NATIONAL Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) Secretary Manny Pacquiao said he plans to set up regional offices for the agency to strengthen grassroots poverty reduction.
Pacquiao emphasized regional offices will bring the commission’s programs closer to poor communities, with jobs and housing as his main priorities.
“Gusto kong ibaba kasi wala pang wala pang regional offices ang mga ang NAPC. So, part of our optimization is to establish regional offices sa iba’t-ibang mga region para kasi ang mababa ang NAPC sa doon sa grassroots,” Pacquiao told media during the sideline interview.
Pacquiao said many people do not know the agency exists and that “it is time” they feel its presence.
The secretary addressed the participants at the Mindanao Development Forum 2026 on Tuesday, October 27, organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).
Asked about his priorities, Pacquiao said he would focus on sustainable livelihood for families and on strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises, which he said generate jobs.
He also cited housing and support for the education of children from poor families.
“Kung ano yung maibigay nating trabaho sa tao at magkaroon ng economic development,” he said.
Pacquiao pointed to the program “Masaganang Pamumuhay sa Bagong Pilipinas,” which he said focuses on job creation and housing, but did not give a budget figure for Mindanao.
While he did not name a single priority area for housing, he cited Davao, South Cotabato, Agusan, Zamboanga, and Marawi as among areas needing help, saying support would depend on what the agency can deliver.
NAPC is also seeking investors from other regions and countries to put money into Mindanao, which is expected to generate jobs.
In his speech, Pacquiao called for public-private partnerships, development financing, and stronger cooperation among government, business, civil society, and communities.
“Development must reach the people, not just the places where investments are made,” he said.
He cited Mindanao’s potential in agriculture, agribusiness, tourism, energy and infrastructure, and emerging industries.
“The opportunities are here, but our challenge is to ensure that these opportunities translate into decent jobs, sustainable livelihoods, better services, and real economic opportunities for our people, especially the poor and marginalized communities,” he said.
Asked about 2028 government position plans, Pacquiao said he is not thinking about politics and is focused on public service, his family, and their business.
