The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) Central Mindanao (CenMin) Region had its success of implementation to its fourth project engagement under the Mindanao Trust Fund—Reconstruction and Development Program (MTF-RDP).

Covering fifteen (15) barangays across the two provinces of Maguindanao and North Cotabato, the project achieves its goal of bringing hopes to deprived communities in Central Mindanao. During its implementation, several activities were conducted which includes coordination with local government units, needs assessment, barangay wide- orientation, formation of Barangay Community Volunteers (BCVs), and turn-over of projects.

Under the program, community beneficiaries received assistance based on the needs of the barangay as identified during the assessment. Since the project is operating in Maguindanao and North Cotabato, many of the needs identified are facilities for agriculture and fisheries. Sources of income in these two provinces are mainly farming and fishing. Meanwhile, there are some communities who requested for the construction of water and sanitation (WASH) facilities.

Overall there were a total 20 units of bull bearing (kuliglig),10 units of hydro tiller (bao-bao), 5 units of hydro pump, 21 units of corn sheller, 3 units of hauler, 324 units of fishing gear and materials for the construction of 17 units of Latrines and 7 units of hand pump that were turned-over to the communities covered by the project.

Photo (Left) Delivery of 9 units of corn sheller in Brgy. Pandan, South Upi (Right) Demonstration of hydro pump at Brgy. Maitong Kabuntalan. both in Maguindanao province.

Through the project, BDA aims to help these communities who are in need of assistance towards uplifting their economic conditions from the devastation brought about by the current conflict in the region for the past years.

During the series of turn-over of the projects for each site, communities and local government units express their great appreciation for the assistance extended to their community. According to them, the project is a great help towards increase of harvest production, efficient fishing, better access to water and cleaner environment for all.

MTF-RDP is among the programs being implemented by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) that aims to assist economic and social recovery in the conflict-affected and vulnerable areas of Mindanao.