Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) spearheads the launching of a five-year European Union (EU) funded project dubbed Bangsamoro Agri-Enterprise Program (BAEP) intended for the farmers, fisherfolks, and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) across the Bangsamoro region on January 15, 2024 in Cotabato City. (Faisal Camsa/BIO)
COTABATO CITY —Bangsamoro Government officially launched here on Jan. 15, a five-year European Union (EU) funded project dubbed Bangsamoro Agri-Enterprise Program (BAEP) intended for the farmers, fisherfolks, and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
With a total cost of Php1,148,810,000.00, the BAEP shall be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) and United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD).
BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag pointed out in his message conveyed by Senior Minister Abunawas Maslamama, that the EU’s noble initiative will widely contribute to the socioeconomic development of the region.
“BAEP recognizes that sustainable development is a cornerstone for lasting peace and agriculture being a vital component of the Bangsamoro economy,” Ebrahim said.
“May this program be a beacon of social change in the Bangsamoro, a catalyst for development, and a pathway to a more empowered, cohesive, and progressive Bangsamoro,” he added.
The BAEP has 6 key areas of implementation that include Creating a Responsible, Sustainable, and Competitive Enterprise in the BARMM Agribusiness Sector (CRESCENT) worth Php140,130,000.00; Inclusive Agribusiness Development for Human Security worth Php250,890,000.00; and Leveraging and Expanding Agri-Aqua Production in Bangsamoro (LEAP) worth Php205,000,000.00.
The project also includes Strengthening Agri-Fishery Enterprise through women and youth economic empowerment inclusive business, and Climate Resilience (WEE-SAFE) worth Php152,990,000.00; Farmer-Fisherfolks’ Advancement and Integration to Resilient Value Chains in BARMM (FAIR-VALUE) worth Php203,980,000.00; and BAEP Technical Assistance Team worth 195,820,000.
His Excellency, Luc Veron, EU Ambassador to the Philippines, mentioned that the EU has currently invested in Php8.4 billion grants in Mindanao.
He explained that BAEP is the demonstration of the EU’s commitment to supporting sustainable peace and inclusive developments in the BARMM.
“It is increasingly important to support the BARMM in delivering peace dividends to communities in the region, particularly in isolated places which are often left behind,” Veron said.
He emphasized the need for active involvement and guidance of local governments and private sectors in the program implementation.
Accordingly, communication and consultation between beneficiaries and key stakeholders are also crucial for sustainable impact.
Further, MAFAR Minister Mohammad Yacob emphasized the role of the EU as a crucial partner in supporting initiatives that contribute to the BARMM’s economy.
“This program is underscoring the robust collaboration between the EU and the Bangsamoro region showcasing a shared commitment to sustainable development and prosperity,” Minister Yacob said.
He added, “May this program be a symbol of growth, resilience, and unity for the Bangsamoro people.”
The Agri-Fishery Productivity and Food Security falls under the fourth out of the Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda of CM Ebrahim in promoting socio-economic development and strengthening regional food security. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
