CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Bangsamoro leaders are pushing for stronger coordination between the national government and local officials, saying closer cooperation is key to sustaining peace, improving services, and supporting development programs in the region.
Leaders of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), led by Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua and the region’s governors, expressed support for Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr.’s call for stronger collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders.
BARMM Local Government Minister Jordan Bayam said open communication and coordination between the national government and local leaders remain important in addressing the needs of Bangsamoro communities.
“His efforts have helped improve coordination and ensure that the concerns of the Bangsamoro people are heard at the national level,” Bayam said, referring to Lagdameo.
Bayam said Bangsamoro leaders trust Lagdameo’s role in strengthening ties between BARMM and the national government, especially as the region continues its peace and development initiatives.
He added that sustained cooperation will also help BARMM prepare for its first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections in September 2026.
The statement came days after Lagdameo addressed the 145th Full Council Meeting of the Regional Development Council-X and the 2026 State of the Region Address in Cagayan de Oro City.
Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Lagdameo emphasized the importance of collaboration among national agencies, local government units, the private sector, and civil society in achieving inclusive growth.
He said economic progress should lead to better opportunities and improved lives for ordinary Filipinos.
Bayam said the message reflects the kind of partnership that has helped maintain coordination between BARMM and the national government despite the region’s autonomous setup.
Officials said stronger collaboration is expected to help sustain peace initiatives, strengthen governance, and support long-term development efforts across the Bangsamoro region.
