COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has formally submitted the proposed budget for the region's 2024 fiscal year, totaling P98.46 billion with education, infrastructure and health as the top three priorities.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim Al Haj on Wednesday said that he personally handed over the proposed Bangsamoro Expenditure Program for 2024 to Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong during a symbolic ceremony held on Tuesday.

Ebrahim said education emerged as the top priority, securing the largest share of the proposed budget with an allocation of P30.2 billion, stressing that the amount reflects the region's commitment to enhancing the educational landscape in BARMM, aiming to provide better opportunities for its residents.

The allocation will be used by the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education to fund various education programs, scholarships and the development of schools and learning centers, ensuring that quality education is accessible to all, Ebrahim explained.

Following closely is infrastructure, receiving a substantial budget of P17.6 billion from the Ministry of Public Works, which signals BARMM's dedication to developing its physical infrastructure to strengthen economic growth, connectivity and a better quality of life for the Bangsamoro people.

MPW Minister Arch. Eduard Guerra said that they intend to expedite the construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure facilities, such as flood management, bridges and water systems.