Marcos pushes framework for PH aid to developing countries

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order directing the Technical Cooperation Council of the Philippines (TCCP) to implement a national strategy that will serve as the government’s framework for providing technical assistance to developing countries.

Under Executive Order No. 115, Marcos sought to strengthen the institutional capacity and responsiveness of the TCCP to ensure the efficient implementation of technical cooperation programs aligned with national priorities.

The order directs the council to implement the Philippine Technical Cooperation Program (PTCP), which will carry the brand name “Development Philippines.”

The initiative aims to assist developing countries while advancing the Philippines’ own development goals and strategic interests.

Under the EO, the council was tasked to coordinate all technical cooperation projects and activities of government agencies, provide policy direction for the PTCP, and ensure that technical cooperation initiatives align with national development priorities and foreign policy objectives.

The Department of Foreign Affairs will chair the council, while the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development will serve as vice chair.

Other members include the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Health, Department of Migrant Workers, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

A technical working group composed of representatives from member agencies will also be formed to provide technical and policy support to the TCCP.

The EO was signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on April 29, and will take effect upon publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.—MCG, GMA News