Development Objectives and Priority Actions Within ZOPAD
- Provision of basic services: water, electricity, education, housing, health, and sanitation.
- Infrastructure support including transport and communication.
- Promotion of domestic and international investment to boost employment.
- Entrepreneurial and livelihood support, focusing on vulnerable sectors.
- Capability-building for local communities, emphasizing empowerment.
Institutional Framework for Development Implementation
- Creation of institutional mechanisms such as the Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development (SPCPD).
- Coordination with existing systems like regional development councils and the BIMP-East ASEAN Growth Area.
Priority Areas and Specific Development Projects
- Focus on the poorest provinces, lower-class municipalities, and depressed communities.
- Human development programs including health, education, and welfare.
- Socialized housing and potable water projects.
- Construction of roads, bridges, airports, and seaports.
- Telecommunications and electrification initiatives.
- Promotion of tourism and environmental conservation.
- Agricultural enhancement and establishment of industrial centers.
- People empowerment programs for political, social, and economic participation.
Establishment and Composition of the SPCPD
- SPCPD is established under the Office of the President as a special coordinating body.
- The council is led by a Chairperson appointed from among the governors in ZOPAD.
- It includes a Vice-Chairperson, three Deputies, government department heads, and NGO representatives.
Functions and Powers of the SPCPD
- Coordinate and oversee peace and development efforts within the ZOPAD.
- Monitor peace and order, facilitate project implementation, and support local governments.
- Exercise delegated presidential powers necessary for efficient administration.
- Assist in election-related preparations as deputized by the COMELEC.
- Create internal offices or committees to administer its affairs.
Development Responsibilities of the SPCPD
- Promote and monitor development initiatives and investment promotion, including ASEAN and Islamic countries.
- Network with agencies for resource generation and implement projects involving related authorities.
Peace and Order Responsibilities of the SPCPD
- Monitor public safety measures and hold consultations regarding law and order.
- Conduct advocacy to build public support for peace.
- Coordinate with military and police within existing command structures.
- Report peace and order status and issues to the President.
Support Obligations of Government Agencies
- All government entities, including GOCs, are mandated to support ZOPAD programs in coordination with SPCPD.
Establishment, Composition, and Role of the Consultative Assembly
- The Consultative Assembly serves as an advisory body to the SPCPD under presidential supervision.
- Composed of SPCPD Chairperson, ARMM officials, provincial governors, city mayors, and sectoral representatives.
- Functions include public consultation, policy recommendation, and internal rule-making subject to presidential approval.
Duration and Impact on Local Governments
- The SPCPD and Consultative Assembly exist for three years unless extended.
- Local government units retain their powers and functions unaffected by this order.
Funding and Legal Provisions
- Funding comes primarily from the Office of the President and other sources as recommended.
- A severability clause ensures unaffected provisions remain valid if parts are ruled invalid.
- The order takes effect 15 days after publication in two national newspapers.