As part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) emphasized the importance of the institution’s continued support for the country’s development plans and its role as a catalyst for change in the government.
NEDA Secretary and Chairperson of the DAP Board of Trustees, Arsenio M. Balisacan, joined DAP in celebrating the academy’s historic golden anniversary with the theme “Kapwa, Kakayahan, at Kaunlaran: Limampung Taon ng Kahusayan sa Paglinang ng Bayan.”
During the celebration, the NEDA chief recalled the history of DAP as a think tank, capacity-builder, and change catalyst within the Philippine bureaucracy.
“The DAP’s hard work is aptly captured by this year’s anniversary theme, signaling the academy’s commitment to deliver the highest quality of service to its clients and stakeholders, and provide elegant solutions and innovative technologies to address development concerns or problems,” said Balisacan.
Furthermore, DAP was the brainchild of then retired Education Secretary, Onofre D. Corpuz, who later became the academy’s first president, and the former Chairman of the Development Bank of the Philippines, Leonides S. Virata, in 1973.
“It was envisioned as an institution capable of enabling other government agencies to fulfill their proper roles, particularly in terms of molding not only their officials and employees, but also their clients and employees, in order to fully utilize their resources and capabilities,” stated Balisacan.
The DAP was established by Presidential Decree No. 205 on June 7, 1973, and was formally inaugurated by the former President Ferdinand E. Marcos on June 23, 1973.
“Back then, the President said that we were in dire need of institutions like DAP that could transform and produce more leaders: leaders coming from diverse fields, leaders who are dedicated and effective, and leaders who are idealistic, motivated, and productive,” he said.
Balisacan also underscored the importance of aligning DAP’s directions and programs with the Philippine Development Plan or PDP 2023-2028, the country’s medium-term development blueprint.
He concluded his speech by offering words of encouragement to the men and women of DAP.
“Despite the challenges and formidable tasks that may lie ahead for this esteemed institution, I encourage each and every one of us to remain resolute in our commitment and dedication to fulfilling our mandate and serving the Filipino people,” said Balisacan.
