Cotabato City, BARMM – A groundbreaking initiative aimed at championing human development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was launched today by a group of visionary Bangsamoro parliamentarians. The Bangsamoro Parliamentarians’ Committee on Population and Development (BPCPD) was officially established to address critical socio-economic issues and advocate for legislation that uplifts the lives of the region’s people.
“Amidst the transformation of the Bangsamoro towards political autonomy, there needs to be recognition of the role of human development in the economic and socio-political progress of the region. The formation of the BPCPD marks the commitment of Bangsamoro parliamentarians in making the political transformation work for the people by championing policies by the people,” said Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament Deputy Speaker Atty. Laisa Alamia, who was elected Chairperson of the BPCPD.
The Bangsamoro region has endured decades of conflict and displacement, resulting in persistent human development challenges. MP Alamia highlighted the plight of vulnerable sectors, including the aged population, girls subjected to child marriage, and orphans of war. “These issues fall under population and development, and addressing them is crucial for breaking the cycle of violence and poverty,” she stated.
She also pointed out the region’s alarmingly high stunting rates—the highest in the Philippines—which negatively impact education outcomes, functional literacy, and broader human development indices.
The BPCPD is poised to become BARMM’s counterpart to the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD). Over the years, PLCPD has been instrumental in advancing national laws on reproductive health, population issues, and the rights of women and children. Similarly, the BPCPD aims to champion these causes within the region, focusing on crafting policies that enhance the quality of life for Bangsamoro citizens.
Rom Dongeto, Executive Director of PLCPD, emphasized the importance of having legislative champions in advocating for human development. “Strategically, the formation of champions is critical. In PLCPD’s experience, we were able to pass significant laws by influencing peers and bridging civil society interests with parliamentary work. This will also be the role of BPCPD in the Bangsamoro,” Dongeto said.
The formation of BPCPD is supported by PLCPD and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Philippines. In addition to advancing legislation, the committee plans to engage in research, data analysis, and advocacy on key human development and environmental issues. Looking ahead to the upcoming BARMM elections, MP Alamia assured that the BPCPD will remain active as an advocacy group even if its members are no longer in parliament.
Elected Officers of BPCPD:
- Chairperson: MP Atty. Laisa M. Alamia
- President: MP Dr. Kadil M. Sinolinding Jr.
- Executive Vice President: MP Engr. Baintan A. Ampatuan
- Secretary: MP Amilbahar S. Mawallil
- Treasurer: MP Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug Jr.
Board of Trustees:
- MP Froilyn T. Mendoza
- MP Atty. Ishak V. Mastura
- MP Atty. Suharto M. Ambolodto
- MP Diamila D. Ramos
- MP Nurredha I. Misuari
- MP Hashemi Nur Dilangalen
The launch of BPCPD signifies a pivotal moment for BARMM’s transition to political autonomy, aligning governance with the aspirations and welfare of its people. With a focus on inclusive development, the committee’s work is set to leave a lasting impact on the region’s future.