Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman assured support for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) as it undergoes transition, including the implementation of special development programs for women empowerment.
Speaking at the kick-off celebration of the National Women’s Month led by the Bangsamoro Women Commission on 08 March 2023, Secretary Pangandaman lauded the efforts of women in BARMM for their significant strides in fostering peace and equality, and overall development in the region.
"I would like to greet and congratulate all the women in BARMM, especially for your contribution to strengthening communities and nation-building, advocating and fighting for peace and equality, and for lobbying for the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law that established the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or BARMM — a historic win for the whole country," Secretary Pangandaman said.
She likewise reiterated the DBM's continued support for the BARMM in its transition process.
"I strongly believe that things will work better, especially in the government, when we have more women in charge to bring equality to the table. And so, we, at the Department of Budget and Management, are determined to help BARMM as it undergoes transition and implements gender-responsive and special development programs for women," said Secretary Pangandaman.
The Marcos Jr. administration has appropriated P64.76 billion for BARMM’s Annual Block Grant; P5.0 billion as Special Development Fund for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of conflict-affected communities; and P4.59 billion for its share in taxes, fees, and charges collected in the region.
Moreover, P852.9 million has been allocated for the Normalization Program, and P36.1 million for the provision of socio-economic development assistance for former MNLF combatants in pursuit of the Government of the Philippines-MNLF Peace Process Program.
"As a proud daughter of Mindanao and as Secretary of the Budget Department of our country — only the second woman to hold this position —I am committed to the realization of a BARMM that is thriving, with Bangsamoro women whose rights are protected, and who are empowered to take part and take the lead in decision-making," Secretary Pangandaman said.
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