BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi — The Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi, in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT)–BARMM and other agencies, convened a Provincial Stakeholders Consultation Meeting on September 5, 2025, at the Governor’s Conference Room, Capitol Building.
The meeting gathered local leaders, planners, and sectoral representatives to map out development priorities and investment opportunities for the province.
Board Member Hon. Dayang Karlsum Jumaide, in her opening message, emphasized that a “developed province translates to developed communities,” highlighting the importance of progress in attracting investors to Tawi-Tawi.
MTIT-BARMM Minister Hon. Farserina A. Mohammad reaffirmed the ministry’s full support to Tawi-Tawi’s economic programs, stressing the importance of stronger local and regional partnerships to sustain growth.
Dr. Noor Mohammad Saada, Provincial Planning and Development Officer, outlined priority projects, including the Sikkiat Bridge, Malassa Bridge, and a proposed bridge to Tongsinah. He also introduced the proposed Tawi-Tawi Maritime Industrial Zone and Freeport (TTMIZF) in Pababag Island, envisioned as the country’s first off-grid industrial park modeled after PNOC-PEZA’s SGIP initiative.
Stakeholders tackled pressing needs in several sectors:
- Infrastructure: Calls were made to accelerate road projects, develop a modern seaport in Bongao, expand the provincial airport, and further improve the Capitol Complex.
- Fisheries and Marine Resources: Tawi-Tawi’s role as the country’s top seaweed producer was highlighted, with updates on the operationalization of the Sanga-Sanga hatchery (with Japanese support), plans for a mariculture park, and preparations for the Seaweed Congress in October.
- Cross-Border Trade: Participants discussed regulating traditional trade with Malaysia by registering vessels and introducing special permits for wooden boats under BIMP-EAGA to curb smuggling while protecting livelihoods.
- Halal Industry: Proposals were raised for shared facilities, certification systems, and technical support to strengthen the sector.
- Tourism: Stakeholders pushed for stronger cultural and sports tourism initiatives and enhancing the tourism branding of BARMM airports.
The Provincial Government stressed the need for closer coordination with BARMM ministries and partners to accelerate project implementation, strengthen direct market access, and position Tawi-Tawi as a vital hub for trade, investment, and tourism in both BARMM and the wider BIMP-EAGA region.