Politics · Philippines Bureau
House approves 30-year infrastructure master plan on second reading
The House of Representatives has passed legislation establishing a three-decade national infrastructure blueprint aimed at ensuring consistent project implementation across political administrations. The move seeks to remove infrastructure planning from the vagaries of electoral cycles.
LSN Philippines ·
The lower chamber approved House Bill No. 11597, known as the Masterplan for Infrastructure and National Development (MIND) Act, through voice vote on Tuesday. The measure establishes a long-term strategic framework for the country's infrastructure development, designed to transcend the typical political cycles that have historically disrupted project continuity.
Proponents argue that the 30-year planning horizon will provide stability and predictability for major infrastructure initiatives, allowing projects to proceed uninterrupted by changes in national leadership. The extended timeframe is intended to facilitate better coordination among government agencies, private sector partners, and development partners in executing large-scale infrastructure programs.
The MIND Act now advances to third and final reading in the House before proceeding to the Senate for deliberation. Infrastructure planning specialists have long advocated for institutionalized long-term frameworks to address the Philippines' significant infrastructure gaps and boost economic productivity.
The bill reflects broader efforts to depoliticize infrastructure development and align the country's growth strategy with international best practices for sustained economic development.