A SENATE panel on Thursday approved the measures seeking to create the Metropolitan Davao Development Authority (MDDA), which will support economic growth in the expanding urban areas in the region.
Senator Francis N. Tolentino, chair of the committee on local government, said in a hearing that the panel will consolidate the bills and endorse the proposal to the plenary.
“I think the committee is now inclined to approve the measures and we will present these to the plenary in due time. The creation of Metropolitan Davao Development Authority in so far as this committee is concerned is hereby approved,” he said.
Its counterpart measure at the House of Representatives was approved in March.
Under House Bill No. 8930, Metro Davao has been expanded to 10 towns and cities, namely: Tagum, Panabo, Carmen, and Samal in Davao del Norte; Davao City; Digos City and Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur; Mati City in Davao Oriental; Maco in Davao de Oro; and Malita in Davao Occidental.
Senator Ronald M. dela Rosa in the hearing on the bills last week pushed for the inclusion of the municipalities of Padada, Hagonoy, Sta. Maria and Malalag in Davao del Sur. — Vann Marlo M. Villegas