President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscored the progress and collaborative efforts between the national government and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Today, we are gathered here to celebrate what is a significant milestone in our collective journey towards the success of Bangsamoro Region,” Mr. Marcos said during a ceremonial turnover of the 3rd National Government-Bangsamoro Government Intergovernmental Relations Body (NG-BG IGRB) Progress Report in Malacañang.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of operationalizing all seven IGRB mechanisms, crucial for the smooth implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law’s provisions and principles.
He highlighted several key achievements, including the qualification and commissioning of former MILF and MNLF members into the Philippine National Police and the inclusion of proclamations granting amnesty to former MILF and MNLF members,
The President also stressed the successful turnover of various national government properties and assets within BARMM to the Bangsamoro Government, and the signing of the Intergovernmental Energy Board Circular on the Joint Award on Petroleum Service Contracts and Coal Operating Contracts in BARMM.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday welcomed the submission of the Third National Government and the Bangsamoro Government Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) Progress Report to President Marcos.
Established under the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the IGRB serves as a mechanism for coordination and cooperation between the National Government and the Bangsamoro Government.
The IGRB aims to address intergovernmental concerns, ensure the effective implementation of programs and projects in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and foster lasting peace and development in the region.
According to Romualdez, the submission of the Third IGRB Progress Report signifies a substantial step forward in the ongoing pursuit of peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the region.
The House is set to begin its hearings next week on the proposed P6.352 trillion national budget for 2025, which includes an P83.4 billion fund as Annual Block Grant to the BARMM.
President Marcos said the Third IGRB report, which details the accomplishments and ongoing initiatives of the IGRB, is a testament to the fruitful partnership between the National Government and the BARMM and an “enduring commitment to peace and development.”
