BASILAN—The recently signed memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Basilan provincial government and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) is expected to significantly boost the productivity of the island’s rubber industry.

This collaboration, supported by a P195 million investment from the Bangsamoro Government, aims to enhance the overall performance of the rubber sector in Basilan.

Funded under the Special Development Fund (SDF), the deal signifies a joint commitment that will focus on enhancing agricultural productivity, technical assistance, capacity-building initiatives, access to markets, and promoting sustainable practices within the rubber sector.

MAFAR Minister Mohammad Yacob described this joint venture of the Ministry and provincial government of Basilan as ‘strategic’ to promote growth and development in the region.

“This collaboration underscores our shared vision of uplifting the livelihoods of our farmers and promoting agribusiness opportunities in the region,” Yacob said.

“Through concerted efforts and resource mobilization, we aim to achieve the full potential of Basilan’s rubber industry,” he added.

Engr. Mohajirin Ali, Project Manager of the SDF-Project Management Office (PMO), expressed confidence in rebuilding the conflict-affected communities in the island.

Ali, who is also the Director-General of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA), said that through the collective efforts and commitment of the involved stakeholders of the Bangsamoro Government, “we can continue providing effective services and programs focused on the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of conflict-affected communities within the BARMM.”

Basilan Governor Hadjiman Sabbihi Hataman Salliman expressed gratitude for choosing Basilan as a partner in this strategic collaboration. He also acknowledged the positive impact that this partnership will have on the local economy and the opportunities it will create for the people of Basilan.

“Allocating such a big amount for projects meant to increase rubber production in Basilan is something […] we interpret as a vote of confidence for our provincial government,”

Governor Salliman said.

Aligned with the broader objectives of the SDF, these initiatives aim to support inclusive and sustainable development in the Bangsamoro region. (Majid Nur/BIO)

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