BARMM to advance evidence-based governance; streamline service delivery

COTABATO CITY — Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) convened on Oct. 15 development stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers here during the 3rd Bangsamoro Development Policy Research Forum (BDPRF) to foster evidence-based governance and improve public services across the region.

In partnership with Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), the event highlighted the importance of capable, accountable institutions and investing in people’s health, education, and skills development, alongside expanded livelihood and employment opportunities.

Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua stressed that research should guide government policies, plans, budgets, programs, and monitoring systems to identify development gaps, assess interventions, and direct public resources toward its intended beneficiaries.

“Where interventions are producing positive results, we should examine how these can be sustained or expanded. Where gaps and weaknesses are identified, we should use the findings to make the necessary improvements,” Macacua shared in his speech delivered by Atty. Faidzal Sendad.

He urged Bangsamoro ministries, offices, and agencies (BMOAs) to use the forum’s recommendations in reviewing their programs, investment priorities, and implementation strategies, ensuring that development plans, budgets, and monitoring systems are aligned.

BPDA Director General Engr. Mohajirin Ali emphasized that this year’s research forum reinforces the importance of research in development planning and policymaking.

“We need evidence to understand the problems confronting our communities, determine who is most affected, and assess whether government interventions are producing the intended results. Without reliable evidence, limited public resources may be directed toward approaches that do not adequately respond to actual needs,” said Ali, represented by Dir. Melanie Indar of BPDA’s Planning and Policies Bureau.

He also underlined that government institutions must be measured by their performance and impact on people’s lives.

“The next phase of Bangsamoro development must be judged not simply by the institutions we have established, but by how well these institutions work and how effectively they improve people’s lives,” he added.

Carrying the theme “Building Strong Institutions, Unlocking Human Capital Potential,” the forum examined three broad areas: institutional capacity and governance; human capital development, including education, health, skills, and employment; and the use of research to guide policymaking and development planning.

Discussions also highlighted the need to strengthen coordination among government institutions and connect education and skills development with employment and livelihood opportunities, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and enterprise development.

The event further supports the Chief Minister’s Mas Matatag na Bangsamoro Agenda and the implementation of the 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan 2023–2028 by identifying policy and research priorities that can guide government programs and ensure development interventions respond to the needs of Bangsamoro communities. (Settie Jehana Baunto/BIO)