DAVAO CITY—Various stakeholders, including International Development Partners and Local and National Government Units such as the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), reaffirmed their unwavering support for BARMM.
This came during the 3rd Bangsamoro International Development Partners Forum on February 16, 2024, held at Acacia Hotel in this city.
Welcoming the attendees, Davao City Mayor Sebastian ‘Baste’ Duterte lauded the collaborative efforts between the Bangsamoro government and its international partners for their contributions to the sustainable development of the region.
“Through your commitment to promoting inclusivity and progress, we are optimistic that you will be able to continue to move forward in unity towards the goal of creating a better Bangsamoro,” he remarked.
He added, “In the pursuit of our shared goals, it is our hope that this forum will serve as an effective platform in discussion and sharing of insights to further advance the socio-economic development of the community while preserving their culture and beliefs.”
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan highlighted the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028’s focus on meaningful engagement with stakeholders for economic and social transformation.
“One of the PDP’s priority strategies is supporting the Bangsamoro transition by focusing on institution building, personnel development, and economic management,” Secretary Balisacan stated.
MinDA Chairperson Maria Belen Acosta emphasized BARMM’s role as a gateway to the BIMP-EAGA and reiterated the commitment to making BARMM a prosperity hub.
“The BARMM is a gateway of the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines – East ASEAN Growth Areas or BIMP-EAGA,” Acosta proudly reiterated.
Recognizing partners’ crucial role, Senior Minister Abunawas Maslamama emphasized the synergy among national and regional governments, international partners, and other stakeholders in BARMM’s transformative initiatives.
“Together, we have laid down the groundwork for initiatives aimed at uplifting lives and ensuring no one is left behind in our journey toward prosperity and peace,” he stated.
The forum witnessed the participation of 152 individuals, including representatives from multilateral and bilateral organizations, international non-governmental organizations, national government offices, and BARMM ministries, offices, and agencies. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
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