February 16, 2024- The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and the Aurora State College of Technology partnered (ASCOT) to host the “Ituloy Ang Aksyon para sa AmBisyon: The CL-RDP 2023-2028 and Ambisyon Natin 2040” forum at the ASCOT Zabali Campus.
Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, ASCOT’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, warmly welcomed guests and participants, setting the tone for the event. Engr. Oscar C. Barwid, PhD, ASCOT’s Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance, delivered an inspiring message, highlighting the importance of collective action in achieving ambitious goals.
Ms. Ina Christia M. De Jesus, NEDA 3 Supervising Economic Development Specialist, provided an overview of the forum, setting the stage for discussions. She also elaborated on the goals of the forum, such as increasing awareness of Ambisyon Natin 2040, the Philippine Development Plan, and the Central Luzon Development Plan 2023–2028.
Ms. Nerrisa T. Esguerra, Regional Director of NEDA 3, elaborated on the key features and salient points of “Ambisyon Natin 2040,” the Filipino collective long-term vision. This vision aims for inclusive growth and an improved quality of life for all Filipinos. AmBisyon Natin 2040 represents the collective long-term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people for themselves and for the country in the next 25 years. It describes the kind of life that people want to live and how the country will be by 2040. As such, it is an anchor for development planning across at least four administrations. By 2040, the lives of all Filipinos will be described as Matatag, Maginhawa, and Panatag na Buhay.
ASCOT President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes, emphasized the college’s role in realizing Ambisyon Natin 2040. He highlighted the importance of education and research in driving sustainable development and progress. “Napagakandang mangarap. Kung walang pangarap malungkot. Libre ang mangarap, pero we have to do something to make our dream realized,” he said. He also shared ASCOT’s ongoing efforts to improve services for students and stakeholders, showcasing proposals such as the Smart Classroom, dormitory, and alumni hostel, which align with the efforts of the government to provide quality services for Aurorans.
Mr. Laurence B. Amazona, President of the ASCOT Supreme Student Council, highlighted the crucial role of the youth in achieving Ambisyon Natin 2040. He stressed the youth’s energy, innovation, and commitment to positive change as catalysts for national development.
Ms. Evelyn Nacario-Castro, NEDA 3 Assistant Regional Director, discussed the salient features of the Central Luzon Regional Development Plan 2023-2028. This plan focuses on strategies for economic growth and development in the provinces within the Central Luzon Region. She emphasized the role of crucial planning and execution for the success of Ambisyon Nation. “Success is no accident; it is a planned journey to a destination of choice, she emphasized.”
An open forum provided an opportunity for further discussions and exchanges of ideas. Before the program’s end, Ms. De Jesus led the way forward, inspiring participants to take concrete actions towards realizing the shared aspirations outlined in “Ambisyon Natin 2040.”
Through collaborative efforts and meaningful discussions, ASCOT and NEDA are working together to drive national development and create a brighter future for all Filipinos.
#ascot #NEDA #AmBisyonNatin2040
