Philippines to Harness ASEAN Leadership for Mindanao and BARMM Advancement
In a significant policy announcement, the Philippines plans to strategically utilize its ASEAN Chairmanship to foster development partnerships and accelerate economic growth in Mindanao and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This directive comes directly from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., as confirmed by Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno during a radio interview on Monday.
Clear Presidential Mandate for Regional Development
Secretary Magno, speaking on the program Bangon, Bayang Mahal aired over Radyo Pilipinas with host Rey Sampang, emphasized that President Marcos has issued explicit instructions to maximize the country's leadership role within ASEAN. The goal is to deliver tangible outcomes, particularly for less developed regions like Mindanao and BARMM. Magno articulated this vision clearly, stating, "This is an opportunity for our country to show that we are open to partnerships. We are open to those who want to help us." He further stressed the importance of proactive communication, adding, "If we need assistance, we have to say so. Otherwise, how will our development partners know how to help?"
Strategic Focus on BIMP-EAGA Summit
The presidential directive will be prominently reflected in the Philippines' hosting of key regional engagements, most notably the upcoming Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Leaders Summit. Secretary Magno revealed that the country will use this platform to advocate for enhanced support specifically targeted at BARMM. "The President's instruction is that for the BIMP-EAGA Summit, we should focus on development efforts in BARMM," Magno explained. He underscored the interconnectedness of regional stability, noting, "Peace in BARMM means peace for the whole of Mindanao."
BIMP-EAGA's Role and Recent Achievements
Magno provided context on BIMP-EAGA's mission, established to bridge development gaps in less developed subregional areas through robust cooperation among member nations and key development partners. These partners include influential institutions such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Highlighting the initiative's success, Magno cited data presented during the 2025 BIMP-EAGA Summit in Malaysia, which showcased impressive results:
- 217 projects valued at approximately US$67 billion
- Subregional trade reaching US$166 billion
- Tourism arrivals growing by more than 50 percent, equating to around six million visitors
Priority Sectors for BARMM Development
Looking ahead, the Philippines will emphasize several critical priority sectors for BARMM during its ASEAN Chairmanship. Secretary Magno identified these key areas requiring focused investment and partnership:
- Power Sector Development: Addressing the critical issue where more than half of BARMM communities still lack adequate access to reliable electricity.
- Tourism Enhancement: Building on the subregion's growth potential in visitor arrivals.
- Road Connectivity: Improving infrastructure to facilitate movement and commerce.
- Trade Facilitation: Streamlining processes to boost economic activity.
- Digitalization Initiatives: Advancing technological infrastructure and access.
This comprehensive approach aims to leverage international partnerships through ASEAN mechanisms to drive sustainable and inclusive growth in the southern Philippines.
