Top BARMM execs back push for stronger ties between national and local governments

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Top officials of the Bangsamoro region, including all its five governors, are rallying behind Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo Jr.'s call for stronger working ties between the national government and local stakeholders.

BARMM local government minister Jordan Bayam emphasized that such collaboration is essential to advancing peace, development and effective governance in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Bayam said BARMM leaders have full confidence in Lagdameo, describing him as a trusted bridge between the Bangsamoro government and the national administration.

According to Bayam, BARMM governors trust Lagdameo as he has consistently served as an effective bridge between BARMM and the national government.

“His efforts have helped strengthen coordination and ensured that the concerns and priorities of the Bangsamoro people are heard at the national level,” said Bayam.

The minister also stated that close coordination between Malacañang and the Bangsamoro government remains crucial as the region continues to pursue its peace and development agenda. 

He said BARMM leaders recognize Lagdameo's role in fostering dialogue and cooperation, allowing both the national and regional governments to work together in addressing development priorities and delivering services to communities.

Bayam's remarks echoed the Palace offiial's message few days ago during the 145th Full Council Meeting of the Regional Development Council-X and the 2026 State of the Region Address (SORA) in Cagayan de Oro City, where the Presidential aide underscored the importance of aligning national priorities with local needs.

Speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Lagdameo said Regional Development Councils play a vital role in ensuring that national agencies, local government units, the private sector, and civil society work together to achieve inclusive growth.

"The President has consistently emphasized that growth must be felt by ordinary Filipinos. Economic gains are meaningful only when they translate into greater opportunities for every family," Lagdameo said.

He also reaffirmed the national government's commitment to supporting regional development initiatives through sustained collaboration and stronger partnerships with local governments.

Bayam said Lagdameo's message reflects the kind of partnership that has enabled BARMM and the national government to maintain open communication and pursue common goals despite the region's unique governance structure. 

“Maintaining strong cooperation between the national and regional governments will be vital to ensuring stability and supporting BARMM's democratic transition in the months ahead,” the minister concluded.

The said sentiment was echoed in a very recent exclusive meeting composed of Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, Lanao del Sur Gov. Bombit Adiong, Tawi-Tawi Gov. Mang Sali, Maguindanao del Sur Gov. Kagui Ali Midtimbang, Maguindanao del Norte Gov. Tucao Mastura, Basilan Gov. Mujiv Hataman, and local government minister Jordan Bayam. (Contributed story)