𝗕𝗣𝗗𝗔 𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗦 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗢 𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟𝗢𝗣𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗨𝗠 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

DAVAO CITY — On July 24-25, the Bangsamoro Government, represented by Director General Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali, MNSA, along with key personnel from the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA), attended the Mindanao Development Forum (MDF) 2024, as they took part in meaningful dialogues, fostered collaboration, and explored innovations with various sectors to contribute in driving sustainable socioeconomic development in Mindanao.

With the theme “THE MINDANAO AGENDA: Empowering People, Sustaining Prosperity, Preserving the Planet, Nurturing Peace, Fostering Partnerships,” the forum was co-organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, in collaboration with the European Union Delegation, USAID Philippines, Australian Aid, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), GIZ Philippines, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the University of the Philippines Public Administration Research and Extension Services Foundation, Inc. (UPPAF).

In his message delivered by DG Ali, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim stated that this year’s theme encapsulates the vision for a prosperous and peaceful Mindanao. He also emphasized the pivotal role of BARMM as a key catalyst in driving the socioeconomic growth of Mindanao.

“As we stand on the threshold of transformative change, let us envision a future where an empowered, cohesive, and progressive Bangsamoro acts as one of the key catalysts fueling the strength of Mindanao. Together, we are not just building a region or an island; we are crafting the cornerstone for a Bagong Pilipinas. Mabuhay ang Bangsamoro, Mabuhay ang Mindanao, tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas!” he said.

He further underscored that empowering people is at the heart of BARMM’s mission, believing that sustainable development begins with an empowered citizenry; BARMM is investing in infrastructure development, improving connectivity, and enhancing the region’s economic landscape to sustain prosperity; environmental stewardship and sustainability are also fundamental in preserving the planet by safeguarding natural resources and advocating for eco-friendly practices; nurturing peace is essential for region’s stability and development; and fostering partnerships is crucial in ensuring its development initiatives are inclusive, effective, and sustainable.

Moreover, DG Ali served as a panelist during the “Cabinet Talks on MindaNOW and Beyond: Forging a Resilient, Inclusive, and Sustainable Path Forward.” Jorjani Sinsuat, Head of New Media of the Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO), participated as a panelist during the “Mindanao Youth Forum 2024 on Empowering the Youth: Advancing the Mindanao Agenda 2023-2028.” The youth forum served as a platform for young leaders to actively participate in addressing challenges and envisioning long-term solutions.

MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno highlighted that BARMM has the highest employment rate in Mindanao at 97.1%, contributing to Mindanao’s overall employment rate of 96.2%. He emphasized that Mindanao is poised to enhance its role in food security, peace, trade, commerce, investment, and overall prosperity.

“With the support of the national government in implementing big ticket and high-impact projects, together we can transform Mindanao into a hub of prosperity and innovation, contributing to the overall growth of the entire nation,” he stated.

Via video message, His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s mission to ensure that every Mindanaon gets to enjoy a joyful and meaningful life, stating, “Mindanao remains as a beacon of peace and prosperity in our nation.”

The BARMM delegation, composed of key officials and representatives from the BPDA, Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS), Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT), Bangsamoro Economic Zone Authority (BEZA), Ministry of Health (MOH), Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MIPA), and Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government, joined the breakout sessions focusing on the thematic areas of people, prosperity, planet, peace, and partnerships.