MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on local government leaders in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to sustain their governance reforms as the region prepares for the 2025 parliamentary elections.
“Let us ensure that the progress we celebrate today continues. Let us stay committed to building a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous Bangsamoro for future generations,” said DILG Assistant Secretary (Asec) for Local Government Jesi Howard S. Lanete during the 5th Pagkilala: Parangal Para sa Natatanging LGUs ng BARMM on January 20 in Cotabato City.
Lanete emphasized that the Pagkilala ceremony is more than an awards event but a celebration of the region’s ongoing transformation.
“The Pagkilala is a powerful reminder of the importance of moral governance, a principle central to the heart of the Bangsamoro. It highlights the extraordinary contributions of our local government units and leaders who have shown what it means to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and innovate with purpose,” he said.
The DILG Asec. also noted key milestones in the region, including the integration of nearly 100 former rebel members into the Philippine National Police under the Bangsamoro Police Basic Recruitment Course, and the surrender of about 15,000 former rebels from 2002 to 2024 under the Balik Loob Program. These efforts, he said, have dismantled terrorist networks and restored hope to many families.
In terms of development, Lanete highlighted the completion of 185 out of 215 projects under the BARMM, emphasizing that these projects are tangible symbols of the region’s progress.
“As we honor the exemplary performance of our Lupong Tagapamayapa, Peace and Order Councils, Anti-Drug Abuse Councils, and Child-Friendly Local Governments, we are reminded that leadership is not about titles or recognition. It is about the everyday work of serving the people, often unseen but always appreciated,” Lanete stated.
BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim also praised the LGUs for their efforts in governance and service. In a message, he stated that the ceremony celebrates not just individual LGUs but the collective progress of the entire BARMM.
Ebrahim also emphasized the strong collaboration between the BARMM Government and LGUs, recognizing them as key partners in connecting the government with the people.
As the region approaches the end of its transition period, the chief minister expressed pride in the achievements of local leaders and reaffirmed the commitment to continued partnerships to ensure that government services reach all areas of the region.
He also encouraged other LGUs to draw inspiration from the awardees and to remain dedicated to serving their communities with the principles of moral governance. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
