Photo by Tohamie K. Edzla
DAVAO CITY—The Bangsamoro Government, through the leadership of Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, has been entrusted with Php66-million worth of Marawi projects by the national government’s Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
This came after the BARMM’s Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) and the DTI signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA ) Thursday, August 10 at Dusit Thani Residences in Davao City, for the implementation of Task Form Bangon Marawi (TFBM) Phase 2 project, “TALES of Marawi,” from August 2023 to July 2024.
DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, addressing those who witnessed the signing including the Chief Minister, said the “shared purpose is clear: to promote an environment conducive to economic growth and development”.
Pascual said that DTI, being the focal agency for entrepreneurship, business, and livelihood assistance, has supported the implementation of TFBM Phase 1 through the provision of livelihood starter kits, the establishment of Shared Service Facilities (SSFs), and the facilitating of retail spaces for Maranao products which primarily benefitted the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
“And now, I profoundly express my unwavering commitment to implementing the Task Force Bangon Marawi Phase 2 solely dedicated to carrying out comprehensive programs for the continuous revival of [the] Marawi city economy,” Pascual remarked.
Meanwhile, MTIT Minister Abuamri Taddik explained that the TALES of Marawi project proposes a comprehensive intervention for the economic revitalization of Marawi.
“The TALES of Marawi encompasses far more than mere reconstruction efforts,” Taddik said.
He further explained that the project serves as a representation of dedication to (T) touring for the vibrant culture Marawi culture, (A) appreciating its abundant culinary heritage, (L) learning from its stories of resilience and triumph against extremists, (E) exploring its unique landscape ad customs, and (S) sharing the essence of togetherness concord in Marawi.
MTIT Director General Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo, as she entertained concerns from the members of the media, explained that they want to showcase the vibrant economy and unique culture of Marawi.
“Gusto namin maipakita yung magandang economy ng BARMM particlularly ang Marawi sa project na ito pati na din ang unique culture,” she said.
She further said that MTIT wants to showcase BARMM as a beacon of hope that has potential in the international market.
In May 2017, the people of Marawi were forced to flee the comfort of their homes when a group of extremists took over the city. The catastrophe has resulted in massive displacement, loss of lives, and livelihood.
The Bangsamoro Government was not established yet during the siege and its establishment was almost deferred by the crisis. However in 2019 when R.A. 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law was ratified, it established a new autonomous regional government which enabled the Bangsamoro to help their fellow.
Today, the current leadership of Chief Minister Ebrahim has its own dedicated “Marawi Rehabilitation Program (MRP)” under his office primarily intended for the rehabilitation of the city.
In Thursday’s event, Ebrahim expressed his profound gratitude to Secretary Pascual for the implementation of the TFBP Phase 2.
“I am optimistic that the signing of this agreement would herald in a new age of development in terms of commerce and industry,” Ebrahim said.
He added that the signing “is a testament to the undeterred commitment of the National Government and the Bangsamoro Government to sustain the dividends of the peace process”.
Support for Marawi rehabilitation is one of the Chief Minister’s enhanced 12-point priority agenda by providing meaningful and IDP-centered support to ongoing rehabilitation, reconstruction, and recovery of the city.
Thursday’s MOA signing was also witnessed by Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Adiong Jr., Vice-Chair of the BARMM Business Council Abdul Rashid Macala, DTI Region XI Regional Director Maria Belenda Ambi, and other distinguished guests. (Abdullah Matucan/BIO)
