General Santos City, June 22, 2025 — Demonstrating its commitment to inclusive development, the Ministry of Social Services and Development – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM), in partnership with the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), conducted successful validation activities for livelihood program beneficiaries in two non-BARMM communities under the Soguda Buayan Cluster.

These validation activities serve as strong proof that BARMM’s social services extend beyond the region’s official boundaries, reaching Bangsamoro communities in the so-called “Other Bangsamoro Communities” (OBCs).
The first validation was held on June 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM in Purok 18 Gymnasium, Barangay Tinagacan, General Santos City, facilitated by the General Santos City Council of Imam, Inc. The second took place on June 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Purok Linglingay, Población, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, facilitated by the Dalam Clan Society, Inc. Both activities were coordinated by CBCS through Area Coordinator Ebrahim D. Sandigan (Ibnussabeel).

A total of 48 beneficiaries — 23 from Tinagacan and 25 from Lambayong — underwent the validation process, which was conducted smoothly and efficiently. The beneficiaries are members of local Bangsamoro organizations that had earlier submitted project proposals for livelihood support to MSSD-BARMM through CBCS. These proposals were formally endorsed by CBCS and, after a period of review, were approved for beneficiary validation and further program implementation.

These activities mark a significant step in recognizing and addressing the needs of Bangsamoro populations residing outside the core BARMM territory, who have long sought inclusion in regional development initiatives.
“The validation activities reflect BARMM’s vision of inclusive service — reaching even those Bangsamoro living outside the region. “We commend our local partners for their initiative and dedication,” said Ebrahim D. Sandigan, CBCS Area Coordinator for the Soguda Buayan Cluster.

The beneficiaries, once validated, are set to receive livelihood assistance designed to support sustainable income generation for their households and communities.

Special thanks are extended to the MSSD-BARMM, led by MP Minister Atty. Raissa H. Jajurie, for her support and commitment to expanding the ministry’s reach. Gratitude is also given to CBCS, under the leadership of Chairperson Guiamel M. Alim, for bridging civil society and government initiatives in these underserved areas.
Through collaboration and community empowerment, these efforts represent a hopeful future for Bangsamoro communities across and beyond the BARMM borders.

By; Ebrahim D. Sandigan

Area Coordinator for Sugoda Buayan Cluster