The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officially turned over a PHP25 million public market to the municipality of Upi in Maguindanao del Norte on Wednesday, marking a significant boost to local governance and economic activities.

Upi Mayor Ma. Rona Cristina Piang-Flores hailed the project as a development engine for the upland town, home to a predominantly Indigenous Peoples (IPs) population.

Lawyer Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, BARMM’s Interior Minister, led the turnover ceremony, attended by local officials. Flores expressed optimism about the market’s potential to transform local trade and economic activity.

“Over time, everyone will come here to buy food and other products, making it comparable to a mall. We must ensure it stays clean and that our local entrepreneurs can showcase their products for sustainability,” she said.

Alba emphasized the market’s role in strengthening local economic development.

“This project reflects BARMM’s commitment to bolstering economic resilience in LGUs by providing infrastructure and support for small businesses and sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

The facility, part of the Bangsamoro Local Economic Enterprise Services initiative, aims to empower LGUs in formulating their Local Economic Code while serving as a hub for economic activity and livelihood opportunities. (PNA)