Phitsanulok Integrates Local Development Plans Aiming to Improve Quality of Life and Basic Services

Phitsanulok Province has launched a mid-term integrated local development project, with government agencies, local authorities and civil society jointly planning improvements to infrastructure, public health services and livelihood support to accommodate population growth and increased tourism in recent years.

The plan includes upgrading roads that connect communities, developing rural water supply systems and expanding subdistrict-level health services. There are also vocational training programs for youth and the elderly, such as organic farming, handicrafts and cultural tourism. The provincial governor said investment in people and infrastructure will raise quality of life and reduce disparities between urban and rural areas.

In education, the province, together with the provincial education office, is developing supplementary curricula focused on vocational and digital skills for secondary students to prepare the future workforce. A pilot program creates internship opportunities with local tourism businesses and hotels, allowing students to gain real work experience and explore career paths after graduation. Cultural activities are also promoted to preserve local heritage and strengthen community identity.

On the economic front, the province emphasizes support for SMEs by organizing workshops on digital marketing, product development and linkage to online sales platforms. The goal is to help OTOP and community products reach more customers domestically and internationally. A joint program with local banks also offers low-interest loans to help entrepreneurs expand their businesses sustainably.

Positive impacts for residents are expected within 1–3 years, such as easier travel, lower goods transportation costs, improved access to health services and increased income from cultural tourism. However, civil society calls for transparency in budget allocation and community participation from the planning stage to ensure development is sustainable and meets real local needs.

Overall, Phitsanulok is developing toward a city that balances residents’ well-being with preservation of local identity. The plan’s success depends on coordination among government, private sector and communities. If implementation continues steadily, the province could become a model of balanced local development across economic, social and environmental dimensions, benefiting both residents and future visitors.