Palo, Leyte – October 22, 2025 – Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho “Icot” L. Petilla has been officially appointed as the new Chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) – Eastern Visayas (Region VIII), with a term lasting until 2028. His appointment was signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on October 16, 2025, and formally released by the Department of Planning, Economy and Development Region VIII (DEPDev) shortly thereafter.
Governor Petilla’s appointment is seen as a major boost for regional planning and development in Eastern Visayas. Known for his proven leadership, strategic governance, and deep understanding of economic planning, Petilla is expected to drive initiatives that promote inclusive growth, sustainable progress, and stronger inter-provincial collaboration across the region.
“We extend our warmest congratulations and full support to Gov. Icot Petilla. His leadership will continue to inspire unity and transformation in Eastern Visayas,” the RDC VIII Secretariat said in a statement.
Governor Petilla’s designation follows a thorough selection process, where Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez and Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos Cari were also nominated for the position.
This marks Governor Petilla’s second time leading the RDC, having first served as Chairperson from 2011 to 2012, before being appointed as Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE) from 2012 to 2015. His return brings renewed vigor and vision to the Council’s mission of advancing regional development and resilience.
On October 27, 2025, DepDev Region VIII organized a briefing and orientation session for the new RDC Chairperson. Governor Petilla met with the RDC Secretariat to discuss the Council’s roles, composition, and strategic priorities, emphasizing the need for improved coordination and collective action to achieve sustainable and inclusive regional growth.
The Regional Development Council VIII welcomes Governor Petilla’s leadership as a new chapter of collaboration and progress unfolds for Eastern Visayas. With his expertise and commitment to good governance, the region looks forward to a future marked by unity, innovation, and shared prosperity. END #leyteinitiatives
