Alimudin Mala, project manager of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society Inc. (CBCS), raises a question to the panel discussants during the 3rd Bangsamoro Development Policy Research Forum at the KCC Mall of Cotabato Convention Center on October 15, 2026. (Faisal Camsa, Jr./BIO)
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.