The National Economic Development Authority declared on Friday that the social conditions in Davao region improved remarkably in 2016.
During the Kapehan sa PIA media forum on Friday, NEDA XI Director Maria Lourdes Lim identified improvements on provision of social welfare services and ensured social protection to the region’s marginalized and vulnerable sectors.
Health
Lim pointed out that despite the rigid campaign of local government units through the local health centers, mortality rate in the region has still not achieved its target. For 2016, infant mortality rate in the region was 6.2 percent in 2016 from its target of 5 percent; under-5 mortality rate at 8 percent from its 9 percent target. Meanwhile, proportion of 1year-olds immunized against measles at 66.6 percent from its 95 percent target; proportion of fully-immunized children at 66.7 from its 95 percent target; maternal mortality ratio 116 45 ; and proportion of births attended by skilled health personnel at 87.5 from its 90 percent target.
This is an indication that local government units should heighten the implementation of their health services and programs, according to NEDA.
4Ps
NEDA reported, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps already achieved 93.3 percent or 245, 250 houlsehold benefeciaries of its annual target during the first three quarters of 2016 alone.
Security sector
Efficiency in security sector was recorded due to increased crime solution efficiency rate of 68.6 percent for 2016. Crime incidents were reduced by 34 percent to 33,266 surpassing its full-year target of 38.7 percent in the former due to increased police visibility, mobile patrols, intensified anti-illegal drug operations, stricter implementation of local ordinances, and improved condition between government and its citizens.
The director said stable peace and order conditions have provided an environment conducive for investments significantly creating jobs.
Prospects for 2017
NEDA said peace and order and public safety initiatives will intensify due to the robust economic activities in Dvao Region.
Lim stressed the socioeconomic report was based on the preliminary data presented by agencies concerned. Data on the sector of education is yet to be consolidated at the end of the school year 2016-2017.
