On April 14, 2025, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) signed a joint memorandum circular (JMC), reinforcing the government's commitment to evidence-informed decision-making and good governance in the evaluation of priority programs and projects.

The ceremonial signing was led by NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan and DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman at the NEDA main office in Mandaluyong City.

The updated Revised National Evaluation Policy Framework (NEPF), first established in 2015, aims to provide a structured approach to evaluating government initiatives.

With the growing need to align evaluation processes with contemporary governance priorities and developmental objectives, a comprehensive review was initiated by the Evaluation Task Force, which includes representatives from NEDA, DBM, and the Office of the President–Presidential Management Staff (OP-PMS).

Significant enhancements in the revised NEPF include a reorganization of the Evaluation Task Force into the NEPF Steering Committee, designed to improve coordination and oversight of evaluation practices.

Additionally, the revised framework institutionalizes the National Evaluation Agenda along with Agency-Based Evaluation Agendas, ensuring that evaluations align with the Philippine Development Plan and public investment priorities.

A pronounced commitment to employing high-quality, ethical, and transparent evaluation methodologies has also been established.

During the signing ceremony, Secretary Balisacan remarked that the revised NEPF signifies a major governance reform, advocating for a comprehensive approach to evaluation that facilitates informed policy and budget decisions, fosters continuous improvement, and promotes a culture of accountability and learning among government agencies.

He further noted that the signing of the JMC symbolizes the Philippine government's dedication to making evaluation a core element of its governance framework.

Balisacan stated, "Today’s ceremonial signing marks a significant milestone in advancing evidence-informed policymaking.

It forms part of a broader effort to strengthen accountability, enhance transparency, and improve the government’s capacity to generate actionable insights that elevate public service delivery.

Let us unite in ensuring that this framework extends beyond mere paperwork and transforms into a living policy—actively implemented, monitored, and continuously improved."

As NEDA transitions into the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), the revised Policy Framework seeks to bolster monitoring and evaluation functions, equipping government institutions with the necessary tools for evidence-based improvements.

The NEPF provides crucial guidance for establishing a national evaluation agenda, overseeing comprehensive studies, and ensuring that evaluation results are utilized effectively to refine policies and programs, ultimately enhancing their impact and effectiveness.