A Bangsamoro Development Corporation (BDC) is shaping up in the Regional Parliament to boost agricultural, commercial, and industrial development, as well as promote investment, job creation, and poverty alleviation programs in the Moro provinces.
Member of the Parliament (MP) Rasol Mitmug, Jr. said the Committee on Rules of the legislative body met Tuesday (May 7) with government and nongovernment organizations, and government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) on the proposed creation of the BDC under Parliament Bill (PB) No. 34.
A statement from the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority Parliament quoted Committee on Rules Chairperson and Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, as saying the proposed measure will promote diverse modes of investment, platforms and economic development venues within and outside the region.
A focus group discussion was held on the same day in Manila to generate inputs and recommendations on PB 34, which will be known by its short title “Charter of the Bangsamoro Development Corporation.”
PB No. 34, filed by the Parliament’s majority lawmakers, is seen to strengthen the region’s agricultural, commercial, and industrial development, which will promote investment, job creation, and poverty alleviation in the Bangsamoro areas.
According to the committee’s presentation, the BDC will enable the Bangsamoro Government to effectively address economic and social concerns initially, by providing employment and livelihood opportunities.
Lawyer Aurelle Dominic Narag, a representative from the legal division of the Office of the General Counsel of the Governance Commission for Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations (GCG), expressed the agency’s support for the region’s initiative to establish a regulatory system that will ensure consumer protection and fair treatment for involved entities.
Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali Matabalao sees the bill as an opportunity for local governments to increase independent growth and promote sustainable development within their respective jurisdictions.
Dumama-Alba said her committee consultation process will also cover specific industries, such as seaweed and broadband connectivity, for essential BDC provisions.
A similar forum will be held in Davao City in July, providing a venue for more local feedback and recommendations.