Dumaguete City hosted a two-day regional workshop focused on strengthening investment programming and preparing agency budgets for Fiscal Year 2028. Organized by the Regional Development Council–Negros Island Region (RDC-NIR) through the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev NIR) on November 4–5, 2026, the activity brought together regional agencies and stakeholders to align development priorities with investment plans and budget proposals.
Aligning Regional Priorities With Investment Programs
The Regional Workshop on Investment Programming and FY 2028 Budget Preparation focused on aligning regional development priorities with investment programming and agency budget proposals. Discussions covered the Public Investment Program (PIP), priority programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) of the Negros Island Region, as well as the use of the PIPOL System for updating the Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) and PIP 2023–2028. The workshop aimed to ensure that regional development goals are reflected in investment plans and proposed government programs. Through these discussions, participating agencies were given guidance on identifying and preparing projects that respond to the region's development needs.
Preparing Agencies for the FY 2028 Budget Process
The second day of the workshop focused on the FY 2028 budget preparation process, including procedural guidelines under DBM-DEPDev Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2026-01. Participants discussed budget review timelines, requirements, and the preparation of RDC-NIR budget forms. Technical workshops and presentations by regional line agencies and state universities and colleges also formed part of the activity. These sessions provided participants with an opportunity to understand the requirements for preparing agency budget proposals and strengthening the coordination of development programs.
Strengthening Regional Coordination for Development
The activity emphasized the importance of stronger engagement with the Regional Development Council and improved coordination among government agencies. By aligning investment priorities with agency budget proposals, the region aims to ensure that development programs and projects are prepared for implementation. The workshop also highlighted the role of collaboration in translating regional priorities into investment-ready programs, activities, and projects. Through continued planning and coordination, the Negros Island Region seeks to support more responsive and effective regional development initiatives.
