COTABATO CITY (July 25, 2023)– In an en banc session on July 19, a resolution authored by Commissioner Pratima S. Samsaraji representing the Province of Tawi-Tawi, proposes for the establishment of a Bangsamoro Center for Youth Development in the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Maguindanao del Norte.
The resolution highlights the importance of recognizing the vital role of the youth in nation-building, as emphasized in both the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines and the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The resolution, adopted by the Commission Proper, proposes for the construction of the centers to be funded under the Special Development Fund for the year 2024.
Under section 11of BAA No. 10 provides for the Specific Functions of the Commission which categorically mentioned the establishment of “such organizational structures including provincial offices, as may be required to effectively carry out its functions”.
The proposed center aims to closely coordinate and address the concerns of the Bangsamoro youth in the provinces. It will serve as a coordinating center to effectively carry out the specific functions of the Bangsamoro Youth Commission, ensuring the full development of the youth as partners in nation-building.
It emphasizes the need to promote and protect the physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being of the youth, encouraging their involvement in public and civic affairs.
The center will be funded through the Special Development Fund for 2024, allowing for focused attention and resources to support the welfare and development of the youth in the said provinces.
BYC Commissioner Samsaraji said that creating a center, the Commission will further enhance its efforts in promoting youth welfare.
“The creation of the Bangsamoro Center for Youth Development represents a significant step towards empowering the youth in Tawi-Tawi and ensuring their active participation in the growth and progress of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” she said.
Meanshile, the BYC is currently implementing a youth reintegration program for former young combatants across the region, and a construction of Regional Youth Training and Development Center in Cotabato City. (BYC PR Unit/AAA)
