UNDP, Japan launch $3M program in Philippine’s Muslim region

Project aims to boost economic opportunities, strengthen peace efforts in  autonomous region

MANILA, Philippines (MNTV) — The United Nations Development Program (UNDP), with funding from the Japanese government, has launched a $3 million initiative to support economic development and human security in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The Bangsamoro region, the only Muslim-majority area in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, has endured decades of armed conflict between government forces and Moro separatist groups.

A landmark peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led to the creation of BARMM in 2019, granting the region greater autonomy under a transition process.

UNDP Philippines Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran announced the project’s launch at a ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay.

The three-year program, running from April 2025 to March 2028, will be implemented in coordination with existing peace mechanisms between the government and MILF.

“The transition to full autonomy presents a crucial opportunity to institutionalize inclusive governance and deliver tangible peace dividends,” Ramachandran said.

The initiative aims to improve access to livelihoods, education, healthcare, and infrastructure while enhancing community resilience against climate and security threats.

It will benefit 12 communities, including four MILF areas, four Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) communities, two non-Moro indigenous communities, and two Christian settler communities.