The Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) has approved the creation of a technical working group (TWG) to oversee Sulu’s transition from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to the national government.
The move came on the heels of a recent Supreme Court decision excluding Sulu from the BARMM.
The TWG will develop a transition plan addressing employee reassignment, continuity of services, financial support, program implementation, revenue collection processes, and the transfer of Bangsamoro-owned assets to the national government.
Key officials, including Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and BARMM Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal, emphasized the importance of ensuring uninterrupted services and prioritizing the welfare of Sulu’s residents during the transition.
Sulu Gov. Abdulsakur Tan expressed gratitude for the support, while Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez underscored the national government’s commitment to promote socio-economic programs in line with its vision for an inclusive “Bagong Pilipinas.”
In her opening statement during the IGRB’s 21st meeting, Pangandaman, who also serves as the IGRB co-chairperson for the national government, emphasized the panel’s commitment to help facilitate Sulu’s transition.
“Our stand remains the same: We in the IGRB will ensure uninterrupted government operations in Sulu amid this transition,” Pangandaman stressed.
The IGRB, established in 2019, plays a vital role in resolving issues and fostering coordination between the national and Bangsamoro governments.
