CEBU, Philippines — The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) is proposing some policies covering the Balik Probinsiya, Bagong Pag-asa Program that is aimed at decongesting Metro Manila and promote healthy regional development.
NAPC Secretary Noel K. Felongco said these policy proposals are based on the consolidated inputs from the 14 basic sectors, published policy framework and studies of the NAPC, the Magna Carta of the Poor (RA 11291), and the NAPC’s banner framework and program – the Sambayanihan Serbisyong Sambayanan (3S) crafted under his leadership.
The salient points of these policy proposals include:
1.Integrate poverty alleviation framework in the Balik-Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program (BP2)
2. Ensure the representation of the 14 basic sectors in policy-making bodies, either interim or permanent, in all levels of governance
3. Study past administration’s implementation of a similar program to BP2
4. Revisit Industrialization Plan - Pro-active anti-poverty strategy premised in developing rural and urban agriculture and industry as the most important preconditions for overcoming poverty.
5. Repeal anti-workers/farmers/fisherfolk laws, e.g. Regional wage, rice tariffication before implementing BP2. Repeal laws that do not promote BP2. Decent salary and safe workplaces
6. Identify the target population and need
7. Ensure that the national development is in line with the local development plans. Strengthening localized programs/projects
8. Consider policy proposals per key area in the BP2
9. Set-up monitoring mechanism
10. Provide incentive to LGUs who will be accepting returnees for BP2.
"I believed that this program is a huge step in adjusting to the new normal, through the help of our government’s new initiatives and our continuous cooperation," Felongco said.
At present, Felongco said the NAPC is continuing to mobilize its vast grassroots network of volunteers through their Kasambayanihan program to monitor the implementation of quarantine policies and distribution of food assistance by the national and local government agencies. GAN (FREEMAN)