COTABATO CITY (July 19, 2024) – The Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC) officially launched its project, “Youth Empowerment in the SPMS Box,” on Wednesday, July 17, in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur.
Funded by the Bangsamoro government’s Special Development Fund (SDF), this initiative aims to enhance the socio-economic and political inclusion of the most vulnerable conflict-affected youth within the SPMS Box area. It provides them with an Alternative Learning System (ALS) program, various capacity development training sessions, and forms them into youth organizations.
BYC Chairperson Marjanie S. Macasalong emphasized to community partners the importance of the project’s success, as it offers hope and new opportunities to the youth.
Datu Arif Baraguir from the Maguindanao del Sur schools division introduced the ALS Volunteer Teachers, who will serve as educator and guide to ensure the quality of education for the beneficiaries.
Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) Director of Finance and Admin Supportive Services Akmad Guinta expressed the continuous support of the office for this project.
“On behalf of BPDA Director Mohajirin T. Ali, I would like to convey our continued support and dedication to the Bangsamoro government’s commitment to the youth, with the help of the BYC. We believe in the potential of our youth and their ability to bring positive change to our community,” Guinta said.
The activity was also graced by messages of support from representatives of the eight Local Government Units (LGUs) of Maguindanao del Sur and men in uniform. Also present were Local Youth Development Officers (LYDOs) and youth volunteers.
The SPMS Box refers to a rectangular area comprising adjacent municipalities in Maguindanao del Sur province, known as the stronghold of lawless elements. These municipalities belong to the poorest areas in the province and are heavily affected by armed conflicts that disrupt development. (BYC PR Unit/SAMN)
