Chaired by Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe, the RDC IX is the highest planning and policy-making body in Zamboanga Peninsula. According to the National Economic and Development Authority, “It is the primary institution that coordinates and sets the direction of all economic and social development efforts in the region. It also serves as a forum where local efforts can be related and integrated with regional and national development activities.”

Meanwhile, RPOC IX is chaired by Zamboanga Sibugay Governor Dr. Dulce Anne Hofer. As described by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the RPOC is “a forum for inter-disciplinary dialogue and deliberation of major issues and concerns affecting peace and order and public safety within their respective areas of jurisdictions; and recommend strategic actions or activities aimed at promoting, improving, or enhancing peace and order and public safety measures, including anti-insurgency measures within their respective areas of jurisdictions” among others.

The joint meeting was graced by RPOC IX Vice Chair MGEN Antonio Nafarette, Commander 1ID AFP, regional directors and representatives from member line agencies led by DILG IX Regional Director Paisal Abutazil, and other invited leaders of civil society organizations from Zamboanga Peninsula. (Words by M. Guerrero/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)