Without resources and policy support, the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program or return to the provinces program faces headwinds that might keep it on the ground. The most urgent government tasks would be to improve energy security and internet services in rural areas. Lingering problems include high cost because electricity in rural and off-grid areas relies on diesel fuel, an imported good. Granted, this is true nationwide, but the situation is worse in rural areas. That has been a goal of many past governments, to decongest the NCR through rural development.

Source: Manila Times May 15, 2021 16:52 UTC