The Philippine Information Agency reported that housing officials, development coordinators, and urban planners representing the Zamboanga Peninsula convened at the Pagadian Bay Plaza Hotel for the 2026 Regional Planning Conference to advance sustainable urban development and enhance regional spatial planning.
The three-day conference brought together hundreds of participants under the theme “Planning for Resilience and Sustainability: Transforming Urban Spaces, Strengthening Mobility, and Advancing Land Use Governance.” Organized by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD)-9, the event aimed to enhance the planning capabilities of local government units and strengthen their commitment to sustainable regional development.
Rosenio C. Sumalinog Jr., Regional President of the League of Local Planners and Development Coordinators of the Philippines Inc., noted that the activity helps local planners improve their knowledge and skills in preparing development plans.
The conference equips us and enhances our knowledge on how to prepare the plans, Sumalinog said.
Throughout the event, attendees tackled specific guidelines and enforcement requirements for land use, land utilization, and subdivision development. Jeremias Florida of the Municipality of Bayog pointed out that these practical updates directly support daily municipal operations.
It will greatly help in my role in our LGU because it involves new guidelines and enforcement, and other requirements when it comes to subdivisions, Florida said. Civil Engineer Jeremias Florida
Participants also engaged in dedicated discussions to address questions regarding conversion and land use guidelines, gaining clearer insights into what is required to execute these policies effectively. Beyond technical training, the conference offered open forums designed to build professional networks and encourage peer-to-peer collaboration across the region.
The organizing agency closed the three-day gathering with a unified call for action: “Plan and Do! Region 9!”