News and Stories (160)
The long-decade conflicts in the Bangsamoro not only hampered economic development in the camp communities but also reduced opportunities for women and youth.
In rural areas like villages in the camps, most people are contented with what they have and only a few believe that there is really hope and transformation.
The arrival of the Bangsamoro Camps Transformation Project (BCTP) as part of the Normalization efforts between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) brings confidence and opportunities to these sectors.
At present, BCTP has organized and supported 12 women and youth groups across the six major camps of the MILF. These organizations have been strengthened and capacitated through various trainings such as organizational development and management, financial literacy and management with basic bookkeeping, skills enhancement and development, and amongst others.
Moreover, with an aim to improve access to socio-economic services and basic infrastructures to its target communities, the BCTP has also provided community facilities with tools and equipment and livelihood diversification support as start-up capital, to these groups.
In Brgy. Mamaanun, Balo-I, Lanao del Norte within Camp Bilal, the beneficiaries were very grateful for the interventions they have received through the Mamaanun Womens and Lightness Association (MWLA).
Babo Ongay Alangca, 54 years old, president of MWLA, cannot deny that at first, she had difficulty in handling their group, “As a president of our organization, I can say that struggles are part of it”.
“It’s difficult to form a group in a community, most people don’t believe it will work. All I’ve heard before were negativities” Babo Ongay added.
Babo Ongay was not deterred by those negative comments, “During the first meeting, I already felt that this project will give us a brighter future,” she further stated, reminiscing about their past activities that even though it was raining, their group still tried to participate after they realized that there was really hope in this project.
“Struggles are real, but never give-up. There are lots of paper works to do but we are now enjoying it,” she ended.
Babo Ongay’s group is currently operating a business, selling various native foods and delicacies. They acquired their skills in processing and cooking a variety of foods during their skills development training on January 29-31, 2025. Their products are displayed in their multi-purpose center, a community facility that was turned over through the BCTP on January 18, 2025.
“We've gained valuable skills and the chance to apply our knowledge in practical ways – from cooking diverse dishes like cakes and cassava treats to processing palapa, all of which we can showcase at our community facility’s display center”, said Babo Ongay.
Recently, the association received additional support on livelihood diversification such as; grocery and ready to wear items, equipment and materials for printing services. These interventions are additional assistance to the beneficiaries to further improve their livelihood activities and generate income.
“These supports give us additional income-generating opportunities for both our organization and individual members. We are committed to making the most of this support and ensuring its success. We are confident that this will significantly contribute to the growth of our businesses in our barangay”, shed ended.
These initiatives are part of the implementation of BCTP, implemented by the BDA Inc. in partnership with the Community and Family Services International (CFSI).
It is one of the projects funded by the Bangsamoro Normalization Trust Fund (BNTF) with contributions from Australia, Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom, administered by the World Bank.
The BCTP is also supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) as well as the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation (JTFCT) both from the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
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Local women in Bangsamoro communities earn extra through livelihood projects from SUBATRA
Written by BDA Communications
March 21, 2025. A single penny for a little family can mean a lot. This is a reality for many local women in communities across the Bangsamoro who are mostly struggling for their day-to-day lives.
Mercilyn Salsain, 38 from is fulltime housewife with three kids residing in Barangay Pasiagan, Bongao, Tawi- Tawi. Her husband is a construction worker.
She learned to produce native delicacies through the women organization in their village.
At home, Mercilyn would fine time to produce delicacies to sell for and gain profit.
“The income helps for our daily needs like the meals for our family, which is the most important for us”, she stated.
As a member of the organization, Mercilyn is glad to see her fellow women having the chance to attend seminars and events in hotels, and in other places beyond Tawi-Tawi.
“Through this project, we were able to go out and be more productive beyond our home”, she told.
A young lady named Norain Mukatil, 26, of the same village is a storekeeper in a pasalubong center in a local airport in Tawi-Tawi where she sells native delicacies. She works to support her siblings in their studies. They were young at age when their parents moved to Malaysia and left them under the guardianship of their uncle (father’s older brother).
Through hard work and perseverance, Norain has completed her education in 2012 and at present, she saves money from the portion of income in selling native delicacies to apply for licensure examination in hope for a stable job.
“Life is hard but the only choice is to go on”, this young lady expressed with high hopes and determination.
Norain shared that the delicacies are saleable specially when there are more guests and tourists.
In Sulu, a widowed mother gains added income by selling products from coconut like cooking oil, biko (sticky rice cake), and others.
Nurmirin Kanain, 37 from Brgy. Timbangan, Indanan, Sulu solely provides for her two children when her husband (a tricycle driver) passed away.
“It was never easy but this is my fate. I have to be stronger. I am joining local groups in hope to get opportunities and have an extra source of living”, Nurmirin stated.
Another widow from Pantar, Lumbatan, Lanao del Sur likewise value a hundred peso worth of money from which she can buy meals for her children in a day.
Left by her husband, Sofia Casangoan works alone hard each day to provide for the family and is grateful for the support of some relatives and neighbors.
Sofia found strength and hope in planting vegetables as livelihood project for transitioning communities affected by war in the past years.
In Maguindanao, Saguira Mamaluba, with seven children learned about making food items from coconut. One of which is biko that she prepares on order basis.
“In cooking and selling biko, I can send money for my daughter in college” Saguira said.
According to her, the amount she sent one time to her daughter was spent to buy cap and stockings prescribed in their school uniform.
Indeed, livelihood support to women groups is relevant to this sector who are mostly responsible in nurturing their families as foundation of the society.
Project reports revealed also that such assistance to women not only results to alternative income, moreover, it goes beyond support to livelihood. It is about empowerment and education that builds and enhances the potentials of women sector while nurturing their respective families.
“It opens the doors to discover and enhance their abilities to be more fruitful in their crafts which develop the sense of gratification and self- fulfillment meaningful for their social being and status as women”, Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) reported.
This support to women groups across BARMM is relevant to the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, as funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
BDA Inc. is the local implementing agency of the project in collaboration with partner civil society organizations (CSO) in Bangsamoro Region.
RAMADHAN IN BANGSAMORO 2025, a month of blessing for families and communities living in adversity
Written by BDA Communications
March 12, 2025. Early this year, a fire incident broke out in Cotabato City affecting hundreds of families. Up until today, many of the victims were left homeless. Majority are living in temporary shelters in an evacuation center, some found refuge in their relatives and the others have started rebuilding their homes partially damaged by the incident. Initial assistance were provided to these families from the city government, and groups and individuals who initiated benevolent acts in response to this calamity.
In this holy month of Ramadhan, the affected families felt the blessings as they were the priority recipients of food packs (10 kgs. rice, sugar, salt, cooking oil, canned goods) distributed as sponsored by a foreign humanitarian foundation. These food items are helpful for the day-to-day survival of these affected families while recovering from the tragedy, especially during this month of fasting for the Muslims.
The blessings of Ramadhan has likewise reached the struggling life of a widowed mother in a remote area of Pantar, Lumbatan, Lanao del Sur, a community within the MILF Camp Bushra. Sophia Casangoan solely provides for her five children with some few aid from neighbors and relatives after her husband passed away.
“This Ramadhan, I sell fresh vegetables from our garden where I get significant income. I have earnings to buy sufficient meals for my kids, which I could hardly afford, before”, she stated.
The group of Sophia is formed in relevant to the project supporting the transitioning combatants. Vegetable production has been agreed by the organization as alternative livelihood.
In February, they have harvested various vegetable crops from their production site where they felt the success of their hard work. And this Ramadhan, they feel more blessed by the income generated from selling their products.
“We share the joy for this group, and we hope that they will sustain this project especially now that they see the potential and the benefits. They just have to work hard and be more resourceful for living”, the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) told.
BDA implements the project which focus involves the assistance for the camp communities towards transformation and progress from armed conflict in the past.
For the agency, this Ramadhan, blessings in other form enlightened their staff and volunteers through symposium that provided refreshing and illuminating lectures and wisdom relevant for spiritual reflection and growth this holy month and further.
Ramadhan, a sacred month for Muslim communities encourage good deeds among the believers to gain multiple rewards in this world and the hereafter.
Every year, BDA implements Ramadhan Program during this month by delivering food packs and provision of free meals for Iftar (breaking of fast) as donated by foreign partner organizations, conducting Islamic lectures, study circles and among others. (BDA Communication Team, 2025).
BENEFICIARIES STRENGTHEN AWARENESS ON DRR AND CCA
Written by BDA Communications
March 17, 2025. Part of the community development assistance (CDA) component of the Bangsamoro Camps Transformation Project (BCTP) is to strengthen the awareness of the beneficiaries regarding disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA).
From January 28, 2025 to February 27, 2025, series of resilient management training were organized for the members of local community groups (women and youth), indigenous people (IP) groups and cooperatives.
The training focused on discussions about integrated risk reduction, CCA with basic intervention on environmental protection, natural resource conservation, first aid during emergencies and psychosocial. These also included drills and simulations that helped the participants put into actual the learnings they have acquired.
The recent activities on DRR and CCA were actively participated by the said organized groups from the following 12 barangays within the six major camps of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
- Dalingaoen, Pikit, North Cotabato, January 28-30, 2025
- Kenebeka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, January 29-31, 2025
- Minabay, Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte, February 4-6, 2025
- Limpongo, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur, February 10-12, 2025
- Ragayan, Butig, Lanao del Sur, February 11-13, 2025
- Dungguan, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao del Sur, February 13-15, 2025
- Mamaanun, Balo-I, Lanao del Norte, February 18-20, 2025
- Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur- February 24-26, 2025
- Sandab Madaya, Butig, Lanao del Sur, February 24-26, 2025
- Sapad, Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte, February 24-26, 2025
- Pendulonan, Munai, Lanao del Norte, February 25-27, 2025
According to Mohamad Yusseph Alalang, BDA Inc. ESS Officer, “the activities are very timely to the current scenarios in the Bangsamoro.”
“We want them to be prepared for any disaster that might happen to their community and learn how to respond accordingly”, Alalang added.
“The initiative not only support the project’s success but also contribute to the long-term resilience of the camp communities and well-being of the people,” he ended.
Also among the participants were Barangay Risk Reduction and Management Committee (BRRMC) of the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs).
These initiatives were made possible through the technical assistance of different Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Offices (MDRRMOs) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Municipal Fire Stations.
Meanwhile, the beneficiaries were grateful for the trainings they participated in. Their awareness on DRR and CCA were increased, and their preparedness on disasters were strengthen.
Jasper Joseph Salva, 28 years old, Chairman of Matay-Matay Agriculture Cooperative (MAC) in Brgy. Kenebeka, shared how helpful these trainings were.
“Through the drills and simulations, we learned how to respond when minor accidents occur in our communities,” said Jasper.
“We live in a mountainous area so it’s probably prone to floods and landslide. It’s good that we learned what to prepare for if such disaster were to happen.” Said Emily Tolino, member of IP group in Brgy. Saniag.
Moreover, in Brgy. Ragayan, the beneficiaries were also thankful for the trainings given to them.
“We are extending our gratitude to BDA and the MDRRMO Butig, our knowledge has increased on how to protect and conserve our environment,” said participants from Brgy. Ragayan.
BCTP is implemented by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) in partnership with the Community and Family Services International (CFSI).
It is one of the projects funded by the Bangsamoro Normalization Trust Fund (BNTF) with contributions from Australia, Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom, administered by the World Bank.
The BCTP is also supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) as well as the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation (JTFCT) both from the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU FROM THE IP GROUP IN MAGUINDANAO
Written by BDA Communications
March 13, 2025. The indigenous peoples (IPs) are among the significant beneficiaries of the Bangsamoro Camps Transformation Project (BCTP). Implemented in the six major camps of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), two of these camps namely Badre and Omar are known to be home to the IPs.
In Camp Omar, particularly in Brgy. Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, the BDA Inc. together with the Community and Family Services International (CFSI) organized a group of this sector and legally named as Saniag Farmers Producer Cooperative (SFPC).
On January 23, 2025, SFPC received a one unit solar dryer from BCTP. At present, this facility is generating income through rentals.
“Nagpapasalamat po kami sa BDA, kasi hindi nila kami iniwan. Palagi silang andito,” said Jaypee G. Bansigan, chairman of SFPC.
Bansigan is also grateful to CFSI and funders for the projects turned over to their group through the BCTP.
“Mayroon na kaming pagbibiladan ng aming mga produkto, kumikita pa kami,” added Bansigan.
BCTP initiatives brought hope to the IP communities as for the first time they had their projects they could truly call their own.
Indigenous people are known for being aloof and hesitant to exposure. However, BCTP gave them a chance to participate in activities that will build their confidence, and opportunities to show their capacity to handle an organization and operate projects.
Moreover, 93 sacks of rice as additional support to their livelihood diversification was delivered in February 2025.
BDA Inc. field staff reported that SFPC members were actively participating in the trainings conducted through BCTP.
Meanwhile, BCTP is also supporting IP communities in Brgy. Kenebeka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, Brgy. Datalpandan, Guindulungan and Brgy. Limpongo, Datu Hoffer both situated in the province of Maguindanao del Sur.
BCTP is implemented by the BDA Inc. in partnership with the Community and Family Services International (CFSI).
It is one of the projects funded by the Bangsamoro Normalization Trust Fund (BNTF), a new funding facility administered by the World Bank with contributions from Australia, Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom.
The BCTP is also supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) as well as the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation (JTFCT) both from the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
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Construction of processing centers to boost productivity and local economic progress in Bangsamoro communities
Written by BDA Communications
February 12, 2025. Operating their own livelihood activities in their respective communities, various people’s organizations across the Bangsamoro Region have high hopes to boost their productivity and profits with the on-going construction of processing centers.
These facilities will provide proper storage for the equipment and tools used for production of various products which are locally sourced in Bangsamoro communities.
Likewise, the rising of these processing centers will afford the POs manufacture their products with a proper facility ideal for food handling activities based on the standards approved.
At present, the construction of the eleven units of processing centers across the eleven sites are underway.
95% completed at Brgy. Talibadok, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur; 77% at Tumbras, Kadayangan and 59% at Balakayon, Pahamuddin all in the Special Geographical Areas (SGA-BARMM).
Procurement of materials for the construction at Mother Tuayan, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur is on-going.
The groundbreaking ceremonies for the construction activities in Lilod, Balindong LDS, Malimono, Marawi City and Mataya, Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte were conducted and layouting by engineering team is set to start the construction.
Technical validation and succeeding activities for the communities in island provinces is set on third to fourth week of February this year.
Various products at present made by local groups are native delicacies, cassava chips, coconut oil, banana chips, herbal soaps, and among others.
POs learned the procedure through the relevant skills training conducted to them respectively.
Most of these groups have reported challenges on proper storage and processing facility, thus the project through the support of donors responded to these needs to further help these communities maximize the chance towards local economic progress.
Relative training on product development has also been completed for the POs as provided by the personnel from MOST-BARMM.
The project team had an initial coordination meeting with the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) in Region XII for the key information about the guidelines and standards for local food processing activities.
According to Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.), “this continuing support to people’s organizations across communities has been a significant approach towards peacebuilding in the region.”
The agency added “we educate and empower the community by allowing them identify available resources potential for livelihood initiative, we gave them training, complete set of tools and equipment, various training for organizational and operational management, and now the project is constructing for them a processing center”.
BDA noted that the continuing support to POs within and outside BARMM is relevant to the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
Initiatives on vegetable production cultivate hopes and progress for indigenous people and transitioning combatants in Bangsamoro
Written by BDA Communications
FEBRUARY 1, 2025. Like a plant that grows and bears fruits, the initiative to educate communities in the Bangsamoro Region about the potentials and advantages of vegetable production has been cultivating hopes and progress.
This effort was started in 2021 with the intention to empower the communities of the benefits of planting vegetables as alternative source of income.
Various community groups were organized and were provided with modern and practical trainings on vegetable production.
These groups have also received complete set of tools and equipment useful in cultivating their lands for various varieties of vegetables.
In Brgy. Datalpandan, Guindulungan, Maguindanao del Sur, the group of transitioning combatants has begun for their second season of planting vegetables.
According to them, the first harvest was good, though the income was less due to problem on marketing. Despite that, the group is learning and is determined to strategize for the next season
For this period, they have transplant tomatoes, green chili and bell pepper.
Rowena Kanakan, who is leading the indigenous people (IP) women group in Looy, Upi, Maguindanao showed before the project team their ready-to-harvest vegetables.
The group has been recognized during the Nutrition Month in 2023 by the local government of Upi.
There were two other groups cultivating vegetable farms in this mountainous town like in Brgy. Kibucay and Brgy. Romongaob.
In Brgy. Kinebeka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, the organization toured the team to their garden with huge variety of eggplants.
Women group in Bugasan, Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte is regularly monitoring their vegetable farm which crops are still young and small.
Hard work and unity of community group in Pantar, Lumbatan, Lanao del Sur is about to yield fresh vegetables that were planted in the beautiful farm fields in the area.
The organization is created in 2024 composed of transitioning combatants who are doing farming as means of living.
At present, these groups who are engaged in vegetable production are undergoing training on sustainable agriculture that will help them with practical knowledge and principles of environmental preservation and climate adaptation expected towards increased competency and productivity.
Each group has also received 1-unit of wood shredder that is useful for their production activities.
The continuing support to indigenous people and transitioning combatants falls under the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
Social enterprise initiatives in Bangsamoro communities, a pathway to economic resiliency
Written by BDA Communications
JANUARY 27, 2025. For Ato Ambatawan, a community leader in Barangay Datalpandan, Guindulungan, Maguindanao del Sur, the knowledge gained from the social enterprise training is a “pathway that educates us about better livelihood strategies towards economic resiliency”.
His organization is among the participating- groups to the mushroom production training conducted as one initiative related to social enterprise promotion in Bangsamoro communities.
“This training is indeed good and practical because the materials needed are easily available. We learn not only the technical process but also the wisdom and useful tips to manage, operate and sustain it”, Ambatawan said.
The group of Ambatawan along with other two people’s organizations completed a 3-day training on mushroom production identified as potential social enterprise activity based on the available resources in their respective villages.
In the training conducted, participants learned that local materials which are usually disposed can be still useful for economic and environmental benefits like corncobs, sawdust and rice straws.
“In our village, it takes us one week to burn down corncobs that occupies so much space in our farm land. Now, we learned its benefits and potentials to produce mushroom that we can consume or sell”, another group stated.
In Lanao del Sur, a group of women from Barangay Lilod in Balindong municipality has started producing handicraft materials made of water hyacinth that is abundant in their village located along the Lake Lanao.
“Kayupo (water hyacinth) has been a problem because it grows and increases rapidly that causes damage to our houses. Now, we discovered that we can make handicrafts from it like handbags, slippers, and more. We can make money from our problem before”, Rakima Kamaos of Brgy. Lilod women group stated.
According to the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.), the initiative towards social enterprise remains part of the continuing assistance to community groups in the Bangsamoro.
“These groups are already operating with their respective livelihood activities, and the purpose for social enterprise is for them to be able to expand their services by producing items not only for economic gains but also helps in environmental protection”, BDA conveyed.
At present, BDA is on constant monitoring while in the process of procurement for the needed tools and equipment that would help these groups pursue their social enterprise activities.
This initiative on social enterprise development in Bangsamoro communities works for Output 5.5. Self-help and social enterprise interventions are widely promoted in the BARMM of the SUBATRA-ECSO project.
SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, is funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
Community groups learn mushroom production from rice straws, corn cobs and sawdust towards social enterprise
Written by BDA Communications
January 6, 2025. The potential of mushroom as one alternative source for economic development has enlightened the community groups in the provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Lanao del Norte.
This was through the training conducted on mushroom production in December 2024 at separate venues in both provinces.
A women group named Sigay nu mga Babay facilitated the activity for the people’s organizations in Maguindanao del Sur, while the Ikram Agriculture Cooperative provided the inputs for the local groups in Lanao del Norte and North Cotabato.
Both trainers have established a good track record as local organization by which mushroom production is one of their activities in sustaining their groups that contributes to the community as well.
“We produce mushrooms out of the raw materials like rice straws, corn cobs and sawdust. We sell the fresh mushroom consumed as vegetable (but technically classified as a fungus) and we also make mushroom crackers”, the trainer groups told.
During the training, resource persons discussed about the idea of social enterprise as one relevant role of one organization towards sustainability and being able to expand operations to benefit others.
They lectured about mushroom production using raw materials that are commonly available in communities such as rice straws, corn cobs and sawdust.
Actual process of production for each raw material was demonstrated during the training where the participants directly learned the methods, which they performed right away at the activity.
Marryann Katua of Talibadok IP Maguindanaon People’s Organization is hopeful of the possibility of mushroom production in their village.
“There are lot of corn cobs in our place, almost a hectare, which we burn only. Now we learned that we can make use of them to produce mushroom for another venture that is useful for our group and for our entire community”, Maryann stated.
The group from Brgy. Tuayan, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur shared the optimism for this added learning, which they believe is beneficial for everyone.
“Alhamdulillah (praise to Allah), for this continuing support and guidance to our groups. These raw materials are easily available since most of us are farmers”, the Tuayan group said.
Inputs on proper sanitation practices were relevant part of the training to ensure successful production of mushroom.
Mushroom contains health benefits good for immune system, brain, cancer prevention, weight management and others.
According to Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.), this initiative on social enterprise development in Bangsamoro communities works for Output 5.5. Self-help and social enterprise interventions are widely promoted in the BARMM of the SUBATRA-ECSO project.
SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, is funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
Training on social enterprise for various people’s organizations across BARMM has been completed earlier through the manual developed by the project together with the Bangsamoro CSOs and in collaboration with the Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority (CSEA-BARMM).
The BDA Inc. is the local implementing partner of the project in collaboration with Bangsamoro CSOs.
Bangsamoro CSOs enhance competence on project management in support to Bangsamoro Transition
Written by BDA Communications
December 29, 2024. Bangsamoro civil society organizations (CSOs) who participated in this five-day training from December 25-30, 2024 were Taga Youth Concern Association of Basilan, Kabalikat CIVICOM of Sulu, Ittihadun Nisa Foundation, Inc., Kapagawida Development Services Association, Inc., Raja Mamalo Descendants of Southern Philippines and the League of Bangsamoro Organizations (Ranaw Chapter).
The first training conducted was related to open data and data management that highlighted the significance of transparency in project management.
It also emphasized the relevant use of data for accurate and credible project development. Problem identified which a project should address shall be based on data.
For credible data source, data management is important which was stressed also during the training in order to have an organized data that will be easily accessible as knowledge and information source.
Partner CSOs likewise appreciated inputs on basics proposal writing that would be beneficial as they plan for development projects based on their mandates as organization.
Communication in project management is also among the learning sessions organized for Bangsamoro CSOs.
It specifically presented the use of radio as one platform to communicate project information, progress, impact and results.
The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) reported about the Radyo, Suporta sa Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA), the official radio program for the SUBATRA-ECSO project. It presented the segments of the on-air program, the guest resource persons, best practices and challenges.
This session informed the Bangsamoro CSOs of the available airtime where they can discuss their respective programs on- air as one segment of Radyo SUBATRA.
Towards this, participating CSOs outlined their work plan for radio that reflects their schedule to participate on-air.
This initiative designed for Bangsamoro CSOs specifically works for Output 5.4 CSO competence in evidence-based project development and implementation in conflict-affected areas, including capacity to scale up projects, is strengthened, of the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition.
SUBATRA-ECSO is funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
The BDA Inc. is the local implementing partner of the project in collaboration with Bangsamoro CSOs.
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A long-held dream, realized through the project that supports camps transformation
Written by BDA Communications
Teduray people were among the indigenous tribe in the Bangsamoro region living in the remote mountains, with significant populations residing in the camps of Badre and Omar. Over the years, they have been deeply affected by the region's past conflicts, which have affected their livelihoods and communities.
Erlinda Esteban, a 39-year-old mother of two from Barangay Kenebeka in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, is a proud member of the Kenebeka Teduray Farmers Association (KTFA), organized under the project that supports camps transformation and development called Bangsamoro Camps Transformation Project (BCTP).
Through BCTP, Erlinda and her group found the support they had long dreamed of. Despite their physical isolation and the challenges that comes with it, the Teduray people have always nurtured a vision for a project tailored to their specific needs and aspirations as an indigenous community. The project has made this dream a reality, bringing much-needed development and empowerment to a people long overlooked in the broader development efforts in the camp communities.
"Sikap at tyaga ", terms she mentioned referring to the projects shared with them by BCTP such as fruit bearing trees and portable solar dryers that they identified during the rapid need assessment.
"Kasi nga mula sa land preparation, ita-transplant pa ang mga puno sa lupa, maghihintay ka ng ilang buwan o taon bago ito magbubunga at ma-harvest. Of course, kailangan mo ding diligan at linisan palagi ang mga ilalim nito." Erlinda said.
"Pero parte yon ng proseso sa pagkamit ng ating mga pangarap, maging patient, huwag tayong susuko, gagawin natin ang makakaya para sa ating mga pangarap, iyon ay ang ikakaunlad ng ating komunidad.” She added.
Erlinda and her colleagues from the KTFA are optimistic that all their efforts will yield success.
“Hindi maipipinta ang aming kasiyahan sa oportunidad na naibigay sa amin na mga katutubo, kasi nga first time na mayroong proyektong nakalaan talaga para sa amin.” Erlida futher stated.
She also shared their experiences in participating in trainings conducted through BCTP.
"Isang oras po ang nilalakad namin mula sa aming tahanan patungo sa venue ng mga aktibidad. Mas matagal pa po ang nilalakad ng aking mga kasamahan. Pero, dahil nga dream come true, hindi po yun hadlang para sa amin. Gusto naming matuto at patunayan na deserve namin ang proyektong ito”. She added.
For now, there are four IP communities in the Bangsamoro that have been allocated projects through BCTP such as this one in Brgy. Kenebeka, another is at Brgy. Datalpandan, Guindulungan, Maguindanao del Sur still within Camp Badre; Brgy. Limpongo, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan and Brgy. Saniag, Ampatuan which are both located in the province of Maguindanao del Sur within Camp Omar.
To date, KFTA received a total of 950 fruit-bearing tree seedlings, 20 portable solar dryers, 20 members received homebased gardening tools and inputs.
IP communities are optimistic that the BCTP will bring a sustained peace, build productive and resilient communities in the camps, they considered home.
BCTP is implemented by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) in partnership with the Community and Family Services International (CFSI), implemented in the six major camps of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF): Abubakar as Siddique, Badre, Bilal, Busrah Somiorang, Omar ibin al-Khattab and Rajamuda.
It is one of the projects funded by the Bangsamoro Normalization Trust Fund (BNTF) with funding support from Australia, Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom, administered by the World Bank.
The BCTP was also supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) as well as the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation (JTFCT) both from the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
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Children’s month in MILF camp bring joy and hopes to flood- affected families
Written by BDA Communications
November 20, 2024. During the massive flood in July 2024 due to the southwest monsoon and intertropical convergence zone that hit the Mindanao, Barangay Inug-ug in Pikit, North Cotabato was among the 22 villages in the municipality affected with 5-meter water level engulfing the homes, properties including animals and livelihood of the residents.
The vulnerable groups, for instance the children were mostly affected, where there were reported cases of common illnesses such as fever, cough, diarrhea and skin rashes. Education was also disturbed with the school buildings having submerged to flood.
In this month of November, when the children’s month is celebrated nationwide in the Philippines, a blessing has come for the kids in Brgy. Inug-ug.
Through the project SUBATRA-ECSO, there were 405 children, ages 4-12 years old (16% non- Muslim) who received education kits (bag-pack, plastic envelope, notebook, paper, pencil and pen, water bottle, eraser, crayons, etc.). Each kid was also provided with 10kgs of rice and a grocery pack (noodles, biscuit, and choco drink).
The project has also brought for the children a free meal that added to the joyous feeling of the beneficiaries.
Kids have enjoyed the funny games prepared in the event with prizes for those who championed.
Partners joined this celebration for the children with messages for the entire community for the welfare of the next generation.
Brief lectures on disaster management, health and sanitation, nutrition and among others were imparted during the day with partners from Barangay Local Government Unit of Inug-ug, rural health worker, public school teachers, DRRM personnel, local peacekeeping force, others.
Representative from the Office of Ali O. Salik, member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) delivered the message of support of the official before the public in that event.
SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition is funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) is the local implementing partner of the project in collaboration with Bangsamoro CSOs.
Transition in Bangsamoro Communities- peaceful and inclusive, CSO reports
Written by BDA Communications
December 2, 2024. The transition period in the Bangsamoro Region, an autonomous region in Southern Philippines has begun in January 2019. This period is the time allotted to this newly established region to establish its local governance system that is responsive to the distinct culture, way of life and belief of its people.
Five years since then, significant progress has been achieved. In communities ravaged by the conflict in the past, access to basic services has improved with the assistance of various partners. This is specifically by experience through the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition funded by the European Union and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation.
“SUBATRA-ECSO is among the development initiatives that contributes to the smooth and peaceful transition in Bangsamoro”, the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.) reports.
BDA Inc. is local non- government organization operating in Bangsamoro Region and is reaching communities within and beyond the region.
Through the SUBATRA-ECSO, BDA Inc. is engaging thirty communities across BARMM who have felt the transition and development in their lives and communities.
In Basilan, change has become more visible when BARMM was established.
“Our village has slowly began to transform”, Nasira Lijal told. She is from Brgy. Tuburan, Hadji Muhamad Ajul, Basilan.
“Schools were established, giving children access to quality education, and health facilities were finally developed, providing essential services that had long been missing”, she added.
The development brought by BARMM did not just improve infrastructure; it also brought a renewed sense of hope to the people of Brgy. Tuburan.
In the island province of Tawi- Tawi, the people in Pasiagan, Bongao testified that it was their first time to receive food packs and education kits for the vulnerable groups in their village through the SUBATRA-ECSO Project.
A Badjao village in the island are organized to undergo livelihood training with provision of tools and equipment as start-up capital along with other capacity building support for operation, management and sustainability.
In Sulu, the people’s organizations are beyond grateful that the support for them remains even after the exclusion of the province from BARMM, pursuant to the rulings issued by the Philippine Supreme Court September 2024.
Community groups in Maguindanao have heighten trust to the possibility of development in their lives.
The indigenous people in the region feel the inclusion and compassion from the government through the CSOs and donors bringing to them development assistance.
From the Special Geographical Area (SGA-BARMM), production of banana chips in various flavors has become part of the lives of women group where they generate income for their families.
Assistance for people’s organizations in the MILF camp communities is also true with the SUBATRA-ECSO project. There are twelve POs provided with livelihood support such as skills training with complete set of tools and equipment.
Operating since 2021, the project SUBATRA-ECSO has already served 12, 107 individuals across the thirty villages that are within and outside the Bangsamoro territory.
For the BDA Inc. as local implementing partner of the project, support to communities is crucial in this period of transition in the Bangsamoro.
“The process of transition is a process of building the governance of Bangsamoro, and it is significant that people at the grassroots level are involved. This is through this development project like the SUBATRA-ECSO that organizes and mobilizes the community groups, help them plan, manage, operate and sustain their chosen local projects”, BDA Inc. stated.
Various training conducted were related to social protection like basic human rights, integrated risk and resilience management. Provision of basic services have benefited the vulnerable groups through series of community assemblies with the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and BARMM Ministries, Offices and Agencies. This, as well, was a form of information dissemination about BARMM’s programs and services, more so with the radio program and the social media usage. Livelihood support to POs and collaboration with CSOs are integral components of the project. (BDA Communication, 2024)
Women groups in Bangsamoro communities outline vision for project sustainability beyond the transition period
Written by BDA Communications
OCTOBER 13, 2024. By reaching out to one of the vulnerable yet potential sectors in the community, any organization both government and non- government would realize better the realities of people in remote areas, particularly during the transition period in the Bangsamoro Region, and their aspirations for the coming years.
In Basilan, Nasira M. Lijal, 50, leads their group, Sengag Women’s Organization, in Brgy. Tuburan, Mohamad Ajul, Basilan in visualizing their vision as they continue to operate their livelihood activity.
The organization is producing various products from banana, which is abundant in their locality.
Formed in 2021, the organization of Nasira has become functional that develop the capacity of women in their village into livelihood activities while generating income for their families.
While operating, this women group gradually learns more as days and months pass by. They are able to strengthen their bond and unity in the organization.
Now, they look forward to linking with the agriculture ministry of the Bangsamoro Government in the province of Basilan to get support on the occurring banana disease that challenged their productivity.
“We hope to report to them this incident and get technical assistance on how to resolve this problem because we cannot have the raw ingredients to be able to produce for our livelihood activity”, Nasira stated.
In Sulu, one women group is producing various items from coconut, one of the major crops in the community.
“Our vision is to be one main supplier of coconut products not only in the province but also in other places” Jemma Taji of Barangay Timbangan, Indanan, Sulu.
People’s organizations in Lanao del Sur believes that towards sustainability, they must employ innovative strategies like initiating linkages to other organizations, making online presence and finding ways to improve the packaging of their products.
Majority of the groups in this province are producing palapa (a spicy side-dish) made of locally- grown spice known as sakurab.
Community organizations in a camp community particularly Datalpandan, Guindulungan, Maguindanao- Camp Badre is convinced that they should work better to improve the process to produce quality vegetables.
In the Special Geographical Areas of BARMM, women groups aspire to make other products and to explore other marketing strategies to increase their sales.
In Tawi- Tawi, one group in Panglima Sugala have re-organized as one resolution to strengthen their operation and be able to resume with their production of native delicacies, after some challenges.
By outlining their vision and goals for the upcoming years, these people’s organizations are further guided to work hand in hand for the sustainability of their groups and the livelihood activities they are operating.
Assisted through the project SUBATRA-ECSO: Enhancing CSOs Capacities for Inclusive Development Interventions in BARMM in Support to Bangsamoro Transition, these POs were organized as one important approach to sustain peacebuilding efforts in the region.
Allowing them to plan ahead is useful to condition their minds and actions of the near completion of the project and motivate them to remain working and operating even beyond the SUBATRA-ECSO and also the transition in the Bangsamoro.
These POs have also underwent related trainings on self-help for self- reliance and social enterprise development that encouraged them to expand their services in their respective communities.
Through the assistance they received, these groups were organized and capacitated on organizational and livelihood skills as one mechanism towards community empowerment and peacebuilding.
With the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA Inc.), the SUBATRA-ECSO has been significant for the POs and the communities served by the project.
SUBATRA-ECSO is funded by the European Union (EU) and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID).