Cotabato City, August 28, 2025 — In an effort to further strengthen peacebuilding and socio-economic
development in the Bangsamoro region, the Transforming Alliance for Prosperity and Good Governance (TAP-G) convened a round table discussion, focusing on the delivery of livelihood assistance to former combatant communities in BARMM as well as in Other Bangsamoro Communities (OBC).
The meeting held at the Boardroom Hall in EM Manor Hotel, Cotabato City on August 27, 2025. The meeting was attended by the TAP-G project Manager, Ismael G. Kulat and staff, the TAP-G Kutawato area coordinator, Ben Umal, the CBCS consultant, Ervin More, representatives from former combatants’ communities as Project Holders of Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte. Invited as resource person is in the person of Rafsonjoni Anam, the planning officer from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD-BARMM).
The discussion underscored the current status of the site validation of the MSSD’s livelihood assistance in the former MILF and MNLF combatants communities inside and outside the region. Aimed at enhancing economic opportunities and self-reliance among former combatants members and their families.
Mr. Kulat, TAP-G Project Manager, formally opened the session by underscoring the significance of inclusive dialogue in ensuring that development initiatives are responsive to the actual needs on the ground. He further emphasized that such dialogue is essential in identifying effective strategies to enhance the overall impact and efficiency of the project. “The peace process doesn’t end with the signing of agreements. It continues in our efforts to uplift the lives of those who laid down their arms for peace,” he said.
The Planning officer, Mr. Rafsonjoni Anam, from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) provided updates on the ongoing field validation for the ministry’s livelihood program. The updates included information on the tentative schedule for the turnover and the planned payout timeline for the project. It was also noted that all submitted lists of recipients from former combatant communities are set to benefit from the interventions of the MSSD.
During the discussion, representatives from former combatant communities shared their insights and experiences, highlighting both the progress achieved and the challenges encountered during the field validation process. Among the concerns raised were the delays and instances of rescheduling, as well as the need for improved access to communication with the validation team to ensure that communities are informed in a timely manner regarding the schedule of area validations.
In response, the MSSD Planning Officer, Mr. Anam affirmed the Ministry’s continued commitment to enhancing its 
delivery mechanisms, particularly during the beneficiary validation process. He assured that all identified recipients of the project will receive the assistance in a timely and appropriate manner, in accordance with the established guidelines.
“This dialogue is valuable and very much appreciated. We are here to listen and to ensure that our programs are delivered effectively and equitably to those who need them most. Rest assured that all areas which have not yet undergone validation will be prioritized and validated at the soonest possible time. Furthermore, all proposals submitted by the communities to our office will be carefully considered, with the aim of including them as beneficiaries of our program,” he stated.
Ervin More, the CBCS consultant, further emphasized the importance of strengthening the project’s monitoring process to ensure that its implementation generates positive and lasting impacts within the community. He underscored that a robust monitoring mechanism is essential in assessing the effectiveness of the project and in securing meaningful and beneficial outcomes for its intended beneficiaries.
The livelihood assistance that shall be provided by the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), through the initiative of the CBCS-TAP-G Project, is a strategic intervention aimed at supporting the transition of the Bangsamoro region toward peace and development. Anchored on the principles of good governance, community empowerment, and inclusive development planning, this initiative seeks to uplift Bangsamoro decommissioned communities by offering sustainable support tailored to their specific needs.
TAP-G Project Manager, Ismael G. Kulat, further clarified during the meeting that the livelihood supports to be implemented by MSSD is specifically intended for selected communities composed of former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Through the CBCS-TAP-G Project, particular emphasis is placed on improving the socio-economic conditions of the beneficiaries and their families, as a means of facilitating long-term reintegration into civilian life.
He further explained that the project is designed to support the broader objectives of stabilization an
d normalization in post-conflict areas by creating meaningful economic opportunities for former combatants. By enabling them to rebuild their lives, the project contributes to a more stable, resilient, and peaceful Bangsamoro.
Moreover, Mr. Kulat underscored the critical role of the partnership between MSSD and CBCS in ensuring that all interventions remain locally relevant, culturally grounded, and driven by the needs of the communities themselves. This collaborative approach, he noted, not only strengthens grassroots trust but also promotes transparency and accountability, the key elements in sustaining peace and inclusive development in the region.
The round table discussion concluded with the adoption of several actionable recommendations, including the establishment of local monitoring teams, the strengthening of coordination with the partner ministry, and the provision of enhanced technical support for community-based livelihood assistance.
This RTD forms part of a series of consultations being implemented by TAP-GG as a strategic approach to ensure the effectiveness and responsiveness of the project.
By: AISA L. TINA
Communication Advocacy Officer
TAP-G Project
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