Mindanao Review Vol. 4, Issue 2

MINDANAO The official publication of the Mindanao Development Authority

Inside Pages...

June to December 2017

Volume 4, Issue No. 2

REVIEW

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Mindanao poised to be PH’s Halal production hub

MinDA, LCP to tap local govts in rebuilding Marawi

Budayaw: A festival of Culture and Arts Gallery

Statement of MinDA on the Flooding Incidents in MRBcovered Areas

MinDA chief underscores construction players’ role in rebuilding Marawi

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arañaque City – Citing the urgency of rebuilding the Islamic City of Marawi, Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto urges the construction industry players of the country to be the government’s partners in the reconstruction of the city.

In a speech delivered during the recently concluded ASEAN + 6 Construction Forum, Alonto said that one of the agency’s priorities for the long-term development plan of Marawi is to provide necessary infrastructure that will promote and sustain economic activities in the formerly conflict-

affected areas of Mindanao, an area that leaders in the country and the rest of construction players can greatly take the ASEAN can help us in delivering part in. interventions that are also responsive to the context and aspirations of the MinDA, through its Mindanao Bangsamoro, especially to the shortDevelopment Corridors (MinDC) term and long-term needs of Marawi program pursues priority infrastructure City” he said. projects. Through this approach, a Joint Planning and Programming (JPP) Alonto added that these interventions mechanism is being forged with relevant will be implemented through the key agencies under the infrastructure Bangsamoro Economic Corridor sector to jointly review, endorse and strategy, an addition to the MinDC facilitate inclusion in the national program, which is likewise part of the investment program and budget interlarger BIMP-EAGA corridor. connectivity projects like roads, bridges, “The larger MinDC initiative is a ports and airports in Mindanao. strategy that can link us to the China’s “It is our hope that our construction multi-billion dollar trade economic Silk

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Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Board Members led by Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez signs the The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Republic Act (RA) 10817 also known as the “Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016, “prompting a harmonized inter-agency effort for Halal development in the country. Also in the photo are (L-R): Dir. Senen Perlada, DTI-EMB Chief of Staff Abul Khayr Alonto II, MinDA , Usec. Falconi V. Millar, DOT, Usec. Ranibai Dilangalen, DA, Commissioner Analiza G. Flores-Malayang, NCMF, Sec. Ramon M. Lopez, DTI, Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo, BSP, Asec. Leo Herrera-Lim, DFA, Asec. Abdulgani Macatoman, DTI, Deputy Director Annabelle Briones, PhD, DOST

Mindanao poised to be PH’s Halal production hub

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indanao is seen to take the lead in pushing the Halal development agenda on a national level following the signing of the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act last week.

The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Republic Act (RA) 10817, also known as the “Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016” was signed on July 26, 2017 by all the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Board Members led by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez. Under the act, the Halal Export Board members will undertake joint and harmonized efforts in ensuring the global competitiveness of the country’s Halal products.

According to the Mindanao Development Authority, which is also a member of the Philippine Halal Export Board, Mindanao is in a strategic position to be the Halal production hub of the country given its established links with sub-regional groups, including the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia

and Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

President Rodrigo Duterte has previously expressed his commitment to promote BIMP-EAGA seeing it as one of the platforms to accelerate Mindanao’s development and integration in the ASEAN economic community.

population, Mindanao is certainly a step ahead in terms of Halal development,” Alonto said.

Apart from the BIMP-EAGA, MinDA is also looking into tapping the growing Islamic economies as another viable market for Mindanao’s Halal products.

In 2016, MinDA partnered with key industry players for the conduct of the “This a huge feat for us who are International Halal Conference, which pushing for Halal industry development. provided industry players a perspective In fact, our neighbors from the subon how research and development can region can serve as our big brothers help in the promotion of the local Halal in terms of Halal development, and we industry. can take advantage of our closer and renewed ties with them to learn from A similar guidance is also emphasized their respective best practices,” said in the recently signed IRR, which MinDA Chairman Datu Abul Khayr adopts measures to make Halal Alonto, who also sits as the Philippine exports are more competitive through Signing Minister for BIMP-EAGA. research and development, quality assurance measures, and value adding Alonto added that Mindanao has the mechanisms, among others. potential to be a top producer of major Halal food products especially poultry The Halal Export Board is chaired by and livestock given that the islandDTI, with the National Commission on region is bird flu and foot and mouth Muslim Filipinos, Department of Health, disease-free.

Department of Science and Technology, Department of Foreign Affairs, “As the major food supplier of the Department of Tourism, Bangko Sentral country and the island region that is ng Pilipinas, and MinDA as members. home to the country’s largest Muslim

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MinDA, LCP to tap local govts in rebuilding Marawi

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Mindanao Development Authority seals a cooperation agreement with the League of Cities of Philippines to harmonize efforts and mobilize resources of the various local governments in the country for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Islamic City of Marawi. In the photo are (l-r) MinDA Chief of Staff Abul Khayr Amalon Alonto II, MinDA Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, Angeles City Mayor Edgar Pamintuan, and Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra.

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aguig City – Forming part of its long-term goal to bring back normalcy in the Islamic City of Marawi, the Mindanao Development Authority partners with the League of Cities of the Philippines for the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts for Marawi.

In a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signed by MinDA and LCP yesterday as a side event to the 3rd ASEAN Mayor’s Forum at Taguig City, the two parties express their intention to cooperate and provide assistance in the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and development of Marawi and other affected CONFED Mindanao cities affected by the siege that started last May 23.

and projects are focused on both the short-term and long-term needs of the affected people of Lanao del Sur such us food security, livelihood assistance, education, and shelter,” said MinDA Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, who also committed to make sure that historical contexts are incorporated in the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts for Marawi.

The MOC also adopts the strategies identified under the Mindanao Development Corridors (MinDC), which already includes an infrastructure framework for the Northern Mindanao Development Corridor that ensure the connection of Marawi to the rest of the economic corridors.

In a recent meeting with the Marawi and Lanao del Sur stakeholders, Alonto As stated in the MOC, LCP and the said that of the priorities of MinDC is to MinDA are in solidarity in promoting pave the road connections from Marawi the connectivity among the cities of the to the eastern side of Talakag to Kapai.

CONFED-Mindanao in order to foster “These roads are currently open, but and promote the welfare and interests not open,” he said. of the stakeholders affected by the The corridors strategy, now includes conflict. the Bangsamoo Economic Development “Our main goal in this partnership Corridor covering Maguindana, is to tap our able local governments Maranao, and Lupah Sug, and aims to The partnership heeds the from all over the country through ensure that the road connection can strong commitment of the Duterte the established mechanism of LCP, in lead Marawi to market centers and Administration to build a better Marawi alleviating the suffering of our brothers ports. once the entire city is cleared from any and sisters in Marawi and help them MinDA is working in partnership security threat. get back on the track to development,” with the Department of Public Alonto added.

In his State of the Nation Address Works and Highways, Department delivered on Monday, President Rodrigo LCP was created to promote local of Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure Duterte promised the rehabilitation and urban governance agenda at the and Enterprise Zone Authority, and fast efforts to rebuild Marawi and the forefront of the country’s development other infrastructure planning agencies rest of Lanao del Sur. strategies. Through the years, in planning and identifying critical LCP’s services have evolved from “This partnership will also ensure connectivity project in Mindanao.# administrative to policy, technical, and that all the development of programs programs support.

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BUDAYAW A festival of culture and arts

More than 300 delegates from the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) gathered in General Santos City for the first Budayaw Festival, a multi-disciplinary exchange of arts, performances, and heritage among the sub-region’s member countries. True to its name, the Budayaw festival indeed celebrates the strengthened cultural bonds of the BIMP-EAGA community.

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MinDA chief urges Marawi grads to keep hopes high for Mindanao

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ligan City - As the government gradually shifts its efforts towards rebuilding and rehabilitating the Islamic City of Marawi, Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto assures the new batch of Marawi graduates that the city will rise stronger and better.

The first Muslim MinDA Chairman however noted that despite what happened, Mindanao still holds great potential to be the country’s frontline for economic growth owing to its rich, largely untapped natural resources and a competitive and literate labor force.

“Throughout history, our darkest hours are always followed by our finest moments. We are at this point where time and circumstances accord us excellent opportunity to build a strong nation in Mindanao and dismantle the national divide,” Alonto said while noting that there is a need to capture the historical dimensions of development in order to bring back “My dear graduates, use what you have lasting peace in Marawi and the rest of learned from MSU to broaden your Mindanao. perspectives, to remain confident and optimistic in Mindanao, to be hopeful He also cited the strong commitment about its future and deeply committed and determination of the Duterte to being an instrument of peace,” Alonto administration to effect both structural said. and institutional reforms that bring in bright prospects for lasting peace and This is the first time for the MSU development in Mindanao and herald Marawi to hold their commencement a turnaround for its future and the exercise outside of the campus, holding Bangsamoro people. the ceremonies instead at MSU Iligan Institute of Technology, following the Under the Philippine Development siege that befell the city last May 23.

Plan 2017-2022, MinDA works with all stakeholders to create an environment “What happened in Marawi 52 days conducive for business growth. The ago, is unfortunately personal to all of agency collaborate in Mindanao to us; for somehow, there are amongst us pursue better governance, financing who must have lost their loved ones; access, reliable power, infrastructure a family member, a friend, colleague, and connectivity, as detailed in one classmate or teacher; and there are major program called Mindanao those who will never ever make it to Development Corridors that will march in this halls or witness this kind of include a Mindanao Bangsamoro event in their lives,” he added.

In his Commencement Speech delivered to around 2,000 graduates of the Mindanao State University Main Campus last July 13, the Maranao leader expressed his hope for the future professionals to contribute to nationbuilding and work with the government in rehabilitating Marawi.

Economic Corridor and the Tawi-Tawi Economic Zone and Freeport.

“We use this agenda to effectively leverage for better and reasonable budget allocation from the national government to fund priority road networks and bridge projects to connect Mindanao and provide direct access to poorer communities,” Alonto added.

Alonto is the former Vice Mayor and Mayor of Marawi City. He was the Interim Head of the Regional Autonomous Government, served as Ambassador and former Philippine Head of Mission. He was also the founding leader of the Youth Wing of the Muslim Movement in the Philippines (Lam Alif and MNLF).

Cont: MinDA chief underscores construction players’ role in rebuilding Road Project. Coincidentally, China is also an active development partner of BIMP-EAGA for the past few years,” said Alonto.

In his message, Alonto said that no less than President Rodrigo Duterte has demonstrated strong resolve to pursue the development of Mindanao and the BIMP-EAGA through an economic corridors approach.

The ASEAN + 6 Construction Forum gathered delegates from the 10 member-states, as well as other development partners from China, South Korea, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand. The forum aims to help implement the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, a framework for seamless and comprehensive connectivity and integration among the ASEAN countries.

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Congress backs travel tax exemption for BIMP-EAGA

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wo committees in Congress have recently approved a resolution endorsing to the President the renewal of travel tax exemption (TTE) granted to travelers going to any focus areas of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA using Mindanao and Palawan gateways.

Filed under Resolution 1270 by Davao del Sur Representative Mercedes Cagas, the house special committee on the EAGA affairs urges President Rodrigo Duterte to issue a directive that exempts air and sea passengers originating in Mindanao and Palawan from paying travel tax fee amounting to PhP 1,620.00.

Cagas says the exemption will encourage for more investors to look at Philippine-EAGA routes as potent connectivity and investment jump-off points, taking lead from the launch of the Davao- General Santos- Bitung, Indonesia shipping route earlier this year.

“It is imperative upon the national government to capture interest of travel service providers to invest in PhilippineEAGA routes by providing the necessary incentives, including, among others, the TTE for international travels from Mindanao to EAGA destinations,” she added.

The committee proposes that the exemption will be implemented for

a period of three years within 2017has a policy on collecting international 2025 wherein it can be subjected for travel tax charges. review and impact analysis in terms of With the renewed interest on the its effectiveness to generate revenue to Philippines through the recent opening the government. of flights from Davao to Kuala Lumpur In terms of foregone revenues, (Air Asia) and Zamboanga to Sandakan Cagas adds that these are considered (Cebu Pacific), Mindanao Development “insignificant” especially when placed Authority Chairman Secretary Datu next to the “projected economic and Hj. Abul Khary Alonto sees the renewal social gains to Mindanao, Palawan, and of the TTE policy as a step forward the country as a whole” that the TTE in sustaining and accelerating sociopolicy will help usher. economic development for the country, especially in Mindanao.

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Tourism chaired by Leyte “As it is quite challenging for Representative Lucy Torres-Gomez has the Philippines to establish direct also approved and endorsed the travel connection with the neighboring tax exempt measure to the Office of countries simply because our areas the President, noting that it will help are separated by seas, the renewal of reduce the cost of travel to EAGA, this policy will help bring the Mindanao and subsequently, increase tourism in and Palawan’s vast potential to the Mindanao and Palawan. forefront as we work towards BIMPEAGA’s greater goal of increasing trade, The exemption was first implemented tourism, and investments,” Alonto by former President Fidel Ramos added. in 1995 in support of the newly established BIMP-EAGA sub-regional Launched in 1994, the BIMP-EAGA cooperation. sub-regional cooperation is designed as a key strategy to accelerate social Since then, the policy has been and economic development of less renewed and extended six times and developed areas in participating was lifted in 2008 which resulted to the countries. The travel tax exemption closing of several international flights initiative is identified under the subincluding Davao to Kota Kinabalu, region’s strategic pillar focusing on Malaysia and Davao to Manado in enhancing connectivity within and Indonesia. beyond BIMP-EAGA. Currently, the Philippines is the only country in the BIMP-EAGA region that

Statement of MinDA on the Flooding Incidents in MRBcovered Areas

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ursuant to the EO 50, MinDA has been coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Mindanao River Basin Management Council (MRBMC) on the implementation of flood control projects for the Mindanao River Basin (MRB) since 2012.

Fast forward to October 2016, MinDA, Unified Project Management Office – Flood Control Management Cluster of the DPWH central office, DPWH XII, and DPWH ARMM convened and agreed to allocate the Php 800 Million budget in 2017 for Pulangi River.

Woodfields Engineering Consultants finished the Detailed Engineering Design for the Mindanao River Basin Doable Projects, particularly for Pulangi river, while the flood control projects for the remaining critical rivers (Rio Grande de Mindanao, Tamontaka river, Buluan-Alip river, Ambal-Simuay and Ala river) with an indicative cost of at least Php 6 billion is targeted to be implemented by 2019.

Note that the office of Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu has been apprised of these projects, with MinDA even requesting a representative from each municipality of Maguindanao to provide assistance to the survey team and ensure proper coordination and completion of the activity.

MinDA fully realizes and feels the urgency of the dredging operations. As a matter of fact, we have communicated this through the DPWH 12 since February 2017, which has assigned two brand new dredgers for the job. One is to be stationed down the Rio Grande itself, the other at the Ulandang River up in North Cotabato.

PHOT SYNTHESIS

There was a slight delay in the delivery of these dredgers to Cotabato (due to two succeeding failed bidders for shipping contractor), but DPWH 12 has already assured us that these will be shipped, immediately.

MinDA had been shepherding the flood control projects with the MRBMC Chair, Cardinal Quevedo-ensuring that the Detailed Engineering Designs (DED) are completed and budget allocation is provided for doable projects. Morever, MRB flood control concerns are part of our regular agenda under our MinDC-JPP for Roads, Bridges and Flood Control. In addition, we also submitted our request to the Office of the President for an amendment of the EO on the MRB Council to ensure full-operation of the River Basin Organization (RBO) for MRB with regular budget from General Appropriations Act. It is also important to note that MinDA staff has exerted all efforts to do the coordination job thoroughly, ensuring that all the stakeholders of the Mindanao River Basin are apprised of the status of the flood control and dredging projects in their area.

For more information, you can directly contact Project Development Division at (082) 221-6929, or our South Central Mindanao Area Management Office in Koronadal at (083) 520-1381.

MinDA staff pose for souvenir photos (top-bottom) during the 112th Philippine Independence Day Celebration; Davao-GenSan-Bitung Shipping Route Launching in Davao City; and the Public Symposium on on Building ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community

Publisher Sec. Datu Hj Abul Khayr Dangcal Alonto Editorial Board EA V Bai Norhata Alonto Usec. Janet M. Lopoz, CESO I Asec. Romeo M. Montenegro Dir. Reyzaldy B. Tan Editor-in-Chief Kathy Mar S. Mateo

Secretary Datu Abul Khayr D. Alonto Chairman

Old Davao Aiport Building, Old Airport Road, Sasa, Davao City, Philippines (082) 2217195 | www.minda.gov.ph

Editorial Staff Rose Marie F. Baguio Fritz E. Flores Feonna Marielle G. Lagmay Kathy Mar S. Mateo Iris Mae F. Quizo