Ambassador ENDO Kazuya signed and exchanged notes with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran for “The Project for Promoting Human Security through the Community Economic Development and Livelihood Initiatives in Bangsamoro Region” (CEDAR) on March 5, 2025.
The ceremony was witnessed by Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (PAPRU) Hon. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) Co–Chair Hon. Akmad “Toks” Brahim, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Minister for Interior and Local Government (BARMM – MILG) Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama–Alba, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
The Government of Japan will provide a grant of JPY 454 million for community development and capacity-building activities in the Bangsamoro region to be implemented by the UNDP for three years. The project is expected to create sustainable livelihood programs and enhance local capacities of decommissioned combatants, women, the youth, and indigenous peoples to help transform the conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable communities into stable and socially cohesive communities. As the BARMM continues to undergo transition leading up to the Bangsamoro parliamentary election in October 2025, it is expected that this project will deliver the dividends of peace to the most vulnerable communities in the region while fostering robust mechanisms conducive to harmonious economic development.
By placing the reins of progress in the hands of the citizens of the Bangsamoro region, Ambassador Endo expressed confidence that, through their perseverance, they will bring about a stable future embraced by flourishing citizens and preserved by an enduring hope.
