CRDA key to peace in Mindanao

Post date: Nov 25, 2016 3:23:18 AM

In an effort to give solution to armed conflict and poverty at the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and in Regions 9, 10, and 12, the government has stepped up its effort for the implementation of the Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda (CRDA) in the areas.

This was stressed by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General, Secretary Guiling “Gene” Mamondiong who led the launch of Phase 2 (infrastructure development) and Phase 3 (economic development) of the CRDA.

Mamondiong said that the initiative will now help residents in conflict-affected areas to focus on anti-poverty projects.

President Rodrigo Duterte launched Phase 1 (basic needs) of the CRDA program last October 29.

Through the CRD, various government agencies will pour money and investments for the ARMM and other regions to improve the Moro Land.

The CRDA focuses on anti-poverty projects which harness mainly the resources from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the TESDA.

The Phase 2 and 3 of the CRDA program started in Maguindanao yesterday (November 24). It will be followed in Lanao del Sur on Nov. 26; Lanao del Norte, Nov. 28; Basilan, Dec. 3; Tawi-Tawi, Dec. 4 and 5; Sulu, Dec. 5 and 6; Region 9, Dec. 7; and Region 12, Dec. 9.

The CRDA also aims to hold a provincial consultation or summit to address the concerns of the ARMM and other regions and eventually provide solution to the problems.

Through the CRDA, the national government is expected to fast-track in funding the projects in the regions under the General Appropriation from 2016 to 2022.

Among the agencies expected to attend the summit are: local government units heads/representatives; provincial/municipal/city planning officers; provincial/municipal engineers; civil society organizations/people’s organizations; ARMM region heads and counterpart; concerned national government agencies/inter-agency; industry groups; TVET association/academe; regional provincial TESD committees; TVET partners and stakeholders and media partners.