BTA MP Don Arbison Loong

𝐌𝐏 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞

MP Don Mustapha Arbison Loong, a member of the Committee on Indigenous People's Affairs (C**A), supports the approval of the Bangsamoro Indigenous Peoples Development Act at the committee level during a meeting on August 28, 2024. The bill, which aims to recognize, develop, and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is set to be submitted to the plenary in September.

The approval follows a comprehensive review process that included public hearings and extensive consultations with stakeholders and experts. C**A thoroughly examined Parliament Bill No. 273, which has been identified as a priority by the interim government.

One of the key objectives of the act is to ensure that Indigenous communities have a voice in regional governance, promoting their active participation in decision-making processes. This legislative initiative reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and addressing the unique needs of Indigenous populations in the region.

MP Loong, a member of parliament since 2019, has been an active advocate for the rights of Indigenous Peoples in the BARMM. He currently serves as the Chairperson of the Committee on Human Settlements and Development and is a member of various other committees, including the Committee on Indigenous Peoples' Affairs.

𝐂𝐇𝐒𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐘 𝐌𝐏 𝐃𝐎𝐍 𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐍 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒

The Committee on Human Settlements and Development (CHSD) of the Bangsamoro Parliament convened a productive hearing on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the BPDA Conference Hall 2 in Cotabato City. The meeting, which commenced at 9:40 AM and concluded at 11:49 AM, focused on critical updates and deliberations regarding housing and development programs within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The committee hearing was chaired by 𝐌𝐏 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐚 𝐀𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐠, with the participation of several other members, including MP Dr. Susana Anayatin. Several members, including MP Mohammad Kelie U. Antao, MP Said M. Shiek, MP Marjanie S. Macasalong, MP Abdullah E. Gayak, MP Engr. Aida M. Silongan, and MP Atty. Sittie Fahanie S. Uy-Oyod, joined the meeting via Zoom. MP Deputy Speaker Hatimil E. Hassan also participated via Zoom.

The committee first addressed Proposed Resolution No. 348, introduced by MP Mohammad Kelie U. Antao. This resolution calls for the Bangsamoro Government to prioritize the "Baranibod Resettlement and Development Area (BRAD) program" for landless Bangsamoro Mujahideen families. The program aims to establish a model Bangsamoro community outside the BARMM and seeks administrative, technical, and financial assistance for its implementation. The committee decided to defer the in-depth discussion of this resolution to the next meeting, allowing for further consideration and analysis.

Following this, the committee received updates on key housing and development initiatives. Abdulhamid Alawi Jr., Housing Chief of the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD), presented updates on the Bangsamoro Housing and Human Settlements Plan (BHHSP) and the Cross-Border Observatory Learning Study Tour in Malaysia.

Engr. Ammar Ansari, Engineer I, Office of the Chief Minister (OCM)-KAPYANAN, provided an update on the housing and development program under KAPYANAN. Engr. Mohammad K. Abdullah, Project Manager, OCM-KAPYANAN, responded to inquiries from committee members.

The meeting concluded with a request for a more detailed presentation from the Technical Management Staff (TMS) of KAPYANAN. The committee seeks a comprehensive presentation, including a Gantt chart and recommendations, similar to the presentation provided by the MHSD. The TMS of KAPYANAN is expected to attend the next meeting to present their detailed plan, allowing for a more thorough understanding of their proposed initiatives.

Present resource persons include Salem Demuna, the OMS Director; Janicezah Macapantar, the TRS Director of MHSD; Yasser Mama, the Monitoring and Evaluation Chief of MHSD; Abdulhamid Alawi Jr, the Housing Chief of MHSD; Jehanna M. Abdulkarim, the Policy Chief of PDCRD, MHSD; Rafzan M. Mama, the M&E Technical Staff of MHSD; Noroden S. Abdullah, the Provincial Director of Maguindanao, MHSD; Ameer Kadil, the Planning and Design Technical Staff of MHSD; Hamzah Salik, the Provincial Director of Cotabato City and SGA; John Anthony M. Ocumen, the Planning Officer III; Engr. Mohammad K. Abdullah, the Project Manager of OCM-KAPYANAN; and Engr. Ammar Ansari, the Engineer I of OCM-KAPYANAN.

The CHSD Committee hearing provided a valuable platform for reviewing ongoing housing and development initiatives and discussing future plans for the BARMM. The committee's commitment to ensuring adequate housing and development for the Bangsamoro people is evident in their thorough deliberations and requests for detailed presentations.

𝐌𝐏 𝐃𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍'𝐒 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒

The Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament for 2022-2025 convened its Resumption of Session No. 72 of the Third Regular Session on August 28, 2024.

During the session, MP Engr. Don Mustapha Arbison Loong interpellated Committee Report No. 83 submitted by the Committee on Women, Youth, Children, and Persons with Disabilities regarding Proposed Resolution No. 574. This resolution urges all government agencies, including local government units and offices in BARMM, to establish lactation stations for women employees and clients in compliance with RA 10028, the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009. MP Don's proposed amendments to the resolution were approved by the BTA parliament.

MP Don raised concerns during the session regarding the inclusion of lactation facilities under the 5% GAD budget, emphasizing its importance for the welfare of women employees in BARMM. He also questioned the absence of specific guidance for funding sources in the resolution and proposed amendments to address these issues.

Additionally, MP Don highlighted the need to involve the Ministry of Labor and Employment in providing technical assistance for the implementation of the Breastfeeding Promotions Act of 2009, similar to the national level practices. The discussion also touched on the establishment of lactation stations to combat malnutrition in BARMM, particularly addressing the high incidence of stunting among children.

Furthermore, MP Don proposed amendments to include relevant data on stunting prevalence in the Bangsamoro region and emphasized the urgency of implementing policies to address this issue. He underscored the importance of comparing regional data to national averages to highlight the severity of the situation and ensure effective government response.

Ultimately, the proponent, MP Dr. Hashimi Dilangalen, acknowledged the validity of MP Don's points and agreed to include the Ministry of Labor and Employment in the implementation process. MP Don's proposed amendments were approved, reflecting a comprehensive approach to address stunting and promote child welfare in the region.

Today, we honor those who answered the call of duty with their lives. As we reflect on their sacrifice, let us recommit ourselves to serving our nation. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

𝐏𝐑𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐒𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐎 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐘 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒' 𝐀𝐂𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐘 𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐂𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐘 – 𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐌

The Participate is a convergence of the COMELEC, Ateneo School of Government, the De La Salle Institute of Governance, CODE NGO, NAMFREL, US and British Embassy.

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 (𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨), a political party in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), recently participated in the Academy of Multiparty Democracy - BARMM, a three-day training program organized by PARTIC**ATE PH.

This initiative aimed to equip regional political parties with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful and democratic 2025 parliamentary election in BARMM held at the Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City from August 19-21, 2024.

The initiative brought together 18 representatives from 10 regional political parties, including United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), Bangsamoro Party (BaPa), Mahardika, Al-Ittihad-UKB, Samahang Inklusibo, Alyansyang Progresibo (SIAP), Bangsamoro People’s Party (BPP), Progresibong Bangsamoro Party (𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨), Indigenous People’s Democratic (IPDP), Partido Bangon Bangsamoro Party (PBBM), and Raayat Democratic Party.

The 2025 parliamentary elections in the BARMM region have the potential to demonstrate electoral reforms and sustainable peace. PARTIC**ATE PH is committed to supporting this transition by organizing capacity-building workshops for regional parties through its Academy of Multiparty Democracy.

𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨, represented by 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐏 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐚 𝐀𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐠, Party Vice-President for External Affairs Sheikh Loderson Mahir Gustaham, and Deputy Secretary General Dr. Laarnie B. Racman, actively engaged in the comprehensive training program, which covered key aspects of party politics, institutionalization, financing, communications, and the latest developments related to the upcoming elections.

The Academy featured a diverse range of experts, including:

• Dr. Julio C. Teehankee, Professor of Political Science and International Studies at De La Salle University, discussed political parties in different political and government systems.

• Atty. Camilo Miguel M. Montesa, Lead Technical Advisor, PARTIC**ATE BARMM, presented a case study on the Northern Ireland experience.

• Mr. Georgi Engelbrecht, Senior Analyst - Philippines International Crisis Group, explored the historical background, societal, and political vision of BARMM for the next century.

• Ms. Maria Victoria Maglana, Facilitator, led a workshop on the context of BARMM within the broader Philippine landscape.

• Atty. Luie Tito Guia, Former Commissioner of, the Commission on Elections, provided insights into understanding the BARMM Electoral Code in the context of the 2025 Parliamentary Elections.

• Mr. Jess Pasibe, Election Oversight and Reform Specialist, PARTIC**ATE, discussed the elements and processes involved in institutionalizing political parties in BARMM.

• Mr. Earl Parreño, Political Organizer, focused on developing party organizers for the 2025 BARMM Elections and beyond.

• Atty. Anne Bernadette Arteche-Mendiola, Attorney IV of the Political Finance and Affairs Department, COMELEC, explored the extent and limits of party financing in the Philippines.

• Hon. Henry A. Bacurnay, Vice Mayor, Bauang, La Union, shared his expertise on party-building and operations during the election and non-election years.

• Mr. Lambert Ramirez, Training Consultant, PARTIC**ATE, led a panel discussion on party financing, providing an overview of the topic.

• Mr. Telibert Laoc, Co-founder and Trustee, of Democratic Insights Group, and Professor of Political Science and Development Studies at De La Salle University, presented best practices in party financing across the globe.

• Atty Jamal "James" Hadjiusman, BARMM Election Lawyer, discussed the importance of building a robust internal party communication infrastructure.

• Mr. Alan German, Chief Executive Officer of Agents' International Public Relations, shared best practices in political and party communication.

• Mr. Harold Dwight Calucag, Social Media Specialist, and Ms. Kim Karol Di, Political Communication Consultant, led a panel discussion on the role of social media in the 2025 BARMM Elections.

• Mr. Christian Esguerra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Facts First Media, provided insights on engaging effectively with media.

• Mr. Angel Averia, National Chairperson of NAMFREL, presented the BASS Project.

The training also included a demonstration of the Automated Counting Machine (ACM) by COMELEC Spokesperson Atty. John Rex C. Laudiangco, providing participants with a hands-on understanding of the new election technology.

𝐌𝐏 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐚 𝐀𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐠, 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐫𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨, expressed gratitude for the insightful and productive training session, highlighting the importance of the shared goal among regional political parties to ensure the success of the first-ever BARMM Parliamentary Elections.

The Academy of Multiparty Democracy - BARMM is a crucial initiative that aims to empower BARMM political parties with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the upcoming elections and contribute to a stronger and more representative democracy in the region.

The event concluded with a sense of optimism and shared commitment to ensuring a successful and meaningful electoral process in BARMM.

𝐌𝐏 𝐃𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐗𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐍 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 & 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐒𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

The Bangsamoro Parliament took a significant step towards a more equitable future by hosting a two-day executive briefing on August 15-16 in Taguig City. This initiative, spearheaded by the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS) in collaboration with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and UN Women, aimed to equip lawmakers with the knowledge and tools to craft legislation that truly reflects the needs and perspectives of all genders.

Engr. Don Mustapha Arbisong Loong, an active Member of Parliament, played a significant role in an event where he highlighted the importance of promoting gender equality, development, and inclusive legislation. The event focused on the critical need for gender-responsive policymaking and legislation to drive transformative and inclusive progress in society. Dr. Laarnie B. Racman, the Political Affairs Officer VI of his office, joined him, showcasing a united front in addressing these essential issues.

Furthermore, all the members of the Parliament, accompanied by their technical staff, were also present at the event, demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusive development through legislative action.

The briefing served as a vital platform for lawmakers to delve into the intricacies of gender-responsive policymaking. Participants were provided with the necessary skills and frameworks to integrate gender perspectives into their legislative processes, ensuring that future laws and policies are inclusive and equitable.

The event fostered a collaborative environment where lawmakers could exchange strategies and discuss innovative approaches to address gender issues within the Bangsamoro region. This exchange of ideas and expertise proved invaluable in developing a shared understanding of how to create legislation that promotes equality, equity, and empowerment for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion.

The importance of this initiative was underscored by GADFPS Chair Jonaina Macabando, who emphasized the commitment to ensuring that all policies, programs, and activities within the Bangsamoro government are gender-sensitive. This commitment was further echoed by Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong, who, in a message delivered by Chief of Staff Atty. Ranao Datu-Dacula, highlighted the crucial role of lawmakers in advancing equality and empowerment across the region.

The event featured presentations from leading experts, providing valuable insights and practical tools for embedding a gender-transformative and inclusive culture within the institution.

Ms. Margherita Sofia Zambelli, a renowned expert in gender equality and institutional strengthening, discussed GAD (Gender and Development) concepts and international conventions. She emphasized the importance of participatory activities and presented the "Guide for Gender-Transformative and Inclusive Legislation in the Bangsamoro," a resource co-authored by her in 2021 during her collaboration with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD). This guide provides a roadmap for the Bangsamoro Parliament to integrate gender equality and inclusion into its internal and external operations, fostering a more equitable and inclusive parliamentary culture.

Mr. Rene Gandeza, Jr., a Resource Person from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity, provided a comprehensive overview of GAD legal frameworks, examining national laws and the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

Ms. Ryce Chanchai, ASEAN Governance, Peace and Security regional Programme Lead of UN WOMEN Indonesia, shed light on the crucial connection between Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and Gender and Development. Ms. Chanchai, a strong advocate for locally driven development solutions, emphasized the importance of empowering individuals and fostering positive change through gender and social inclusion.

Afiq Mohd Noor, a lawyer specializing in Constitutional, Human Rights, and Shariah Law, offered an Islamic perspective on gender and inclusion. Mr. Noor, who holds a PhD in Islamic Studies, discussed the principles of gender equality and inclusion within the Islamic framework, demonstrating the compatibility of these values with Islamic teachings.

The workshop included a session on processing workshop outputs and sharing best practices from other regions and countries. Participants gained valuable insights and tools to promote gender equality and inclusion within the Bangsamoro Parliament and beyond.

This executive briefing aligns perfectly with the Bangsamoro government's broader gender mainstreaming strategies, which aim to promote women's human rights and eliminate gender discrimination within both the Parliament and the communities they serve. By equipping lawmakers with the necessary tools and fostering a collaborative environment, this initiative represents a significant step towards creating a more just and equitable future for all Bangsamoro citizens.

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐒𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐎 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐘 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐒𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐎 (𝐅𝐅𝐁) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) is a UK public body that aims to strengthen democratic governance globally. Since 2020, WFD has been working to support the political transition of the Bangsamoro region towards a more robust regional democracy. This program includes a dedicated effort to assist in the development of emerging regional political parties, as well as tailored support for women's political leadership.

WFD recently organized a cross-party initiative known as the Female Fellowship for the Bangsamoro (FFB) 2024, which took place during Retreat 3 at the Grand Summit Hotel in General Santos City on 9-10 August 2024.

The event brought together a small group of politically active women from various parts of the BARMM. They were provided with technical skills related to personal branding and campaigning, while also creating a network that offers a safe space for discussing common social issues and cultural expectations faced by women in politics.

The 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 (𝐏𝐑𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐒𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐎), led by Party President Member of Parliament 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐃𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐚 𝐀𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐠, nominated Party Deputy Secretary General 𝐃𝐫. 𝐋𝐚𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐞 𝐁. 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐦𝐚𝐧 to actively engage and participate in the FFB Retreat 3. Other participants were also nominated by different Regional Party lists.

The women participants were mentored by Millie Grace Akoth Odhiambo, MP - a Member of the Kenyan Parliament, who is an author, lawyer, politician, philanthropist, actor, motivational speaker, and award-winning activist for women, children, and human rights. She has received accolades for her work and was recognized by Barack Obama as a promising leader in governance in Kenya. She holds a law degree from the University of Nairobi and a specialized master's degree in Public Interest Law from New York University.

They were also guided by Umulkher Harun Mohamed, MP - a Member of the Kenyan Parliament, who was nominated to the legislative house through the Orange Party. She is known for advocating for human rights and progressive initiatives addressing various social and economic issues. Before becoming an MP, Umulkher founded and led The Keahso Alliance, an NGO in Kenya focusing on empowering young people in education and leadership.

The discussions during the retreat focused on personal branding, social media management as essential elements for a successful political campaign, and principles for navigating the dynamics of political parties.

It was also a chance to hear the inspiring stories of women who are already established in the political arena, motivating them to lead with sincere intentions, actions that are aligned, and a spirit that resonates with the people they serve.

The participants also engaged in a dialogue with Tomislav Damnjanovic, a Political Party and Elections Expert from Serbia renowned for his successful campaign strategies in different countries. He has served as a political strategist and consultant for European parties and countries including Jordan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, Zambia, Bulgaria, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Participants comprise successful and promising women leaders from various political backgrounds, including former politicians, government officials, and newcomers to the political arena. Some are considering running for elections in 2025 and beyond, while others are focusing on supporting women's leadership roles within their political parties. The participants include Bai Sandra Sema, former representative of the 1st District of Maguindanao; Nur-Ainee Tan Lim, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Social Services and Development; Ruby M. Sahali, former Tawi-Tawi representative; Samira Gutoc, former member of RLA-ARMM; Christina T. Chua, former councilor of Cotabato City; Dulia Sultan, former board member of Cotabato province; Prof. Arlene Napoles Sevilla, CSO leader; and Nuriya K. Jamaldin, retired assistant schools division superintendent of Basilan.

The new delegates are Bangsamoro women leaders nominated by their parties from various regional party lists across the entire BARMM. They include Farserina Muhammad-Isnaji, Asliah H. Gafur, Fatima Jane Salihuddin, Baicon Cayongcat-Nuska, Laarnie Racman, Dayalyn Mhatet Acoon Tingaraan, Baijean Gumandel, and Ammal Solaiman.

𝐂𝐁𝐇𝐓𝐄 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐏 𝐃𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐆'𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐎𝐋𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐍 𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐂 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐀𝐂𝐓

The Committee on Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (CBHTE) of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority gathered at the Speaker's Lounge in the Parliament Building, BGC, Cotabato City to discuss various resolutions referred to the committee on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

The meeting was attended by the committee chairperson MP Prof. Eddie M. Alih and committee members MPs Akmad I. Abas, Mudjib C. Abu, Mosber E. Alauddin, Mohammad Kelie U Antao, and Abdulwahab M. Pak. Additionally, via Zoom, the committee vice chairperson Dr. Susana S. Anayatin and other members MPs Haron M. Abas, Ibrahim D. Ali, Engr. Baintan A. Ampatuan, Tarhata M. Maglangit, Jaafar Apollo Mikhail L. Matalam, Nurrheda I. Misuari, Diamila D. Ramos, and Said M. Shiek were present.

MPs Jamel B. Macacua, the principal author of PR 593, and Don Mustapha Arbison Loong, the principal author of PR 328, also attended. Resource persons included Charlie Keith Tan from Budget, Nuruddin Wahalun from TESD, a supply officer, and Kamaluddin Laguiab Jr., Chief of Staff of the Office of MP Romeo K. Sema.

A resolution, principally authored by MP Engr. Don Mustapha Arbison Loong, urging the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) to conduct a thorough assessment report on the implementation of Republic Act No. 10922, known as the "Economic and Financial Literacy Act of 2015" in the Bangsamoro region, has been adopted by the Bangsamoro Parliament's Committee on Basic, Higher, and Technical Education. Committee chairperson Prof. Eddie M. Alih suggested that all committee members present at the meeting be included as co-authors of the resolution, a proposal that received unanimous approval.

MP Don Mustapha Arbison Loong mentioned in his speech that the resolution aims to encourage the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) to conduct a comprehensive assessment report on the implementation of RA 10922, also known as the "Economic and Financial Literacy Act of 2015," in the Bangsamoro region. Enhancing financial literacy is crucial for informed decision-making on savings, investments, and debt management, essential for long-term financial well-being.

Improving financial literacy not only enhances resilience against economic challenges but also creates opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Investing in financial education programs is a strategic approach to uplift communities, foster inclusive economic growth, and yield societal benefits like reduced reliance on social welfare systems and increased economic participation.

Prioritizing efforts to enhance financial literacy in developing countries is not just about economic empowerment but also a vital step towards sustainable development and prosperity for future generations. The assessment will provide valuable data to tailor financial literacy programs to the specific needs of the Bangsamoro community, allowing for a targeted approach in curriculum development responsive to local economic conditions and cultural contexts.

Evaluating the implementation of RA 10922 ensures that policies promoting economic and financial literacy are effective and efficient, enabling adjustments based on evidence and stakeholder feedback for a more responsive governance framework. By enhancing financial literacy initiatives, the Bangsamoro community can make informed financial decisions, navigate challenges effectively, and contribute to economic stability. This strategic step towards ending poverty, breaking financial vulnerability cycles, and facilitating active economic participation aims to empower Bangsamoro youth for economic independence and full participation in the region's socio-economic progress.