COTABATO CITY — The Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE), through its Education Facilities Section (EFS), has announced that it is currently overseeing P1.8 billion worth of ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing the learning environment across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In a recent episode of the 'Mga Panduwan nu MBHTE" program, Engr. Zubair Guiaman, OIC Chief of the Education Facilities Section, detailed the ministry's aggressive push to complete vital education facilities despite previous delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the regional government's transition period.

?Strategic Infrastructure and Funding

Guiaman highlighted that the current projects are funded through various sources, including the General Appropriations Act of the Bangsamoro (GAAB), the Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF), and the Special Development Fund (SDF). 

Under the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the SDF provides P5 billion annually from the National Government specifically for the rehabilitation of conflict-affected and marginalized communities.

?“The 2021 GAAB allocation alone, worth P223.2 million, has reached a physical accomplishment rate of 31.5%,” Guiaman reported. 

"When combined with our other funding streams, the MBHTE is currently managing a total of P1.8 billion in active construction and development projects.”

?Comprehensive Scope of Development

The infrastructure roadmap extends beyond traditional classrooms. 

The current project portfolio includes:

- ?Construction and repair of classroom buildings and administrative offices.

?- Establishment of hand-washing and sanitation facilities.

- ?Provision of internet connectivity to bridge the digital divide.

?- Dedicated facility support for Public Madrasahs and Tahfids.

?These developments span the entire BARMM, with completed and ongoing turn-overs reported in Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao 1 and 2, Lanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area (SGA) in North Cotabato.

?Commitment to Moral Governance

In alignment with the Bangsamoro government’s advocacy for Moral Governance, Guiaman emphasized that the EFS is committed to strict monitoring and supervision to ensure "quality projects for Bangsamoro constituents."

?"We must do what is right for our fellow men," Guiaman stated. 

"When you do what is right, Allah rewards it. It is better to act with integrity for the benefit of all," Guiaman added.

?The Education Facilities Section continues to prioritize projects in conflict-affected areas to ensure that no Bangsamoro learner is left behind as the region transitions toward long-term stability and progress.

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