6,764 17,241

Employment

Rate Region 1

91.10 91.6 92.1 9.5 93.2 PSA

Under-

employment

Rate

Region 1

19.9 18.7 17.5 16.3 22.1 PSA

Un-

employment

Rate

Region 1

8.9 8.4 8.0 7.5 6.8 PSA

Moving Forward


46

Improving the health and nutrition status in the region should be prioritized in the region.

Strategies to improve access to health services should be sustained. Likewise, intensive advocacy

and information and education campaign (IEC), surveillance activities, mobilization/deployment

of health workers to far flung areas as well as implementation of other interventions should be

sustained.

Some improvements in the education sector for the year can be attributed to the recent laws and

policies made to improve the access to education. Hence, the provision of government subsidy to

tuition and other school fees as well as the provision of scholarship grants, construction of social

infrastructure facilities should be sustained as it is vital in improving the access to quality and

affordable education.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency


LGUs,

DepEd/Schools,

NNC, DOH,

RNPET

member

agencies, PIA,

NGOs/media

The prevalence of

underweight and

overweight among children

under five years old

slightly increased in 2018

and the region was not able

to meet the targets in

improving the malnutrition

status of children.

Strengthen nutrition advocacy efforts on

nutrition information and existing laws

through various communication channels/

mechanisms

Strengthen multi-sectoral coordination

Continue implementation of PPAs identified

in the RPAN 2017-2022

Integrate nutrition education and local food

production

Promote appropriate diets and healthy

lifestyles

Periodic weighing and height monitoring of

school children

LGUs,

DepEd/Schools,

DOH, Health

care providers,

PIA,

NGOs/media,

Low immunization

coverage

Expand reach of immunization coverage to

GIDAs

Implementation of mobilization and

motivation strategies to lessen immunization

shock

Intensify mass media and other health

networks


47

Implementing

Agency


Continue school-based immunization

Intensive advocacy to parents during “Brigada

Eskwela”

DepEd,

Education Sub-

Committee,

Research and

Development

Consortia, HEIs

Decline in elementary

cohort survival and

elementary and secondary

completion rate

Continue implementation of the HSM, if

effective

Research and Development on cohort survival

Forge partnership with civic organizations for

the provision of education assistance to

learners


48

Chapter 7

Reducing Vulnerability of Individual and Families

Abstract

The protection of individuals and families and reducing their vulnerabilities has always been a

priority in the region. In 2018, the region continued to provide social insurance coverage for the

poor, vulnerable and marginalized. Indigent senior citizens who were provided with social

pension significantly increased by 207.06 percent or an additional 249,843 senior citizens were

served during the year. The social pension for indigent senior citizens augmented their daily

subsistence as well as their medical needs. There was also an increase number of beneficiaries of

the sustainable livelihood program during the year, specifically under the microenterprise

development.

During the 1st semester of 2018, the region’s poverty situation improved and all its four

provinces recorded decreases in poverty incidence among families and among individuals. This

can be attributed to the government’s efforts toward human capital development to fight poverty

and reduce inequality. Specifically, the social protection initiatives like the expansion of the

coverage of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and establishing social protection floor. In

addition, the employment situation in the region, likewise, improved and there were also several

wage adjustments implemented that helped improve the living conditions of the minimum wage

earners in the region. The increasing tourist arrivals may have also contributed to the increased

income of families as it provided more opportunities for employment and entrepreneurial

activity. Nevertheless, the government must continue to implement strategies to reach vulnerable

groups and reduce their vulnerabilities and increase their resiliency.

Figure 7: Strategic framework to reduce vulnerability of individuals and families


49

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Social Insurance Coverage for the Poor, Vulnerable and marginalized

achieved

The number of senior citizens served through the social pension for Indigent Senior Citizens

Program significantly increased by 207.06 percent from 120,659 senior citizens in 2017 to

370,502 senior citizens served in 2018. The increased number of indigent senior citizen

beneficiaries can be attributed to the lowering of the age qualification of senior citizens from 65

to 60 years old which started in 2017. Hence, lowering the age of qualification of the

beneficiaries will cater to more indigent senior citizens ably provided with daily subsistence and

medical needs.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Access to quality and empowering social welfare and safety nets

improved

In 2018, there was a 224 percent increase in the number of men and women assisted in

microenterprise development in the region which indicates an increasing number of beneficiaries

under the Sustainable Livelihood Program that can be future entrepreneurs.

On the number of families provided with disaster relief assistance, there were a total of 171,008

beneficiaries recorded in 2018, higher from the 5,733 families in 2017. This was mainly due to

the increased typhoons and weather disturbances that hit the region during the year. The same

trend was also recorded on the number of clients served in residential and nonresidential care

facilities which increased to more than 200 percent. These clients were victims of the monsoon

rains and the typhoons. Hence, the government must implement strategies to build resiliency of

families especially the poor, vulnerable and marginalized ones.

On the other hand, the region’s poverty situation improved over the last three years from the 1st

semester of 2015 to the 1st semester of 2018. All four provinces of the region also recorded

decreases in poverty incidence among families and among population.

Poverty among families in the region declined from 20.4 percent in the 1st semester of 2015 to

only 8.7 percent in the same period of 2018, or a drop of 11.7 percentage points. Likewise, the

poverty incidence among population decreased from 25.8 percent in the 1st semester of 2015 to

11.8 percent in the 1st semester of 2018, or an improvement of 14.0 percentage points. The

region’s poverty situation is better than the national figures of 16.1 percent among families and

21.0 percent among individuals for the period. The decreased poverty incidence in the Region

and its provinces can be attributed to the government’s efforts toward human capital

development to fight poverty and reduce inequality. Specifically, the social protection initiatives

like the expansion of the coverage of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and establishing

social protection floor contributed to the improvement of the region’s poverty situation.

In addition, the employment situation in the region improved during the period and there were

also several wage adjustments implemented that helped improve the living conditions of the

minimum wage earners in the region.


50

The general improvement in the economy and the increasing tourist arrivals may have also

contributed to the increased income of families as it provided more opportunities for

employment and entrepreneurial activity.


Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

Senior

Citizens

served

through the

Social

Pension for

Indigent

Senior

Citizens

Program

Region 1 120,659 370,502 DSWD

Poverty

Incidence

among

families

Region 1 9.6

(2015)

8.7

(1st Sem 2018)

PSA

Ilocos

Norte

3.3

(2015)

5.5

(1st Sem 2018)

Ilocos

Sur

9.5

(2015)

8.8

(1st Sem 2018)

La Union 9.2

(2015)

3.7

(1st Sem 2018)

Panga-

sinan

11.2

(2015)

10.5

(1st Sem 2018)

Percent

coverage of

4Ps

beneficiaries

Region 1 99.3 100 100 100 DSWD

Increased

number of

4Ps families

moved up to

self-

sufficiency

level

Region 1 No

SWDI

assess-

ment

conduc-

ted

DSWD

Number of

men and

women

Region 1 4,876 15,804 DSWD


51

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

engaged in

micro-

enterprise

develop-

ment

Number of

men and

women

engaged in

employment

facilitation

activities

Region 1 1,452 646 DSWD

Number of

PWD m/w

assisted in

AVRC

Region 1 DSWD

Number of

children/

youth served

in RRCY

Region 1 DSWD

Number of

girls served

in HFG

Region 1 DSWD

Number of

women

children

served in

HFW

Region 1 DSWD

Number of

children

served in

HFC

Region 1 DSWD

Number of

children

served in

community

based

services

Region 1 1,594 DSWD

Number of

households

that

Region 1 955 DSWD


52

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

benefitted

from the

completed

KC-NCDDP

sub-projects

Number of

victims-

survivors

served

through the

RRPTP

Region 1 5,979 DSWD

Number of

CFW for

CCA

beneficiaries

Region 1 13,006 DSWD

Number of

families

provided

with disaster

relief

assistance

Region 1 5,733 171,008 DSWD

Number of

out-of-school

youth served

Region 1 5,939 DSWD

Number of

women in

especially

difficult

circums-

tances served


Number of

clients served

in residential

and non-

residential

care facilities

Region 1 521 1,508 DSWD

Number of

children

placed for

alternative

care

Region 1 25 DSWD


53

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

trafficked

persons

provided

with social

welfare

services

Region 1 55 DSWD

Number of

clients served

through

assistance to

individuals in

crisis

situation


Moving Forward

Reducing vulnerabilities of individuals and families has always been a challenge. Many

interventions have been sustained in 2018 which includes expanding the reach to vulnerable

groups. The National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHT-0PR) or

Listahanan III will pave the way to provide information to national government agencies,

development partners and other social protection groups on the identification and selection of

potential beneficiaries for various poverty alleviation and social protection programs. The result

of the Listahanan III will serve as basis for policy formulation and planning activities aimed at

improving the living conditions of the poor and vulnerable individuals and families.

Micro and area-based schemes or interventions to address vulnerability at the community level

should also be strengthened. Disaster preparedness among the communities should be intensified

to build resiliency of individuals and families in times of disasters or calamities.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency


LGUs,

barangays,

RDRRMC,

P/C/MDRRMC,

DILG

There is a need to reduce

the vulnerability of

individuals and families

during disasters

Strengthen families/ individuals’ capacity on

disaster preparedness and increase their

resiliency


54

Chapter 8

Building Safe and Secure Communities

Abstract

In 2018, the growing housing need remains a concern in the region as the demand for housing

continue to increase over the years due to urbanization, population growth and dilapidation of

existing housing units. There was also a recorded decline in the number of beneficiaries provided

with housing and shelter assistance for the year. Hence, there is a need to converge or harmonize

the interventions in the region for more concerted efforts in the delivery of services to target

beneficiaries. A comprehensive housing roadmap therefore is necessary to solve the housing

backlogs and address future housing needs in the region.

Figure 8: Strategic framework to build safe and secure communities


55

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome: Improved Access to Affordable, Disaster Resilient and Climate Change

Adaptive Housing

The number of housing need in the region has been estimated to 323,246 dwelling units in 2018

which is accounted for by housing backlogs (163,326) and projected future housing needs due to

population growth (159,920). The housing backlogs were composed of double-up, displaced and

homeless households in the region.

To address the shelter needs, LGUs need to implement their mandate on shelter development as

embodied in the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160) and the Urban Development and

Housing Act of 1992 (RA 7279). Hence, LGUs need to formulate their Local Shelter Plan (LSP)

which is comprised of the analysis of their current local housing situation, their available

resources vis-à-vis the resource requirements and their corresponding shelter strategies and

implementation plan to address the housing needs identified. In 2018, all 125 municipalities and

cities in the region have already prepared their draft Local Shelter Plan (LSP). Moreover, out of

the 125 LGUs, 40 of them have already finalized their plans.

Moreover, a total of 114 Informal Settler-Families (ISF) in 2018 were able to acquire land

ownership and shelter security by Presidential Proclamation or by virtue of EO 48, “Declaring

non-core properties of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) as socialized housing sites and

providing for the disposition of the same to bona-fide occupants.” However, the number of ISF

recipients for the year was lower compared with the 341 ISFs assisted in 2017 and below the

target of 184 ISF beneficiaries in 2018.

In terms of the provision of shelter/housing assistance, there were only 275 beneficiaries

provided in 2018 under the Resettlement Assistance Program or 36.36 percent of the 375

beneficiaries targeted for the year. This was also a 78.07 percent reduction from the 1,254

beneficiaries provided in 2017. The decline was brought about by the on-going land development

of the identified sites and the beneficiaries were based on the masterlist intended for the

developed lots with core shelter allocation by the National Housing Authority (NHA). Likewise,

the number of households provided under the Housing Material Assistance Program declined by

20.92 percent, from 961 households in 2017 to 760 households in 2018.

On the housing program for AFP and PNP, a total of 2,724 housing units were awarded to

qualified AFP/PNP personnel in 2018. The housing assistance only reached 72.33 percent

accomplishment rate from the target of 3,766 housing units for the year. The housing units were

distributed as follows: Pangasinan (1,498 units) and La Union (1,226 units). The non-attainment

of the 2018 target was due to the on-going finalization of the masterlist of beneficiaries with

Loan Apportionment (MBLA) for disposition to awardees.

In 2018, the HDMF released 533 housing loans. This was again a decline of 25.25 percent from

the 713 housing loans released in 2017. Corollary, the amount of loan takeout for housing

purposes was recorded at P613.182 million, a decrease of P395.778 million from the loan

takeout in 2017. Both the amount of loan takeout and number of housing loans released fell short


56

of the 2018 targets because of the limited number of borrowers for housing purposes during the

period. The increased cost of the construction of socialized housing also increased with the

purpose of improving the quality of the housing units as part of making the communities resilient

to disasters.


Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Total

Housing

Need

Region 1 323,136 323,246

HUDCC

Number of

LGUs with

Local

Shelter

Plan (LSP)

Region 1 125 125

Number of

LGUs with

approved

LSP

Region 1 40

Ilocos

Norte

5

Ilocos

Sur

14

La Union 12

Panga-

sinan

39 9

Number of

LGUs with

draft LSP

Region 1 125

HUDCC

Ilocos

Norte

23

Ilocos

Sur

34

La Union 20

Panga-

sinan

48

Number of

informal

settler

families

(ISF)

provided

with secure

tenuew

through

EO 48/PP

Region 1 367 184 114

HUDCC

Ilocos

Norte

300

Ilocos

Sur

La Union 500

Panga-

sinan

367 400 300 114


57

Indicator Region/

Province


ments Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Amount of

loan

takeout for

housing

purposes

(Php)

Region 1

1,009.0

B

783.1

M

1,356.7

B 613.2 M HDMF

Number of

housing

units

Region 1

713 884 866 533 HDMF

Number of

households

provided

with social

housing

assistance

Region 1

Resettle-

ment

Assis-

tance

Program

1,254 375 275 NHA

Housing

Material

Assis-

tance

Program

961 760 NHA

AFP/PNP

Housing

Region 1 3,766 2,724

NHA

Ilocos

Norte

Ilocos

Sur

La Union 1,226

Panga-

sinan

1,498


58

Moving Forward

The creation of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) as the

primary national government entity responsible for the management of housing, human

settlement and urban development will pave the way to ensure that the underprivileged and

homeless citizens have access to an adequate, safe, secure, habitable, sustainable, resilient and

affordable home.

The monitoring and evaluation of the RDC’s policy on expanding the functions of the Local

Housing Boards in the cities/municipalities with HUDCC as the lead monitoring entity is

believed to contribute to the provision of decent, affordable, disaster-resilient and climate change

adaptive shelter with adequate facilities in keeping with the national shelter program dubbed as

BALAI (Building Adequate, Livable, Affordable and Inclusive Filipino Communities).

The housing comprehensive housing roadmap should be laid out to solve housing backlogs and

address housing needs in the region.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency


HUDCC,

HLURB,

KSAs, LGUs

Increasing housing backlog

in the region

Intensify implementation of alternatives and

innovative solutions in addressing the housing

needs of the lower income classes and

vulnerable sector.

Strengthen decentralization of housing and

urban development interventions.

Adopt viable land acquisition approaches and

fast-track the inventory of lands for socialized

housing development.

Formulate a comprehensive housing roadmap

to solve the housing backlogs and address

future housing needs in the region.


59

Part IV

Increasing Growth Potential “Patuloy na Pag-Unlad”


60

Chapter 9

Reaching for the Demographic Dividend

Abstract

The total and adolescent fertility rates in the region were declining. Moreover, the use of family

planning methods, particularly modern methods was already increasing. However, the increasing

adolescent birth rate or the incidence of teenage pregnancy still remains to be a major concern in

the region. The region will benefit from the passage of the Adolescent Pregnancy Act of 2017

(Senate Bill 1888 and House Bill 4742) that will provide a national policy to prevent teenage

pregnancies, institutionalize social protection for teenage parents, and recognize and promote the

responsibility of the State to create and sustain an enabling environment for adolescents.

Figure 9: Strategic framework to reach for demographic dividend


61

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1 & 2: Improved access to adolescent reproductive health service and

responsive family planning and reproductive health information and services achieved

Based on the latest result of the National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS), the total fertility

rate in Ilocos Region was recorded at 2.6 per woman. This was lower by 0.2 percentage points

from the previous NDHS survey results and slightly lower than the national fertility rate of 2.7.

The adolescent fertility rate in the region or the percentage of women ages 15-19 years old who

already begun childbearing or are currently pregnant was also recorded at 13.2 percent. This was

higher than the 8.6 percent recorded figure at the national level. The region also ranked 4th

among the regions with the highest adolescent fertility rates.

In 2018, the adolescent birth rate or incidence of teenage pregnancy continued to rise and was

recorded at 18.8 percent, higher that the 17.9 percent figure in 2017. This can be translated to an

increase of 629 live births from the adolescent population ages 10-19 years old. The increasing

youth who have engaged in premarital sex can be the primary reason behind this. Among the

provinces, Pangasinan recorded the highest adolescent birth rate at 23.0 percent. This was

followed by Ilocos Norte at 13.1 percent and La Union at 12.8 percent. On the other hand, Ilocos

Sur recorded the lowest adolescent birth rate at 11.1 percent. With this statistics, the region needs

to continue implementing the Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) program to enable

adolescents aged 10-19 years old to prevent early and repeated pregnancies. Moreover, the

region must also continue setting-up an effective information and delivery network (ISDN)

among institutions to offer core packages of health care services in an integrated and coordinated

manner.

Likewise, the region must continue setting-up functional and sustainable teen centers in every

city and municipality to create an enabling and friendly environment that would link information

and service delivery interventions for adolescents and youth in a multi-sectoral and interagency

approach. This will improve the access of adolescents and youth to appropriate reproductive

health information and services.

In terms of family planning, the use of contraception significantly increased among married

women in the region ages 15-49 years old. Based on the NDHS survey, 60 percent of women

(ages 15-49) were already using contraception or family planning method and 44 percent of

women were already using modern contraception. Consequently, the unmet need for family

planning or the percentage of women in the region who do not want any more children (limiting)

or want to delay birth of next child (spacing), but are not using any method of contraception also

decreased by 5.6 percentage points. This means that more women are now open to the use of

modern contraception or family planning method.


62

Table 9.1: Chapter 9 Results Matrix Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Reporting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Contracep-

tive

Prevalence

Rate

Region 1 67.2 65 65 65 71.7 POPCOM

Ilocos Norte 64.6 65 65 65 68.57

Ilocos Sur 77.3 65 65 65 79.2

La Union 68.3 65 65 65 72.5

Pangasinan 67.9 65 65 65 73.5

Incidence of

teenage

Pregnancy

Region 1 17.9 17.5 17.2 18.8 POPCOM

Ilocos Norte 15.1 14.8 14.4 13.1

Ilocos Sur 14.9 14.6 14.3 11.1

La Union 18.4 18.1 17.7 12.8

Pangasinan 18.9 18.5 18.1 23.0

Moving Forward

Recognizing the critical role of population and development in socio-economic development in

the country, the implementation of the National Program on Family Planning (NPFP) towards

better health outcomes, poverty reduction and socio-economic development will be intensified.

Likewise, the implementation of the Reproductive Parenthood and Reproductive health (RPRH)

Law to ensure the universal access to sexual and reproductive health services will be a key to

address fertility and unplanned pregnancies and births.


63

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency


DOH,

POPCOM,

LGUs, PIA,

other

stakeholders

Increasing adolescent birth

rate

Implementation and adoption of the

Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in

in schools and in alternative learning systems

(communities) using interactive and peer-to-

peer communication strategies; and supporting

the Adolescent Pregnancy Act of 2017 (Senate

Bill 1888 and House Bill 4742) that will

provide national policy to prevent teenage

pregnancies, institutionalize social protection

for teenage parents, and recognize and

promote the responsibility of the State to

create and sustain an enabling environment for

adolescents.


64

Chapter 10

Vigorously Advancing Science, Technology and Innovation

Abstract

This chapter continues to be a vital foundation for future economic development ensuring rapid

adoption and promotion of new technologies in the region. The promotion of science and

technology to enhance innovation towards self-sustaining and inclusive development has been

given emphasis by the present administration as a fundamental component of its 0-10 point

Socio-Economic Agenda.

Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) plays an important role in achieving the overall

national goal of establishing the foundation for inclusive growth, a high-trust and resilient

society and a globally competitive knowledge economy. The sub-chapter outcomes are: (1) new

technologies/innovation adopted and promoted; and (2) innovation capacities improved.

Figure 10: Strategic framework to vigorously advance Science, Technology and Innovation


65

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: New Technologies/ Innovation Adopted and Promoted

Although the government continues its effort in providing support for accelerating transfer and

commercialization of technologies generated, the region reported only a total of 24 technology

units generated in 2018. This was 53 units lower than the recorded accomplishment in 2017. This

decrease in the number of technologies generated was mainly due to the lack of research and

development (R&D) engagement among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and R&D

agencies.

There were a total of 55 technologies commercialized and adopted for 2018 in contrast with only

20 in 2017. These technologies available were promoted to various businessmen and investors in

the region to provide a more conducive and better enabling partnership between the government

and the private sector.

The government was able to sustain its efforts in advocating new technologies and innovation in

the region. A total of 62 MSMEs were provided with technology and interventions in 2018, a

notch higher than the reported accomplishment in 2017. The interventions still include

equipment upgrading, training, product packaging and labeling, technical assistance, consultancy

services and product testing.

The implementation of government-initiated technology transfer programs such as the SETUP of

the DOST is continuously being pursued. As its flagship program, DOST RO1 was able to assist

41 MSMEs through SETUP in 2018. This figure surpassed the 2018 RDP target by five notches.

The challenge of building up and enhancing the intellectual property landscape in the region is

also a priority under STI. The region has registered 15 patents, utility models and industrial

designs to the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) in 2018. This recorded figure was far way lower

than the previously reported figure in 2017 equivalent to 41 patents, utility models and industrial

designs registered to IPO. Moreover, the region has established five collaborations with agri-

fishery cooperative and business organizations in 2018 which was relatively lower compared to

the number of collaborations generated in 2017.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Innovation Capacities Improved

As a means to harness the region’s scientific and technological capabilities, the Grants-In-Aid

(GIA) Program of DOST RO1 continues to provide funding to relevant science and technology

undertakings. The GIA program aims to strengthen science and technology collaboration,

technology transfer and utilization, human resource development, information dissemination, and

linkages among various stakeholders in the region. A total of 21 projects were implemented in

2018 under the GIA program, which was slightly lower than the accomplishment report of 25

projects in 2017. Among the provinces in the region, only Pangasinan fell short of its target in

2018.


66

The CY 2018 budgetary allotment of 55.8 million for R&D tremendously decreased to 25.5

million or more than half of its approved budget for 2017. The decrease was mainly due to the

decline in the number of R&D programs and projects, and low prioritization on R&D among

SUCs and research agencies. Moreover, the number of scientific articles published dropped from

41 to 25 articles in 2018.

On another note, the government was able to create one patent for 2018 as part of the innovation

capacities in the region. It has also established and strengthened STI with seven newly instituted

R&D Centers and hubs. As such, five collaborations were done between the SUCs and the

private sector making it more conducive for private sector investments in the academe.

Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

technology

generated

Region 1 77 77 77 77 24 DOST

Number of

technology

commercialized/

adopted

Region 1 20 20 20 20 55 DOST

Number of

MSMEs

provided with

technology and

interventions

Region 1 61 61 61 61 62 DOST

SETUP

(Core)

Region 1

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

La Union

Pangasinan

36

7

7

8

14

35

7

7

7

14

35

7

7

7

14

35

7

7

7

14

41

8

7

10

16

GIA (Non-

Core)

Region 1

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

La Union

Pangasinan

25

5

5

5

10

25

5

5

5

10

25

5

5

5

10

25

5

5

5

10

21

4

5

5

7

Number of

patents, utility

model and

industrial design

registered with

IPO

Region 1 41 29 29 29 15 DOST



67

Moving Forward

The government will continue to strengthen support for spin-offs, start-ups and MSMEs and, to

prioritize the advocacy and promotion of new technologies. Intensifying support to MSMEs by

providing platforms for technology commercialization, technology business incubators,

consultancy services, and financial support will encourage smarter and more productive MSMEs.

Likewise, the SETUP will continue to provide MSMEs access to government assistance such as

innovative and cost-effective facilities, technology upgrading and equipment acquisition,

technical support in conformance with product and quality standards, packaging and labeling, as

well as technology training and technical consultancy services.

Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

collaboration

with agri-fishery

cooperative and

business

organizations

established

Region 1 10 10 10 10 5 DOST

Number of

patents,

inventions and

industrial design

Region 1 41 41 41 1 DOST

Budget in R&D

(Thousand Php)

Region 1 55,758 55,758 55,758 55,758 25,524 DOST

Number of

scientific articles

published

Region 1 41 41 41 41 25 DOST

Number of

Balik-Scientist

deployed

Region 1 1 1 1 1 DOST

Number of R&D

Centers and

innovation hubs

established/stren

gthened

Region 1 1 1 1 1 8 DOST

Number of

collaboration

between SUC-

industry-

government

established

Region 1 3 3 3 3 5 DOST


68

In order to address the low prioritization on R&D, the government will look into the possibility

of increasing funding for human resource development. Increasing the number and quality of

researchers, scientists, and engineers is an important strategy for the establishment of a vibrant

STI ecosystem. Provision of continuous support and funding for ongoing S&T scholarships will

be strengthened to encourage students to pursue tracks in Science, Technology, Engineering,

Agriculture, and Mathematics (STEAM). Student Financial Assistance Programs will be used to

steer more scholars and enrollees to get into STEAM strands.

Likewise, strengthening the coordination among the academe, industry and the government on

R&D will still be continued. Private sector participation in the research prioritization in various

consortia will also be encouraged to guarantee the relevance and usefulness of research

generated products and outputs to their intended end-users.

Recommendations


Implementing

Agency


DOST, CHED

and SUCs

Low involvement of researchers in

SUCs and research agencies on

R&D due to limited research

grants and stipends

Increase funding for grants and

stipends for researchers both in the

academe and the government.

Strengthen implementation,

monitoring and evaluation of

outcomes-based education

DOST and

DTI

Need to sustain and strengthen

support to MSMEs

Sustain SETUP to assist more MSMEs


69

Part V

Enabling and Supportive

Economic Environment


70

Chapter 11

Ensure Sound Macroeconomic Policy

Abstract

The region’s economy in 2018 remains robust and growing at a healthy pace. This was higher by

0.7 percentage points from the 5.8 percent growth in 2017, putting the region well on track on

achieving the target of 6.2 to 7.5 percent. The employment situation in the region, likewise,

improved during the year which can be attributed to the expansion of investments that created

employment opportunities.

Despite the region’s strong economy, faster price movements of goods and commodities were

recorded in 2018. The regional inflation rose to 6.0 percent with food inflation recording the

highest figure among the commodity groups. This was primarily due to the weather disturbances

that hit the region during the year that disrupted food supplies.

Figure 11: Strategic framework to sustain a stable and sound macroeconomic environment


71

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Robust Economic Growth Sustained

The region’s economy recorded a 6.5 percent growth in 2018. This was higher by 0.7 percentage

points from the 5.8 percent growth in 2017, the region well on track on achieving its target

growth of 6.2 to 7.5 percent. The remarkable double-digit growth of the Industry Sector and the

slightly accelerated growth of the Services Sector fueled the sustained economic growth of the

region amidst the weak performance of the agriculture sector due to its vulnerability to natural

disasters and climate change.

The Services Sector continued to be the principal growth driver of the region’s economy as it

accounted for 3.5 percentage points of the growth print. The sector still accounted for the largest

share of the region’s total output with 52 percent, slightly higher than its 51.9 percent share in

2017. The sector also inched up by 0.1 percentage point to 6.8 percent from its previous level.

Similarly, all the sub-sectors (except for manufacturing) of the Industry Sector recorded positive

growth in 2018. There was slowdown in the growth of the manufacturing from 5.4 percent in

2017 to 1.6 percent in 2018. Overall, the industry sector registered a remarkable double-digit

growth of 11.9 percent, surpassing even our end of plan target in 2022.

The lower agricultural produce in 2018 mainly contributed to the weak performance of the

Agriculture Sector which recorded a 2.3 percent decline from the 2.4 percent growth in 2017. Its

subsectors, Agriculture and Forestry, and Fishing, also contracted by 2.1 percent and 3.0 percent,

respectively.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Low and Stable Inflation Maintained

The region’s inflation rose to 6.0 percent 2018. The high inflation environment in the first

months of 2018 was mainly due to the weak peso and higher global oil prices, weather

disturbances that hit the region (Tropical Storm Inday, Tropical Depression Josie, and Typhoon

Ompong), particularly the Provinces of Ilocos Norte and Pangasinan. Damages in the agriculture

and infrastructure facilities disrupted the food supply, and with the rising domestic consumer

prices brought about by the implementation of Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion

(TRAIN) act partly contributed to high inflation.

Among the provinces, Ilocos Norte recorded the highest inflation figure at 7.3 percent in 2018.

This was followed by Pangasinan with 6.8 percent inflation and La Union at 4.2 percent.

Meanwhile, Ilocos Sur recorded the lowest inflation at 3.2 percent during the period. Ilocos

Norte and Pangasinan’s inflation were higher compared to other provinces in 2018 because they

were put under the State of Calamity during the year and are still recovering from the damages in

their agriculture and infrastructure facilities that disrupted the food supply during the earlier

months.


72

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Export Receipts Increased

Region 1’s total export receipts significantly increased to US$46.6 million in 2018 from

US$34.5 million in 2017. This figure surpassed the 2018 plan target at US$37.3 million. The

region’s export receipts were mainly driven by the earnings from tobacco. Among the provinces,

La Union continued to be the dominant provincial exporter in 2018 with US$44.48 million worth

of exports comprising 95.53 percent of the region’s total export receipts. Tobacco shared bulk of

the province’s total export revenues.

Sub-Sector Outcome 4: Unemployment and Underemployment Decreased

The region’s employment figure recorded a 2.1 percentage points increase, from its 91.1 percent

employment rate in 2017 to 93.2 percent in 2018. This figure exceeded the 2018 plan target of

91.6 percent. The region also recorded a decline in unemployment rate at 6.8 percent, exceeding

the plan target of lower unemployment figure of 8.4 percent. This could be attributed to the

increasing number of business establishments in the region that is absorbing the labor force.

On the other hand, the underemployment situation in the region worsened. Underemployment

rate rose to 22.1 percent in 2018 from 19.9 percent in 2017. This figure was higher than the 2018

plan target of 18.7 percent which implies the increase in employed persons desiring to have

additional working hours in their present job or additional job, or a new job with longer working

hours.

Sub-Sector Outcome 5: Poverty Incidence Decreased

Based on the 2018 first semester poverty statistics, the region’s poverty situation improved over

the last three years. All four provinces of the region also recorded decreases in poverty incidence

among families and individuals.

Poverty among families in the region declined from 20.4 percent in the 1st semester of 2015 to

only 8.7 percent in the same period of 2018, or a drop of 11.7 percentage points. Likewise, the

poverty incidence among population decreased from 25.8 percent in the 1st semester of 2015 to

11.8 percent in the 1st semester of 2018, or an improvement of 14.0 percentage points. The

region’s poverty situation was better than the national figures of 16.1 percent among families and

21.0 percent among population for the period.

The decreased poverty incidence in the Region and its provinces can be attributed to the

government’s efforts toward human capital development to fight poverty and reduce inequality.

Specifically, the social protection initiatives like the expansion of the coverage of the Pantawid

Pamilyag Pilipino Program and establishing social protection floor contributed to the

improvement of poverty situation in the region. In addition, the employment situation in the

region improved for the past three years recording higher employment rate from 91.6 percent in

2015 to 93.2 percent in 2018. Moreover, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-1

(RTWPB-1) has implemented these wage adjustments for past three years that helped improve

the living conditions of our minimum wage earners in the region, from P220-P253 in July 19,


73

2015 to P256-P310 in January 25, 2018. Likewise, the increasing tourist arrivals in the region in

2018 may have also contributed to the increased income of families as it provided more

opportunities for employment and entrepreneurial activity.


Indicator


plishments Reporting

Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Gross Regional

Development

Product

(GRDP)

Growth Rate

5.8% 6.2-7.5% 6.4-8.0% 6.8-8.0% 6.5% PSA

Percent

Contribution to

the GRDP by

Industry of

Origin

PSA

AFF 19.4% 17.6% 16.5% 15.4% 17.8%

Industry 28.8% 31.9% 33.3% 34.7% 30.2%

Services 51.8% 50.5% 50.2% 49.9% 52.0%

Contribution to

GRDP Growth

by Industry of

Origin

PSA

AFF 0.5% (0.4%)

Industry 1.8% 3.4%

Services 3.5% 3.5%

Labor

Productivity 146,074.8 164,012.0 184,151.8 206,764.7

PSA

Agriculture 103,021.5 117,611.9 134,268.7 153,284.4

Industry 240,614.0 247,550.5 254,686.9 262,029.0

Services 137,666.9 154,024.3 172,325.2 192,800.7

Inflation Rate 2.0%

2.0-4.0%

6.0%

PSA

Ilocos Norte 1.2% 7.3%

Ilocos Sur 2.5% 3.2%

La Union 2.0% 4.2%

Pangasinan 2.0% 6.8%

Export

Receipts $34.5 M $37.3M $38.4M $42.2M $46.6M

DTI Ilocos Norte $0.2 M $0.7 M $0.7 M $0.8 M $0.5 M

Ilocos Sur $0.6 M $0.6 M $0.7 M $0.7 M $0.6 M

La Union $33.5 M $35.0 M $36.0 M $39.6 M $44.5 M


74

Indicator



Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Pangasinan $0.2 M $1.0 M $1.0 M $1.1 M $0.9 M

Employment

Rate 91.1% 91.6% 92.1% 92.5% 93.2%

PSA Unemployment

Rate 19.9% 18.7% 18.7% 16.3% 22.1%

Underemploy

ment Rate 8.9% 8.4% 8.4% 7.5% 6.8%

Poverty

Incidence

among

population

25.8%

(1st Sem.

2015)

10.3%

11.8%

(1st Sem.

2018)

PSA

Ilocos Norte

21.2%

(1st Sem.

2015)

7.6%

(1st Sem.

2018)

Ilocos Sur

18.2%

(1st Sem.

2015)

11.1%

(1st Sem.

2018)

La Union

22.8%

(1st Sem.

2015)

5.2%

(1st Sem.

2018)

Pangasinan

29.6%

(1st Sem.

2015)

14.3%

(1st Sem.

2018)

Poverty

Incidence

among families

20.4%

(1st Sem.

2015)

7.6%

8.7%

(1st Sem.

2018)

PSA

Ilocos Norte

16.9%

(1st Sem.

2015)

5.5%

(1st Sem.

2018)

Ilocos Sur

15.0%

(1st Sem.

2015)

8.8%

(1st Sem.

2018)

La Union

19.0%

(1st Sem.

2015)

3.7%

(1st Sem.

2018)

Pangasinan

23.0%

(1st Sem.

2015)

10.5%

(1st Sem.

2018)


75

Moving Forward

Building on the accomplishments in 2018, the region hopes to sustain its economic growth and

continue to realize the targets laid out in the RDP.

Sustain low and stable inflation. Higher inflation figures were recorded in 2018 but was expected

to revert its target range in 2019 with the quick and on point anti-inflationary measures of the

government. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)’s will also tighten monetary policy to curb

inflationary pressures especially on the demand side. Nevertheless, the government should still

undertake measures to cushion the potential impact of high inflation on the poor.

In terms of rice prices, the rice inflation is already slowing down and hopefully will revert to its

normal target range starting 2019. The improved weather condition is expected to result to higher

yield in palay, thus, increase the locally produced rice supply. The enactment of the Rice

Tariffication Act is also expected to reduce the rice prices by up to Php7.00 per kilo.

Furthermore, the positive development in the global oil market will help in tempering consumer

prices further over the near term, particularly of energy-related items.

For oil, gas and fuel prices, lower inflation figures were still recorded during the period despite

the implementation of the TRAIN law which includes adjusting oil and automobile excise taxes.

Nonetheless, the government should continue to closely monitor upside and downside risks of

this in 2019.

Sustain poverty reduction efforts in the region. Given the high investments in human capital

development on education, training and health, the full year 2018 report on the poverty statistics

is expected to further show a better picture. Furthermore, the 2nd semester of each year is usually

the time of the year that the population is more productive in all sectors. Nevertheless, the region

should sustain its poverty reduction efforts to fight poverty and reduce inequality by the end of

the plan period.

Recommendations



DA, BFAR, NIA High vulnerability of the

AFF sector to weather

disturbances.

The region must revisit

initiatives to increase resilience

of AFF sector to climate and

disaster risks; and accelerate

construction of disaster- and

climate-resilient small-scale

irrigation systems and retrofit

existing ones.


76


These strategies will hope to

increase the resilience of the

AFF sector as it is most

vulnerable. Furthermore, the

increased resilience of the sector

could ease the price pressures in

the agriculture sector.

DOLE, RTWPB, LGUs High underemployment

figure.

The increasing underemployed

persons in the region means that

more employed persons desire to

have additional working hours in

their present job or additional

job, or a new job with longer

working hours because their

current job is not sufficient to

cater their needs.

Hence, the region must prioritize

policies and programs that

address the issues of

underemployment; and provide

an environment that is conducive

to creating more and better jobs

(see recommended strategies in

Chapter 12 - Leveling the

Playing Field through a

National Competition Policy).


77

Chapter 12

Leveling the Playing Field through a National Competition Policy

Abstract

There were additional businesses established in the region in 2018 that created jobs and absorbed

the growing labor force. Furthermore, more business establishments were certified and

accredited, hence allowing consumers to have better and wider choices of goods and services.

However, there is a need to improve the local competitiveness among cities and municipalities in

the region to create a more business friendly environment for investors. Hence, the region must

review potentially anti-competitive legislations and policies that may significantly prevent,

restrict, or lessen competition; promote competition-related policies and best practices; and

institutionalize a mechanism for implementing the National Competition Policy.

Figure 12: Strategic framework to promote competitiveness in the region


78

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Business Climate Enhanced

The number of Business Name Certificate issued in 2018 increased by 3.4 percent from the 2017

level. This translates to an increase of 942 new business name certificates in the region that could

imply increasing interest of people to engage in business.

In 2018, there was also a 46.2 percent increase in the number of Bagwis-certified business

establishments in the region. The Bagwis program aims to give due recognition to establishments

that uphold the rights of consumers and practice responsible transactions where consumers get

value for money. Hence, the 121 additional Bagwis-certified business establishments in 2018

mean that more businesses uphold fair and honest business practices and ensure quality and safe

goods, products, services at affordable prices.

The number of Repair Shop Accreditation issued, likewise, increased by 19.7 percent in 2018. A

total of 978 repair shops were accredited during the year compared to the 817 in 2017. This

means that more repair shops in the region have available facilities and amenities that are in good

working conditions to provide services.

The 2018 result of the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) showed that

there were only 21 LGUs awarded during the year, a decline from the 27 LGUs awarded during

the previous year. In terms of the provincial ranking, two provinces in the region recorded

improved rankings, Ilocos Norte (from 34th

rank in 2017 to 21st in 2018) and Pangasinan (from

24th

rank in 2017 to 22nd

in 2018). Three out of the nine cities in the region also recorded

improved CMCI rankings. These were Batac City, Ilocos Norte (from 111th

rank in 2017 to 102nd

in 2018); Dagupan City, Pangasinan (from 49th

rank in 2017 to 40th

in 2018), and San Carlos

City, Pangasinan (from 103rd

rank in 2017 to 64th

in 2018). Rankings of cities and municipalities

were based on the sum of their scores on the four pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government

Efficiency, Infrastructure and Resiliency. Provincial rankings were based on population and

income weighted average of the overall scores of cities and municipalities within a province.


Indicator



Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of Business

Name Certificate

issued

27,379 28,000 30,800 33,880 28,321

DTI

Number of Bagwis

Certified Business

Establishments

262 380 385 390 383

DTI

Number of Repair

Shop Accreditation

issued

817 880 950 1,000 978

DTI


79

Indicator



Entity Value

(2017) 2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of LGUs

awarded under CMCI 27 No target, new indicator 21

DTI

Ilocos Norte 4 5

Ilocos Sur 5 3

La Union 3 6

Pangasinan 15 7

Moving Forward

CY 2018 showed an increase in investments which resulted to more employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the certification and accreditation of more businesses provide better and wider

choices of goods and services. With these accomplishments, the region must continue to

implement the National Competition Policy to steer regulations and administrative procedures of

government agencies toward promoting competition, as well as to strengthen the enforcement of

anti-trust or competition laws, and effectively ensure competitive neutrality or level the playing

field for state-owned and private businesses.

Recommendations



DTI, DILG and LGUs Declining competitiveness

performance of LGUs in the

region based on the CMCI

ranking

There is a need to improve the

local competitiveness among

cities and municipalities in the

region to create a business

friendly environment for

investors. Hence, the region

must review potentially anti-

competitive legislations and

policies that may significantly

prevent, restrict, or lessen

competition; promote

competition-related policies and

best practices; and

institutionalize a mechanism for

implementing the National

Competition Policy.


80

Part VI

Foundations for Sustainable Development


81

Chapter 13

Attaining Just and Lasting Peace

Abstract

The P/RDP 2017-2022 recognize that attaining just and lasting peace is one of the foundations to

attain sustainable development. Under the Plan, the government intends to end conflicts that

hinder socioeconomic progress and stability, and internal security.

Through the years, the internal security in Region 1 has been challenged and weighed down by

the continued presence of insurgency. On one hand, the military and the police force embarked

on operations aimed to delegitimize, weaken and debilitate the armed groups. On the other hand,

the government pursued political, economic and socio-cultural programs that sought to address

the issues and concerns that instigate the conflict. However, attaining an insurgency-free Region

1 remains a challenge that need to be addressed the soonest possible.

Figure 13: Strategic framework to attain just and lasting peace


82

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome: Internal Security Ensured

Internal security in Region 1 improved in 2018 compared to 2017. The Armed Forces of the

Philippines (AFP) declared the provinces of Ilocos Norte and La Union as free of insurgency in

2017. On the other hand, the declaration of the province of Pangasinan followed in 2018. The

province of Ilocos Sur is the only province that is not insurgency-free to date.


Indicator Region/

Province

Baseline


plishments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Insurgency-

free

Declaration

Region 1 50% 100% 100% 100% 75% AFP

Moving Forward

Region 1 needs to step up efforts to curb insurgency to attain just and lasting peace that will

sustain economic growth. The Whole-of-Nation approach under the National Task Force to End

Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) framework will be adhered to in solving the

insurgency problem in the region. As such, the twin approach of military operations paralleled

with development interventions (social, cultural, economic, political) of the various agencies that

address the root-causes of insurgency will be pursued.

The military operations and law enforcement should however comply with respect to human

rights. Moreover, the military and the police force will be provided with capacity building, and

modern gadgets and equipment to improve their operational capabilities on combat operations,

civil defense as well as disaster response.

Furthermore, citizens, civil society organizations, the indigenous peoples and other stakeholders

will be involved in any peace-planning process undertaking so that their perspectives and views

will be considered when crafting peace agreements. Lastly, moral recovery and values

orientation programs among the citizens as well as the uniform personnel will be continued to be

promoted and conducted to instill culture of peace and moral formation which serve as the

foundation of peace.


83

Recommendations



AFP, PNP, PCG, LGUs Presence of the Communist

terrorist groups (CTGs) from

Cordillera Administrative

Region (CAR) in the

province of Ilocos Sur due to

the new road networks

Augment Regional Mobile Force

Battalion in the vulnerable areas

of Ilocos Sur

Heighten PNP visibility in the

localities

Strengthen Local Peace and

Order Councils (LPOC)


84

Chapter 14

Ensuring Security, Public Order and Security

Abstract

Peace, security and public safety are the foundations of socioeconomic development. There can

be no development without peace and vice versa. Continuity of economic activities and business-

friendly environment are ensured in peaceful and orderly localities. Hence, crimes that disturb

peace and order in the communities need to be contained, and crimes committed need speedy

resolution.

In 2018, Region 1 remained to be relatively safe and secure as the government intensified its

anti-criminality and anti-drug efforts. The region, likewise, attained most of the goals in the

RDP 2017-2022 to ensure internal security. Nevertheless, the efforts now need to be intensified

to eradicate crime and illegal drugs.

Figure 14: Strategic framework to ensure security, public order and safety


85

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome: Internal Security Ensured

In 2018, Region 1 continued to surpass the police to population ratio target. This could also be

the main reason behind the improved crime situation in the region.

The region recorded a 13.0 percent increase in the total volume of crimes in 2018 compared to

the 12.0 decrease registered in 2017. The target of 6.0 percent decrease was not achieved due to

the increased reported crime volumes which can be attributed to the enhanced efficiency and

intensified operations of the PNP. Among the provinces, only Ilocos Norte and La Union

recorded a decrease in the total crime volume. Ilocos Norte recorded a 28.9 percent decline while

La Union recorded a slight declined of 1.0 percent from the total crime volume. On the other

hand, Ilocos Sur and Pangasinan recorded an increase in crime volume at 63.7 percent and 18.0

percent, respectively. Moreover, only the Province of Ilocos Norte was able to achieve and even

surpass the plan target of 6 percent decrease in the crime volume for the year. Hence, the

government must focus on intensifying the anti-criminality and anti-drug efforts in the other

provinces to maintain safe, peaceful and secure environment of the region.

As a result of the stepped-up efforts to solve crimes in the region, the crime clearance efficiency

rate (CCER) or the number of crimes with charge laid over total crimes, improved from 86.0

percent in 2017 to 91.0 percent, above the 2018 target by 4.3 percentage points. Among the

provinces, La Union still recorded the highest CCER with 98.0 percent of recorded crimes

solved, an improvement of 1.0 percentage point from last year and above its 2018 target of 86.7

percent. Pangasinan’s CCER improved to 90.0 percent in 2018 compared to the 83.0 percent in

2017 and higher than the 2018 target of 86.7 percent. Furthermore, Ilocos Norte also posted a 5.0

percentage points improvement compared in 2017 (83.0% 2017 vs 88.0% 2018) and 1.3

percentage points higher than the 2018 target of 86.7 percent. Lastly, Ilocos Sur surpassed its

2017 performance of 74.0 percent but below the 2018 target of 86.7 percent with the 85.0

percent CCER for the year.

Likewise, the crime solution efficiency rate (CSER) in the region, or the number of resolved

cases over total of crimes committed, improved from 72.0 percent in 2017 to 77.0 percent in

2018 and exceeded the 2018 target by 1.7 percentage points. This was due to the conduct of

capability enhancement programs and trainings among crime investigators. Among the

provinces, only Ilocos Sur posted a declined CSER at 48.0 percent as against 60.0 percent in

2017. It also did not hit its 2018 target of 62.5 percent. On the other hand, La Union garnered

the highest CSER in 2018 at 93.0, a 5.0 percentage points improvement from 2017 (88.0%) and a

2.9 percentage points higher than the 2018 target. Ilocos Norte also registered an 81.0 percent

improvement in 2018 compared to the 77.0 percent registered in 2017. It is slightly above the

2018 target of 79.5 percent. Meanwhile, Pangasinan posted the highest improvement of 12.0

percentage points, from 65.0 percent in 2017 to 77.0 percent in 2018. It also exceeded the 2018

target by 4.9 percentage points.


86

Another proof of effective intensified efforts to fight criminality in the region is the decline in the

number of index crimes which pertain to crimes against persons and property. The region

recorded a 21.6 decrease in the total index crime volume in 2018. This was higher than the 6

percent decrease plan target for the year though lower than the 24 percent recorded decrease

during the previous year.

All of the four provinces recorded a decline and were able to achieve their 2018 target of 6.0

percent reduction in the number of index crimes. La Union posted the highest decline in index

crimes (27.6%). It was followed by Pangasinan which recorded a 23.3 percent reduction in the

number of index crimes and Ilocos Norte at 15.2 percent decline compared to the previous year.

Lastly, Ilocos Sur posted the lowest reduction in index crimes for the year at 11.3 percent

decrease.

In contrast, there was an 18.1 increase in the total volume of non-index crimes (NIC) or the

crimes committed in violation of special laws and other less serious crime offences in 2018,

compared to the 9.0 percent decline recorded in 2017. The recorded increase could be attributed

to the implementation of the Enhanced Managing Police Operations which caused the increased

number of both operations and reported crimes. Among the provinces, only the province of

Ilocos Norte reduced its index crimes for the year. It went down by 30.8 percent but lower than

the 46.0 percent reduction it registered in 2017. In contrast, Ilocos Sur posted the highest

increase in NIC at 79.6 percent, a reversal of its 2017 performance of negative 12.0 percent. NIC

in Pangasinan also increased by 26.1 percent which was in stark contrast to the 9.0 percent

decline it recorded in 2017. Lastly, the volume of NIC in La Union slightly increased by 0.7

percent, set back from its 24.0 percent recorded decrease in NIC performance in 2017.




plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Crime

Solution

Efficiency

Rate

Region 1 72.0 75.3 76.0 76.7 77.0 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

77.0 79.5 80.3 81.0 81.0

Ilocos Sur 60.0 62.5 63.1 63.7 48.0

La Union 88.0 90.1 91.0 91.8 93.0

Pangasinan 65.0 72.1 72.8 73.4 77.0

Crime

Clearance

Efficiency

Rate

Region 1 86.0 86.7 87.5 88.3 91.0 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

83.0 86.7 87.5 88.3 88.0

Ilocos Sur 74.0 86.7 87.5 88.3 85.0

La Union 97.0 86.7 87.5 88.3 98.0

Pangasinan

83.0 86.7 87.5 88.3 90.0


87



plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Percent

Decrease in

Total

Volume of

Crimes

Region 1 (12.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 13.0 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

(45.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (28.9)

Ilocos Sur (15.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 63.7

La Union (20.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (1.0)

Pangasinan (11.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 18.0

Percent

Decrease in

Index

Crime

Region 1 (24.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (21.6) PNP

Ilocos

Norte

(41.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (15.2)

Ilocos Sur (29.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (11.3)

La Union (18.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (27.6)

Pangasinan (21.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (23.3)

Percent

Decrease in

Non-index

Crime

Region 1 (9.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 18.1 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

(46.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) (30.8)

Ilocos Sur (12.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 79.6

La Union (24.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 0.7

Pangasinan (9.0) (6.0) (7.0) (8.0) 26.1

Percentage

Increase in

Crime

Clearance

Efficiency

Region 1 5.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 5.8 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

4.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 6.0

Ilocos Sur 7.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 14.9

La Union 3.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 1.0

Pangasinan 4.0 6.0 7.0 8.0 8.4

Police to

Population

Ratio

Region 1 1:686 1:700 1:650 1:600 1:671 PNP

Ilocos

Norte

1:593 1:700 1:650 1:600 1:641

Ilocos Sur 1:573 1:700 1:650 1:600 1:578

La Union 1:760 1:700 1:650 1:600 1:767

Pangasinan 1:1,208 1:700 1:650 1:600 1:1,125

Moving Forward

Local peace and security ensure continuity of business and economic activities, and attracts

investments. Aside from occurrence of minor and sporadic crime incidences, Region 1 has

proven to be a peaceful place to live and do business. However, there is a need to maintain

safety, security and order to sustain the development of the region. To attain this, the following

should be done:


88

a. Increase the capability of the police force to improve efficiency in crime prevention and

response to incidences through increase in number, enhance tools, equipment and

gadgets, and capability building.

b. Improve police visibility by setting up more police sub-stations especially in high-

population barangays and crowded areas such as schools, public markets, malls and

hospitals.

c. Strengthen mechanisms that seek to involve citizens, religious and other organized

groups in promoting peace and order at the community/ barangay level.

d. Inculcate culture of peace and moral values among the citizens especially the youth by

integrating them in values education programs and activities in schools.

Recommendations

Table 14.2. Supplemental strategies to Chapter 14

Implementing Agency Challenges Recommended Strategies

PNP and LGUs Sustaining good Crime

Solution and Clearance

Efficiency Rate

Continued conduct of capability

enhancement programs and

trainings among crime

investigators.

Heighten police visibility in

high population barangays and

crowded areas.


89

Chapter 15

Accelerating Infrastructure Development

Abstract

The infrastructure development sector aims to enhance and sustain the quality, adequacy,

affordability, reliability, and climate resiliency of infrastructure facilities in the region. In 2018,

the sector partly achieved its sub-sector outcomes, namely: (1) travel time reduced; (2)

transportation and production costs reduced; (3) access to information improved; (4) productivity

increased; and (5) access to social facilities increased. This could be attributed to the completion

of high-impact infrastructure projects, which serve as the primary support mechanism for the

overall economic productivity in the region.

The sector will continue to maintain, improve and establish the necessary infrastructure facilities

to ensure a strong foundation for sustainable development in the region. Infrastructure

investments will be intensified to improve connectivity, address infrastructure backlogs, and

enhance the region’s growth potential.

Figure 15: Strategic framework to accelerate infrastructure development


90

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1 and 2: Travel Time Reduced and Transportation and Production Costs

Reduced

Majority of the development indicators under this sub-sector surpassed their 2018 RDP targets

but fell short of their 2017 performance.

A total of 30 road widening projects were implemented during the year in review. This figure

was lower than the 145 projects completed in 2017 but exceeded the 2018 RDP target of 22

projects. These major road widening projects include the expansion of road shoulders and

upgrading of bridges into 4-lane carriageway along the Manila North Road (MNR).

In addition, 15 by-pass and diversion roads were completed in 2018, higher than its 2018 RDP

target of six projects. However, a year-on-year decline was observed from 23 projects

implemented in 2017. Majority of the roads were constructed in Pangasinan comprising 53.33

percent share (eight by-pass and diversion roads) of the total roads constructed in the region.

There were 14 access roads constructed in 2018 from 13 roads completed in 2017. This figure

fell short of its 2018 RDP target of 36 access roads. Among the major access road projects

completed were the following: (1) access road leading to Angel Cave and Alicupen Beach, Bani,

Pangasinan; (2) access road leading to Bolo River Boulevard and Ay-ayo Waterfalls, Brgy San

Isidro, Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte; (3) access road leading to Cabugao Public Beach, Salomague

Port and Surfing Area, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur; and (4) access road leading to Sangbay Falls and

Mini Rice Terraces, Brgy. Gusing Sur, Naguilian, La Union,

More motor vehicles (MV) were registered in 2018 at 642,552 MV. This figure was higher than

its 2017 level of 593,919 MV registered and exceeded its 2018 RDP target at 611,740. The

significant increment could be attributed to the strict implementation of MV inspection prior to

registration and law enforcement operations against unregistered MVs. All types of MVs except

trailers recorded year-on-year increases with motorcycles or tricycles registering the highest

increment of 11.70 percent.

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Access to Information Improved

In 2018, 571 cell sites were constructed in Region 1. Likewise, 149 free WiFi were installed in

4th

to 5th

class municipalities, significantly higher by 170.91 percent than its level in 2017 at 55

WiFi installed. The accomplishment could be attributed to the continued implementation of

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) programs in the region.


91

Sub-Sector Outcome 4: Productivity Increased

Both the proportion of households with access to potable or safe water supply and the proportion

of households with access to sanitary toilet facilities posted year-on-year decline from 96.84

percent in 2017 to 96.32 percent in 2018 and from 93.85 percent in 2017 to 93.71 percent in

2018, respectively. The proportion of households with access to potable or safe water supply fell

short of its 2018 RDP target of 96.49 percent while the proportion of households with access to

sanitary toilet facilities surpassed its 2018 RDP target of 93.17 percent. The decrease could be

due to the increase in the number of households in the region. Among the provinces, Ilocos Sur

registered the highest proportion of households with access to potable or safe water supply while

Ilocos Norte posted the highest proportion of households with access to sanitary toilet facilities.

La Union recorded the least for both development indicators.

On the proportion of households with access to electricity, the region achieved its 2018 plan

target of 97.0 percent which is slightly lower in 2017 at 98.0 percent. Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur

recorded the highest proportion of households with access to electricity at 99.00 percent while

Pangasinan registered 95.00 percent. The number of energized sitios slightly declined from 9,269

sitios in 2017 to 9,267 sitios in 2018. Pangasinan recorded the most number of sitios energized

with 48.22 percent share (4,469 sitios). Ilocos Sur posted the least with 881 sitios only.

The percentage of irrigation coverage in the region increased from 60.32 percent in 2017 to

61.15 percent in 2018, which was also higher than its 2018 RDP target of 60.44 percent. The

increase could be attributed to the various new irrigation facilities constructed in 2018.

Sub-Sector Outcome 5: Access to Social Facilities Increased

Access to social facilities improved in 2018 with the significant increment in the number of new

Barangay Health Stations (BHS) and Rural Health Units (RHUs), and upgrading and

rehabilitation of District Hospitals from 51 in 2017 to 146 in 2018. The 2018 RDP target of 20

health facilities upgraded and rehabilitated was exceeded. Overall the new BHS and RHUs

constructed were 112 and 29, respectively, and the remaining five were hospitals.


92


Indicator Region /

Province


plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

Road

Widening

Projects

Region 1 145 22 18 14 30 DPWH

Ilocos Norte 23 4

Ilocos Sur 13 4

La Union 17 4

Pangasinan 92 18

Number of

By-pass

and

Diversion

Roads

Region 1 23 15 DPWH

Ilocos Norte 2

Ilocos Sur 3

La Union 2

Pangasinan 8

Number of

Registered

MV

Region 1 593,919 611,740 623,975 636,455 642,552 LTO

By Type 1

Private 506,950 522,150 532,590 543,245 552,630

Govern-

ment

3,466 3,575 3,650 3,720 3,625

For-Hire 83,503 86,015 87,735 89,490 86,296

Exempt 1

By Type 2

Cars 38,766 39,930 40,725 41,540 42,739

Utility

Vehicles

87,873 91,990 93,830 95,705 93,752

Sport

Utility

Vehicles

20,130 19,255 16,640 20,035 21,374

Buses 725 855 875 890 752

Trucks 14,698 15,195 15,500 15,810 15,049

Motor-

cycles

and Tri-

cycles

418,930 443,290 452,155 461,200 467,957

Trailers 12,797 1,225 1,250 1,275 929


93

Indicator Region /

Province


plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Number of

Cell Site

Construc-

ted

Region 1 571 NTC

Ilocos Norte 136

Ilocos Sur 143

La Union 141

Pangasinan 151

Number of

free WiFi

installed in

4th

and 5th

class

municipali-

ties

Region 1 - - - - - DICT

Proportion

of

Households

with

Access to

Potable/

Safe Water

Supply

Region 1 96.8% 96.5% 97.0% 97.0% 96.3% DOH



La Union 94.0% 93.0%


Proportion

of

Households

with

Access to

sanitary

toilet

facility

Region 1 93.9% 93.2% 94.0% 94.0% 93.7% DOH



La Union 92.0% 91.0%


Proportion

of

Households

with access

to

Electricity

Region 1 98.0% 97.0% 98.0% 99.0% 97.0% NEA



La Union 99.0% 97.0%


No. of

Energized

Sitios

Region 1 9,269 9,267 NEA

Ilocos Norte 2,913 2,913

Ilocos Sur 880 881

La Union 1,004 1,004

Pangasinan 4,472 4,469


94

Indicator Region /

Province


plish-

ments

Repor-

ting

Entity

Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

No. of

Energized

Barangays

Region 1 3,027 3,029 NEA

Ilocos Norte 557 559

Ilocos Sur 768 768

La Union 492 492

Pangasinan 1,210 1,210

Irrigation

coverage

Region 1 60.3% 60.4% 62.1% 63.0% 61.2% NIA

No. of

Irrigation

Facilities

constructed

,upgraded

and

rehabilita-

ted

Region 1 371 438 98 443 791 NIA

Number of

new

BHS/RHUs

, Hospitals

upgraded

and

rehabilita-

ted

Region 1 51 20 20 20 146 DOH

Number of

New

Classrooms

Construc-

ted

Region 1 2,063 2,804 2,888 2,974 - DepEd

Number of

Existing

Classrooms

Upgraded

and

Rehabilita-

ted

Region 1 - 577 583 619 - DepEd

Moving Forward


95

The Infrastructure development sector will continue to provide quality, adequate, affordable,

reliable, and climate resilient infrastructure facilities to optimize opportunities for economic and

social advancement in the region.

The sector commits to fastrack the completion of unfinished infrastructure projects in the region.

This includes the widening and concreting of the remaining sections along the Manila North

Road (MNR), which serves as the major economic backbone of the region. Also, the Tarlac-

Pangasinan-La Union Toll Expressway or TPLEX will continue to be the main alternate link of

the region to its neighboring regions.

With the completion and implementation of the Ilocos Region Traffic Management Strategy

(TMS), better traffic management will be realized. Among the proposed strategies for possible

adoption of LGUs and other government entities include the improvement of the quality of

infrastructure (engineering), improvement of road worthiness of vehicles (evaluation),

enhancement of institutional mechanisms or arrangements (enactment and enforcement),

improvement in air quality (environment), and increase in awareness of road users and the

public (education).

Taking into account the significance of ICT in building a competitive economy, provision of

more cell sites and installation of free WiFi particularly to upland and remote areas will be

pursued. Through the continued implementation of the SECURE GovNet Project, strategic

collaboration will be undertaken to ensure reliable and efficient government internet. This is also

an integral component of the National Broadband Program (NBP) that will allow various ICT

programs and services to flourish in the long-run.

More irrigation projects will be implemented to widen irrigation service that supports

agricultural production in the region. The completion of the Agno River Irrigation System

Extension Project (ARISEP) and the continued implementation of the Lower Agno River

Irrigation System (LARIS) will significantly increase irrigation coverage in Pangasinan.

Access to social facilities will be further improved through the construction of additional BHS

and RHUs in Region 1. Upgrading of existing hospitals will be undertaken through the continued

implementation of the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP). Construction of

additional classrooms, and upgrading and rehabilitation of existing classrooms will cater to the

increasing number of school enrollees in the region.

Recommendations



NEDA and NIA Infrastructure

masterplans are still

lacking in priority

sectors

Ensure completion of various sector

masterplans:

Philippine Transport System

Master Plan


96

Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan

National Irrigation Master Plan

DPWH (Chair), LRA,

DENR, Local Treasury

Offices, Local Assessors

Offices

Implementation delays

due to ROWA issues.

Fast-track ROW acquisition to

ensure timely implementation of

projects.

Creation of Adhoc Committee under

the Infrastructure and Utilities Sector

which will study the enhancement

and streamlining of the ROWA

Process.

DepEd Monitoring and

tracking system for

school projects not yet

fully implemented

Establish an integrated monitoring

and tracking system of school

projects to better determine and

address infrastructure gaps.


97

Chapter 16

Ensuring Ecological Integrity, Clean and Healthy Environment

Abstract

The Environment and Natural Resources Sector continues to carry out its commitment to ensure

ecological integrity and clean and healthy environment. This is in support of the sector’s vision

of having sustained environment and natural resources-protective and disaster resilient

communities by 2022 through strategies and efforts in the improvement of environmental

quality, protection of biodiversity, and safeguarding human well-being. In 2018, the sector

achieved considerable gains in major environmental indicators. However, concrete actions and

local-based initiatives still need to be implemented to improve and sustain environmental quality

as well as increase and strengthen adaptive capacities of disaster-risk communities to respond to

long-standing challenges in environment and natural resources management and implementation

as the region moves toward inclusive and sustainable development (See Figure 16).

Figure 16: Strategic framework to ensure ecological integrity, clean and healthy

environment


98

Accomplishments

Sub-Sector Outcome 1: Environmental Quality Improved

The ENR sector continues to move forward in improving water, air and land quality in the region

by monitoring accomplishments of LGUs on their compliance to environmental laws.

Water Quality

The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (RA 9275) provided for the designation of water quality

management areas (WQMAs) using appropriate physiographic units to protect, through

stakeholders’ collaboration, water bodies and its tributaries by keeping their water quality at least

within the Water Quality Guidelines or Criteria based on their classification. As of 2018, the

region has three designated WQMAs: the Sinocalan-Dagupan River System in Pangasinan,

Naguilian River System, and the Lower Amburayan River System in La Union. A proposal to

designate Bolo River in Ilocos Norte is underway to address pressing issues on water quality in

the area.

In 2018, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) reported that, on the average, the

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels for both Sinocalan-Dagupan River System (SDRS)

and the Naguilian River System (NRS) continued to be within the DENR Water Quality

Guideline of 7.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for Class C Waters. The Sinocalan-Dagupan River

System, on the other hand, had maintained its BOD level in 2018 at 4.00 mg/L. The Naguilian

River System exhibited the same with its BOD level maintained at 2.00 mg/L.

However, average fecal coliform (FC) levels were still not within the DENR Water Quality

Guideline of 200 Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 liters (MPN/100L) for Class C Waters.

In the Sinocalan-Dagupan River System, the FC level improved to 3,649 MPN/100 ml in 2018

from 7,001 MPN/100 ml in 2017. For the Naguilian River System, the FC level in 2018

deteriorated compared to 2017 data. From 1,102 MPN/100 ml, the FC level slightly increased to

1,924 MPN/100ml. With the execution of their compliance plans and other local initiatives,

LGUs and other stakeholders of these WQMAs have been making progress, albeit slow, in

improving water quality accomplishments.

EMB continually monitors fecal coliform counts in the 28 stations installed in recreational

waters in the region and compares these with the safety standard of 100MPN/100ml. In 2018, FC

levels from the monitoring stations in all beaches in the region posted significant improvements

and were still within the safety standard. The average FC level from the eleven monitoring

stations in the beaches of Ilocos Norte posted the highest improvement among the provinces,

decreasing from 48 MPN/100ml in 2017 to 5MPN/100ml in 2018. From 40 to 10 MPN/100ml,

there was an improvement by about 75% in the FC level of Ilocos Sur beaches from 2017 to

2018. The FC level in the beaches of Pangasinan also declined from 46 to 28 MPN/100ml for the

same period. In La Union, on the other hand, the FC level dramatically improved from 169

MPN/100ml in 2017 to 40 MPM/100ml in 2018.


99

Air Quality

Air quality in major cities in the region is also monitored through the presence of particulate

matter (PM10 and PM2.5) which could pose serious health conditions when not addressed. In

2018, the six cities monitored in the region generally had good air quality. Data from monitoring

stations in the cities of Batac in Ilocos Norte, Vigan in Ilocos Sur, San Fernando in La Union and

San Carlos in Pangasinan met the targets for air quality in 2018 while Urdaneta and Dagupan

Cities in Pangasinan exceeded the annual target and improved their air quality from “fair” to

“good”. On the other hand, Vigan City, one of the major historical destinations in the north, still

needs to improve its air quality from “fair” to “good”.

Land Quality

With the implementation of Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003), LGUs are

mandated to cease the operation of open dump sites within their territorial jurisdiction. The

National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) has been authorized to file cases

before the Ombudsman against local government officials who still allow these facilities.

In 2018, 43 open dump sites were closed and this exceeded the targeted ten closures for the year

and the three closures made the year before. Of this number, 16 were in Pangasinan, 11 in Ilocos

Sur, and eight each in La Union and Ilocos Norte.

For their local solid waste management initiatives, sixty LGUs in the region have already closed

their open and controlled dump facilities while 29 are operating sanitary landfills. Twenty and

fifteen LGUs, however, still operate open dump sites and controlled dump facilities, respectively.

On the other hand, two LGUs have no declared dump sites or facilities at all.

Of the 125 LGUs in the region which had submitted their 10-year solid waste management

(SWM) plans, meanwhile, 24 have approved SWM plans and 101 have approved but with

additional requirements. Among the four provinces, La Union had the most number of approved

plans. Once approved, LGUs are expected to commit themselves in moving towards the effective

operationalization of their plans as solid waste management has now become a global concern to

be addressed at the grassroots.

Sub-Sector Outcome 2: Biodiversity Protected

The region is known for its megabiodiversity and endemic species. To protect these, protected

areas are designated to limit human activity and to prevent the exploitation of resources in favor

of development. In 2016, the LAWIN Forest and Biodiversity Protection System was launched

to protect forests and the wildlife that depends on them through a science-based approach. In

support to the implementation of the said programs, DENR was able to prepare and conduct

14,448 kilometers of patrol route in 2018. This is 5,688 kilometers more than of the previous

year.


100

Considering the core zones of delineated protected areas which have been legislated or

proclaimed under National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992, the agency

likewise patrolled the same area of 7,851.71 hectares in the past two years.

As forests are the most diverse ecosystems on land, LGUs are mandated to formulate their

respective Forest Land Use Plans (FLUP) to promote and protect biodiversity in these areas. In

2017, twelve (12) LGUs had drafted their FLUPs: four in Ilocos Norte, two in Ilocos Sur, one in

La Union, and five in Pangasinan. In 2018, six other LGUs came up with their FLUPs, one each

in Ilocos Norte and La Union, and four in Pangasinan. As an indicator of good governance, more

LGUs with forest covers need to formulate their respective FLUPs.

For the on-going implementation of the Enhanced National Greening Program, the region was

able to achieve the targets for plantation establishment. The survival rate of seedlings, likewise,

continued to surpass the annual regional target. The DENR was able to meet the targeted 8,182

hectares for reforestation in 2018, a slight decrease from the hectarage in 2017. The program also

posted an accomplishment rate of 100.0 percent in the number of seedlings planted from the

target of 9,453,180 seedlings. Meanwhile, the recorded survival rate of seedlings planted was

90.42 percent, higher than the annual target of 85 percent and the 90.2 percent survival rate in

2017. With the implementation of the program in 2018, there were 6,254 persons who have been

employed and 85,640 jobs generated on seedling production, plantation establishment, and

protection and maintenance of plantation sites. With all of these, the program was able to

maintain the region’s forest cover of 189,801 hectares.

In accordance with the National Cave and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act (RA

9072), the region continues to be committed to identify, assess, and properly manage cave areas

and protect the natural resources found within them. In 2018, DENR assessed seven caves which

is more than three the previous year: the Simmimbaan and Tadao Caves in Burgos and Barya

Cave in Pasuiqin, all in Ilocos Norte, and the Bisay and Barimyo Caves in Dasol, Patag-Ranaw

Cave in Bolinao and Gayusan Cave in Agno, all in Pangasinan. Relatedly, the department also

conducted four cave assessments and classifications in addition to one cave in 2017.

Meanwhile, four cave management plans (CMPs) were prepared and endorsed for Kaselbangan

Cave in Pasuquin and Guano Cave in Bangui, all in Ilocos Norte, and for Enchanted Cave in

Bolinao and Cequero Cave in Dasol, all in Pangasinan. Furthermore, five LGUs were provided

technical assistance, in the form of partnerships or agreements for the preservation, development

and management of caves to implement their respective Cave Management Plans, namely:

Guano and Aba-aba Caves in Burgos, Ilocos Norte; Nabca Cave in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte;

Maang-angri Cave in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; Nical and Ilang Caves in Dasol, Pangasinan; and

Nalsoc Cave in Bani, Pangasinan.

Implementation reports of wetland management plans were prepared. Similarly, in its mandate

to protect and manage natural ecosystems, the DENR prepared and endorsed to the Biodiversity

Management Bureau the Wetland Management Plan implementation report of Baruyen River in

Bangui, Ilocos Norte and Balincaquin River in Agno, Pangasinan.


101

Sub-Sector Outcome 3: Human well-being ensured

In 2018, Typhoon Ompong (International Name, Mangkhut) was the major weather disturbance

that affected the region and compromised disaster-preparedness of communities and resulted in

several disaster-related diseases, casualties, and damages. Despite no incidence of cholera, the

region had 571 cases of amoebiasis: 161 from Ilocos Norte, 137 from Ilocos Sur, 202 from La

Union, and 71 from Pangasinan.

Moreover, two people died from hypothermia in Ilocos Norte during the onslaught of the

typhoon while 80,648 and 3,816 houses were partially and totally damaged, respectively. Ilocos

Sur had the most partially and totally damaged houses accounting nearly half of the total number.

Nevertheless, low number of casualties was recorded owing to the LGUs’ improved disaster

preparedness and response capacities.

Table 16.1: Chapter 16 Results Matrix Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

Water pollution in the ff. parameters:

Biochemical

Oxygen Demand

(mg/l)

Sinocalan-

Dagupan

River

System

(SDRS)

4 ≤7 ≤7 ≤7 4 EMB

Fecal Coliform

(MPN per 100 ml)

7,001 ≤200 ≤200 ≤200 3,649

Water pollution in the ff. parameters:

Biochemical

Oxygen Demand

(mg/l)

Naguilian

River

System

(NRS)

2 ≤7 ≤7 ≤7 2 EMB

Fecal Coliform

(MPN per 100 ml)

1,102 ≤200 ≤200 ≤200 1,924

FC Level (MPN

per 100 ml)

in following

beaches:

Ilocos Norte 48 <100 <100 <100 5

Ilocos Sur 40 <100 <100 <100 10

La Union 169 <100 <100 <100 40

Pangasinan 46 <100 <100 <100 28

Air quality in the ff. areas:

Ilocos Norte:

Batac

(PM10)

Good Good Good Good Good EMB

Ilocos Sur:

Vigan

(PM10)

Fair Fair

Good

Good

Fair

La Union:

SFC

Good Good

Good

Good

Good EMB


102

Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

(PM10)

Pangasinan:

Urdaneta

(PM10)

Good Fair Good Good Good

Dagupan

(PM2.5)

Fair Fair Good Good Good

San Carlos

(PM10)

Fair Good Good Good Good

Increase in

WQMAs

Region 1 1 - 1 - 1

Number of LGUs

with closed open

dumpsites

Region 1 3 10 10 3 43

Number of

patrolled hectares

within untenured

areas

Region 1 334,050 - - - - DENR

Support to the

implementation of

LAWIN Forest and

Biodiversity

Protection System

(patrol route, in

km)

Region 1 8,760 9,720 9,720 9,720 14,448 DENR

Number of LGUs

with drafted

FLUPs

Region 1 12 6 8 10 (Tier

1); 31

(Tier 2)

Ilocos Norte –

1

La Union – 1

Pangasinan –

4

DENR

Area

reforested/planted

(ha)

Region 1 8,188 8,182 253 8,951 8,182 DENR

Survival rate of

seedlings planted

Region 1 90.2 85.0 85.0 85.0 90.4 DENR

Forest cover

increased (ha)

Region 1 189,801 189,801 189,801 189,801 189,801 DENR

Number of caves

assessed

Region 1 4 7 4 3 (Tier

1); 3

(Tier 2)

7 DENR

Number of caves

assessed and

classified

Region 1 1 4 - 3 (Tier

1);

3 (Tier

2)

4 DENR

Number of Cave

Management Plans

(CMP)


1);

3 (Tier

7 DENR


103

Indicator Region/

Province


ments

Repor-

ting

Entity Value

(2017)

2018 2019 2020 2018

implemented 2)

Number of LGUs

for partnership thru

MOA for the

preservation,

development and

management of

caves

Region 1 4 - - - 5 DENR

Profiling of inland

wetlands

Region 1 1 - - 2 (Tier

2)

2 DENR

Preparation of site

management plans

for priority

wetlands


2)

2 DENR

Number of

disaster-related

diseases: Incidence

of amoebiasis

Region 1 0 0 0 0 Ilocos Norte –

161

Ilocos Sur –

137

La Union –

202

Pangasinan –

71

DOH

Number of

damaged houses

due to climate-

induced disasters

Region 1 69 0 0 0 Partially -

80,648

Totally –

3,816

DILG

Number of

casualties due to

climate-induced

disasters

Region 1 0 0 0 0 Ilocos Norte -

2

DILG

Moving Forward

The ENR sector needs to continually address enduring issues on water quality, solid waste

management, and disaster preparedness and adaptive capacity through the formulation,

implementation and strengthening of policy reforms, programs, and projects. This brings to the

fore the position of LGUs as basic units of governance by implementing the provisions of the

Local Government Code of 1991 on the devolution of ENR functions and finding corresponding

solutions to financial, technical, and implementing difficulties. The creation of local

Environment and Natural Resources Office with clear organizational structure (appointment of

ENR Officers), powers, and functions is indispensable in facilitating and focusing local

environmental initiatives.


104

LGUs should be at the forefront on the strict implementation and monitoring of the Clean Water

and Ecological Solid Waste Management Acts, especially on solid wastes from residential,

commercial and industrial sources. In coordination with water districts, regional line agencies,

NGOs, academe, scientific community, and other stakeholders, LGUs are advised to put up or

adopt proper sewerage systems, septage treatment facilities, acceptable solid waste management

technologies, and best practices to address issues on wastes within their jurisdictions. To

strengthen further local disaster preparedness and response capacities, LGUs are likewise

expected to continue mainstreaming DRRM and climate change adaptation strategies in their

programs, projects and activities. In consideration of their local financial limitations, they can

enter into private-public partnerships or tap other funding mechanisms available, in the

implementation of their ENR investment programs.

Recommendations

Table 16.2: Supplemental Strategies to Chapter 16

Implementing

Agency


LGUs, EMB,

DPWH,

DepEd,

LWUA, DOH,

DILG, Private

Sector

DOT

Government

Financial

High Fecal Coliform

Levels in River

Systems/ Coastal

Waters

Construction of LGU-owned or clustered Septage

Treatment Facilities

Continuing advocacy on zero-open defecation

Strict implementation of local ordinances on proper

waste disposal

Strict monitoring of LGU Compliance Plans (those

within WQMAs)

Capacitating LGUs in water sampling and monitoring

Installation of additional fully-functional water

quality monitoring stations

Advocating responsible tourism to local resort owners

and visitors

Strict implementation of legal easements in coastal

areas

Monitoring of waste management practices of coastal

establishments

Increasing access to funding institutions or

mechanisms on waste management programs and

projects (e.g. the National Sewerage and Septage


105

Implementing

Agency


Institutions

(GFis)

Management Program)

LGUs, DENR,

DILG, PIA,

Media, Private

Sector

DOST

Compliance to RA

9003 and limited

capacity of some

LGUs in addressing

waste management

Strengthening Solid Waste Management Boards of

LGUs

Involving the private sector in the implementation of

projects such as waste-to-energy initiatives

Enhancing the regulatory and enforcement powers of

the local governments.

Advocating more vigorously the use of accepted

recycling technologies

Sharing and adopting best LGU practices

Instilling good governance in solid waste

management through active participation of the

people from the household level to the provincial

level

LGUs, DOTr,

EMB

Sustaining good air

quality

Stricter implementation of the anti- smoking and

smoke belching campaign.

Implementation of local ordinances banning or

regulating specific non-environment-friendly vehicles

and chemicals

Implementation of public utility modernization

program

Increasing the number of air quality monitoring

stations to include emerging urban centers and


106

Implementing

Agency


known industrial sites

LGUs, DPWH,

OCD

Disaster-preparedness

of LGUs

Adoption of early warning systems even up to the

barangay level

Identification and establishment of accessible and

structurally resilient evacuation areas in barangays

Capacity building of barangay personnel on incident

command system and disaster management

Improving or opening of access roads to evacuation

sites

-end of the report-


107

AFP DOF-BLGF NEA

BSP DOH NNC

BIR DOJ-PPA NTC

BOTr DOST NHA

BOC DOT NCIP

CSC DPWH NIA

CHED DTI OCD

DA DSWD PCIC

DENR EMB PNP

DepEd HUDCC POPCOM

DILG LTO PSA

DICT TESDA

Acknowledgment of Data Sources


108

2018 ILOCOS REGION

RDR

Published by: National Economic and Development Authority Regional Office 1 Guerrero Rd., San Fernando City, La Union 2500

http://ilocos.neda.gov.ph/

(072) 888-5501, 888-2679 to 80

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