BARMM Parliament pushes GAD code passage

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Bangsamoro Parliament is working to pass a new law focused on ensuring equal rights and opportunities for everyone, particularly women, youth, indigenous people, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The proposed measure, also called the Bangsamoro Gender and Development (GAD) Code, is being advanced by the Parliament’s Women, Youth, Children, and Persons with Disabilities (CWYCP) Committee, with support from the Bangsamoro Women’s Commission (BWC).

The bill, introduced under BTA Bill No. 336, is based on consultations with various groups across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The last round of public hearings in both island and mainland provinces, including Lanao del Sur and the Special Geographic Area, concluded on January 24, 2025.

Committee Chair Diamila Disimban-Ramos said the committee aims to finalize and pass the bill by March 2025, ideally in time for International Women’s Day.

“We are aiming for a meaningful celebration of International Women’s Day with the passage of this bill,” said Ramos.

The GAD Code aims to establish a gender-responsive governance framework that ensures equal access to opportunities and protection for all, regardless of gender, age, or background. While the bill links to women’s rights, its scope extends to marginalized groups, such as youth, PWDs, and indigenous communities.

“We want to make it clear that this law isn’t just about women. It’s about promoting fairness, equality, and protection for everyone—women, men, children, the youth, PWDs, and indigenous communities alike. Gender equality means that all sectors of society benefit from this law,” Ramos said.

The GAD Code integrates Islamic principles from the Qur’an and Sunnah, focusing on justice, equality, and protection of women and children. The bill also addresses issues of violence and exploitation, particularly against women and vulnerable groups.

Bainon Karon, a commissioner of the BWC, explained that the code is the result of years of consultations. She underscored that the code reflects the Bangsamoro government’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for everyone, particularly marginalized groups that have been excluded from decision-making processes.

Gaining Greater Support

The bill has garnered significant support from local advocates. Flora Mae Bagaforo, a police investigator in Marawi City, shared a troubling reality, revealing that each year, many women in the region file complaints of abuse. She called for better support systems, including dedicated spaces for victims seeking assistance after filing reports.

Zulpikar Sawa, a social welfare officer in Old Kaabakan, pointed out that the law would ensure equal access to government opportunities for both men and women, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.

Reynald Macmod, a student leader, suggested that the law should also apply to Bangsamoro youth living outside the region. He believes the law should reach all Bangsamoro people, no matter where they live.

Once passed, the GAD Code will require all local government units (LGUs) in the region to align their policies with the law’s principles, ensuring gender equality in all areas of governance, from public services to economic development.

Commissioner Samauna Unda of the Bangsamoro Women Commission-Lanao del Sur expressed that the GAD Code is about creating a more inclusive and just society, reflecting years of advocacy by women in the region.

The committee will hold its final public hearing in Manila to gather insights from national government stakeholders and ensure their inputs are included. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur with reports from BTA Parliament)

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DILG urges BARMM leaders to continue governance reforms

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on local government leaders in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to sustain their governance reforms as the region prepares for the 2025 parliamentary elections.

“Let us ensure that the progress we celebrate today continues. Let us stay committed to building a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous Bangsamoro for future generations,” said DILG Assistant Secretary (Asec) for Local Government Jesi Howard S. Lanete during the 5th Pagkilala: Parangal Para sa Natatanging LGUs ng BARMM on January 20 in Cotabato City.

Lanete emphasized that the Pagkilala ceremony is more than an awards event but a celebration of the region’s ongoing transformation.

“The Pagkilala is a powerful reminder of the importance of moral governance, a principle central to the heart of the Bangsamoro. It highlights the extraordinary contributions of our local government units and leaders who have shown what it means to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and innovate with purpose,” he said.

The DILG Asec. also noted key milestones in the region, including the integration of nearly 100 former rebel members into the Philippine National Police under the Bangsamoro Police Basic Recruitment Course, and the surrender of about 15,000 former rebels from 2002 to 2024 under the Balik Loob Program. These efforts, he said, have dismantled terrorist networks and restored hope to many families.

In terms of development, Lanete highlighted the completion of 185 out of 215 projects under the BARMM, emphasizing that these projects are tangible symbols of the region’s progress.

“As we honor the exemplary performance of our Lupong Tagapamayapa, Peace and Order Councils, Anti-Drug Abuse Councils, and Child-Friendly Local Governments, we are reminded that leadership is not about titles or recognition. It is about the everyday work of serving the people, often unseen but always appreciated,” Lanete stated.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim also praised the LGUs for their efforts in governance and service. In a message, he stated that the ceremony celebrates not just individual LGUs but the collective progress of the entire BARMM.

Ebrahim also emphasized the strong collaboration between the BARMM Government and LGUs, recognizing them as key partners in connecting the government with the people.

As the region approaches the end of its transition period, the chief minister expressed pride in the achievements of local leaders and reaffirmed the commitment to continued partnerships to ensure that government services reach all areas of the region.

He also encouraged other LGUs to draw inspiration from the awardees and to remain dedicated to serving their communities with the principles of moral governance. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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MILG recognizes Lanao del Sur LGUs for governance excellence

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Exemplary local government units (LGUs) from Lanao del Sur received recognition from the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) at the 5th Pagkilala Awarding Ceremony held on January 20, 2025, at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City.

As part of the activities celebrating the sixth founding anniversary of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the event honored outstanding LGUs across BARMM for their remarkable achievements in governance, community development, and public service.

Mayor Dimnatang LB Pansar of Butig and Mayor Khalida D. Polao-Sanguila of Pagayawan were among those honored with the Salamat Excellence Award for Leadership (SEAL), the highest recognition for local chief executives who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributed meaningfully to the development of their communities.

Each SEAL awardee received a spinner trophy, an 18-karat gold medallion, and a P2 million incentive for a major project in their LGU.

The LGUs of Butig, Calanogas, Kapatagan, and Taraka were also awarded for their exemplary performance in key governance areas, including financial administration, disaster preparedness, and social protection under the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). These LGUs are entitled to an SGLG fund of P1.153 million each.

Calanogas and Kapai were among the recipients of the Drug-Cleared LGUs award for successfully implementing anti-drug campaigns and achieving the status of drug-cleared municipalities.

Several municipalities in the province were also recognized for their commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and welfare through local policies and programs under the Child-Friendly Local Governance Award (CFLGA), Peace and Order Council (POC) Functionality Award, and Anti-Drugs Abuse Council (ADAC) Functionality Award. Recipients for the three awards were Butig, Calanogas, Kapatagan, Lumba Bayabao, Marantao, and Taraka.

Other awardees were Buadipuso-buntong (ADAC and CFLGA), Amai Manabilang (POC and ADAC), Bacolod Kalawi, Balindong (POC), Bayang (POC), Binidayan (CFLGA), Bubong (POC), Ditsaan Ramain (CFLGA), Ganassi (POC), Kapai (POC and ADAC), Madamba (ADAC), Maguing (POC and CFLGA), Marogong (POC), Masiu (ADAC), Mulundo (POC), Pagayawan (POC and ADAC), Piagapo (ADAC), Pualas (ADAC), Saguiaran (POC), Sultan Dumalondong (POC), Tamparan (POC), and Wao (ADAC and CFLGA).

Meanwhile, Barangay Christian Village of Wao ranked sixth in the 2024 Model Barangay Award, while Barangay Mangayao of Taraka secured tenth place. Both barangays were recognized for their exemplary performance in good governance, including achievements in administration, social services, environmental management, and innovation. As part of their recognition, they each received a prize of P1 million.

During the ceremony, Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, MILG Minister, emphasized the importance of good governance in shaping a brighter future for the Bangsamoro region. She also acknowledged the region’s progress over the past six years and encouraged local leaders to continue working toward peace, progress, and moral governance.

“The Pagkilala is not merely a celebration of accolades, but a tribute to the service, leadership, and unwavering dedication of those who uplift our communities,” Dumama-Alba stated.

She further noted that the ceremony is both a milestone and a call to action, serving as a reminder of the region’s progress while challenging everyone to continue striving for excellence.

“Through initiatives like the Search for Model Barangay, the Seal of Good Local Governance, and the Salamat Excellence Award for Leadership, we nurture a culture of excellence, innovation, and integrity in governance,” she said.

Dumama-Alba also highlighted that the awards represent stories of perseverance and leadership that drive lasting change. She emphasized that the Bangsamoro people are at the core of all efforts, with the true reward reflected in the smiles of those whose lives have been transformed. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur with reports from MILG)

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BOMBIT program grants P1.5M to 15 barangays for community dev’t

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur has continued its commitment to strengthening local governance and promoting community development through the Building Opportunities for a Meaningful Bangsamoro Inclusive Town (BOMBIT) Program.

On January 13, 2025, Provincial Governor Mamintal A. Adiong Jr. recognized 15 barangays for their exemplary governance and public service, awarding each of them grants of P1.5 million worth of infrastructure projects.

The winning barangays for the 2024 BOMBIT program are Langi Talub (Masiu), Uya-an Proper (Madamba), Mapantao (Lumba Bayabao), Sundig (Butig), Singcara (Lumbayanague), Extension (Wao), Bangon Poblacion (Pagayawan), Dimagalin (Kapai), Madaya (Maguing), Eastern (Wao), Balut-Madiar (Tamparan), Dibarosan (Madalum), Lilod (Buadipuso Buntong), Mangayao (Taraka), and Bubong Guilopa (Mulondo).

The program, which began in 2019, seeks to identify and empower barangays that serve as models of good governance, efficient public service delivery, and community engagement. This initiative underscores the important role of barangays as the foundation of local governance, which directly affects the well-being of residents.

Since its inception, the BOMBIT program has grown in scope, with the first batch of awardees in 2019 consisting of six barangays, followed by 10 barangays recognized in 2023. For 2024, the number of awarded barangays increased to 15, signaling the continued success of the program in driving positive change across Lanao del Sur.

Each of the 15 winning barangays will receive a project worth P1.5 million that addresses critical community needs. This supports the barangays in building or upgrading essential services, creating lasting impacts that improve the daily lives of their constituents.

In his announcement on the provincial government’s official social media page, Adiong expressed his gratitude for the active participation and cooperation of the barangay leaders, especially their hard work in advancing good governance. He also emphasized that the success of the BOMBIT program lies in the collective efforts of the barangays, the provincial government, and the residents.

Following the announcement, members of the BOMBIT program team, together with engineers from the Provincial Engineer’s Office, visited on January 15, three of the 15 winning barangays to meet with local officials and discuss the preferred infrastructure projects for each barangay. These projects include a Legislative Building for Barangay Sundig, solar streetlamps for Barangay Singcara, and a hostel for Barangay Langi Talub to accommodate guests visiting from outside the province.

The team also plans to visit the other winning barangays in the coming weeks to discuss their proposed projects and assist with the planning and implementation process. These visits are part of the process to ensure the effective implementation of the awarded projects and to provide technical assistance where needed. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Criminal justice stakeholders discuss ways to improve system efficiency in Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Key stakeholders from various sectors of the criminal justice system in Lanao del Sur recently gathered for a conference organized by the Provincial Legal Services Office to discuss critical issues and explore collaborative solutions aimed at improving the efficiency of the justice system in Lanao del Sur.

The forum, which brought together law enforcement, legal practitioners, government agencies, and community representatives, focused on enhancing coordination and communication across the five pillars of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, prosecution, judiciary, corrections, and the community.

Judge Sittie Laarni Umpa of the Regional Trial Court Branch 9 emphasized the need for a unified approach to tackling the challenges faced by the justice system. 

“For the five pillars of the criminal justice system to work properly, there should be coordination, communication, and working together of the different agencies in the five pillars of the criminal justice system. So this seminar-workshop is very significant because it allows everyone to exchange ideas and find solutions to challenges we encounter in doing our jobs,” she said.

Umpa also highlighted the Supreme Court’s ongoing initiatives under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI), which aims to enhance judicial transparency and efficiency nationwide. As part of this effort, the Supreme Court creates justice zones in key areas of the country to ensure better service delivery and more effective judicial processes.

Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., in a message read by Board Member Ansari Gandrama, reiterated the province’s commitment to improving the justice system. 

“We recognize the need to continually improve our justice system. Strengthening legal awareness and public confidence is crucial to ensuring that our judicial institutions operate in a neutral, efficient, and professional manner,” Adiong stated.

Lawyer Faisal Cali, head of the Provincial Legal Services Office, underscored the importance of addressing the challenges on the ground, emphasizing that issues faced are more felt by those in enforcement, the courts, and the communities themselves. 

“We cannot solve issues and concerns alone because criminal justice is a system. We have to move forward together, not as an independent organization,” he explained.

A key topic discussed during the forum was the amicable settlement of rido (family feuds). The group also reviewed a proposed ordinance to improve the justice system, particularly in resolving rido cases and fostering peace-building initiatives within the province. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur champions solo parents, passes ordinance ensuring comprehensive support

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur has passed Ordinance No. 00-005 Series of 2024, a measure designed to address the challenges faced by solo parents and improve their access to essential services.

Sponsored by Board Member Ansari “Ringo” Gandamra, the ordinance builds on the provisions of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of the national government, offering additional services and protections for solo parents in the province.

Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong expressed his support for the ordinance, highlighting its importance for the welfare of solo parents and their children. He said the ordinance supports solo parents by expanding their access to essential services and protections. 

“We are grateful to Board Member Gandamra and everyone who contributed to its passage,” he added.

In addition to the benefits granted under the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, which include parental leave with pay, a 10 percent discount and VAT exemption on select goods, and automatic coverage under the National Health Insurance Program, the new ordinance provides several key provisions to assist solo parents in the province.

Solo parents will be given priority in employment opportunities, apprenticeships, scholarships, and livelihood training to improve their long-term economic prospects and their families.

The ordinance also includes provisions to ease the daily challenges of solo parents. Commercial establishments in Lanao del Sur are required to set up express lanes for solo parents, especially when accompanied by children under 12 years old. Solo parents will also receive priority boarding in public transport and passenger terminals to ease access to services.

In times of emergency, such as disasters, calamities, or public health crises, solo parents and their children will be prioritized for social safety assistance, including food, medicines, and financial aid for home repairs.

Indigent solo parents will also be entitled to death and burial assistance through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office. Adolescent solo parents and victims of child marriages will receive specialized assistance, including counseling and health services, to support their well-being.

The ordinance further calls for establishing a Solo Parent Office in Marawi City and a Solo Parent Division within each municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. These offices will handle the registration of solo parents, issue Solo Parent ID cards, and ensure that all benefits outlined in the ordinance are provided to eligible individuals.

To oversee the implementation of the ordinance, a Provincial Coordinating and Monitoring Committee will be created. The committee will monitor compliance, ensure the effective delivery of services, and advocate for the needs of solo parents throughout the province.

Board Member Gandamra emphasized the importance of the ordinance in addressing the needs of solo parents in the province and ensuring that they are not left behind. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur inflation rate remains at 2.5% in December 2024

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Lanao del Sur’s inflation rate remained unchanged at 2.5 percent in December 2024, the same as the previous month, according to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

This marks a significant decline of 0.7 percentage points compared to 3.2 percent inflation in December 2023, indicating an improvement in the province’s overall cost of living. For the year, Lanao del Sur posted a 3.4 percent year-to-date inflation rate for all items, indicating varied price movements across different sectors.

Higher price increases in specific commodity groups primarily drove the province’s inflation. Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco posted an annual rise of 3.3 percent, while Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas, and Other Fuels increased by 1.8 percent. Conversely, Transport experienced a slight decline of 0.8 percent. 

At the same time, several other sectors recorded a slowdown in inflation. Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Clothing and Footwear both posted inflation rates of 2.6 percent. Other sectors with slower inflation included Furnishings, Household Equipment, and Routine Maintenance of the House at 3.2 percent, Health at 4.9 percent, and Personal Care and Miscellaneous Goods and Services at 4.1 percent.

A notable development in December was the continued decline in food inflation. The food index decreased by 2.4 percent in December, down from 2.8 percent in November, a significant improvement compared to 4.7 percent in December 2023. This decline was mainly due to slower price changes in key food items such as Cereals and Cereal Products (3.9 percent), Rice (4.0 percent), and Fish and Other Seafood (0.6 percent). 

Price increases in other food categories, including Milk, Other Dairy Products, and Eggs (10.9 percent) and Ready-Made Food and Other Food Products (1.8 percent), also moderated during the period, contributing to the overall slowdown in food price inflation.

The purchasing power in Lanao del Sur remained at 0.80 in December 2024. This means that goods and services that cost P100 in 2018 now cost P125.

PSA-BARMM Regional Director Engr. Akan Tula assured that efforts are being made by the concerned authorities to maintain a balanced level of inflation, as both extreme highs and extreme lows can have negative effects on the economy.

“Kung mabilis ang pagbagsak ng mga presyo na tinatawag na deflation, maaari itong maging senyales na humihina ang ekonomiya. Kapag kulang ang demand, maaaring mapilitan magbawas ng produksyon at trabaho ang mga kumpanya,” he explained.

(If prices decline rapidly, a phenomenon known as deflation could be a sign that the economy is weakening. When demand is insufficient, companies may be forced to cut production and jobs.) (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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BARMM-MRP provides medical aid to displaced Marawi residents

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Marawi Rehabilitation Program (MRP) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is providing essential medical assistance to financially challenged Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Most Affected Areas (MAA) of this City.

This initiative aims to alleviate the medical expenses of inpatients and outpatients, including costs for hospitalization and other necessary treatments.

The medical assistance program targets specific groups of IDPs, including inpatients currently admitted to partner hospitals, outpatients requiring consultations or medical procedures, and patients with outstanding hospital balances excluded from the Ayudang Medical Mula sa Bangsamoro Government (AMBaG).

Also, the program works in collaboration with three partner hospitals: Dr. Abdullah Hospital Foundation Inc., Mindalano Specialist Hospital Foundation Inc., and Salaam Hospital.

To qualify for medical assistance, IDPs must submit documents tailored to their current medical status—whether admitted, discharged or outpatient.

Required documents include MAA profiles, hospital bills, medical abstracts, supporting materials, and proof of IDP status from the MAA.

For admitted patients, the program provides coverage of up to P10,000, depending on the submission of the final hospital bill, medical abstract, and other necessary documents. Discharged patients with unpaid balances may receive up to P10,000 in assistance, while outpatients can avail of up to P5,000.

Aripah Bado-Ronsing, supervising head and member of the BARMM-MRP PMO Management Committee provided insights into the program during an interview at Salaam Radio on January 7. She said that the initiative seeks to ease the financial struggles of Marawi IDPs.

“From the start of giving medical assistance since January 2, the most common challenges or issues faced by our IDPs is lack of financial capacity to cover their medical expenses,” she said. 

Bado-Ronsing also clarified that the program does not provide cash directly to the IDPs. Instead, it issues a guarantee letter to partner hospitals, ensuring direct coverage of costs by healthcare providers. This system allows IDPs to receive timely medical care without financial barriers.

“The BARMM-MRP, a special initiative under the Office of the Chief Minister, extends vital support to IDPs. Ito ay supplement sa efforts ng national government,” she added, reinforcing the program’s role as a complement to national initiatives in supporting the displaced residents of Marawi.

Currently, the BARMM-MRP has 54 projects approved by the Program Steering Committee, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Ali Solaiman, and co-chaired by Minister Hamid Aminoddin Barra. These projects focus on advancing the rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi City and its residents.

For more information, IDPs can reach out through the MRP Hotline at 0912-441-0991, visit the official BARMM-Marawi Rehabilitation Program Facebook Page, or go directly to the Program Management Office located on the 1st Floor, Hanes Building, Panggao Saduc, Marawi City. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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