Japan is providing 454 million Japanese yen or approximately PHP174 million in fresh grants to finance more livelihood programs in communities in the Bangsamoro region.

The project called CEDAR or the Promotion of Human Security through the Community Economic Development and Livelihood Initiatives in Bangsamoro Region would be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for three years.

The project will be piloted in 12 select communities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Minister (BARMM) and will guide their leaders in crafting local action plans for the social and economic development of their respective areas.

At least 240 stakeholders particularly women, youth, and former combatants would be given training on the operation of enterprises, job creation, and agri-fishery productivity, among others.

“In contrast to short-term pursuits, this project’s duration of three years will allow for more sustained engagements and a wider window for relevant support,” said Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya during the signing and exchange of notes on Wednesday.

“Japan’s support in this project embodies its long-standing commitment to the Bangsamoro region’s peace and prosperity. Through our continued contributions, we further highlight regional cooperation as a vital element in our deepening ties,” he added.

Through this project, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said Tokyo hopes to help transform the targeted conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas into “stable and socially cohesive communities”.

This project, it said, also aims to show the “dividends of peace” as the region continues to undergo transition leading up to the Bangsamoro parliamentary election in October.

Endo and UNDP Resident Representative Selva Ramachandran signed and exchanged notes for the grant during a ceremony in Pasay City.

The ceremony was witnessed by Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) Co–Chair Akmad Brahim, and BARMM Minister for Interior and Local Government Sha Elijah Dumama–Alba. (PNA)