Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair Secretary Leo Tereso Magno expressed optimism over the future of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), urging development partners to continue supporting the region despite current political tensions ahead of the parliamentary elections.
Currently, BARMM is navigating high-level political tensions, an audit dispute, and ongoing regional development rollouts ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, which is expected to take place on September 14, 2026.
Magno said such developments are part of the democratic process as the region prepares for a major political exercise in the coming months.
“On the aspect of trying to bring in development in BARMM, we expect naman na kahit saan na lugar, lalo na sa BARMM ngayon na merong political exercise na mangyayari in a few months,” Magno told Edge Davao.
He emphasized that political discussions and differing views on governance should not overshadow the region’s growth and long-term potential.
“We are just hoping that this is simply part of that political exercise. Development partners will look beyond what is happening. We are hoping that development partners will look beyond these exchanges,” he said.
Magno described BARMM as a growing and evolving region that continues to move toward stronger governance and inclusive development.
“BARMM is a growing community. In a few months, they will be electing leaders that will bring new governance into the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” he said.
The MinDA chief also encouraged local leaders to resolve issues internally to ensure stability and continued progress in the region.
“We are just hoping that these are exchanges of ideas and ways on governance. Sana ma-resolve within themselves para mas maayos ang takbo ng BARMM,” Magno said.
Magno added that Australian officials also signified their willingness to support MinDA’s initiatives in attracting more development partners and investments to the island, expressing particular interest in the areas of renewable energy, agribusiness, infrastructure, and mineral development.
Magno reiterated that Mindanao’s development efforts, particularly in BARMM, remain vital to the island’s long-term peace, economic growth, and regional stability.
