The Philippine government has expanded the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board to include the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Agriculture (DA). 

The decision aims to enhance food security and skills development in the country. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan announced the change during a board meeting at Malacañang Palace on Aug. 28.

“The board decided to include the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education secretaries in the NEDA board to ensure that the priorities of this administration with respect to agriculture and food security, as well as education and particularly the development of skills for a competitive economy, are properly attended,” Balisacan told Palace reporters.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. chairs the NEDA Board while Balisacan serves as vice-chair.

The NEDA Board includes Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and BSP Deputy Governor Francisco Dakila Jr.

Other members are Human Settlements Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, acting Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and Mindanao Development Authority Chairperson Leo Tereso Magno.

Under Executive Order 230 from 1987, the President can revise the NEDA Board’s membership to enhance its effectiveness. 

The recent reorganization aims to tackle urgent issues like food security and skills development, ensuring the government can better meet citizens’ needs.