NEWS




25September

Bangsamoro Government reaches out to communities outside BARMM to address socio-economic needs

General Santos City - The Bangsamoro Government's Office for the Other Bangsamoro Communities (OOBC) has convened representatives from local government units (LGUs), youth, women, and Muslim leaders from Region 12 to address socio-economic issues affecting Bangsamoro communities outside the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The three-day event, held in General Santos City from September 17 to 19, 2024, aimed to gather input and recommendations for systematic programs that ensure equitable development for all Bangsamoro, regardless of their location.
 
OOBC Executive Director Noron Andan emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between Bangsamoro communities outside the region and the BARMM government.
 
"We're here to listen because they are part and involved in the peace process and struggles of the Bangsamoro leaders," Andan said, highlighting the OOBC's mission to meet the needs of these communities.
 
Participants raised concerns about peace and order issues, particularly family feuds, cultural sensitivity, poverty, lack of madrasah infrastructure, limited economic opportunities, and the absence of Islamic financial institutions.
 
Annie Pineda, representing the Provincial Government of North Cotabato, praised the initiative, stating, "We are happy to collaborate with OOBC. This action will allow us to create more projects that benefit Bangsamoro communities outside BARMM."
 
She also underscored that the OOBC's presence and initiatives can help the provincial government combat cultural discrimination and promote Bangsamoro products.
 
Participants expressed hope for future projects such as infrastructure development, halal-friendly tourism, agricultural support, scholarships, technical skills training, madrasah construction, and financial support for Islamic teachers.
 
The OOBC plans to conduct similar assessments in the Zamboanga Peninsula, CARAGA, Region X, Davao Region, and MIMAROPA, demonstrating its commitment to addressing the needs of Bangsamoro communities nationwide.