Ambassador ENDO Kazuya and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran signed and exchanged notes for “The Project for Promoting Human Security through the Community Economic Development and Livelihood Initiatives in Bangsamoro Region” (CEDAR) on March 5.
The ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center was witnessed by Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Hon. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Joint Normalization Committee Co-Chair Hon. Akmad “Toks” Brahim, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Minister for Interior and Local Government Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba.
Japan will provide JPY 454 million for community development and capacity building in the Bangsamoro region through the UNDP over three years. The project aims to create sustainable livelihood programs and enhance local capacities of decommissioned combatants, women, youth and indigenous peoples.
“In this project, I am pleased to see the reins of progress placed in the hands
of the region’s citizens,” Ambassador Endo said. “ With perseverance, I am confident they will bring about a stable future, one embraced by flourishing citizens and preserved by
an enduring hope.”
As the BARMM approaches its parliamentary election in October 2025, the project is expected to deliver peace dividends to vulnerable communities while fostering economic development mechanisms.
