President Ferdinand R. Marcos expressed his optimism for the future of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), highlighting the significant strides made towards greater cooperation, coordination, and convergence of government efforts for regional development.
During the first BARMM Local Legislative General Assembly in Davao City on Tuesday, President Marcos emphasized the positive impact of the established offices on enhancing collaboration between the National and Bangsamoro governments.
"We will have greater cooperation, greater coordination, and we will converge towards the realization of our shared endeavors," stated President Marcos.
Addressing local officials, the President urged them to actively seek collaborations aimed at improving the lives of their constituents. "The insights and initiatives that will transpire from this discussion are crucial to our goal of achieving peace and progress in our nation and BARMM governments," he remarked.
President Marcos reassured the assembly that his administration remains committed to supporting BARMM's development agenda. As a testament to this commitment, he announced the signing and exchange of Diplomatic Notes between the Philippines and Japan for a Non-Project Grant Aid worth $6.8 million.
This aid is allocated for the acquisition of construction equipment, intended for Road Network Improvement and Disaster Quick Response Operation in BARMM.
The project aims to bolster relief operations, including the restoration of vital access roads, bridges, and waterways, contributing to disaster response efforts.
Then President emphasized the importance of these initiatives in ushering in a new era where BARMM becomes a symbol of sustainable development not only in Mindanao but across the entire Philippines.
"As we venture together on this collective journey, I invite each and every Filipino to significantly take part in forging our path of progress, of inclusivity, and prosperity for the Bangsamoro region and the entire nation," concluded President Marcos.