Reg’l conference on population, family planning concludes in Caraga
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – The Regional Conference on Population and Family Planning (RCPFP), organized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Caraga, featured thought-provoking plenary sessions, a powerful keynote message, and a special recognition ceremony for outstanding research contributions.
The day began with an insightful plenary session on "Socio-economic Impacts and Policy Responses to Migration in Caraga Region," presented by Dir. Alexander A. Makinano of CPD Caraga. The study highlighted the complex interplay of factors driving migration and its implications for regional development and governance.
Makinano emphasized the need for a comprehensive and evidence-based regional migration management plan, developed through a participatory process, to harness the potential benefits of migration for sustainable development.
Another notable plenary session was "Devolution of Basic Services in the Philippines: A Mixed-Methods Study on the Localization of the Philippine Population and Development Program in Caraga Region," also presented by Makinano. The study examined the progress, challenges, and best practices in the implementation of the PPD-POA at the local level, highlighting the importance of capacity building, coordination, and innovation in local governance and service delivery.
The conference also featured a presentation by Rogelio C. Diaz,Jr., executive director of Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) Philippines on "Research, Analysis and Scanning of MSMEs in the Philippines: Recommendations for Re-localization." The study provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and proposed strategies for strengthening their resilience and competitiveness in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing economic landscape.
The keynote message was delivered by Marichu M. Demerey, the esteemed wife and executive assistant IV of Gov. Nilo P. Demerey, Jr. of the Province of Dinagat Islands and chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-Caraga. In his message, Gov. Demerey commended CPD-Caraga and its director for organizing this groundbreaking event, setting a new standard for excellence among CPD regional offices nationwide. He pledged the RDC's full support for the policy recommendations emerging from the conference and urged all stakeholders to integrate these actions into their respective agenda.
A highlight of the closing program was the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to Makinano for his significant research studies titled "Understanding and Addressing Violence Against Women and Girls in Caraga Region" and "Comprehensive Assessment of Men's Health and Wellness in Caraga Region." These studies played a crucial role in shaping interventions to combat gender-based violence and improve men's health services in the region. His research was prominently featured in discussions at the RDC through the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) and was also presented at the Philippine Population Association International Scientific Conference held on March 7-8 in Tuguegarao City.
As the conference came to a close, participants expressed a renewed commitment to advancing population and development goals in Caraga through enhanced collaboration, evidence-based policymaking, and transformative action. The RCPFP successfully fostered a platform for meaningful dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and strategic planning among stakeholders from various sectors.
CPD Caraga extended its heartfelt gratitude to all the speakers, participants, and organizers who contributed to the success of this landmark event. The insights and recommendations generated from the conference will undoubtedly shape the future of population and development initiatives in the region, driving positive change and sustainable development for the people of Caraga. (May Ann O. Escobal, CPD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
