DBM OKs release of P335 million share of taxes to BARMM

The Department of Budget and Management has approved the release of the P335-million share of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in taxes collected within the region, the agency disclosed on Thursday.

Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on 7 November approved the release of P335,815,961 to the Bangsamoro government, according to the DBM.

"The release of funds means more development projects to be implemented for the people and government of BARMM. This is important in their exercise of their right to self-governace," Pangandaman said.

Republic Act No. 11054, or the Organic Law for the BARMM, states that the National Government shall have 25 percent distribution of share of taxes while the Bangsamoro Government shall have 75 percent distribution of share of taxes, inclusive of the shares of the constituent local government units, provided that for the first ten years from the effectivity of the said law, the 25 percent share of the National Government shall accrue to the Bangsamoro Government.

"As a fellow Muslim, I am happy that in my capacity as Budget Secretary, I have the opportunity to champion programs for BARMM and Mindanao," Pangandaman said.

"As mentioned, the DBM will continue to help BARMM, in every way we can, in their transition process," she added.

The Budget chief, being the only Muslim member in the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has vowed to promote inclusive development in Mindanao.