In a significant move to strengthen disaster management, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s (BARMM) Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) has successfully increased its budget for 2025 to PHP2.17 billion, up from PHP1.9 billion. This decision was ratified by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority’s finance committee during a recent budget hearing in Cotabato City.
Minister Sha Elijah B. Dumama-Alba, who also holds a position in the regional parliament, emphasized that the additional PHP256 million will be pivotal in enhancing local governance and disaster preparedness across local government units (LGUs). The minister highlighted that the funds will be used to procure essential equipment like firefighting boats for island provinces, provide advanced training for emergency response teams, and fortify disaster contingency plans.
This budgetary increase aligns with the vision of BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim, who has set forth an Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda aimed at fostering inclusive and responsive governance. Minister Dumama-Alba stated that this initiative is a step towards building a more accountable and stable local governance system within the Bangsamoro region, which is crucial for long-term development and resilience, especially in areas prone to disasters.
The enhanced budget will also support various public safety initiatives, further contributing to the region’s stability and development.