The recently concluded Mindanao Development Forum (MDF) 2026 resulted in a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and foreign chambers aimed at connecting international investors with Mindanao’s priority projects, enterprises and investment opportunities.

In a statement Tuesday, MinDA chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said the agreement translated discussions during MDF 2026 into sustained cooperation among the government, private sector and international business communities to generate investments, industries and jobs.

The agreement provides for a MinDA-Mindanao Foreign Chambers Coordination Mechanism that will monitor investment leads, identify priority activities, facilitate stakeholder introductions and sustain collaboration beyond MDF 2026.

The foreign chambers will help promote Mindanao’s investment opportunities through their international business networks, facilitate connections with prospective investors and provide market insights that could strengthen the region’s competitiveness.

“The development forum is not just about shared ideas; it is about the partnerships we build and the actions we commit to take together,” Magno said.

The MOU establishes a framework for investment promotion, investor referrals, business matching, trade linkages and business-to-business and business-to-government engagements between Mindanao stakeholders and international business networks.

Under the agreement, MinDA will facilitate investor referrals, provide relevant investment information, coordinate with project proponents and government partners, and follow up on business leads generated through the partnership.

The parties will also collaborate on investment forums, business missions, project pitching activities, investor briefings and an Investment and Partnership Marketplace covering priority sectors such as agribusiness, infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing, tourism, logistics and economic zones.

The partnership is expected to benefit Mindanao enterprises, farmers’ organizations, micro, small and medium enterprises and project proponents by expanding access to international markets, potential investors, technical expertise and business networks that support enterprise growth and job creation.

Magno said that under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Build Better More program, MinDA continues to promote Mindanao’s strategic infrastructure and connectivity priorities to improve access to investment areas and enhance regional competitiveness.

In line with the Marcos administration’s push for greater private-sector participation in development, he added that MinDA is working with the Public-Private Partnership Center through its Mindanao PPP Facilitation Initiative to help local government units develop viable projects and attract private investments.

“Supporting President Marcos’ goal of inclusive economic growth and job creation, MinDA will leverage its partnership with foreign chambers to connect Mindanao enterprises with international investors, expand market opportunities and generate sustainable livelihoods,” Magno added. (PNA)