The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS) – Transforming Alliance for Prosperity and Good Governance (TAP-G) conducted a two-day meeting on August 16 and 17, 2025, at the KFI Training Center in Cotabato City. This significant event, spearheaded by CBCS Chairman Mr. Guiamel M. Alim, aimed to present and reflect on the milestones achieved by the TAP-GG project over the past two years of its implementation.
During the meeting, TAP-G Project Manager Mr. Ismael Kulat provided a comprehensive presentation detailing the progress of the project across its five core objectives. His report covered developments within the ten designated cluster areas: Basilan, Davao, Kutawato, Ranaw, Samboangan, Shariff Alawi, Sibugay, Suguda, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
Mr. Kulat elaborated on the strategic implementation of the project, highlighting the positive transformations that have taken place in the Bangsamoro communities over more than 18 years of sustained efforts. These conflict-affected communities have benefited significantly from the project’s initiatives aimed at socioeconomic reintegration and peacebuilding.
In his presentation, the project manager emphasized the primary goal of the TAP-G project is: That CSOs and
Communities be able to support to the autonomy process and socioeconomic reintegration of former combatants‘ communities through good governance and public-private dialogue mechanisms in BARMM and nearby provinces.
He also reiterated the importance of the project’s five core objectives, which are as follows: Empowering and strengthening CBCS member organizations, both new and existing, by enhancing their organizational capacity and advocacy efforts; Providing socioeconomic support to MILF and MNLF communities to improve livelihoods and promote economic self-sufficiency; Strengthening social cohesion and interfaith cooperation among various religious and ethnic groups; Establishing effective mechanisms for public-private dialogue and cooperation between local government units (LGUs) and civil society organizations (CSOs); and Promoting information dissemination and public education regarding the autonomy process, principles of good governance, and value-based leadership.
Concluding his presentation, Mr. Kulat reaffirmed the project’s enduring commitment to promoting peace and sustainable development in the Bangsamoro region through the empowerment of its people—particularly those from former combatant communities—by enabling sustainable livelihoods and comprehensive social reintegration.
Moreover, the CBCS Chairman, Guiamel Alim engaged the Area Coordinators (ACs) in a participatory dialogue, encouraging them to share their field experiences, including the challenges encountered, gaps identified, and progress made in each cluster area.
The Chairman also encouraged the area coordinators to remain vigilant and actively engaged in addressing the various issues affecting the region. He emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality in their actions, while also urging them not to hesitate in contributing to the development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Mr. Alim stressed that their efforts must be directed toward the betterment of the region, ensuring that all concerns are addressed appropriately, justly, and without causing harm to others.
The Area Coordinators subsequently delivered their respective progress reports, showcasing how the TAP-G project continues to be a catalyst for positive change in their communities. They highlighted how the project not only fosters development but also ensures that its implementation is responsive to local realities, culturally appropriate, and community-driven. This grassroots-centered approach has proven vital in building trust, enhancing accountability, and sustaining peace in the region.
The said meeting was attended and facilitated by the TAP-GG staff and area coordinators, led by the Project Manager, Ismael G. Kulat and initiated and spearheaded by the CBCS Chairperson, Guiamel M. Alim.
By:
Aisa L. Tina
Advocacy and Information Officer
TAP-G Project
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