MARAWI CITY—Various development partners from the Bangsamoro region and international organizations convened recently in a donors’ forum to track the progress of the Support to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) project, which aims to transform and develop Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camp communities into productive entities.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim emphasized that the transformation and development of MILF camp communities are integral to the provisions outlined in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

He said this initiative seeks to ensure that the peace talks between the GPH and the MILF are sustained and enjoyed by every Bangsamoro, especially those living in the camps.

"This component of normalization ought to conduct confidence-building efforts that will transform recognized MILF camps into peaceful and productive communities," Ebrahim said.

During the event, an exposition of products from people’s organizations primarily based in the six major MILF camps was showcased.

Sam Chittick, The Asia Foundation's (TAF) country representative for the Philippines, pledged support and commitment to the transition period.

"It is not our skill to deliver an infrastructure, but our skills are more on capacity building and the preparation of the feasibility, and we would like to be involved in that process in the next few years," he said.

He added that they would like to see those communities that have been isolated for quite a long time have the same opportunity as every other community. 

"I think that’s part of the aspiration as laid down in the Bangsamoro Development Plan; it’s part of the aspiration in the camp transformation plan," Chittick stressed.

BARMM’s Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda for 2023–2025 underscores the government’s heightened efforts in peacebuilding interventions, supporting the normalization process for combatants, their families, and communities in transition.

Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), as the implementing partner of SUBATRA for said project, spearheaded the forum to bolster the capacity of civil society organizations, enabling them to engage in inclusive development interventions within the region.

BDA Board of Directors Chairperson Abusaliha Macacuna highlighted the significance of the interventions by the European Union and Spanish cooperation through their collaboration with the Government of the Day.

"Your support, guidance, and strategic investment in the Bangsamoro transition have ignited a beacon of hope, illuminating the way forward toward an era marked by inclusivity, economic growth, and harmonious social development," Macacuna said.

"Let us remember that this moment does not mark an end but rather a pivotal juncture in our journey. Challenges may arise along our path, but the collective strength of our determination is bolstered by the guiding principles of EU and Spanish Cooperation," he added.

Accordingly, as development interventions and capacity-building programs are ongoing, the efforts aim to fulfill the commitments outlined in the CAB, recognizing the need for ongoing support to secure deliverables. (BIO/PIA-10, Lanao del Sur)