Bangsamoro Region Launches Unified Barangay Development Plan for 2026–2028
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has officially institutionalized a unified barangay planning system through the newly introduced Bangsamoro Barangay Development Plan (BBDP) for the period 2026–2028. This strategic initiative is being spearheaded by 55 pilot Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs) distributed across the region, marking a significant step toward enhancing grassroots governance.
Pilot Villages Span Multiple Provinces
The 55 selected pilot villages have been carefully chosen from various areas within BARMM, including Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, the Special Geographic Area, and Cotabato City. This diverse selection ensures broad representation and testing of the planning framework across different local contexts.
Handbook Turnover Marks Implementation Start
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the Ministry of Interior and Local Government in BARMM (MILG-BARMM) formally turned over the BBDP handbook to village chairpersons and secretaries. This event signified the official rollout of the new planning framework, which is specifically designed to strengthen governance at the barangay level by providing a structured approach to development.
Three-Year Plan Sets Clear Guidelines
Engineer Khalid Dumagay, director-general of MILG-BARMM, emphasized that the three-year plan establishes comprehensive policy guidelines, priority programs, projects, and activities. These elements are tailored to assist villages in achieving their development goals while ensuring alignment with both regional and national standards. Dumagay described the BBDP as a "planning framework" that is rooted in local realities and national benchmarks, yet maintains a distinctly Bangsamoro character.
Focus on Outcomes and Leadership Accountability
Dumagay further highlighted the importance of tangible results, reminding local officials that "leadership will be measured not by plans drafted, but by outcomes delivered." This statement underscores the critical role of effective planning in governance and the need for accountability in implementing development initiatives.
Support for Regional Agenda and Grassroots Transformation
The BBDP initiative directly supports the 12-Point Agenda of BARMM, which promotes key priorities such as moral governance, institutional reform, peace and order, economic stability, and inclusive social services. According to MILG, these priorities require disciplined implementation at the barangay level to be effective. Dumagay reinforced this by stating, "Transformation begins at the barangay level," highlighting the foundational role of local communities in regional progress.
Inclusive Formulation with International Support
The formulation of the BBDP was led by MILG-BARMM through a series of inclusive and participatory sessions under its Bangsamoro Barangay Newly Elected Officials Program. This process received substantial support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and various civil society organizations, ensuring a collaborative and well-rounded approach to planning.
