By PMT Desk

Marawi, Lanao del Sur— The Bangsamoro Government, through the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority-Special Development Fund Project Management Office (BPDA-SDF PMO), launched mini hydropower projects to boost power supply in this province.

To formally commence the implementation of these new initiatives, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE),BPDA-SDF PMO, and local government units (LGU) of Kapai and Marogong signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on June 21, 2024.

The hydropower projects, funded through BPDA’s Special Development Fund (2022 and 2023), are set to rise in the municipalities of Kapai and Marogong.

In his message, BPDA Director-General and SDF PMO Project Manager Engr. Mohajirin Ali underscored the crucial role these initiatives play in meeting the energy demands of Bangsamoro communities.

“This project highlights the significance of sustainable resource management, as demonstrated by the MENRE’s leadership,” Ali said.

He added that prioritizing renewable energy entails promoting environmental protection and addressing the urgent energy needs of municipalities.

“The mini-hydropower facilities will provide a reliable and clean energy source, reducing our dependence on non-renewable and environmentally harmful energy sources,” he further said.

During the ceremonial signing of the MOA, MENRE Minister Akmad Brahim reiterated the responsibilities of the parties in ensuring the successful implementation of the projects.

“As we move forward with these hydropower projects, we must remain unwavering in our commitment to excellence and sustainability,” Brahim said.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that these projects are completed on time, within budget, and with the highest regard for environmental stewardship and community welfare,” he added.

In their response, Marogong Vice Mayor Haroun Maruhom and Kapai Vice Mayor Hamza Gauraki expressed their gratitude to the Bangsamoro Government, as these projects pose an improvement in the quality of life of their constituents.

Energy security is among the enhanced twelve-point priority agenda of the Government of the Day, led by Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim. The focus on developing, exploring, and utilizing alternative energy resources aims to foster investments and generate job opportunities for the people of the region.

Further, the implementation of these mini-hydropower facilities in Lanao del Sur aligns with this goal and ensures a sustainable future for the Bangsamoro people, especially those in marginalized and rural communities.

MENRE Bangsamoro Director General for Energy Engr. Nasiri Abas, Atty. Noranissa Aliudin of MENRE, Marogong Mayor Nassif Maruhom, and SDF-PMO Deputy Project Manager on Operations Engr. Kadil Sulaik, Jr., were also present during the event. (Norjana Malawi/BIO with reports from SDF-PMO)

PHOTO CAPTION: BARMM officials sign the official document for the construction of hydropower projects in the municipalities of Kapai and Marogong in Lanao del Sur on June 21, 2024. (Photo courtesy of MENRE)