The poverty incidence among families in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) declined from 28.0 percent in 2021 to 23.5 percent in 2023, based on the data of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Currently, the trajectory appears to continue downward, reflecting encouraging progress while underscoring the continuing expansion of economic opportunities across the region.
The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) highlights significant governance milestones achieved during the Bangsamoro transition, citing improvement in socioeconomic indicators that translate to improved quality of life for the Bangsamoro people.
BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua emphasizes that the transition was never simply about establishing a new government.
‘It has always been about building institutions capable of delivering meaningful and lasting change for the Bangsamoro people. While we recognize that much work remains, these developments encourage us to continue pursuing reforms that promote peace, good governance, and inclusive growth,’ he said.
Since the establishment of BARMM, the transition government has enacted several foundational regional laws, including the Bangsamoro Administrative Code, Local Governance Code, Civil Service Code, Electoral Code, and Education Code, while establishing ministries and governance systems designed to improve public service delivery and institutional accountability.
For Atty. Kitem Duque Kadatuan Jr., Member of Parliament and Chairperson of the Committee on Finance, Budget and Management, the progress achieved during the transition highlights the value of responsible fiscal management and institution-building.
‘Building a new government requires more than passing laws. It requires institutions that are transparent, accountable, and capable of delivering services that improve people’s lives,’ Kadatuan said.
He also noted that sustaining development will require continued investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, livelihood, and job creation to ensure that economic gains reach more communities throughout the region.
The BTA noted that strengthening governance remains central to BARMM’s long-term development agenda, with ongoing efforts focused on improving public institutions, promoting transparency, attracting investments, and expanding access to essential government services.
‘Our responsibility does not end with building institutions. It continues with ensuring that every reform we pursue creates meaningful and lasting benefits for the Bangsamoro people,’ Kadatuan added.