Regional and Provincial League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators participate in the 3rd BARMM Planners Congress 2023 held in Marcian Garden Hotel, Zamboanga City on Nov. 21, 2023. (Comenei Ali/BIO)
ZAMBOANGA CITY—The 3rd BARMM Planners Congress concluded on Nov. 21 here at Marcian Garden Hotel in this city, highlighting a focus on fortifying connections, fostering collaboration, and aligning local government units’ (LGUs) platforms with the Bangsamoro Government.
BPDA Director-General Engr. Mohajirin Ali described the development of the planners congresses: the 1st laid the foundation for regional government within LGUs across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the 2nd delved into necessary knowledge for planners, and the 3rd elevated discussions by inviting National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) representatives to contribute national-level planning insights.
“As planners, we should have profound responsibility of charting a course toward a future that is not only brighter but also more equitable and sustainable for the Bangsamoro,” Ali said as he welcomed the participants.
“Throughout this congress, we will explore opportunities for synergy between the regional government and local government units, recognizing that our strength is magnified through unity,” he added.
He also encouraged the participants to steer the region towards a future characterized by sustainable and inclusive development to “each plan they craft, action they undertake and every partnership the group will establish.”
Meanwhile, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said, “As we frame the future of our region amidst this critical transition phase, this autonomous regional government remains steadfast in facing difficulties, sustaining peace, and attaining development in BARMM.
“Let us seize the opportunity of this annual event, enabling us to gather, meet, and interact with our fellow planners from the national, regional, and local levels while engaging in a meaningful discussion and meaningful ideas.”
“The path ahead may be challenging but I am confident that we have plans to combat this with utmost devotion and love for our homeland. Your exceptional role in this government would be a legacy that can be passed on and will surely benefit our future generations,” the chief minister said.
Ebrahim reminded the planners to always be guided by moral governance as they perform duties and responsibilities in their offices.
“I am looking forward to strengthening linkages and partnership with our local planners after organizing the Provincial League of Planners and the annual observance of the planners’ congress,” he stressed. (Majid Nur/BIO)
