Japan, UNDP Drive Sustainable Development In BARMM With Livelihood And Waste Management Equipment

In an official mission to BARMM, the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, Minister Kenichi Matsuda, and UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in the Philippines, Edwine Carrié, spearheaded the handover of several pieces of equipment for livelihood and waste management initiatives in the Region, including its Special Geographic Areas (SGA) and Bangsamoro communities outside the core BARMM territory.

The 'Enhancing Food Security and Livelihoods' project, in partnership with the Mahintana Foundation and with generous support from the Government of Japan, is aiding the transformation of the 105th MILF Base Command Satellite Camp in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat into an agri-ecotourism development called Stallion Farm, the first of its kind among MILF camps and communities. The project is seen to boost the farm’s agricultural productivity, increase the plant variety for harvesting, improve access to clean water, and provide tools and infrastructures to generate new sources of income for the residents.

In the Pigcawayan Cluster, SGA, the Government of Japan and UNDP Philippines, in partnership with the BARMM Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), are continuing to enhance economic opportunities for its residents. A solar-powered ice block-making facility has been installed in barangay Datu Binasing to complement the community’s new public market. In barangay Datu Mantil, transport and heavy equipment have been handed over to the Datu Mantil Makangguna Association, a local women’s association. A fish delivery truck and fifty ice boxes have been provided to contribute to the expansion of their fish processing and ice-making activities. Additionally, a dump truck has been handed over to the community to support the planned infrastructure projects in the area.

Moreover, the Accelerating Nationally Determined Contribution through Circular Economy in Cities (ACE) project of UNDP Philippines and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with funding from the Government of Japan, also handed over key equipment to the local government of Cotabato City. These included a plastic melter machine and a Mobile Waste Processing Facility consisting of a multi-purpose shredder and glass pulverizer. Aligned with the circular economy agenda, the equipment are aimed at transforming the city's plastic waste into useful items such as flowerpots and school chairs, demonstrating resourceful waste management approaches.

“UNDP is grateful to the communities in the Bangsamoro for continuously opening their doors to us and working with us. The success of UNDP's initiatives relies on the trust, meaningful partnership, and dedication of these communities in fostering positive change. UNDP is thankful to the support of the Government of Japan and looks forward to continuing collaborative efforts for a more sustainable future in the BARMM,” said Mr. Carrié.

In his speech, Minister Matsuda said, “I’d like to express our steadfast commitment and support to the BARMM and the Bangsamoro Government. Japan believes in a comprehensive approach to assisting the development in the Bangsamoro. We consider that particularly in light of economic progress, sustainability is a critical factor that should not be overlooked. With our concerted efforts, we can work towards a sustainable economy for the region.”

In Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao’s message of acceptance, delivered by Secretary to the Mayor Guianodin Abdilah, he said, “we do hope that this will not be the last, but just the beginning of engaging with you for more facilities that will be accorded to Cotabato City to somehow ease the concern on solid waste management. This will benefit not only Cotabato City residents but also those living outside Cotabato.”

These handovers are part of UNDP Philippines’ broader strategy and long-term commitment to bring in more sustainable solutions directly to communities. The projects’ interventions are expected to contribute to the development of the region, particularly in normalization and community transformation.