NEWS
30May
Bangsamoro secures $400-M ADB funding for blue economy in BaSulTa
- May 30, 2025
- Taher G. Solaiman
- HITS: 299
Macacua, who was part of the Philippine delegation led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., shared the "good news" for the people of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BaSulTa) on his official Facebook page. The substantial funding is earmarked to support the Philippines' projects in Mindanao and Palawan, with a specific focus on developing the blue economy and marine conservation initiatives.
"Ano ibig sabihin nito para sa atin? Simple lang: mas maraming pwedeng ilaan na pondo sa mga lugar sa Mindanao, lalo na sa mga coastal areas tulad ng sa atin sa BaSulTa (This means more funding opportunities for coastal areas in Mindanao like ours in BaSulTa.)," Macacua stated, emphasizing the direct benefit for the Bangsamoro region's coastal communities.
The blue economy framework promotes the sustainable utilization of ocean resources to foster economic growth, improve livelihoods, and create jobs, all while safeguarding the health of vital marine and coastal ecosystems.
Highlighting the potential of the BaSulTa provinces, the Chief Minister added, "Alam natin na malaki ang potential ng Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, at Basilan pagdating sa seaweed farming, pangingisda, at island tourism. Diyan tayo magaling. Diyan tayo mayaman. Kaya dapat lang na tayo rin ang makinabang sa ganitong klaseng suporta. (We know that Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, and Basilan have great potential when it comes to seaweed farming, fishing, and island tourism. That’s where we excel. That’s where our wealth lies. So it’s only right that we also benefit from this kind of support.)”
Macacua expressed his strong belief that the ADB funding will significantly enhance the livelihoods of Bangsamoro's coastal communities, particularly benefiting fisherfolk, seaweed farmers, women, youth, and those aspiring to engage in marine-based businesses or employment.
Beyond economic benefits, the Chief Minister also stressed the environmental advantages.
"Mas mapoprotektahan din natin ang ating kalikasan—mga coral reefs, mangrove areas, at mga isla natin na sobrang ganda, pero kailangan nating alagaan. (We will also be able to better protect our environment—our coral reefs, mangrove areas, and our beautiful islands that need to be cared for.)," he said.
The $400 million commitment is viewed as a crucial catalyst for building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy across the Bangsamoro's coastal provinces, promising a brighter future for its marine-rich communities
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