DAVAO CITY – Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Secretary Leo Tereso Magno urged the government and participants of the 1st Mindanao Infrastructure Summit here  on Thursday, October 10, to act and transform Mindanao from a "land of promise" into a "land of fulfillment."

MAGNO (FB)

Magno said the government and private sector must cooperate in realizing the vision for Mindanao.

He said infrastructure development is a key driver that would accelerate socio-economic growth in Mindanao as solid infrastructure links supply chains, streamlines the flow of goods and services, and fuels economic growth.

"Unfortunately, Mindanao has long grappled with scarce job opportunities and high poverty rates due to uneven regional infrastructure development. We need essential connectivity to create opportunities and improve people's lives," Magno said.

The summit was conducted through a MinDA board resolution adopted during the 14th board meeting on July 27 emphasizing the need for collaboration among stakeholders to create a quality infrastructure that underpins a resilient and prosperous Mindanao.

"In developing Mindanao, infrastructure is essential for boosting economic potential, developing living standards, and ensuring inclusive growth. Infrastructure includes both physical and digital components, linking people, communities, goods, information, markets, and resources," Magno said.

Magno said quality infrastructure plays a foundational role in regional socio-economic development. He said it impacts trade, investment, productivity, social inclusion, tourism, disaster resilience, and overall quality of life.

He added that by fostering a positive growth and development cycle, infrastructure helps local communities and the overall economy. 

Magno reaffirmed the administration's commitment to ongoing, strategic, and timely infrastructure projects as the country aims for its 2028 targets.

"We are currently in a transformative period for infrastructure development," Magno said, adding that the summit serves as a platform to share updates on key infrastructure projects under construction or nearing completion across Mindanao.

The MinDa chief said these efforts are part of the broader initiative to build a "Bagong Pilipinas" under the Marcos administration. He said Mindanao is poised to flourish alongside the country's other significant islands in terms of physical development and economic progress.

Magno said that infrastructure will elevate the quality of life for citizens, enhance trade and commerce, attract investors, harness productive capacities, promote social inclusion, boost tourism, and ensure disaster resilience, all vital for securing the country's prosperity.