The Senate sub-committee on finance approved the Mindanao Development Authority’s (MinDA) proposed budget for fiscal year 2025, moving it closer to final deliberation by the Senate. This action signifies a key moment for Mindanao’s ongoing development as the sub-committee pledged additional support for MinDA’s unfunded programs, which are crucial to the region’s growth and stability.
The hearing, held on September 25, was chaired by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who expressed his unwavering support for advancing MinDA’s funding requests to the main Senate finance committee. Dela Rosa emphasized the importance of MinDA’s work, recognizing the agency’s pivotal role in advancing economic development and social progress in Mindanao.
“I am confident that we can secure the support of our fellow senators for your programs for Mindanao,” Dela Rosa said, underscoring the critical role MinDA plays in fostering growth across the island.
MinDA’s Budget Proposal and Unfunded Projects
During the hearing, MinDA Chairperson Leo Tereso Magno presented the agency’s budget proposal, which included more than Php 300 million worth of projects that remain unfunded. These projects are part of MinDA’s National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2025 and reflect the agency’s broader commitment to addressing Mindanao’s developmental challenges.
A key initiative within the proposal is the establishment of the Mindanao Disaster Resiliency Center. This center aims to bolster the region’s preparedness and response capabilities in the face of natural disasters, especially as climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
“For years, we have relied on good fortune, but with climate change, the landscape has shifted. We must be proactive and make all of Mindanao resilient to these changes,” Magno stressed, highlighting the urgency of the initiative.
Additionally, Magno outlined several other key projects, including the Strengthening of Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao (STIP) program. This initiative, which previously received support from Senators Dela Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go, focuses on empowering Indigenous communities across Mindanao and ensuring their active participation in the region’s economic and social development.
Senate Support for MinDA’s Initiatives
During the deliberations, several senators voiced their support for MinDA’s initiatives, recognizing the importance of adequate funding to fully unlock Mindanao’s potential.
Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, in particular, highlighted the urgent need for investment in infrastructure to propel Mindanao’s growth. “We have to do our part in realizing the promises of Mindanao, given its rich natural resources,” Ejercito said, pointing to the region’s untapped economic opportunities.
MinDA’s Broader Role in Mindanao’s Development
MinDA serves as the lead agency responsible for coordinating development initiatives in Mindanao. Its mandate is to catalyze inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and peacebuilding efforts in the region. Through partnerships with national government agencies, local governments, and private sector entities, MinDA aims to create a conducive environment for investment and socio-economic progress.
Key Roles of MinDA:
- Economic Development Catalyst: MinDA plays a vital role in crafting policies and programs that drive Mindanao’s economic transformation. The agency promotes investments, infrastructure development, and livelihood opportunities, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas.
- Environmental and Disaster Resilience Advocate: MinDA spearheads efforts to enhance Mindanao’s disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability, as evidenced by its push for the creation of the Mindanao Disaster Resiliency Center. This focus is particularly important as Mindanao is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
- Cultural and Indigenous Peoples’ Empowerment: With programs like the Strengthening of Indigenous Peoples in Mindanao, MinDA seeks to uplift marginalized communities, ensuring they benefit from the region’s growth and are included in decision-making processes.
- Peace and Conflict Resolution Partner: Given the history of conflict in parts of Mindanao, MinDA works closely with peacebuilding organizations and government agencies to foster long-term stability. Its projects often align with the broader peace process, contributing to the reduction of poverty and inequalities that fuel unrest.
The Path Forward
The approval of MinDA’s budget proposal and the endorsement of its unfunded projects is a significant milestone in the agency’s mission to drive sustainable development across Mindanao. With continued support from the Senate, MinDA is poised to implement transformative initiatives that will not only address the region’s immediate developmental needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity.
As the budget moves to plenary deliberations, MinDA’s leadership remains hopeful that the Senate will continue to recognize the agency’s critical role in advancing Mindanao’s future. By ensuring that programs such as disaster resiliency, infrastructure development, and Indigenous empowerment receive the necessary funding, Mindanao can fully unlock its vast potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s overall progress.
