OFFICE ACTIVITIES

In the wake of the recent armed conflict at Sitio Tubaran and Sitio Mamaan in Barangay Labungan, Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality, the office of MP Froilyn Tenorio Mendoza, in collaboration with Bangsamoro Readi and various units of Security Sectors, conducted a relief assistance operation for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) on April 9, 2024. The event commenced with an invocation led by Kag. Juliet Julio, followed by a warm welcome Read More

from Engr. Murad Campong, Punong Barangay of Brgy. Labungan. MP Mendoza, in her rationale, expressed her gratitude towards the BLGU of Barangay Labungan for their partnership in this initiative. MP Mendoza acknowledged the challenges faced by the IDPs and voiced her hopes for the transformation of the camps, specifically Camp Bader and Camp Omar, into "productive communities". Despite the daunting challenges, she remained optimistic about achieving this goal with the assistance of the security sectors and various agencies. During her speech, MP Mendoza engaged with a non-Moro Indigenous People (NMIP) IDP, asking, "Mapanatag gomen dafo bleewe?" (Are you safe now?). The NMIP IDP woman responded, "mas masaya gey në ënggito gey uwëni dëmyaga begey bëbëni gërigonon" (We are happier because we see that someone is watching over us in this happening), illustrating the positive impact of the relief efforts on the IDPs. MP Mendoza further discussed the importance of collaboration with various humanitarian organizations and the necessity for short-term and long-term support. She stressed on the need for future dialogues to identify the root causes of the armed conflict and to hear the voices of the people while providing continuous support to the IDPs. In response to the current El Niño, MP Mendoza coordinated with Bangsamoro Readi to provide additional assistance. She highlighted the various challenges faced in delivering humanitarian aid, particularly the need to observe proper protocols which can sometimes cause delays. Nevertheless, to expedite the process, MP Mendoza utilized her personal capacity to address the immediate concerns of the NMIP communities in Barangay Labungan. Several messages of support were also delivered during the event. 2LT Justine Renee Y Duco (Army) PA, Signal Officer, representative of Battalion Commander Jerome Peñalosa of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, reassured the community of their protection during times of conflict. 2LT Jayson T Escalio (Infantry) PA Alphacoy6IB, expressed his sympathy and hope for the IDPs, promising that the relief assistance symbolized the IDPs' ability to rise again. He assured the community that they would continue their duty to secure the area and its residents. 1LT Kristian Medenilla (Inf) PA EX-O, 62 DRC, pledged to do their best in securing the lives and properties of the NMIP IDPs. This relief operation stands as a testament to the collective efforts of government officials, security sectors, and humanitarian organizations in providing aid and protection to those affected by armed conflict. It underscores the importance of unity and cooperation in overcoming challenges and rebuilding communities.

In a momentous gathering held in Manila on April 16-17, 2024, MP Froilyn Tenorio Mendoza, along with other ministries, finance experts, economists, legal luminaries, and members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament, participated in a learning session focused on the proposed Bangsamoro Revenue Code. The session aimed to discuss policy, economic, and cultural considerations, as well as the salient features and the process of formulating the code. Engaging Experts Read More

for Comprehensive Formulation, the Ministry of Finance and Budget and Management (MFBM) played a pivotal role in ensuring the engagement of a pool of experts. Their expertise was sought to guarantee that all factors relative to revenues, including both tax and non-tax collections, were thoroughly considered in the formulation of the fiscal and revenue measures. This comprehensive approach aims to create a robust and inclusive system that caters to the unique needs of the Bangsamoro region. Continual Enhancement for Economic Support and Fiscal Autonomy, the MFBM confirmed its commitment to continually enhance the proposed measure. The objective is to ensure that the Bangsamoro Revenue Code effectively supports the local economy and contributes to the region's fiscal autonomy. By incorporating feedback and expertise, the code will be refined to align with the evolving needs and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. Learning Session at the Asian Development Bank, to further enrich the discussion and foster collaboration, the Committee on Revenue Code conducted a two-day learning session at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Ortigas, Pasig. Chaired by the Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management Minister, Atty. Ubaida Pacasem, the session focused on the key features of the regional code of the Bangsamoro, policy formulation, regional policy framework, and strategies to improve reform and development. Culturally Sensitive Priority Legislation, during the learning session, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of aligning priority legislation with the Revenue Code of the Bangsamoro while being culturally sensitive. This approach aims to contribute to self-sufficiency and actively involve all stakeholders in the discussion to facilitate transitional arrangements. It is a reaffirmation of the fiscal policy of the Bangsamoro, ensuring that the code reflects the region's unique cultural context. Advancing Economic Autonomy and Development, the learning session on the proposed Bangsamoro Revenue Code marks a significant step forward in the region's journey towards economic autonomy and development. The collective expertise and commitment of all participants, including MP Froilyn Tenorio Mendoza, various ministries, finance experts, economists, legal luminaries, and BTA Parliament members, are instrumental in shaping the code to meet the needs and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. As discussions continue and the learning session at the Asian Development Bank approaches, the Bangsamoro Revenue Code will be further refined and strengthened. This collaborative effort will pave the way for a more prosperous and self-sustaining Bangsamoro region, fostering economic growth, fiscal autonomy, and a brighter future for its people.