TACLOBAN CITY — The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) in Eastern Visayas has called on local government units (LGUs) to intensify efforts in integrating population and development (POPDEV) strategies into their local plans, citing persistent challenges such as adolescent pregnancy and gaps in family planning services.
As the agency marked its 57th anniversary, CPD Region-8 underscored the critical role of LGUs in localizing people-centered and inclusive development strategies tailored to community needs.
Regional Director Elnora Pulma said that since 2022, CPD-8 has been working closely with municipalities and cities across Eastern Visayas to align POPDEV strategies with local realities.
“From 2022 to present, CPD VIII has worked hand in hand with local government units to localize POPDEV strategies that respond to local realities and community needs,” Pulma said.
While noting slower population growth in the region and a growing working-age population, Pulma pointed out that several population-related concerns remain. These include rising adolescent pregnancy cases, unmet needs for family planning, and limited access to services in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
Pulma expressed hope that more LGUs would formalize partnerships with CPD through memoranda of agreement to strengthen the integration of POPDEV principles into local governance systems, policies, and development initiatives.
To support this effort, CPD-8 continues to conduct capacity development activities and technical training programs aimed at improving the competencies of local officials and program implementers.
The agency also encouraged LGUs to establish functional governance mechanisms promoting responsible parenthood and family planning, expand adolescent health and youth development initiatives, and mainstream POPDEV strategies in local development programs.
As it commemorates its 57th year, CPD-8 reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with LGUs and sustaining technical support to ensure the effective implementation of inclusive and responsive POPDEV programs across Eastern Visayas.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
