NEWS
23June
Photo courtesy of Deputy Speaker MP Don Arbison Loong
Public Consultation on Regional Geo-Tagging Bill Held in Cotabato City
- Jun 23, 2025
- Gandhi Kinjiyo
- HITS: 762
The activity was spearheaded by Deputy Speaker and Member of Parliament Engr. Don Mustapha Arbison Loong, who also authored the bill. In a social media post, MP Loong emphasized that the consultation is a vital step in ensuring that all stakeholders—government agencies, LGUs, and contractors—are informed and engaged in the legislative process. He reiterated that the measure is in line with BARMM’s vision of moral governance and technological innovation in public infrastructure.
During the event, Atty. Moh Asraf Tungupon Baird, Supervising Political Affairs Officer III, presented the key features of BTA Bill No. 219. The proposed legislation mandates the use of geo-tagging systems—including satellite imaging, drone footage, GPS data, and the Routeshoot app—for real-time monitoring of infrastructure projects. This builds on the existing E-BARMM platform, which evolved from the earlier E-ARMM system originally developed under the leadership of then DPWH-ARMM Secretary Loong.
The consultation was attended by 25 representatives from various BARMM ministries, the Cotabato City LGU, and the private sector. Deputy Speaker Loong personally facilitated the open forum, actively listening to concerns and suggestions from engineers, planners, and project implementers. He emphasized that the input of field personnel is critical to refining the bill and ensuring its effectiveness once implemented.
Concluding the program, MP Loong encouraged participants to continue providing feedback even after the consultation and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative governance. The event ended with a shared commitment among attendees to support the passage of the bill, recognizing its potential to prevent ghost projects, reduce redundancy, and institutionalize a transparent and accountable infrastructure system throughout BARMM.
Time in Cotabato
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