NEW ERA UNIVERSITY

ARMM REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

BY

RIMANDIMAN, KEVIN

ARC 424: PLANNING 3

JANUARY 26,
2018
 Contents

Background of the Study……………………………………………………………………...1

a. Problem Setting: Description of the specific region, background information,

historical development and statistical information.

Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………………..............2

a. Brief sentence describing the inferred question to the study.

Expected Output……………………………………………………………………………….3
a. Significance of the Case Study

Case Study Presentation……………………………………………………………………....4

a. Plans, Schemes etc.

Review of Related Literature………………………………………………………………….5

a. Cite similar literature or similar research papers or journals about your topic

Solutions and Proposals to improve the region (using Urban and regional Planning
Theories, Models and Praxis………………………………………………………………….6

Conclusions and Recommendations……………………………………………………….....7

Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………………...8
 CHAPTER 1

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Problem Setting: Description of the specific region, background information, historical

development and statistical information.

The Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) demonstrates the would-be development

of the autonomous region in the next 30 years. It is a primary step in attaining the envisioned

transformation of ARMM while ensuring the optimum and sustained utilization of the physical

resources of the region.

It shall serve as a major reference of all socio-economic development planning and decision-

making of the autonomous region, be in the regional centers or in the sulyregional areas covering

a long-term period from ZOOO-Z030.

It is a guiding principle for developmental planning concerns that would impart an

ecological balance in physical resources for the present and future shape of the region. This plan

spells out the policy direction and agenda on the management of resources for the most favorable

developmental concerns in land use such as settlement, infrastructure, agriculture, and industry

and most likely the rehabilitation/ conservation and protection of the physical resources in order

to attain sustainable development in the next 30 years.

1.1 ORGANIZATION OF THE PLAN

The RPFP document is composed of four (4) major chapters. The first part of this

document focuses on introduction, legal bases, and planning principles.

The second chapter presents the physical planning environment composed of the regional

physical characteristics, population profile and projections, regional economy and employment
situation, urbanization and settlement structures, land use analysis, regional infrastructures and

facilities, environmental management, and development administration.

The third chapter focuses on the physical framework plan. lt specifically discusses the

ARMM potentials and advantages, development challenges, development vision, goals and

objectives; the preferred alternatives and the RPFP components.

The fourth chapter of the plan describes the institutional process and coordination, the

plan monitoring and evaluation, and the needed implementation support.

1.2 LEGAL BASES

ln compliance with the provisions of national and regional laws and other executive

issuances, the development processes in ARMM shall be guided by the following legal bases, as

follows:

 1987 Philippine Constitution (Article X, Section 15-21)

Section 15. There shall be created Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and in the

Cordilleras consisting of provinces, cities, municipalities, and geographical areas sharing

common and distinctive historical and cultural heritage, economic and social structures,

and other relevant characteristics within the framework of constitution and national

sovereignty as well as territorial integrity of the Republic of the Philippines.

 Republic Act No. 9054 (Article Xl, Section 1'3)

Section 1. The Regional Government shall promote and formulate comprehensive and

integrated regional urban and rural development policies, plans, programs, and projects

responsive to the needs, aspirations, and values of the people in the autonomous region.

Section Z. The Regional Government shall initiate, formulate, and implement special

development programs and projects, responsive to the particular aspirations, needs, and
values of the indigenous cultural communities.

Section 3. The Regional Government shall provide equitable opportunities for the

development of every province, city, municipality, and barangay within its jurisdiction and

shall strengthen their existing planning bodies to ensure public participation.

 Republic Act No. 67 34 as amended by RA No. 9054 (Article Xll, Section 10)

There is hereby created a Regional Economic and Development Plaiming Board. The

Board shall serve as the planning, monitoring, and coordinating agency for all plans,

projects, and programs intended for the autonomous region. lt shall evaluate and

recommend for approval by the Regional Assembly, the annual work programs and

comprehensive development plan of the autonomous region. Once approved, it shall be

the duty of the Regional Covcrnor to ensure thc proper implementation of the said annual

work programs and comprehensive development plans.

The Board shall formulate a master plan for a systematic, progressive, and total

dcvclopmcnt of thc region. The master plan shall take into account the development plans

of the province, city, municipality, and barangay concerned as mandated by Republic Act

No. 7160, thc Local Government Code of 1991. (Sec.l0, Art. Xll, RA9054).

 Republic Act No. 9054 (Article XVIII, Section II)

In addition to the regular annual allotment to fund the regular operations of the Regional

Government, such amounts as may be needed to fund their infrastructure projects duly

identified, endorsed, and approved by the Regional Economic and Development Planning

Board as created herein shall be provided by the central government or national

government as annual assistance for six (6) years after the approval of this Organic Act, and
shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA). The annual assistance

herein mentioned shall be appropriated and disbursed through a Public Works Act dilly

enacted by the Regional Assembly. The national programs and projects in the autonomous

region shall continue to be financed by central government or national government funds.

 Executive Order No. 463 (May 31, 1991)

Establishing the relationship between the Regional Planning and Development Board

(RPDB) of the Autonomous Regional Government and National Economic and

Development Authority (NEDA) Board.

The Regional Planning and Development Board (RPDB) shall serve as the Regional

Development Council for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It shall

formulate the region's Medium-Term Regional Development Plan and its Regional

Development Investment Program consistent with the Medium-Term Philippine

Development Plan and the Medium-Term Public Investment Program.

 Executive Order No. 207

The Autonomous Regional Government, through the REDPB, shall actively participate in

the formulation of MTPDP to ensure that the development thrust and priorities of the

ARMM are reflected therein.

Letter of Instructions (LOI ) No. 1350

The Letter of Instructions (LOI) No.l350, issued on August 1983 provides the policy

agenda of comprehensive physical planning to utilize and develop the country’s land and

other physical resources consistent with the country’s growth and development for

balance socio-economic benefits and ecological considerations.

 Executive Order No. 125 (Section 4)

National agencies must include in their programs and activities the corresponding

equitable and proportionate budget for programs and activities intended for the ARMM in

consultation with the ARG. However, in order to be consistent and comply with the spirit

of the devolution under RA 9054, the national agencies and the ARG shall agree on the

mechanismson the effective implementation by the latter said programs and activities

within the ARMM. (Sec. 4, E.O. I25)

1.3 PLANNING PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES

In accordance with the provisions of RA 9054, which paved the way for the expansion of

ARMM, these planning principles and policies, shall guide the formulation of Regional

Development Plan and its long-term Development Plan, as follows:

 The Regional Government shall adopt a policy on local autonomy whereby regional

powers shall he devolved to local government units particularly in areas of education,

health, human resource, science and technology, and people empowerment.

 IThe beliefs, customs, and traditions of the people in the autonomous region and the free

exercise of their religions are hereby recognized, protected and guaranteed. lt shall also

adopt measures to ensure mutual respect for and protection of the distinct beliefs,

customs, and traditions, and the respective religion of their inhabitants thereof.

 The Regional Government shall ensure the development, protection, and well»heing of

all indigenous tribal communities. No person in the autonomous region shall he

subjected to any form of discrimination on account of creed, religion, ethnic origin,

parentage, or sex.

 The Regional Government shall adopt educational policies that shall perpetuate Filipino

and lslamic values and ideals and the just aspirations of the Bangsa ‘Moro with due
respect to the beliefs, customs, traditions. and religions of the other non-Muslims

inhabitants of the region. '

 The Regional Government shall devote its resources to the improvement of the well-

being of all its constituents, particularly the marginaliztd, deprived, disadvantaged,

underprivileged, differently abled, and the elderly.

 The Regional government shall have the authority, power, and the right to explore,

develop, and utilize the natural resources, including surface and subsurface rights to in-

land and coastal waters, and renewable and non-renewable resources in the autonomous

region.

 Muslims and other indigenous cultural communities shall, however, have priority rights

to explore, develop, and utilize the said resources in the areasidesignated as parts of their

respective ancestral domains. .

 The autonomous region shall provide manpower training progra ns, create livelihood

and job opportunities, allocate equitable preferential rights to its inhabitants and adopt

laws that will safeguard the rights of workers.

 The Regional Government shall uphold and protect the fundamental rights of women

and children including the rights of women to engage in lawful employment. Women

and children, especially orphans of tender age, shall be protected from exploitation,

abuse, or discrimination.

 The Regional Government shall provide, maintain and ensure the delivery of, among

other things, basic and responsive health programs, quality education, appropriate

services, livelihood opportunities, affordable and progressive housing projects, and water

resource development.
It shall maintain appropriate disaster-preparedness units for immediate and effective

relief services to victims of natural and man-made calamities. It shall also ensure the

rehabilitation of calamity-affected areas and victims of calamities.

 The protection, rehabilitation, and the sustainable development of forests, coastal, and

marine resources, including the adoption of programs and projects to ensure the

maintenance of ecological balance, shall be given priority.

 The control and supervision over the exploration, utilization, development, and

protection of the mines and minerals and other natural resources within the

autonomous region are hereby vested in the Regional Government in accordance with

the Constitution and the pertinent provisions of this Organic Act except for the strategic

mineral such as uranium, petroleum, and other fossil fuels, mineral oils, all source of

potential energy, as well as national resources and aquatic parts, forest and watershed

reservations already delimited by authority of the central government or national

government and those that may be defined by an Act of Congress within one (1) year

from the effectivity of this Organic Act.

 The Regional Government shall recognize, promote; and protect the rights and welfare

of farmers, farm-workers, fisher folks, and fish-workers. The Regional Government shall

encourage agricultural productivity and promote diversified and organic farming. The

Regional Government shall give top priority to the conservation, protection, utilization,

and development of soil and water resources for agricultural purposes.

 The Regional Government recognizes the private sector as the prime mover of trade,

commerce, and industry. lt shall encourage and support the building up of

entrepreneurial capability in the autonomous region and shall recognize, promote, and
protect cooperatives. The Regional Assembly may create pioneering firms and other

business entities to boost economic development in the autonomous region.

Subject to the provisions of the Constitution, the Regional Government shall regulate

and exercise authority over foreign investments within its jurisdiction. The central

government or national government may intervene in such matters only if national

security is involved. The Regional Government shall promote preferential use of local

labor and locally produced goods and materials by adopting measures to increase their

competitiveness.

 The Regional Government shall give priority to the maintenance and preservation of law

and order for the establishment of peace and the protection of life, liberty, and property

of the people in the autonomous region, in consonance with the provisions of the

Constitution and this Organic Act.

 The Regional Government shall establish, maintain and support as top priority, a

complete and integrated system of quality education and adopt an educational

framework that is meaningful, relevant, and responsive to the needs, ideals, and

aspirations of the people in the region.

 The regional education subsystem shall perpetuate Filipino and Islamic values and ideals,

aspirations, and orientations. lt shall develop the total spiritual, intellectual, social,

cultural, scientific, and physical aspects of the people of the autonomous region to make

them God-fearing, productive, patriotic citizens, and conscious of their Filipino and

cultural heritage.

 The promotion of social justice shall include the commitment to create social, political,

and economic opportunities based on freedom of initiative, resourcefulness, and self-

reliance. The Regional Assembly shall, in consistent with the provisions of the

Constitution and existing national laws, enact measures to provide and promote social

services.

 The Regional Government, in cooperation with the private sector, shall evolve its own

housing program that will provide adequate. low-cost, antl decent housing facilities and

other basic services to the residents of the region, especially the underprivileged.

 The Regional Government recognizes labor as a primary social economic force for

development. It shall afford full protection to labor, promote full employment, ensure

equal work opportunities regardless of sex, race, or creed, and regulate the relations

between workers and employers.

MAP OF THE PROVINCES

 CHAPTER 2

PHYSICAL PLANNING ENVIRONMENT

Looking back into history, it cannot be denied that the people- of Mindanao have always

looked forward to shaping their destiny through selfdetermination and self-rule.

Mindanao saw the rise of the first political units ruled by the early datus. Major socio-

political changes however, happened when Sheik Makdum, an Arab missionary, came and

introduced Islam in Mindanao in the 13*‘ century and followed by Shariff Kabunsuan in the 15"’

century.

Thus, Islamic communities were formed throughout Mindanao, a situation eventually

uniting the Mindanao mainland with its sub-urban islands with the formation of the Islamic

Sultanates under one Supreme Council.

The greater majority that converted to Islam co-existed peacefully, socially,

economically, politically and even culturally with their highlander neighbors.

The united stance adopted by Muslims had become the shield by which the Mindanaons

repelled the influences of foreign domination which the Spaniards, the Americans and the

]apanese tried to impose on them.

In the early 1900's, the Manila government opened Mindanao, dubbed as “The Land of

Promise", to settlers who were welcomed to share the fruits of its vast and rich natural resources.

The influx of settlers, majority of whom came from nearby Visayas, made Mindanao a

place of diversified groups whose ethnicity, culture, traditions and beliefs never became a source

of misunderstanding, apprehensions and even fears among the early Mindanaons.

The situation changed when land grabbing and social injustices were committed by some

deceiving groups against the region's peaceloving people. These reprehensible acts made the
people question the motives of the government.

In February 1973, the Mindanao problem escalated into an armed conflict, involving the

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Mujahideen and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The conflict led to the death of thousands of innocent people, the displacement of tens of

thousands more, and the destruction of billions of pesos worth of property. All these could have

been avoided if the government considered the plight of the Mindanaons, which raged on for

years even with the conduct of peace talks.

Finally, on ]uly 7, i975, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed Presidential

Decree No. 742 and Letter of Instruction Z90 creating Western and Central Mindanao regions in

Mindanao and establishing the Office of the Regional Commissioner in both regions.

Hostilities, however, continued. The military and the MNLF persisted with their armed

confrontations.

The situation attracted the attention of the Organization of lslamic Conference (OIC),

which intervened to find solutions to the problems by sponsoring a series of negotiations

between the Philippine Government and the MNLF.

The intervention led to the signing of the Tripoli Agreement between the Philippine

Government and the MNLF in Tripoli, Libya on December Z3, 1976.

Ceasefire was proclaimed in the affected areas of Mindanao, particularly Western and

Central Mindanao regions.

President Marcos, on March Z5, 1977, signed Presidential Proclamation N0. 1628

forming an autonomous region in Southern Philippines.

The people, however, opted to retain the original political subdivisions of Western and

Central Mindanao regions in a referendum — plebiscite on April 17, 1977.

 On May 7, 1977, Presidential Proclamation 1628-A was issued adopting the wishes of the

people. This did not appease the Bangsamoro Fronts, which called the autonomous regions as a

unilateral implementation by the Manila government of the Tripoli Agreement and, as such, was

not recognized by the Mujahideen.

On ]uly Z5, 1979, Batas Pambansa No, Z0 was enacted creating the Regional

Autonomous Government in Western and Central Mindanao regions.

The moves, however, did not stop the hardcore Mujahideen, which had already split up

into three, groups — the Moro National Liberation l"r<~.nr f.\lY\]l,F) uniltr Misuari, the Moro

Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) under Hashim Salam xi .1.:‘.(l the MNLI-1Reformi.<t under

Dimas Pundatu— from pursuing their revolutionary goals.

This is in spite of success the Philippine government made in attracting hack into the

folds of the law a big number of Moro rebels. Many gave up their arms. Among those who led

the MNLF in the struggle but later joined government were the pioneering top commanders of

the MNLF.

President Corazon C. Aquino, after the fall of the Marcos administration, pursued a more

vigorous approach to solve the Mindanao problem. She met MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari in

jolo, Sulu and followed this up with peace negotiations. All were formalized by the Jeddah

Accord of January 3, 1987. which focused on the full implementation of the Tripoli Agreement.

The Aquino government, even as the talks failed, sought the creation of the Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by providing the 1987 Philippine Constitution and

directly ordered to convene the Ad hoe Council of the Regional Consultative Council, the body

tasked to draft the Organic Act that would serve as the operations manual of the ARMM.
 The Organic Act was signed into law, as Republic Act 6734, by President Aquino on

August 1, 1989 and a plebiscite was conducted in the proposed area of the ARMM on November

17, 1989. Of the 13 proposed provinces, only four; Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu and Tawi-

Tawi joined the ARMM.

The first set of ARMM officials were elected on February 17, 1990. Due to electoral

protest, the ARMM formally started to function only on July 9, 1990 following the oath taking of

Atty. Zacaria A. Candao as First Regional Governor of ARMM.

By and large, the ARMM could not have taken shape without the blood, sweat and tears;

the sacrifices and the hardships the Bangsamoro mujahideen and the Bangsamoro people

struggled for self-determination for a more developed and more peaceful place to live.

Thus, the ratification of Republic Act # 9054, an act to strengthen and expand the

Organic Act for the ARMM amending for the purpose RA # 6734, entitled “An Act Providing

for the ARMM" as amended in September Z001 plebiscite paved the way for the expansion of

the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to include the Province of Basilan and City of

Marawi.

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao seeks to fulfill only two general

objectives: Development and Peace for its 2.8 million people in the provinces of Maguindanao,

Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and City of Marawi.

The new expanded ARMM is headed by one (1) Regional Governor, one (1) Regional

Vice Governor and twenty four (Z4) representatives of Regional Legislative Assembly

representing the eight districts of the five provinces and one city of the region.

The new regional leadership has ushered new hopes for the expanded ARMM and has

commenced governing the region with clear policy guidelines and development directions
anchored on transforming the autonomous regional government toward responsive governance.

2.1 THE REGIONAL PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

2.1.1 LOCATION

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is located in the southwestern part of the

Philippines. The region is composed of five (5) provinces and one (1) city, which could be

grouped into two: the mainland and archipelagic provinces. The former consists of the provinces

of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and City of Marawi while the latter is composed of

the three island provinces of Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan.

The mainland provinces are located in Central part of Mindanao, bounded by the

provinces of Cotabato and Bukidnon on the east, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato on the

south; lllana Bay and Moro Gulf on the west; and the provinces of Lanao del Norte and

Misarnis Oriental on the North.

The provinces of Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Basilan are a group of islands that extends as far

as Z00 miles (310 kms.) between Basilan island on the northeast and Borneo on the southeast.

2.1.1 Land Area

The Autonomous Region has a total land area of about Z7,5l7.1 square kilometers, representing

about 9.17 percent of the country's total land area. (Table 1)

2.1.3 Topography

Mainland Provinces

The province of Lanao del Sur is approximately sloping from 60% rolling to 4-0%

plain.lt is endowed with many potential water bodies. Among the biggest rivers of Lanao del Sur

are the following; Masiu River, Taraka River, Rugnan River, Ramain River, and Lalabuan River.

Smaller rivers in the vicinity of agricultural lands can be utilized for irrigation purposes. The

province stretches between the Bukidnon¢l.anao highland areas, with a series of plains,

highland basins, undulating hills and volcanoes.

The province of Maguindanao can be divided into two physiologic units. These are

southwest mountains cluster and Maguindauao lowlands. The southwest mountain cluster

includes the two big groups of mountain elevations; the Binica and Blit. The Valley of Matuber

River separates the trail, which flow northwest into the Moro Gulf, and Liwasig River, which

flows into the Mindanao Sea. The Maguindanao lowland is situated in the north extremity of

the Cotahato basin of provincial highlands (northeast). The area is generally sloping from the

front of hills to relatively plain which is approximately sloping from 55% rolling to 45% plain

(nearly level and undulating to rolling) as it approaches the sea and Liguasan Marsh.

The biggest and longest river in Maguindanao is the Rio Grande de Mindanao. The

northeast boundary of the province and the west banks are within the province jurisdiction.

This river meanders which flood rains developed at places together with extensive delta,

which made its immediate vicinity marshy. Several smaller streams and creeks are of perennial

type while the rest are discontinuous.

Archipelagic Provinces

The Sulu archipelago is approximately sloping from 35% rolling to 65% plain (nearly
level and undulating to rolling) and marked by a number of mountain ranges that traverse the

midsection of island of ]olo from east to west. The mountain chain includes Mt. Tumatangis,

about 812 ft, Mt. Pula about 281 ft, Mt. Kangangan about 663 ft., and Mt. Dahu with 100 ft.

The other islands, such as Siasi island are also hilly while Pangutaran are coral formation

resulting in low, swampy, flat and forested areas. However, numerous places around are reef-

surrounded island and able-bodied anchorages.

The province of Sulu, being known for its shining land and moody sea lies on the

southern most part of the Philippines, with islands of varying terrains of volcanic origin.

Qthers are coral formation and with low, forested and swampy areas.

Basilan is one of the provinces that opted to join the expanded ARMM. It is separated

from the mainland of Mindanao by a strait of about 17 miles wide at its narrowest point. It is

located across the southern tip of Zamboanga del Sur and bounded on the north by the

Basilan strait, on the east by the Moro Gulf, and on the west by the Sulu Sea.

Land area of Basilan province is 2,217.8 square kilometer to include the islets grouped

within the territorial boundary of the island province. It is approximately sloping from 58%

rolling to 42°/o plain (nearly level and undulating to rolling) and the soil types are mostly of

medellin clay loam and mountain soil with few hydrosol and bulacen clay loam.

The Tawi-Tawi province consists of islands settled on top of huge sea mountain.

Typically, the islands have least rugged terrain with approximate sloping from 28% rolling to

72% plain (nearly level and undulating to rolling).

Its major peaks, including Mt. Datu Sali, Mt. Sit-angkai and Mt. Baluk Sanpan do not go

beyond 600 ft. These peaks cut across the main island of Tawi'Tawi from north to south.

The Malum River is the biggest river in the province. It serves as a transportation passage
for the residents in the upper area and also as drainage outlet. The river originates from Mt.

Balungan, Mt. Binwang and Mt. Datu Sali and flows westernly receiving Magsayaw streams as

its tributary.

Scarcity of underground water source is typically the setback for water system in the

islands of Tawi—Tawi such as the municipality of South Ubian, Tandubas, Sapa-Sapa, Bongao,

Simunul, Sitangkai, and Turtle lsland since these islands are rocky. The municipality of

Languyan, Balimbing, Panglimai Sugala and Cagayan de Tawi-Tawi have their own

underground water. These areas have a great volume of water deposit that can hold water for

many years.

1.4 CLIMATE

Generally, the regionls climate is characterized by moderate and even distribution of

rainfall throughout the year. The region has its dry and wet seasons and is usually spared from

typhoons throughout the year.

Mainland Provinces

Lanao del Surls climate is classified as Type lV, which is characterized by l l5mm more

or less even distribution of rainfall throughout the year. Dry season is observed from ]anuary to

March and maximum rain period is from May to October. The normal temperature of the

province is Z1 degrees eentigrade and it has a cozy climate. ln particular being anintegral part

of the province, Marawi City has almost the same climate as that of Lanao del Sur.

The province of Maguindanao fall the same under the fourth type characterized by more
or less even distribution throughout the year with at least 130mm of average monthly rainfall

depth. lts avera_le temperature ranges from 25.9 degree eentigrade to 26.5 centigrade. The

hottest months are March to June and the coldest months are from November to January.

Archipelagic Provinces

The three island provinces have under the Type Ill climate as described by the Philippine

Atmospheric, Geographic and Astronomical Services Aclministration (PAUASA). The most

predominant type characteristics happen in the three provinces (such embrace short and low

sun dry seasons). Under this type, more than 70 mm of monthly rainfall can be observed.

2.1.5 Soil Type

Mainland Provinces

The soil type prevailing in Lanao del Sur is mountain soil, adtuyan clay loom, sinidayan

silt loam, sandy and La Castellafia complex. The clay loam soil type is found in the

municipalities of Ramain, Bubong, Buadi Puso, Mulondo, Taraka, Tamparan, Poona Bayabao,

Lumba Bayabao and Maguing. Adtuyan clay loam soil type is prevalent in Marawi City and in

the municipalities of Saguiaran, Piagapo, Tugaya,Wao, Balindong and Bacolod Grande.

The soil type in Magindanao is mountain soil, hydrosol, faraun clay, timaga clay loam,

parang clay loam, longkong sandy, banga sandy loam and silty clay loam. The sandy and clay

loam soil type is found in the southeastern and western municipalities. At the same manner,

silty clay, sandy and clay loam soil type is prevalent in the northeastern and western

municipalities.

The soil type of the province is classified into various types according to landform and

landscape. There are various landform types based on topographic location, elevation, and

morphology like plains, hills, and mountains.

 Principal soil types of the province are clay loam and sandy loam. These types of soil are

favorable for the cultivation of rice and corn on the lowland areas and commercial crops on

the upland areas.

Archipelagic Provinces

There are three general types of soil found in the island provinces, namely: alfisols,

inceptisols and utisols. In the bigger islands, the soil is of igneous rock of volcanic origin while

2.1.6 Natural Resources

Land and Water Resources

About 48.5% of the region’s total land area (1,Z93,55Z hectares) is classified as alienable

and disposable lands, 51.33% as total forest land, while the remaining land area percentile is

either on built-up and expansion land area.

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has Lake Lanao, the second largest lake

in the Philippines with an approximate area of 30,980 hectares during dry season and 33,999

hectares during wet season. Lake Lanao is the source of both potable and irrigation water to

the surrounding municipalities and also serves as avenue for transportation to the populace

aside from being source of livelihood to the marginal fishermen in the area.

Lake Buluan of Maguindanao also serves the communities around as avenue for easy and

fast transportation and communication. Lake Buluan is noted for its abundance and best

supply of “1(adulog", a fresh water fish delicacy of the Maguindanaon. It also has several

freshwater fish species like the Tilapia and the mudfish (Aluan). In other words, both Lake

Lanao and Lake Buluan are endowed with vast and rich fishery and aquatic resources. There

are other lakes in the ARMM which are also of great importance to both tourism and

agriculture.
Liguasan Marsh in Maguindanao province is the biggest marsh in the country. Actually

Liguasan Marsh is the common boundary of the provinces of Cotabato, Sultan Kudarar, and

Maguindanao. 1t houses about 35,000 hectares of wildlife and birds sanctuaries and is

endowed with rich and abundant fishery and aquatic resources as well as great potential source

of fertilizer and black gold. The total area of the marsh is approximately 105,000 hectares

during rainy season and 100,000 hectares during dry season.

Another significant marsh in the area is the Butilen Marsh at Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

lt is also endowed with great supply of freshwater fish, especially “Aluan” mudfish. During dry

season, some portions of these marshes dries up and are cultivated to corn, which usually has

an average yield per hectare per cropping of 5.6 metric tons.

Mineral Resources

The Autonomous Region is gifted with natural resources. The optimum and regulated

utilization of which for economic development could maximize investment opportunities. lt

has red and white clay which is used in making bricks, pottery and ceramics; limestone for

brassware making; and other potential sources of gold marble.

There has been no recorded exploration. of mineral resources conducted within the

ARMM areas, but there was confirmed detection that metallic and non-metallic mineral

resources are abundant in strategic areas in Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and even in Tawi»

Tawi.
2 2 Population Profile and Projection

2.2.1 Population Size and Growth

When the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was created in 1990, the four

provinces which opted to join the autonomous regional government had a total population of

1,838,056 which represents three percent (3%) of the country's 60.7 million inhabitants on

the same year. Eventually the plebiscite on RA # 9054, an act to strengthen and expand the

Organic Act for ARMM amending RA # 6734, the province of Basilan and Marawi City opted

to be part of the expanded Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

POPULATION AND DENSITY MAP
2.2.4 Urban~Rural Population Distribution

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is generally classified as a rural area.

Considering the recent ratification of Republic Act No. 9054, only Marawi City and Basilan have

opted to join the expanded ARMM. its level of urbanization is very low compared to the country's

standard. In Z003, only 30.37% of the region's population resided in the urban-rural area. Between

1994 and 1999. there was influx of population especially in the urban area because of the escalation

of fighting between the government forces with rebel groups and the coming ofdeportees from

Malaysia.

Population concentration for the census year ZOOO shows that Maguindanao, Lanao del

sur and 5ulu, have a greater number of population that need a precautious resettlement plan

and balanced socio-economic development. Tawi-Tawi and Basilan have the least needed

population redistribution. lt only corresponds with more than lO% of the population
concentration. Marawi City and the capital municipalities of the ARMM provinces are

densely over-populated. The trend for census years 1990 and Z000 shows a continuously

growing population in these areas. This will definitely affect the limited development

resources ofthe region for the demand on the delivery ofbasic and social services. The ARMM

population ratio to land area is still manageable. However, there is an urgent need to design a

resettlement and sustainable development plan overthe populated areas for the next 20years.

Among the provinces thatconstitute urban-rural population in ARMM is the province of

Tawi~Tawi with the highest percentage in terms ofpeople living in urban-rural areas posting

18.96 % in 1990. lt has a slight difference with Maguindanao at 18.63% followed by Sulu with

l7.Z?%. Lanao del Sur registered only 8.44% of people residing in urban-rural area. This

could be attributed to its proximity to Marawi City, which has already reached its IOO percent

level ofurhan-ruraldwellers.

To improve the relative position of those with low income who seek to own a house, it is

considered that two further measures would be of benefit. The first relates to the Shared

Ownership scheme operated by local authorities. Under the scheme ownership is shared

between the purchaser (at least 40 percent) and the local authority. The purchaser uses a

mortgage from the local authority to acquire his/her equity and rent the balance of equity

owned by the local authority.

2.2.5 Age Structure

In 2000, persons considered to be economically productive belonged to age bracket of

15-64 years old. They dominated the regions population structure constituting 57.48% of the

total population. The young population belonging to age bracket 0-14 years old is about

40.30%, while those 65 years old and above consisted of only 1.72% of the total population.

With these figures, dependency ratio was placed at 77.74% per 100 productive workers.

2.2.6 Doubling of Population

Table ll shows that ARMM has an annual growth rate of 3.86% and the region's

population is expected to double by year 2020. Taking into consideration the province

segregations, Tawi-Tawi and Lanao del Sur will have the fastest time to double its population

by the annual growth rate of 5.53% and 4.16% at the succeeding years of 2012 and 2016,

respectively. Basilan, Marawi City, Sulu and Maguindanao will take the farthest period of time

to double their population. lt will be in 2027, 2023, 2033 and 2020, respectively.
2.2.7 Population Projection

The ARMM population projection for the year 2010 to 2030 is based from the 2000

actual population. The projection was computed using the method of ratio and proportion.

The projection presented in Table 12 adopted the High Assumption Computation, regarding

Slow Fertility Decline and Moderate Mortality Decline at homogeneous growth rate. By year

2030, the population of the region is expected to reach 8,269,910. Provinces in the mainland

such as Maguindanao, Lanao Sur and Marawi City are expected to reach two million

populations by year 2030, which will comprise 58% of the regions‘ inhabitants. On the other

hand, the island provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi»Tawi will ccnstitute48% of the regions’

population.

Considering the population projection, a comprehensive plan for settlement and

development pattern shall be laid out to avoid imbalance of population distribution and

development such as population congestion, spatial distribution of investment, exploitation of

physical land use resources and infrastructure facilities. The region before hv been classified as

having rural component areas. In terms of region's growth, urbanization is relatively slow. lt

can be viewed from the homogeneous trends that settlement and development are precisely

similar prototypes with preceding pattern wherein population concentrations are situited

along the national highways and the coastline/seashores.

2 4 Urbanization and Settlement

2.4.1 Urbanization Trend

The region is predominantly rural with most of its population living in the countryside.

The growth of the region in terms of urbanity is slow. Growth trends indicate that settlement

and development are concentrated mainly in the municipalities located along the national

highways and the coastline/seashores.

The population of the mainland provinces is distributed in relatively small towns and

almost the same pattern with island provinces spread out in the seashore small towns and/ or

villages and capital center poblacion. These municipalities represent the rural agricultural,

fishery/marine sector and small-scale entrepreneurial sectors. Settlements within these

municipalities were underdeveloped and had relatively inadequate support of physical

infrastructure facilities.

The regional and provincial industrial/ commercial and administrative centers have

actually been identified. There is a need to build-up for these identified potential eco zones in

time upon assessment is doable, if clear economic advantages shown or forecast some value

added economy to the areas. Location of potential growth centers are relatively accessible to

productive land (Agricultural Opportunity Areas) or other natural resources, concentration of

population interface with market or labor, goods and services, or with social institution and

economic infrastructure complementation which could form a center for further investment

opportunities.

2.4.2 Settlement Pattern

The region is characterized by uneven spatial distribution of its population. The trend of

spatial development of the region follows a linear pattern where settlements tend to cluster
along the transportation axis. Social agricultural and market facilities are clustered in these

centers.

The municipalities cluster along the main road network of the mainland and along the

coastline/seashore of the archipelago resulting in the relatively higher level of development as

compared to the hinter lands/ islands; thus, most of the facilities and services are not widely

accessible to people living outside their immediate boundaries and a sizeable portion of the

rural areas is overlooked in terms of development by the institutions responsible for carrying it

out.

It also indicates that the significant number of services and facilities contained in the

secondary urban centers are generally inadequate for stimulating or complementing

development efforts in the region's hinter lands/ islands.

2.4.3 Hierarchy in the Region's Settlement Structure

There are three (3) levels of hierarchy for settlement in the region, namely: Primary

Urban Centers, Secondary Urban Centers and Satellite Municipalities.

Level l - Primary Urban Centers are wide areas having a larger number of local

commercial, administrative, marketing and recreational functions. The region’s urban centers

are shown in the table 22.

2.4.4 ARC Coverage and Other Concern Activities of the Area

Land area covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) has a

total scope of 345,493 hectares within the A & D land and forestland. These areas are

primarily categorized as settlement area (Agrarian Reform Communities) and agriculture

plantation area. Agricultural land areas for CARP are planted to rice, corn, cassava and other

commercial crops in varying quantities.

The expected decline in rural population of some municipalities would increase the

growth of population in rural~urban areas, transforming small towns into medium towns. The

same variation is expected on the presumption that the ARC component for their

development activities in the influence areas would interlace for the increase in agricultural

production, growth of population in rural areas of ARC, transforming small towns into

progressive towns. Likewise, the poblacion being the center or seat of provincial government

remains a large town and the rest of the municipalities are small towns. The projected rural-

urban increase in population sizes at homogeneous growth rate of 3.63% after 10 years will

require an additional 4-3% land area for rural—urban expansion and development. lt is also

assumed that urbanization would create employment in secondary and tertiary sectors

particularly its sulvsector for the construction, transportation, electricity, gas and water but a

decline of employment in agriculture and forestry The settlement situation provides a

development focused on secondary and tertiary activities rather than the nature of agriculture

and forestry.
LOCATION MAP OF AGRARIAN REFORM COMMUNITIES
2.5. Land Use Analysis

The ARMM has more than 2.8 million populations and a total land area of about 27,517.1

square kilometers. The region’s potentials in agriculture, fishery, marine and forestry resources,

if properly utilized and harnessed could propel the region into becoming a leading provider of

raw materials such as plantation products, grains, fruits and vegetables, fish and timber.

However, land use is probably one of the most important and a contentious issue to date

considering that an increasing area ofland is now being utilized for crops production.

Accordingly, unsuitable and less suitable areas were put into cultivation without sound

management. This has resulted in placing almost one-third of its land area in danger due mainly

to its being barren for crop production and soil erosion. Those areas that have consequently been

reduced to grasslands and shrub lands totaled 114,136 hectares. To date, the agricultural land

areas in ARMM considered as well established and less prone to erosion are about 97,580

hectares. These are mostly concentrated along wide valleys and broad alluvial plains of the

region.

2.5.1 Land Classification

The Philippine land resources as stipulated in the constitution are classified into

alienable and disposable (A Si D) land and forestlands. The former is land of the public

domain, which had been the subject of the present system of classification and declared as not

to be subjected for forest purposes. Technically, lands with slope from O to 18 degrees are

classified as alienable and disposable lands, while all lands beyond 18 degree shall belong to

forestland classification. Forestlands are lands which have been determined for forest purposes.

All lands under the plains classification shall be eligible for agricultural conversions after

substantial determination and recommendations from both the Department of Agriculture

and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Apparently, all lands not covered

and specifically undeclared shall remain under the administration and control of the states

public domain.

At present, A & D lands represent about 628,4-O1 hectares or 48.5 percent and 665,151

hectares or 51.33 percent are forestlands. Among the five provinces and one city of ARMM,

Lanao del Sur has the biggest forestlands, which are about 38.21 percent of the regions total

forestlands. Maguindanao province, being the second in rank, has a total forestland area of

306,622 hectares, or 48.8% of the region’s total alienable and disposable land.
2.5.2 Existing Land Use

Based on Table 27 of existing land use, the potential agricultural area in ARMM is about

535,589 hectares within A and D lands and forestlands area. The agriculture area includes the

Croplands - 199,084 hectares; and remaining 336,505 hectare is utilized for the following: the

other wooded land, natural and cultivated land and fisheries areas. Available irrigated rice land

is about 22,870 hectares or 11.5 % of the croplands area. In the same way, other land,

cultivated (annual crops and perennial crops) is 165,214 hectares, Maguindanao, Lanao del

Sur and Sulu have the biggest area of agricultural land, respectively. On the same manner, the

region's forestland area categorized as; a) Forest—209,092 hectares; b) Others forestland-

354,362 hectares; c) Inland water is 4,926 hectares. Lanao del Sut and Maguindanao have the

biggest share of forestland area in ARMM at 254,154 hectares and 198,138 hectares,

respectively.

2.5.3 Cropping System

Coconut-based, rice-based and corn-based cropping systems are prevalent in the region.

These are either intetcropped in the same season all throughout or planted with other crops

after the main crop. Multiple cropping systems are common in the mainland while multi-store

alley cropping system is noted in the island provinces.

2.5.4 Land Use Opportunity

The land use opportunity sets the general direction and limits of future land uses. The

region has 199,084 hectares cropland that can be efficiently and appropriately utilized for all

types of crops (food and feed crops to commercial and industrial crops). This is about 37% of

the existing agricultural land. The land use opportunity provides an indicative direction for

appropriate proper land uses and productivity, while the idle and less utilized land may have
the potential for various forms of agricultural uses. The sloping lands are best for economic

trees. In the same way, critical watershed area apparently exploited to various forms of activities

shall be reforested and reinforced with an integrated area development project such as ecu»

tourism project that would generate income to the region and set under NIPAS control for

sustainable and appropriate environment.

2.5.5 Agricultural Areas

Existing agricultural areas in the ARMM occupy about 535,589 hectares or 41.13% of

total land area. Most of the agricultural activities are dominated by smallscale farmers/fishermen

who have very little capital.

At present, the agricultural sector contributes more than 1/3 of all the goods and services

produced by the economy and employs more than 50% of the population. This sector recognizes

the fact the that the land production for agricultural and fisheriesaquatic resources is the biggest

contributor to GRDP of the region with a share of approximately 60%.

2.5.5.1 Croplands

The region has 199,084 hectares of existing croplands; irrigated for rice land accounts at

22,870 hectares and other wooded land, natural Sr cultivated land and fisheries areas are 336,505

hectares, which covered the industrial (annual and perennial crops), fishery and other crops. Ar

present some cropland areas that were planted by commodities is producing insufficient
production since most of the farmers did not consider the agroclimatic suitability and inadequate

infrastructure support facilities (absence of flood control and drainage system), annual flooding

of the lowland areas due to forest denudation and marketing aspect. In effect, the agriculture

outputs have a tendency of producing low agricultural production.

Agricultural land to non-agricultural land use conversion. If warrant by regional law, land

use conversion may only be allowed where the cost of agricultural production and capital farm

input cannot be recovered or whatever altemative cropping systems being applied to the area and

subject to existing conversion guidelines as prescribed by the law.

2.5.5.2 Tourism

The region's strategic tourism location has comparative advantage due to its

proximity to the growing tourism market in East Asia. Potential tourism resources in

ARMM have bright prospect in generating more investment and employment

opportunities. ARMM's potential tourist attraction has a range of unique geologic features

from natural, historical, cultural, marine educational, aqua sports, agriculture and business

attractions.

2.6.2 Energy

Power supply shortage has been experienced in the region due to prolonged dry spells

which substantially limit hydro-power capacity for power generation; frequent breakdown of

existing facilities which further also constrained power generating capacity; and lack or

insufficient maintenance of existing facilities.

The mainland provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur are served by the

NAPOCOR through the Maguindanao Electric cooperative (MAGELCO) and Lanao del Sur

Electric Cooperative (LASURECO), respectively. Per NAPQCOR data, MAGELLX) was able
to cover 16 out of the ZO municipalities in Maguindanao. However, only 43.7 percent out of

the total 108,485 households have access to electricity as the most ru .11 and remote areas are

not yet reached by the service line. Likewise, LASURECO has covered only 10 out of the 37

municipalities which is 44-.8 percent of the total 86,936 households.

The island provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi have been using diesel-powered generators

while others make use of solar power. On the overall, below fifty percent (50%) if the

population living in these island provinces has the access to electric power.

2.6.3 Water Supply

The mainland provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur as well as the island

provinces are blessed with abundant sources of water like lakes and springs. The island

province of Tawi-Tawi, however, will have to focus on the development of considerable

number of rainwater for catchment projects like elevated water tank projects due to scarce

underground water sources in the area. The development of these resources would ensure

adequate potable water supply for the region and even in the neighboring provinces in

Mindanao.

Substantial implementation of deep wells, shallow wells and spring development has

been undertaken since 1992. However, only 57.52% or equivalent to 287,764 households

have access to potable water supply.

2.6.4 Irrigation

Overall, the ARMM has a total of 199,084 hectares of potential irrigable area, broken

clown as follows: (a) Maguindanao 446,365 hectares; (b) Lanao del Sur - 40,156 hectares; (c)

Sulu - 2,710 hectares; (d) Tawi-Tawi -8,290 hectares; and (e) Basilan — 1,035 hectares. The

development of these areas through the establishment of more communal irrigation systems
will virtually provide comparative productions with other regions in terms of rice self-

sufficiency.

6.5 Flood Control and Drainage Facilities

A considerable number of flood control and drainage facilities were implemented during

the periods of 2000 and 2001. However, these remained inadequate as more areas in the

region continue to be affected by floods during rainy session and/ or rainstorm, The provision

of adequate flood control facilities through the construction of lake walls, slope protection,

canals and drainage areas would mitigate damagt_ on crops, physical 1:‘ 1t11<‘t\|re and other

property of the region.

2.6.6 Communication

On telecommunication services, four (4) AM and mo (2) FM St?tlO1\.~ and one (1)

television station/cable television serve the Maguindanao province. T‘1c-se stations are located

in Cotabato City. The province of Lanao del Sur is served by one (1) AM and one (1) television

station located in lligan City. The province of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi~Tnwi has one (1)

television station and cable television services each in the area and sened by two (2) radio

stations in each province.

In terms of telephone services, every capital municipality of /5~I\MM provinces has

access

to telephone system capable for International Direct Dialin1_-_/ National Direct Dialing

(IDD/NDD). There are also existing domestic telecommunication companies such as RCPI

and PTSLT operating in some major municipalities in the ARMM provinces. Cellular network

services or network sites are also available of the region. it has been noted that a substantial

number of population own cellular phones as their means of communication. Likewise,

internet service is also operating in some parts of ARMM municipalities. ln addition, with the

implementation of Municipal Telephone Program, which aims to provide one telephone for

every municipality, there has been an improvement in the flow of telecommunication services,

as this would cover even the most remote municipalities of the region.

2.8 Development Administration

The enactment into law of R.A. 6734 otherwise known as the Organic Act on August 1,

1989 paved the way for the creation of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM),

as mandated by the Constitution. The plebiscite in November 17 of the same year, made the four

(4)provinces to be component parts of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Furthermore, the ratification of RA # 9054, an act to strengthen and expand the organic

act for ARMM amending for the purpose RA # 6734, as amended in September Z001 plebiscite

paved the way for the expansion of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to include the

province of Basilan and Marawi City.

The ARMM elected officials are composed of: Regional Governor, Vice Regional

Governor and Z4 Regional Assembly.

By and large, the ARMM government has three branches namely: The executive branch,

legislative branch and the judiciary branch.

2.8.1 Executive Branch

A Regional Governor who is elected by the people is the head of the executive branch of

the region. The regional government seat is temporarily located in Cotabato City. There are a

number of national agencies devolved to ARMM. Likewise, new offices were also created

through legislation by the Regional Assembly.

 CHAPTER 3

REGIONAL PHYSICAL FRAMEWQRK PIAN

3.1 ARMM Potentials and Advantages

The autonomous region is endowed with vast resources, which if harnessed and

rationalized,

will serve as the balancing factors to the regions envisioned development status by the year Z030

as a progressive and agri—industrial region.

The following are the potentials and advantages, which make the ARMM a significant

and tangible development:

a) Rich agricultural and natural resources agri-industrial and commercial purposes

Vast and rich agricultural land suitable for the production for rice, corn and other food

crops, as well as forest and marine resources abound in the five provinces of the region. This

bounty awaits rational utilization either for industrial or commercial purposes.

b) ARMM will balance the ag'ri~inzlustrial development of Mindanao

The full development of the ARMM, particularly the realization of the Regional lndustrial

Center in Parang, Maguindanao shall serve as a balancing factor in the pursuance of an agri-

industrialized Mindanao in the next decade.

c) Regional strategic location to Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and Indonesia

The island provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi have traditionally been considered as

the southern backdoor to East Asian countries such as Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore. Such

strategic location can pave the way for establishing economic ties with these countries.
 c) Cultural affinity with Middle East and Asian countries

Majority of the ARMM populace are Muslims. Thus cultural affinity with the Muslim

countries in the Middle East and Asia is a plus factor in future investment endeavor.

Investors from Muslim countries have expressed their willingness to pour investment in the

region once the institutional and policy requirements are established.

e) Readily available cheap but skilled labor

There is a potential labor force of more than a million persons in the region. A number of

them are skilled and semi-skilled labors that are readily available for industrial and

agricultural employment.

f.) Guaranteed industrial peace

Good labor and management relationship is one of the envisioned goals of the ARMM labor

department. This can be realized through the real empowerment of the labor sector to ensure

industrial peace and productivity.

g). One of the special areas for development by the natiomd govemnicnt

With the changing economic and political situations prevailing in Asia and the world, the

national government has shifted its development efforts to Mindanao, particularly the

ARMM to tap the vast resources of the area and at the same, attain a stable peace and order

condition for regional development. it Typluoonafree area The regionls strategic location as a

typhoon-free area coupled with its mild climate is an advantage over other regions of the

country. lt has made the region more conducive to the establishment of a wide variety of

industries and agri-based projects.

i.) Potential tourist destination

The region has an unlimited number of tourist attractions such as long and fine beaches,

natural lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, caves, natural landscapes and historical landm-arks. In

addition, there are ethnic festivities and unlimited supply of tropical fruits and marine

products that are available year-round.

3.2 Development Challenges in ARMM

The ARMM is confronted by development challenges, which the Regional Covernment will

have to contend with resiliency for doable policy/strategy in development intervention for the

region:

a. Pervasive poverty among Muslims and other ARMM inhabitants

For years, investment in the area of autonomy had been slow in coming, if not in trickles,

while other areas in the country boomed with domestic and foreign investments, e.g. South

Cotabato, a nearby province in the autonomous region. The lack of investment in the region has

left some of its economic resources idle and largely untapped (such as tourism development,

metallic and non-metallic resources). It shows that the research and development on potential

resources have been overlooked and not being tackled as priority development agenda of the

region. Perhaps this is one aspect to consider in RA # 6734 as amended and further strengthened

by RA # 9054 as stipulated in a certain provision that mineral and other significant resoutcesof

the region shall be controlled by the national government.

b Lack of access and control over the resources

The deplorable condition of Muslims and their communities is basically attributed to their

lack of access and control over the resources of the region. Many of the Muslims in the
autonomous region are landless farmers, subsistence fishermen, marginal upland farmers,

and seasonal workers and laborers. Their sources of livelihood do not allow them to rise

beyond subsistence level. i

Land information is not consistent with the various landabased agencies, which has

resulted

in overlapping of jurisdiction over A & D lands. Cropland use is not efficient because crops

were planted not in accordance with agro-climatic suitability.

c inadequacy or lack of infrastmcture support facilities

The lack or absence of basic infrastructure facilities in the Autonomous Region has been

a big stumbling block to spur economic growth and development particularly in the rural

areas. The region is still in need of more physical infrastructure such as transportation and

communication facilities, post harvest facilities, flood control and drainage system, marketing

and other farming support facilities.

Service areas of irrigation systems at present are not enough to meet the rice requirement

of region.

d Exploitation of forest resources

The rapacious denudation of the region’s forest resources is the main cause of

environmental deterioration through soil erosion and flooding. Another consequence is the threat

of losing cheap source of power from hydroelectric power plants. The availability of water for

urban consumption and rural irrigation systems has also become imperiled.

The remaining forest component of more or less about 100,000 hectares both for virgin

forest and residual forest is the subject to contention whether to comply with the total log

ban or impose selective logging.

 There is a rampant conversion of forestlands to agricultural uses. Specifically, virgin

forests have been logged at a rate of about-a third of the deforestation rate due to lack of long-

term security of tenure. Forest protection is inadequate for policy implementation hence there is

an imbalanced access to forest resources for development.

Resiliency on the extent the implementation of forest management plans and absence of

clear logging ban policy dissemination and information are the stumbling blocks to proper

management of forest resources.

e. Concerns over land suitable for plantations are inadequate planning for plantation of a larger

scale and high quality plantation program.

f. The development of industrial plantations has been considered a low priority concern. At

present, the limited supply of wood products necessitates the development of alternative raw

materials such as the norvwood products.

g Areas subject to environmental hazards

Urbanization should not be encouraged on areas subject to seismic debris, storm and

tsunami threatened areas (coastal line area), flood-prone, and saltwater-intruded as this may

later be hazardous to the safety of the community in the future.

The areas identified are flood»prone, and saltwater-intruded shall be protected and

developed through establishment of a sea-coastal environmental project. Coastal line areas are to

be reforested and / or planted with different coastal forest trees (Mangroves).

h. Pasturelands - grazing areas covered by cancelled leases and permits area not properly utilized

for appropriate alternative land uses; rapid decline of cattle and carabao population coupled with

lack of quality raiser and breeder base.

i. Land use conflicts occur with in proclaimed watershed areas. Areas above 18 percent slope

have continuously been cultivated as the population migration steadily increased to the upland

areas. The intrusion of settlers to the upland areas damages the environmental and ecological

system of the forests particularly the watershed system.

j. Weak local governance capabilities particularly in taxation (i.e. planning, coordination and

assessment/implementation of local tastes generation) at the municipal and barangay levels

In line with the current effort towards decentralization, the taxation capabilities at the

local levels particularly at the municipal and barangay levels become a must and priority

endeavor since this is where the urgency of need for selfreliance and sustainable governance lies.

k. Unstable peace and order situation

The unstable peace and order situation in the autonomous region is one of the stumbling

blocks for the realization of a truly developed region. Stabilization of the peace and order

remains to be one of the major development concerns of the ARMM.

Organized upland farmers and settlers, those are not utilizing the area for crops

plantations and/ or grazing lands with existing leaseholders for reasons of unstable peace and

order, and the forcible encroachment to the area.

l. Coastal areas resources are depleted due to illegal fishing rnetlwds being practiced by some

fislierrnen

Environmental damage such as sedimentation and siltation is due to unsound agricultural

and forestry practices, mismanagement of watersheds and intense agri-aquacultural activities

along the mangrove areas.

Coastal lands are not properly defined or delineated; this has becomes one of the sources

ofland use conflicts. Lack of technical expertise on the nature, size and the dynamics of the
offshore resources, coupled with laclc of technology and technical expertise on post-harvest

handling as well as lack of capital to engage in offshore fishing aggravate the already

problematic condition of the coastal areas.

m. Mining Areas - absence of development plan/ research fl’ development study for detailed

geological survey ?minerals, and absence of database or information system.

3.3 Development Vision

in the name 0fALLAH, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

We, the Bangsa Moro people, under the guidance of the Almighty in our continuing quest

for self-determination, envision a peaceful, progressive society through social justice, human

equity, responsive governance with empowered people, distinct cultural heritage and identity,

sustainably-managed patrimony and with established international amity and enjoying the

freedom to chart our own destiny.

3.4 Goals and Qbjectives

The region seeks to achieve the following goals consistent with the regional aspirations,

values and culture of its constituents:

 Foster a peaceful environment conducive to accelerated socioeconomic development of

ARMM.

 Improve social and human capital particularly among the marginalized sector of the

Bangsamoro people.

 A sustained economic growth ensuring food security, social equity and justice as well as

ecological balance.

 Enhance efficiency of access and mobility of people, goods, economic and basic services.

To attain these goals and provide the desired direction of graphical translation of the spatial
arrangement of land using activities in the five (5) provinces and one (1) city of the region, the

following objectives shall be pursued:

 Enhance easy access of the region’s constituents to basic services;

 Guide investment interest to ensure proper and effective use of the region's physical

resources;

 Establish an effective and rational population distribution pattern, both in mainland and

island provinces;

 Promote and enhance protection and conservation of the environmental patrimony of

the region; regenerate natural resources and achieve ecological balance; and development

policies and strategies;

 Encourage and assist the people to substantially participate in all facets of development;

 Promote people encouragement by motivating people to involve them in all government

developmental decision-making;

 Improve the quality of life and well—being of the ARMM's constituents by providing a

set of regulative policies on the utilization of the region’s patrimony: forest, water, and

marine resources;

 Enhance capability building among skilled and unskilled working forces and to

maximize

the technical know-how of the region's human resources; and

 To optimize investment opportunities through designing an integrated marketing policy.

3.5 Alternative Spatial Development Strategies

Overview and Definition of Proposed Strategies

Taking into consideration the autonomous region's vision and mission, development goals
and objectives; resource potentials; and development challenges, problems and issues that have

been a big stumbling block to spur socio»economic growth and development, three (3)

alternative

spatial strategies are formulated.

a. Protected Agricultural Lands

The region is endowed with a large tract of agricultural land area which is the primary

source of food supply. Urbanization of some sites is inevitable if foreign and local investors

interest will focus their attention on investments and development. Subsequently

development policy/strategy in additional built-up expansion area requirements shall be planned

and must be given priority by the region. lf this economic trend and forecast turn

out to be feasible, at least the region will be able to anticipate the prohibited conversion of

agricultural land into industrial sites as contained in Executive Order No. 92, series of

1993.

ARMM may also adopt regional policies of allowing conversion of some agricultural

land into industrial sites through a passage of RLA laws if high rate of return for

investment and employment warrants or land becomes unproductive due to over use of

plantations.

b. Committed Lands and Areas for Protection and Conversion

Areas set under the NIPAS Law; R.A. 9586 shall continuously be protected and

conserved according to its purpose.

c. Miscellaneous Constraints

Establishment of big industrial factories along the airport approaches will not be

allowed as the buildings would be hazardous to the safe landing of aircraft.

Urbanization should not be encouraged on areas subject to seismic debris, storms

and tsunami as this may later be hazardous to the safety of the community in the future.

While areas identified as flood»prone and saltwatevintruded shall be protected and

developed through establishment of a sea-coastal environmental project. Coastal line areas

are to be reforested and / or planted with different coastal forest trees.

d. Water Resources

Watershed areas are among the essential sources of water supply. Shortage in this

substance can cause serious and irreversible damage not only on the economy but also on

the social development of the urban areas and effective functioning of irrigated land.

industrial factories, and for drinking purposes, electricity, and energy.

The continuous dwindling of our forest resources within critical watersheds areas and

major lakes are among the evident consequences of man is wanton use of forests. More

serious effects of denudation are lasting damages in Watershed capability to regenerate its

forest covers.

Water resources surveys between the years of 1998 to 1999 showed that almost all

major inland provinces in Mindanao have generated their energy power supplies from Lake

Lanao. Watershed reserve forests which are significantly essential source for energy and

irrigation may be reduced by as much as 50 percent if destruction of forest resources is not

averted in time.

Recognizing the importance of water resources in making a self-reliant and

competitive region, the ARMM in cooperation with Non-Government Organizations

should undertake comprehensive programs for mitigating and preserving the forest

resources being the sources of energy and power.

3.5.1 Linear- Corridor Development Strategy

The strategy converges on the continuous build-up of infrastructure support facilities

along the main transport routes to promote Medium-Intensity activities such as smallscale

processing plants, industrial centers, and commercial or wholesale agricultural marketing

center. Likewise, this development strategy creates new strong activity centers as focal points of

growth along main lines of communication and *ransp0rtation. lt will pursue moderately high

and medium intensity activities like agti-industrial complexes while the supporting commercial,

agricultural marketing and institutional development centers maybe distributed along the

defined corridors.

This strategy may result in compatible existing land use mix pattern of the region since

built—up areas have linear pattern where industrial and residential areas may coexist along the

physical infrastructure axis. This will increase employment opportunities in the manufacturing

and service sector of the region since manufacturing sector will tend to concentrate along the

development corridors.

This shall result into a higher urbanization rate of all municipalities along the main

transport axis of the identified development corridors.

ln the case of mainland provinces, the three major development corridors identified for

major investment during the plan period are Malalvang-Sultan Gumander; l ‘JS-Shariff Aguak-

south Upi; and Parang- SK Pendatun. The identified corridors for arthipelago are ]olo-

lndanan-Patang, jolo-Patikul'Talipao, Lamitan- Maluso- lsahela, TipoTipo, Lantawan and

Bongao»Panglima Sugala-Languyan.

Within this plan period, development opportunities will he encouraged along these

corridors. However, decisions will emanate from the investors in partit Wlflf as to the location of
their business endeavors, except for those capitalized l\y the government.

3.5.2 Dispersed Concentration Strategy

ln the midst of its vast natural wealth and potentials, incidence of poverty in the region is

still relatively high. To curh this problem, countryside development must he dispersed to

potential growth centers of the ARMM provinces. In the long run owrty is hoped to he

eradicated and a strong middle class built-up to provide a wider and hroatler hase for further

development centers.

This strategy is designed to complement the Linear-Corridor Development Strategy

through the close linkage of activities within the focal points of the corridor and those within

the satellite or rural focus centers. Favoring the dispersal of development in rural areas, this

strategy will enable the rural people to share and benefit from these development efforts.

This strategy is thus perceived to facilitate the spread of effects from existing/ potential

growth cores within the corridor by making depressed rural t0wns more receptive to

development efforts instead of just passively waiting for the trickle down effects of

development which take a long time to happen without the development interventions cited

above.

Settlements are expected to disperse from the primary centers towards the selected

intermediate centers of Sultan Kudarat, DOS and Shariff Aguak of Maguindanao and the

selected intermediate centers of Balabagan, Ganassi, Lumbatan and Tamparan of Lanao del

Sur for the mainland. ln the archipelago, the identified intermediate centers are lndanan,

Parang, Siasi, Patiltul, Talipao and Pata of Sulu; Sumisip, Lantawan of Basilan and Panglima

Sugala, Sitangkai, Languyan and Mapun of Tawi—Tawi.

These satellite centers will link up with identified Provincial Industrial Center/ s (PIC) by
sewing as the channels of technology transfer and major trading posts for the semiprocessed

raw materials. The said raw materials are then transported and processed in the RAIC. Each

identified growth areas or satellite centers shall serve as lcey production areas for products that

are peculiar in the area which will be supplied to the RAIC like seaweed or “agar-agar” in the

case of provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi and coconut, cassava, rice and corn in the

case of provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur.

3.5.3 Bipolar Strategy

This strategy recognizes the potentials of the two existing growth centers by sub-region

whose development and growth need to he enhanced. This strategy development will focus on

the concentration of investments/ centers instead of spreading investments in‘ only one

regional center or of creating new ones in the hinter areas, which do not benefit from strategic

points of exit/entry like seaports/airports.

The desired direction of development strategy is concentric. First, a nucleus is builtrup

and from this focal point, development zones will gradually evolve.

ln terms of urbanization, the strategy will influence " c concentration of population at

the perceived urban centers of Parang, Maguindanao and Malabang, Lanao del Sur of the

mainland province and in the archipelago provinces of Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi resulting

to escalate the primacy of these municipalities.

The Bipolar Development Strategy (BDS) still needs provision of new and major

rehabilitation of existing roads and bridges, ports and airports and other required

infrastructure facilities for both mainland and archipelago provinces‘

3.6 Evaluation and Selection of Alternative Strategies

6.1 Alternative Strategies Y

 Two alternative spatial strategies were identified as the most appropriate means in the

Regional Physical Framework Plan's development goals and objectives to spur the region's

The following strategies for plan period are: Lure-at-Corridor Development Strategies for

the mainland provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur to include Marawi City and

polar Strategies for the archipelago provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi~Tawi.

6.2 The Evaluation Criteria

The decision on which spatial strategy to adopt for the plan period was guided by

‘hnical evaluation of the three (3) identified strategies based on two (Z) sets of criteria for

th mainland and archipelago provinces ofthe region.

The selected criteria and determinants used in the technical evaluation are as follows:

 Land Use (2O%)

-Land use conversion

-Modified of existing landscapes

 Infrastructure (20%)

-Provisions of new and major iinprovement/rehahilitation

 Regional Economy (20%)

-Agriculture sector

-Industry sector

-Service sector

 Regional, Social Si. Cultural Values (10%)

 Public Administration and Finance (10%)

 Contribution to the attainment of Regional goals/objectives (20%)

3.7 The Preferred Alternatives

The analytical study on the development strategy for ARMM differs from mainland to

archipelago considering its geographical location and natural physical set-up. The focus is to

develop an economic productivity and generate employment in the area without necessarily

destroying the natural resources, thus, attain continuous sustainable development without taking

advantage of the natural resources.

As envisioned, the re ion’s socioeconomic develo ment can be best attained through two

pronged physical development strategy, viz.:

(a) For Mainland: Linear-Corridor Development Strategy — (Z000-Z030)

(b) For Archipelago: Bipolar Strategy — (Z000-Z030)

Mainland: Linear-Corridor Development Strategy — (2000(>2030)

As envisioned, the development strategy shall be focused on the establishment of the

Regional Agri-Industrial Center (RAIC) at Polloc, Maguindanao and Provincial Investment

Estates(PlEs) at Malabang, Lanao del Sur and Shariff Aguak and or D.O.S., Maguindanao.

The RAIC and PlEs are expected to increase productivity and employment in the region.

This will lead to agri-industrialization and realization of the vision and mission of the region to

complement and/ or supplement the Mindanao~wicle strategy of trade and commerce for

economic relation on the Brunei- Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines»East Asian

Growth Area(BIMP-EAGA).

The RAIC shall be established primarily to serve as a major processing center of

agri»based industries and secondary option for petrochemical hub while a complementary agri-

processing center shall be dispersed at the PlEs in Malabang, Lanai del Sur and Shariff, Aguak

and/or D.O.S., Maguindanao consistent with their potential influence area of activities. The
proposed establishment of RAIC is in view of the discovery of oil deposits at Ligaasan Marsh in

the provinces of Maguindanao, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato, which will be a

potential for a petrochemical hub. This oil-based industry is aimed for both upstream and

downstream trading industry.

On and off»site development of the RAIC and PlEs shall be accelerated through

provision of

infrastructure support facilities such as road networks, electric power, water supply, and

transportation networks.

The coastal municipalities of Parang-Balabagan-Malabang, and DOS-South Upi, as well

as

DOSShariff Aguak shall be developed as agriculture-industrial corridor.

Within these development stages, opportunities will be promoted along these industrial

corridors. Nonetheless, industrial sites shall be emanated from the investors themselves as to the

preference of the industry location, excluding those utilized by the government.

The upgrading of various national roads and construction of post harvest facilities will

open up potential agricultural areas along the various municipalities and inter-intra regional

access to neighboring region for socioeconomic and business trading opportunity. Likewise, it

will promote and support complimentary processing services as well as auxiliary support

services such as post-harvest facilities and grains trading centers for the proper utilization of

agricultural based products.

Existing irrigation facilities in the two provinces will be maintained and improved to boost crop

production.

The Awang Airport in Maguindanao will be upgraded to international navigational

standards. This will enable the region to develop and enhance trade and economic relations

between and among the ASEAN countries. Subsequently, and international airport shall be

established Within the industrial corridor of the region to link ARMM not only to the ASEAN

countries but also to the rest of the world.

Archipelago: Bipolar Strategy - (2000-2030)

As envisioned, the development strategy for archipelago shall be focused on the

establishment of the Provincial Investment Estates (Pll-Es) at ]0l0 in Sulu, Larnitan in Basilan

and Bongao in Tawi—Tawi.

The following are the identified main growth oenters, secondary growth centers, and services

areas:

The secondary growth centers and services area identified shall be bolstered with modifying

category and status of investment. Tourism potential of the island provinces will be developed as

a means for employment and encourage investment in the area. In support to this, sea and air

transport shall be developed and expanded into international standard.

However, the growth of each province primarily depends on the level of hierarchy,
infrastructure development and impact of involvement in political and environmental process

that determine major support to the best shape of their physical and socioeconomic development.

This strategy involves the construction of circumferential road within the mainland

municipalities of the provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi. The capital towns of Sulu,

Basilan and Tawi¢Tawi will be determined strategically from each other to serve as the main

growth center for basic services, commercial, and agri-industrial purposes. Likewise, physical

infrastructure support system as well as complimentary processing industries shall be prioritized

to fast track the agri-industry take off of the region.

An international port shall be established in Tawi-Tawi along the Bongao Strait to cater

to the international vessels and the expansion of ]olo and Lamitan wharf designed for RO-RO

port system shall also be given priority. A component ferry system linking Zamboango Lity to

Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi and vice versa shall be established. This development strategy will

lessen the travel time and will expedite the movement of goods and services; and is also expected

to generate local revenue from the areas.

The establishment of seaweeds processing plant and fish canning in Sulu, Basilan and

Tawi-Tawi shall be given priority. Fast tracking of the implementation of preference

infrastructure support facilities within the influence area to increase production and the value of

product and at the time stabilize prices shall also be undertaken. Eventually, it will alleviate

poverty and improve distribution of income and wealth for the farmers, fishermen and seaweed

farmers in the archipelago provinces.

The fishing industry in provinces will be developed with the installation of cold storage

facilities/ice plants in the strategic areas of the island provinces to alleviate the situation of

fishermen in the area. This will reduce the wastage of products due to spoilage and at the same
time increase the family income.

3.8 The RPFP Components

3.8.1 Production Land Use

These are the lands that are actively utilized for various agricultural activities such as:

cultivation of soil, planting of crops, growing of fruit trees, livestock, poultry, fishery or

aquaculture products. it also covers the timber production, agro—forestry, mining, industry and

tourism, harvesting and immediate processing of such farm products and other farm activities.

3.8.1.1 Key Issues and Concerns

The identified areas of concern are as follows: (a) need to enhance the network of

production areas for agriculture,( b) need to strengthen and harness all irrigated and

potential irrigable land, (c) maintain all croplands that support the existing economic scale

of production to sustain the economic viability of existing agricultural in trasrructure and

agro-based enterprises in the provinces, (d) maintain all suitable lands that are traditional

source of food, and (e) maintain all land highly suitable fcr agricultural production and/ or

can be devoted to sustain production.

The region's concern on planning for production land use shall influence the

sustainable management of land resources and cost-effective for productive purposes.

3.8.1.2 Development Objectives

Generally, this sector aims to ensure efficient use of scarce resource and help obtain

return of investments of farmers and fisher folks to increase their real incomes, thus, attain

better quality of life to a level which is at par with other regions of the country.

Specifically, it aims to achieve the following:

 To put lands and water resources to best use;

  To sustain self-sufficiency in rice and corn and to attain 5.0-7.0 metric ton/ hectare

yield for both rice and corn by the end of Z030;

 To enhance the productivity of the regionls fisheries resources;

 To sustain production of high valued commercial crops;

 To strengthen and sustain the foundation for productive, efficient and economic

on livestock and poultry industry;

 To enhance forest productivity; and

 To industrialize grazing lands to its adopted-cultivated grass for harvest to maximize

the production capacity.

3.8.1.3 Basic Policy Options and Development Strategy/ Guidelines

The following are the basic policy options and development guidelines under the

production land use component of the plan;

a. Food Security

The context within the physical framework for food security is to accelerate and

provide sufficient food production to ARMM constituents for future generations through

optimization of local production and intra provincial distribution. This shall be

accomplished through rational utilization and management of the land and water

resources, where areas identified as highly suitable for agricultural production are protected

and developed with appropriate infrastructure and institutional support and in accordance

with the national and regional development policies.

b. Spatial Correlation

This perspective brings in relationship of inter-intra provinces for the establishment

of linkages between areas of production and consumption that involves physical and
economic endeavor. This would eventually improve collaboration along with production

efficiency and delivery of basic services by means of utilizing benefits from the development

of infrastructure systems, particularly the transportation system.

c. Private'Public Sector Collaboration

The development and management of physical resources shall be collective efforts of

government and private sector. Government Sllilll wsume the primary responsibility of

providing the appropriate policy, legal and institutional framework where the private sector

can operate in the management of resources. lt shall assume a multi-layered role of enabler,

facilitator to bring together all development endeavors. The private sector participation shall be

considered as the primary architect in shaping the economic sphere of the region.

Both the private-public collaboration can achieve the best results given its limited

resources. Private sector shall encourage in the provision of basic services and utilities such

as housing and waste disposal facilities.

d. Market Concept

The interfacing of market component within the framework of environment and

ecological balance, spatial correlation, private-public sector collaboration, food security,

and urban-rural development approaches (an inter-intra regional-provincial development)

shall be encouraged and adopted as the pre-requisite consideration in achieving the

allocation and use of land and physical resources. Safety nets (social equity and justice)

shall be put in place to protect disadvantaged sectors from the adverse effects of the

market.

Provision of physical and social infrastructure shall be put in place in the strategic

influence area. lmmediate installation or construction of these vital infrastructures would

be an added incentive to attract investment to the autonomous region.

d.1. Intensify Agriculture-Based and Forest Production

The agriculture sub-sector is adopting the enhancement of food production by

increasing agriculture-based production (rice; corn; high value commercial crops;

livestock and fishery area) Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) Program; improved

mechanism in agri-fisheries sector aimed to generate jobs.

d.2 lntensify croplands for food production by increasing agriculture-based

productions.

d.Z.l GMA-Rice Program

An aggregate area of 88,638 hectares was planted with rice for GMA-Program.

With this, production reached at 398,978 metric tons at an average yield of 2,33 metric

tons per hectare. Other complemented programs are producriov sL1ppurt sewiccs; other

infra and post-harvest development services, extension support education and training

services, and irrigation development services.

d.2.2 C-MA-Corn Program

An area of 172,463 hectares is planted with yellow and white corn. lt has an

approximate 673,514 metric tons harvest with an average yield of 1.39 metric tons per

hectare. Relatively, the same complemented support programs extended to corn

production are the production support services: other infra and post-harvest development

services, extension support education and training services, and irrigation

developinent services.

d.3 Intensify coconut production by increasing agriculture-based productions

ln terms of copra production, an approximate 1,460,409,118 coconuts per year

are harvested with an equivalent of 324,535 metric tons. Coconut production is not

giving best returns income to the farmers because of inadequate tecliivilogv inputs and

lack of extensive support given to the recipient farmers. T he same complementation

support programs shall be extended to coconut production like production support

services: other infra and post-harvest development services, extension support

education and training services.

d.4 lntensify high value crops and other crops production by increasing agriculture-

based productions

Other lands, cultivated 165,214 hectares utilized for types of crops (excluding rice

and corn) such as annual crops and perennial crops including some influence area of

coconut and fishery sector. Multiple cropping systems are common in the mainland

while rnulti-store alley cropping system is noted in the island provinces.

Enhancement of crops production requires more extensive support services of

physical infrastructure and technology inputs for best return of income to the farmers

and the region economy as a whole. The augmentation support programs extended to

crops and some area of fishery sector productivity are production support services;

other infra and post~harvest development services, extension support education and

training services.

These strategies and programs are adopted and are focused on more crop

productions in priority areas whose agtcrcliinatic conditions, processing feature and

marketing support are available and warrants.

 Agricultural lands that have been classified under the protected areas for

agricultural use should not in any way be converted to non-agricultural uses.

The Regional Legislative Assembly {Rl.A) shall pass laws in full support to

protected areas for agriculture in the ARMM

Development policies and strategiu» that prevent the efficient use of agricultural

land, leading to low productivity, by attempting to agriandustrialize the region

ahead, without strengthening thc maximum utilization of agricultural resources

for massive productivity shall not oe encouraged for implementation.

d.5 Fishing Grounds/ Fishery Areas

ln the same manner for Fisheries Development Areas, it will not only emphasize

the enhancement of fishery productivity but also ir "orporate programs component that

would eventually preserve the profile of the €I1VlI'Ol'lI'liL.‘Y for the sources of fish habitat

and fishing production like Buluan Lake, Balut Lake and Darapanan Lake all in

Maguindanao and Lanao Lake and Dapao lake of Lanao del Sur province.

With the agriculture sector intervention strategy, which is designed to entrance

the productivity of the region fisheries resources within ecological limits, ARMM is

expected to sustain its environment likewise increase the yearly average of fishing

production per hectare.

There is a need to design a fisheries development and management area as

special strategy to enhance the productivity of the regions’ fisheries resources. The

scopes of development efforts are as follows: (a) management area for specific coastal

resources and lakes, (la) development of aquaculture, and (c) provision oi infr>»~rruci tre

and post-harvest services. ln view of the Coastal Resources Managen nt (CRM) areas

approach, it will put emphasis on protection for ecological balance by mitigating illegal

untlertaking and exploitation of resources to include integrated Sll5f¢1ifl'/\l‘lC

development environment for the following: the lliana Bay of Lanao Sur and

Maguindanao provinces, Sulu Archipelago, Sulu Sea and Cc-|.‘oes Sea, all in Sulu,

Basilan and Tawi-Tawi provinces.

d.5.l Provincial/Municipal Fisheries

 Strengthen village-level fishermen cooperatives as eitforcvment and regulatory

hotly

 Promote sea farming (seaweed farming) and other rural economic activities

 Provide ofarrificial reefs in depleted municipal water area?

 Adopt of appropriate management measures and continues restocking of

depleted inland water

 RLA to enact law—requiring industries/ industrial related to aquamarines

commerce to construct a seaweed treatment plant requisite for its establishment

d.5.Z Aquaculture

The ARMM thru RLA shall pass laws concerning the preservation of the lllana

Bay and the priority lakes of the region to sustain production and management

for better fisheries.

The RLA shall enact fishery laws, which deal with the issuances of permits and

licenses and the prevention of the fisheries areas of the ARMM.

Continuous research shall focus on genetic improvement and breed stock

development and disease control strategies.

Promote diversified methods of inland fish production such as the Palay-

lsdaan/Manokan/lsdaan. Equitable access to inland fisheries shall be promoted, giving preference

to thelocal community.
d.6 Pasturelands

There are about 46,872 hectares areas for pastureland in the ARMM. Cattle

appears to be least developed considering that the region almost relies on importation

of milk. There is also continuing and alarming decrease of supply of beef not only in

ARMM but also nationwide.

 I Proposed managed pastures lands shall ensure proper management and optimum

use. Grazing lands no longer covered by grazing permits and leases shall be placed

under appropriation suitable development and management.

 0 Under-utilized or unproductive pasture base areas or portions thereof shall be

converted to other sustainable type of production forest activities.

 0 Pasture lease areas or portion thereof, within the protected areas, shall be treated

according to the policies on protection land use.

 Laws preventing the slaughter of young and able carabao/cattle and imposing

strict penalty to those who slaughter carabzio/cattle, young and physically strong

that are not over ll years old shall be imposed.

 I Provincial livestock management uni .s with full time livestock specialist to check

and control livestock production, lute.) shall be established. Technologies and researches that

will promote livestock and poultry development shall be

supported.

 The availability of credit facilities for program cooperators shall be ensured the

capability of agriculture sector field units in providing timely and adequate

pharmaceutical, drugs and biologics, health supervision, and related services

through increased budgetary support/ allocation to Department of Agriculture

shall be strengthened.

 Seed banks and nurseries to serve as source of high quality feeds and forages shall

be established.

 Incentives or privileges in term of taxes to large~scale investors of animal

production shall be given.

d.7 Timber and Fuel Wood

Logging operations within the old growth forest and areas with 50% slope and

1,000 meters and above elevation and all other protected areas as defined under the

National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) are prohibited under the law. The

forestland in ARMM is recorded at 565,369 hectares, including areas protected under

the NIPAS laws. However, timber production is still going on and operating logging

activities are operating within the protected areas of ARMM.

d.7.I Land area of production forest still can be expanded through the Integrated

Forestry Program (ISF) or the Community Forestry Program (CFP) and tree

plantations to be inter cropped with the agricultural fruit trees for

manageable sustainable development.

d.7.2 The area for pasture lease applications shall be reduced in order to have

additional areas for reforestation activities and that areas which are open and

denuded within the declared watershed shall be planted to fast growing tree

species in addition to the area maintained under NIPAS.

d.7.3 Implementation and enforcement of the non-utilization of virgin forest, while

allowing logging operation only in selective forests area. Alternatives to

logging concession system should be developed, e.g. livelihood development

programs to community recipients.

d.7.4 Utilization of forest resources shall be under strict condition of protection

conservation (implement tree plantations) for sustainable development.

d.7.5 Implementation of an agro-forestry/social forestry program, industrial tree

plantation, tree farm outside of the established forest boundaries. Land use

conflict in declared settlement areas shall be settled peacefully.

d.7.6 The exploitation of the remaining residual/ second growth forest should be

restricted to ecologically stable areas and carried out with non—destructive

logging equipment, e.g. skyline yarding with carriages.

d.7.7 All existing forest reservation and its buffer strips shall be delineated on the

ground. Also, mitigate measures on logging operation in old growth forests,

areas within 50% slope and prohibit in areas with an elevation of 1,000

meters.

d.7.8 Alternative cultural systems, e.g. timber forestland, enrichment planting,

should be implemented in dipterocarp residual forest area, also restricting

reaping of voluminous timber log under the Philippine Selective Logging

Systems.

d.7.9 Production forest, as much as possible, should be under the management of

the community; forest areas of manageable size should be covered by forest

management plan.

d.7.l0 Implementation of agroaforestry/social forestry program, industrial tree

plantations, trees farm should be made outside of the established forest

boundaries.
d.8 Mining Areas

There are only few areas presently utilized for mineral extraction, in spite of the

confirmed detection that deposits of both metallic and non-metallic minerals are

abundant in the mountainous part of the region.

d.8.1 An estimated seventy thousand (70,000) hectares shall be subject for

geological survey and mineral exploration.

d.8.2 A comprehensive plan for mineral resources shall be initiated such that mine-

out scenarios are anticipated and properly managed.

d.8.3 Quarrying of non-mineral resources shall be strictly regulated and under no

circumstances shall quarrying be allowed in settlement areas, protected areas,

and seashores.

d.8.4 The adoption of zoning where extensive mining activity is present to avoid

occurrence of environmental pollution.

e. Regional Investment Strategy to Accelerate the Production Sector

This is where the various development of infrastructure such as roads, bridges,

irrigation systems and others must be situated in the influence area in order for ARMM to

attain its objective of viable agro-industrial economy through sustainable production land

uses.

e.I Fast-tracking the Establishment of Regional Agri-Industrial Center, Provincial

Industrial Enterprises and other industrial enclaves in key areas resulting to economic

zones;

 Implementation and regulation of the ARMM Regional Economic Zone Authority

(REZA) law;
  Modernization of agriculture-based and production technologies inputs in pursuit of

agri-industrialization;

 Providing adequate physical and economic support structures;

 Establishment of linkages with NGOs and POs engaged in environmental protection

against unscrupulous exploiters of natural resources;

 Sustaining investment promotions drive in the Philippines and foreign countries;

 Providing full support to entrepreneurs and local businessmen to stimulate the

development of new industries;

 Establishment of trade relations with Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, and other

countries.

 Accelerating the conversion of the Polloc Port into trans-shipment and/ or

international port;

 Establishing and promotion of tourism development in the key areas;

 Strengthening the peace and development programs.

3.8.2 Protection Land Use

The quality of the environment is a direct indicator of the people's quality of life.

Poverty can lead to environmental degradation. Due to economic survival everything within

people's reach that will generate income can be exploited without consideration of the future

environment condition. It is difficult to ask people who live in the poverty to contribute to the

conservation and preservation of environment if it is from this very environment that they

draw their sustenance.

3.8.2.1 Key Issues and Concerns

I. NIPAS Areas for Immediate Attention

 Implementation of NIPAS law is hampered by the absence of accurate and reliable

data on the biophysical characteristics and ecosystem dynamics for the national parks and other

protected areas, which is a prerequisite for classification into NIPAS categories.

 The management responsibility of the protected areas by various agencies has led to

inconsistent protection and rehabilitation measures.

 Limited resources and expertise in protected areas management hampered the

implementation of NlPAS.

 Community participation in the management and development of NIPAS is

limited.

 Unabated human settlement encroachment has resulted in soil disturbance and

other forms of degradation.

 Land use conflicts among ecological space, agricultural land, and built-up areas

have resulted in competing and overlapping land uses.

 The insufficient concern on ancestral lands and customary rights of indigenous

cultural communities has also led to land use conflicts;

 Delineation of the boundaries is yet to be established on the ground; almost all

natignal parks have not yet been surveyed on the ground. Buffer zones are yet to be

established and differentiated on the ground also.

2. Protection Areas not Covered by NIPAS

2.1 Reserved Second Growth Forests

The shifting of timber production based from the old growth to the second

growth forest, excluding those above 1,000 meters in elevation and those 50% or

greater in slope would pose danger in the forest-protected areas.

2.2 Mangroves

2.2.1 Conversion of mangrove forest into fishponds, salt-beds, rice paddies and

even for housing, commercial, and industrial establishments.

2.2.2 Exploitation for timber use, firewood and other uses.

2.2.3 Pollution due to mining and dumping of solid wastes and other waste

materials.

2.3 Buffer strips/public easements

2.3.1 No coherent policy on the proper use and management of these areas

2.3.2 Most of the marshlands have been declared as A & D lands

3. Environmental & Constrained Areas

There is no clear policy/ strategy on disaster preparedness, planning, management

and implementation. The consideration of natural hazards as constraints in development seems to

be weak and inadequate both at the national and local levels due to poor

implementation of disaster preparedness measures/policies. ln most instances, the

government appears to be reactive and not proactive in dealing with hazards faced in the

country.

3.1 Area prone to natural hazards

The Philippine archipelago lies along a zone of wvo tectonic plates, the Eurasian

and Pacific plates which are interacting through collision and compression. Such plate

interaction produced the formation of deep oceanic trenches on the sea floor east and
west of the archipelago, numerous active faults, mountain ranges and chains of active

volcanoes. With this tectonic setting, the country as a whole is vulnerable to many

geologic hazards such as large magnitude earthquakes, volcanic eruption, landslides,

and erosion.

Local climate as manifested by El Nino and La Nina condition has also both

negative and positive impacts on the various sectors of the society and environment

and incidents in the past have shown that there were more adverse effects than the

beneficial ones. Monsoon rains also bring about thunderstorm and torrential rains,

especially when lnter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) moves toward the countryls

direction and stays too long over the archipelago resulting in flash flooding. The

region's geologic setting also renders at vulnerable to climate-related hazards.

3.2 Areas Subject to Volcanic Eruption Fall-out

As of year 2000, there had been no sign of the presence of any active volcano in

the mainland province of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, except in Lihiman Island.

It is an islet located within the municipality of Taganak, Tawi¢Tawi. However, the

identified volcano does not cause any threat at this point in time. Thus, disaster

preparedness measures shall always be ready and available for the next step in

planning/implementation to any natural or man-made calamities in the region.

3.3 Area Subject to Unstable Slope

There are large open areas with unstable s susceptible to soil erosion. It can be

noted that most of the unstable slopes have tremendously accelerated soil erosion.

Some of the hazardous effects of soil erosion are:

3.3.1 Deposition areas waterways, lakes, and reservoirs are rendered shallow with

water quality reduced;

3.3.2 Continuous erosion of hi her slo es renders the subsoil la ‘er mar inall

E P ‘I g Y

productive for agricultural activities;

3.3.3 Sedimentation imperials irrigation systems, the water supply and power

capacity of reservoirs.
3.8.2.2 Basic Policy/ Guidelines

It is impossible to prevent all these natural hazards are impossible to prevent from

occurring but their adverse impact may be mitigated. To assess areas in terms of their

vulnerability to these hazards, it is necessary to determine the risks involved and make

appropriate decisions on how the develop ent of these areas should be planned and

implemented.

1. Regional Governance and Empowerment

Responsible governance is an efficient tool for development. Likewise, communities

that can articulate their problems, needs and priorities can transform themselves and their

communities into selfrreliant and managing entities. Building capacity of people and local

institution in building the right development decisions shall be an ultimate objective.

2. Environmental and Ecological Balance

Ensuring sustainable growth and development of settlements have critical impacts on

physical environment. An appropriate measure and standards of ecological stability must

be considered through effective natural rt ~urce management and balancing demand of

land use activities with reference to pl'€S€I'V3tlO\ of ecosystem.

3. Protection Areas Under NIPAS

Eliminate destructive land use practices in watershed areas. The existing regulations,

settlements programs, incentive systems as well as the monitoring of encroachment and

land use shall be strengthened and enforced.

The security of the watershed forest resources shall be improved with focus on

integrated protection, i.e. ensuring that protection is an integrated part of management

program and expanding the responsibility of individuals and groups benefiting from the
watershed forest reserves and water related infrastructure.

Involvement of the local government units, private sector/NCO in watershed and

soil conservation shall be encouraged to effect equitable distribution of benefits, increase

government efficiency and strengthen its resources.

Protected area management zones shall be established to provide the flexibility in the

management of each protected area and its attached buffer zones; namely: strict protection

zone, cultural zones, recreational zones, special zones and other management zones as may

be used in the management plan.

In compliance with the Local Government Code, Community Forestry should

continuously be pursued in line with the establishment of municipal and forestry parks.

Through DENR Administrative Order N0. Z5, series of 1992, the following shall be

accomplished:

 The major and technical description of protected areas shall be compiled to constitute

the official documents representing the initial components of the NIPAS;

 The NIPAS areas shall be placed under the control and administration of the DENR—

ARMM in coordination with the LGUs. A Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau which

is under DENR is responsible for the formulation of policy and guidelines towards

management; t

 Tenured migrants, who have continuously occupied an area for at least five (5) years

prior to its designation as part of a protected area and are entirely dependent on that

area for subsistence, shall be eligible to become stewards of a portion of land within the

multiple use management or buffer zones of the protected area;

 Migrants who do not qualify as tenured migrants shall be resettled outside the
protected area;

 The plans, rules and guidelines governing land and resource use within the territorial

domain of indigenous cultural communities shall be clone in partnership with this

affected groups in consideration of their rights over livelihood sources; desire to

maintain their social»cultural and spiritual integrity; prevention of degradation of the

protected areas; and encroachment by any development activities or outside parties;

 Proposals for activities which are beyond scope of management plan for protected areas

shall be subject to environmental impact assessment as required by law before

adoption; and

 Delineation of boundaries should be pursued to define the extent of buffer zones and

at the same time identify and regulate activities compatible with the purpose of

protected areas.

4. Protection Areas not Covered by NIPAS law

Ensure policy and strategy implementation for the forestlands not classified under

the Integrated Protected Area System (IPAS) that have been utilized for agriculture

purposes but subject to soil conservation measures and control jurisdiction of the DENR.

However, these lands shall not be classified as alienable and disposable lands.

The enactment of NIPAS law calls for its immediate implementation in order to

distinguish or qualify areas of equal importance and should be accorded to Non-NIPAS

areas in terms of conservation and sustainable development. The areas initially identified

outside the NIPAS are reserved second growth areas for mangroves, buffer strips, fresh

water swamps/ marshes, and watersheds.

4.] Reserved Second Growth Forests

DENR Administrative Order No. Z4 series of 1991, which prohibits logging

operation areas with slope of 50% and above and in areas above 1,000 meters elevation, need to

be strictly implemented. This would mean to preserve the remaining tropical forest gene pool

and biodiversity, and to prevent site and off site damage in the areas. Hence, it is necessary to

delineate and proclaim these preserved areas as part of

the Integrated Protected Areas System (IPAS).

4.2 Mangroves

Mangroves resource development should be institutionalized through the

formulation of additional policies and regulations (DAO No. 15, s. 1990) or amending

existing policies and regulations to allow effective and sustainable mangrove

management highlighting the following:

4.2.1 On land survey, public easements, right of way, and buffer strips shall be

treated as separated lots and be excluded from titling or private ownership;

ocular inspection shall be required before approval of the survey on all areas

adjoining bodies of waters; and

4.2.2 On land disposition, the restriction on easement and right of way should be

incorporated in the patent and list contract; the censors/logs should be

required to reserved forest, and foreshore areas which are critical areas for

recreation/tourism purposes and other public use, from disposition; and

geothermal areas should be nomdisposable.

4.3 Fresh Water Swamps/ Marshes

4.3.1 Inclusion of other swampland in the NIPAS with a category of wildlife

sanctuary or unique ecosystem; and

4.3.2 Draw up guidelines for the proper use or management of these and provide

funds for their implementation.

5. Environmentally Constrained Areas

A Multi-Hazard Protection Plan should be developed using physical infrastructure

and economic system in the region, and the vulnerability of each element at risk to each of

the hazards such as earthquakes, typhoons and other natural disasters. Protection Plan

should be prepared, with priority on database and maximum reduction in threat to life,

structures, and economic production. The regional government should undertake a full

review of methods and resources needed to implement disaster protection plans to include

legal structures, building permit authorization procedures, staffing levels and skills

availability.

lt should be the policy of the region to give priority“ to disaster preparedness

management; hence, line agencies involved in the disaster monitoring and response system

should be upheld in order to (a) expand their capabilities and expertise in disaster

preparation; (b) to provide adequate rescue and relief support to affected people; and (c) to

rehabilitate and construct damaged infrastructure and other properties.

5.1 On Prolonged Flooding

Since these hazards are inherently present in the area, immediate mitigating

measures in the form of proper infrastructure (flood control protection, river control

structure) and settlements planning should be undertaken to prevent extensive

destruction of life and property.

Formulation of a systematic management and protection scheme shall be imposed

and rehabilitated for critical ecosystem such as coral reefs, mangrove, wetlands, lakes,

rivers, wildlife sanctuaries and forests. Forest areas of manageable size should be covered

by forest management plans.

5.2 On Earthquake Induced Hazards/Tsunamis

Some portion or area in the region should also be considered in the building code.

A policy on the provision of easements in areas traversed by active faults with respect to

ground rapture should be adopted. '

The strict implementation and adherence to the existing building code, especially

on provisions for seismic loading during construction should be observed.

To protect the inhabitants on coastal areas prone to tsunamis, permanent human

settlements should be encouraged on areas of higher elevations.

5.3 On Volcanic Hazards

There should be strict engagement of permanent danger zones for active volcanoes.

The PHILVOLCS should also conduct a thorough study and to delineate the applicable

danger zones of other active volcanoes.

The planning and delineating activities should clearly indicate where these areas are

and should strictly impose these danger zones as non»habitat.

5 .4 Unstable Slope

The provisions of security of tenuri to farmers should encourage land users to

protect and rehabilitate the unstable slop ; from soil erosion. Furthermore, the awarding of

stewardship or ownership should only be effected if conservation measures have been

applied. Along open areas with unstable slopes, reforestation has to be established so as to

prevent any possible harmfiil effect caused by denudation.

5.4.1 Watershed Protection

Within the watershed areas, conservation, protection and reforestation have to be

established so as to prevent any possible harmful effect caused by denudation. Formulation

of a systematic management and protection scheme shall be planned and imposed; and

critical ecosystems such as mangrove, lakes, rivers, wildlife sanctuaries and forests shall be

rehabilitated. The strict implementation/ monitoring and adherence to the existing

protection and conservation laws, especially on the inter-intra agency task forces along with

adjacent regions should be enhanced and reactivated like conduct of regular meetings and

monitoring of critical watershed areas in order to prevent life, property, and environment

destruction.
3.8.3 Settlement Plan

A settlement is the core of interconnected activities for the livelihood, shelter, health,

education, recreation, transportation, communication and services of its inhabitants with

adjacent settlements and forms a network of spatially interrelated activities, thus, creating

complementary activities.

The autonomous region is characterized as rural rather than urbanized area since most of

populace is living in the provincial and municipal settlements that are considered depressed

areas. The settlements’ growth and development in ARMM is very slow and somehow lagging

behind from its neighboring administrative regions. Th region has difficulty in taking off or

bound from rural perspective to an urban settlement d< elopment in its territorial jurisdiction

due to its regressive economic development.

3.8.3.1 Settlement Pattern

The regionls spatial distribution of population and development tends to follow the

linear pattern where settlements of people are clustered along the transportation axis.

These are mostly located in the mainland archipelago and along the seashore and or lakes

or rivers on areas predominantly settled or populated by the Muslim inhabitants.

Municipal settlements reached or traversed by road networks and have access to

air/sea transport manifests a relatively high degree of development as compared to the

areas found in the hinterland or islands difficult to reach due to insufficient access to

transportation.

The adequacy of facilities and services in such municipal/provincial settlement

within the rural-urban (city) settlements hau J€COmC the preconditions for rapid growth

and development in the areas.

The rural settlements in the ARMM belong to the category of most depressed areas

considering that most of them are enlisted under [lit 3'“ or fourth-class category. This

indicates that the populace and the local leaders of such settlements are faced with the

challenge of how they can improve the quality of their lives.

lf the trend of development does not change many settlement areas will be lag behind

and a large portion of the population will not be able to partake the fruit of any

development introduced in the area.

Urbanization

As stated earlier, the autonomous re ion is redmninantl rural for most of its population is living in

the provincial and municipal settlements that are considered

depressed areas. With the present situation prevailing in the existing settlements in the

ARMM, its rowth and develomcnt are reall vet slow com warcd to those of their

YYl

neighboring administrative regions. At present, the autonomous region cannot take off due

to its regressive in economic development.

Many people living in the provincial/municipal SVlIl€1\1€IY.s‘ tend to move out to

nearby urban cities like Cotabato City in case of the people living in Maguindanao

province and to Zamboanga City in case of the people living in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-

Tawi.

Some have stayed permanently in their respective municipal settlements but

concentrated mainly on areas located along the national highways and the

coastlines/seashores/rivers or lakesides where the economic activities -re Yswated within

their respective influence area.

Most of the municipal settlements are generally in rural areas, because most of them

remained stagnant in the 4"‘ and 5*‘ class provincial /settlements. None of these

settlements have been able to reach the level of becoming urbanized settlements.

1. Proposed Plan for Urban Centers (under Phase ll and Phase Ill)

a. Urban Center Whose Growth must now be Strengthened

ARMM is composed of five (5) provinces and one (1) city with 100 municipalities

and have been settled by people of different tribes, cultures, and traditions.

The settlements of people in the areas of Parang, Sultan Kudarat, D.O.S., Shariff

Aguak, Datu Paglas, Marawi City, Wao, Malabang, Saguiran, Lamitan, ]olo, Bongao, and

$itangkai have turned these areas into urban and rural growth centers. However,
settlements in the area of autonomy are still in the 3“ to 4*‘ class category and only very few

have attained the level of a Zncl class municipalities and provinces.

With the conditions and status of the identified urban centers in the municipalities

of ARMM, their growth must not be contained until such time that full development as

urban settlement centers have been attained, If and when they are fully urbanized, their

expansion should be restrained so that they do not encroach any areas designated as prime

agricultural lands.

Expansion of urban settlements must be coherent and policies for the enforcement of

zoning and land use plans shall be a clear-cut. To rationalize their need for goods and

services, population movement should highlight economic development. It is therefore the

intention of the RPFP to maximize urbanization activities to the identified urban centers of

the region.

b. Urban Centers Whose Further Growth may be Encouraged

As the Regional and Provincial Agri-Industrial Centers gear up towards development,

gradual urbanization activities is also on progress. The other urban centers that belong to

all level of sub-provinces in the new settlement hierarchy should be encouraged to grow

and develop in order that they could complement the needs and requirement of the major

urban centers notwithstanding the developmental process given to the different class of

municipalities that are still hailing forward due to scarcity of fund.

With regards to the settlement areas that are con idered within all categories, they

will be given continuous attention by the agencies involved in order to achieve their

mission of carving and establishing models of progressive settlement communities out of

the hinterlands where landless farmers, farm workers and fish folk alike can live peacefully
 Subsequently, development should be shared among the primary, and secondary

urban centers and satellite centers so that the vertical and lateral development schemes go

on simultaneously in order for each of them to cope with the development pace in the

neighboring regions.

2. New Settlements Hierarchy

With the identification of settlements considered as primary growth centers,

secondary growth centers in ARMM should now be classified according to their

hierarchical importance in the overall development process.

As such, the additional listing as indicated/enumerated below shows the

hierarchy of new settlements, to wit:

a. Primary Growth Centers

New Settlements areas for possible change into primary growth center:
a.1 Shariff Agualo site of the Provincial Capitol of Maguindanao
a.Z Datu Abdullah Sangki (DAS), Maguindanao
a.3 Datu Paglas, Maguindanao
a.4 Binidayan, Lanao del Sur
a.5 Bayang, Lanao del Sur
a.6 Patikul, Sulu
a.7 lndanan, Sulu
a.8 Parang, Sulu
a.9 Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi
a.1O Languyan, Tawi-Tawi
a.1l Lantawan, Basilan
b. Secondary Growth Centers
b.l South Upi, Maguindanao
b.Z Marantao, Lanao del Sur
b.3 Bayang, Lanao del Sur
b.4 Panamao, Sulu
b.5 Luuk, Sulu
b.6 Simunul, Tawi-Tawi;
b.7 Tipo-Tipo, Basilan
c. Satellite Growth Centers All municipalities not mentioned above.
3.8.3.2 Policy Proposals

Urban

a. Social Equity and ]ustice

Pursuant to constitutional provision on just distribution of country's resources

the autonomous region upholds the same guiding principle by providing equal

opportunities in the use of land and other resources. Consistent with the vision, goals

and objectives within the context of the physical framework, it shall be carried-out

through provision of basic services, economic opportunities, and respect of values,

culture, and rights of the people.

b. Urban-Rural Development

Economic growth is a major factor of many urban areas that would eventually be

characterized by severe gaps in the levels of services and utilities and substantial

environment degradation. Mitigating factors to avoid adverse effects on demands for

urban land, settlement, infrastructure services and utilities shall be measured with due

consideration to the capacity of the environment to sustain them. Alternative urban-

rural development approaches shall be considered to encourage rational urban-rural

growth that accommodates economic, environmental, and equity factors, including

complernentation with rural areas from the islands provinces.

Urban Development

 Areas delineated and identified to form part of the Regional Agri-Industrial Center

shall provide the impetus and be considered for growth and development to serve as

convergent zone or catchments center to motivate population movement. Specified

geographical areas with the peripheral of the RAIC should be properly signified and

segmented to allow people to be spatially distributed.

 Signification and segmentation of urbanized lands for urban development should be

geared towards the attainment of efficient use of infrastructure facilities, maximization

and the wise utilization of economic resources available in the area for easier

introduction of major development projects.

 Resettlement plan for internally displaced persons due to conflict and deportees from

neighboring Sabah, Malaysia shall be given priority by the region.

 Provision of social and physical infrastructure support, low cost housing and livelihood

Program to internally displaced person due to conflict and deportees from neighboring Sabah,

Mala "sia shall be undertaken.

 Development of progressive and productive seinements into rural—urban centers should

be made moderately and with seriousness so as to attain desired population densities.

This would mean a more pleasant, safer, healthier and livable environment for local

residents to live in.

 Multiplication of rural-urban settlements in various municipalities shall be regulated

and be screened properly through the enforcement of the land use and zoning plans as

spelled out in the RPFP?Expansion and or premature expansion should not be allowed

particularly on areas considered production lands for agricultural, fisheries and forest

products including but not limited to forest protected areas.

 Provision of adequate and sufficient land areas to sustain, support and supplement

requirements of settlement growth be properly allowed and be set-aside in all

appropriate locations.
  Highly polluted and hazardous areas should be given serious consideration and

attention in the planning aspect of all levels particularly in the local planning of

infrastructure facilities and settlements.

Site determination for the establishment of public service infrastructure

facilities/ projects and tertiary industries should go along with the hierarchy for urban

centers, while that of the site intended for resource specific projects are determined by

the necessity of their development impact.

 Foot loose industries considered to be of no extraordinaryllocation indicator may be

located by its market-based potentials or for their development effect to the urban

settlement.

Rural Settlement

 Integration of responsible parenthood and natural family planning to the rural

communities shall be propagated to help reduce population growth fill‘. .

 Enforcement of promulgated policies, rules and regulations governing the use of forest

lands, coastal fishing grounds and small-scale mining areas that can destroy and or

reduce productivity of subject areas.

 Conduct of information campaigns to settlement occupants regarding hazardous and

pollution activities detrimental to healthy environment.

 Provision of basic support services and the timely delivery of the same, shall be

equitably shared notwithstanding the geographical location of the settlement.

 Settlements that are isolated/scattered and far apart from one another should be able

to receive equitable share in development and harmoniously interface with the other
adjacent settlement areas in conformity with the concept of mutual understanding and

unity in diversity.

 Established settlements should be developed and sustained in maintaining an

ecologically balanced environment but the expansion of growth should be regulated

when the protected areas are threatened within the vicinity.

Recognition and protection of the rights of the indigenous cultural communities

(ICCs) on their ancestral domain. The identification, survey, delineation, and titling of

the same shall be provided by the government. Likewise, "the lCCs granted should be

the privilege of managing the forest and mineral resources within the rightfully claimed

area.

c. Industry Growth Centers Programs and Strategies

Two different spatial strategies are proposed to supplement the economic

development of the region. The Linear Corridor and Bi-polar strategy will be adopted

for the mainland and archipelago provinces, respectively. Due to its varying potentials,

the mainland Linear Corridor is divided into three (3) groups. These are as follows:

 The Kapatagan-Malabang-Sultan Gumander Coastal Crescent, which covers the

municipalities of Matanog, Kapatagan, Balabagan Malabang and Sultan Gumander;

 The Parang-Sultan Kudarat Linear Corridor, which covers Cotabato City and

municipalities of Parang and Sultan Kudarat and other adjacent municipalities;

 The D.O.S-Shariff Aguak-Upi Corridor covers the municipalities of DOS, Shariff

Aguak, Talayan, Datu Piang, Datu Paglas and other adjoining municipalities.

Bipolar strategy recognizes the potentials of the existing growth center in the

provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi whose development and growth need to be
enhanced. As such, the municipalities of ]olo/Indanan, Lamitan and Bongao were

identified as the potential economic growth centers and their adjacent municipalities

were divided into clusters.

These two growth centers are expected to complement the socioeconomic

development with the other satellite municipalities. Each growth center shall be

supported with varying types and levels of investment in order to form them or provide

distinct roles and functions in the region's development.

RAIC is a priority investment proposal identified as the flagship program for

ARMM. The following proposed projects and strategy to be put up in RAlC are

follows:

 Establishment of Agri-Industries Processing Plant and Petro-Chemical Complex for

Oil-based Energy Project

Recent developments show that Maguindanao province and the outlying

provinces of Region XII have potential oil deposits. Seismic surveys have been

conducted to determine the amount of available oil deposit in the area.

It is timely to establish an oil refinery in the region considering its proximity to

the neighboring oil exporting Asian countries not to mention that the country is

presently facing deficit on this valuable resources.

The presence of deep international seaport in Polloc and its accessibility to major

growth centers in Mindanao makes the establishment of an oil refinery feasible. In

addition, this proposal can be major catalyst to the establishment of additional

industries in Mindanao particularly medium and heavy industries.

Based on the assessment of the local capability of the region, it shows that there
is a presence of enough technical expertise to manage the investment development

process of an oil refinery. However, the constraint encountered by the ARMM

government is the insufficiency of funds to support the investment development

process.

Aside from the establishment of an oil refinery other petro-chemical based

industries could also be established also in RAIC.

 Study on the establishment of downstream and upstream petro—based industries.

 . Oil» based fuel industry

 Agricultural chemical industry

 Fertilizer industry

 Tire production industries

Establishment of Agri-industries Processing Plant

The following agro—based industries are envisioned to be established in RAIC and

in the Provincial Industrial Centers aside from the petrochemical industry and likewise

to tap and utilize the abundant natural resources of the region.

 .Rubber processing plant

 Integrated coconut processing plant

 Corn processing plant

 Cassava processing plant

 Fruit processing plant

 Food technology research center

3 8 4 Infrastructure Plan

3 8.4.1 Key Issues and Concerns

The inadequacy of infrastructure facilities in the autonomous region is caused by the

following issues and concerns:

 Unstable peace and order condition that har pcrs implementation of considerable

number of infrastructure projects in the region;

 Limited financial resources to support provision of more infrastructure facilities, lack

of maintenance of existing ones, and substandard construction/ rehabilitation of

projects;

 Lack of linkage with private sector that encourages them to participate in the provision

of infrastructure facilities like water supply system, telecommunication and

transportation;

 Need to strengthen the coordination with the non-developed major infrastructure

agencies like the National Electrification Administration (NEA), National Irrigation

Administration (NIA), Local Water and Utilities Administration (LWUA), National

Power Corporation (NAPOCOR), and many other agency implementing their

development programs and projects in the ARMM to ensure their programs and

projects consistency with the development thrusts of the autonomous region;

 Absence of common fund or emergency fund for natural calamities that caused massive

destruction of considerable number of infrastructure facilities;

 Absence of master plans/ feasibility studies for major infrastructure projects;

 Insufficient transportation network specifically farm—to-market roads and vital bridges

that affects agricultural production and marketing;

  The four (4) major airports in the region can only accommodate small aircrafts;

 Ports are still inadequate to meet the growing demand for maritime transport and the

delivery of goods and services;

 Inefficient and ineffective delivery of letters due to lack of transportation services;

 Lack of liberal policies and regulations to attract prospective inventors in the region;

 Forest denudation affects the watershed areas of the lake Lanao. The total power-

generating capacity of existing plants can no longer cope with the increasing demand

for electricity;

 Lack of power barges in the island provinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi to provide

adequate electricity to the areas not feasible to hydro-power plants;

 Undeveloped potential irrigable areas and lack of maintenance of irrigation system that

reduce the agricultural production in the areas;

 Inadequate flood control and drainage facilities that resulted in destruction of

infrastructure facilities (i.e. roads and bridges, power; etc.), lives and agricultural crops

during the typhoons and floods; and

 Inadequate social infrastructure projects such as: health centers, school buildings,

hospital buildings and equipment facilities which are attributed to lack of funds.

3.8.4.2 Objectives

The infrastructure sector generally aims to provide a more supportive role in the

development of agri—industrial, human, macroeconomy and administrative concerns of the

region through the provision of infrastructure facilities.

Specifically, it aims to provide adequate, reliable and efficient infrastructure utilities

and support facilities. It seeks for the establishment of the following:

  Regional transportation network that shall include roads and bridges, airport,

seaport, and railway system;

 Telecommunication system;

 Power generating facilities like hydro-electric plants and power barges;

 Potable water supply and irrigation system;

 Major shore protection facilities like the rock causeways, lake walls, and other related

facilities; and

 Social infrastructure including hospitals, municipal health centers, barangay health

stations, and school buildings.

3.8.4.3 Institutional and Policy Proposal

To ensure the infrastructure development in ARMM, the following policies shall be

pursued:

 Institute measures to resolve peace and order concerns to ensure effective and

efficient implementation of infrastructure projects/ programs;

 Intensify strategies/ programs to avail of loans and grants from the national and

foreign funding institutions to finance infrastructure projects in the region;

 Strengthen linkages with the private sector and institute more liberal policies and

regulations to encourage greater participation in the provision of infrastructure

utilities like water supply systems, telecommunications, and transportation;

 Pursue close coordination with the non-devolved major infrastructure agencies to

ensure the consistency of their sector development plans to the development thrusts

of the Autonomous Regional Government;

 Prepare master plans/ feasibility studies of major infrastructure projects to facilitate

sourcing of funds from prospective funding institutions;

 Optimize the utilization of funds for the maintenance of existing projects focus on

projects that have economic impact; and

 Ensure vigorous commitment of government officials and the implementing agencies

for implementation of various infrastructure projects.

 lntensify monitoring of project implementation to ensure that the programs/ projects

are in accordance with the approved program specifications and quality standard.

 Institute more liberal policies and regulation to attract more active participation of

the private sector in the provision of telecommunication systems.

 Strengthen coordination with NAPOCOR, NEA, NIA, LWUA to ensure that the

region is included their development agenda as these agencies are not devolved to the

region.

 Strengthen coordination between the concern d agencies/implementers and the

local officials as well as beneficiaries of the project through advocacies and

information campaigns regarding the projects.

 Intensify preservation of forest reserves within the watershed areas in order to sustain

the operation of major hydroelectric plants in Mindanao in general.

 Advocate for the active participation of the private sector in the construction of the

power plants through the Build»Operate and Transfer (BOT) and Build-Transfer (BT)

schemes.

 Optimize the operation of the hydroelectric plants to meet the requirenitengof

demand for electricity.

 Evolve health and education policies and strntegiies tihgttwgtulldl

services to the depressed and isolated people in the areas.

3.8.4.4 Long-term Infrastructure Development Plan

In as much as the region aims to establish efficient land transportation network,

major construction of roads and bridges shall be carried-out vigorously. In like manner

agriculture, social, and economic programs shall also be undertaken extensively.

If there would be massive development of major &1I’[€1]l;3,;l roads dgggwwfl liigk gjqg

mainland provinces to their neighboring regions and if there would w const-ruetion and

rehabilitation of secondary and farm to market roads trade and economic activities with

the neighboring regions would be enhanced. The full development of arterial and

circumferential roads of the island provinces subsequently will complement the

development of arterial roads in the mainland provinces, thus the regions’ agri-

industrialization strategy will gear up and open its opportunities to various forms of

economic activities.

Conclusions and Recommendations

The following are the proposed major projects:

1. Implementation of Critical Infrastructure Projects:

1.1 Concreting of road along the coastal municipalities:(Parang-Balabagan-Malabang-

Sultan Gumander»Karomatan)

1.Z Lumbatan- Marogong-Tubaraw Malabang Road

1.3 Concreting of Parang-Buldon-Barira-Butig Road (Proposed Diosdad(vMacapagal

National Friendship Highway)

1.4 Concreting of Molund0'\X/aoe Road

1.5 ]olo lsland Circumferential Road

1.6 ]0lo Trunkline Road Network

1.7 Tawi-Tawi Mainland Circumferential Road

1.8 Basilan Circumferential Road

1.9 Lake Lanao Circumferential Road (Asphalt Overlay)

1.10 Semba-Kusiong Road

1.11 Concreting of Awang-Upi-begak Road

1.1Z Construction of Cotabato City East Diversion Road

1.13 Construction of Ganassi-Tubod Road

1.14 Flood Control and Drainage Project

1.15 Major Ports and Airports

1.16 Bridge Projects

Z. Integrated lnfrastructiire Support Programfor Agri-Industrial Development

2.1 Development of the Regional Agro-Industrial Growth Zone (On and Off-Site

Support Facilities Project)

2.2 Support for Agriculture Production Areas (Post—Harvest Facilities, Irrigation and

Drainage System, etc.)

3. Railway System in Mindanao

Aside from railway development the sea transportation network shall be improved to

provide efficient inter and intra regional transportation of goods and services (RORO

System). Construction and improvement, or rehabilitation to be undertaken are as follows:

 Polloc Port Improvement

 Construction of Malabang port

 Bongao Port Improvement

  ]0lo Port Improvement

 Lamitan Port Improvement

Likewise, municipal fishing ports in the island provinces shall be improved while

strategic fishing ports within the mainland provinces shall be developed.

With regards to airport, the three existing airports namely: Awang Airport, ]olo

Airport and Sanga-Sanga Airport shall be upgraded to international navigation standard to

accommodate bigger aircraft. An alternate airport; Malabang airport, shall be improved to

augment the major airports for facilitating the movement of goods and services.

3.1 Social Infrastructure Programs

3.1.1 School Buildings (Construction/lmprovement)

3.1.2 Hospital Buildings and Equipment Facilities

3.1.3 Rural Health Units and Barangay Health Stations

3.1.4 Day Care Centers

3.1.5 Teachers Training center

3.1.6 Manpower Training Centers

3.1.7 Recreational Sport centers

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

REGIONAL LAND USE COMMITTEE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP (TWG)

The Regional Land Use Committee — Technical Working Group (RLUOTWO) members

who consolidated and updated the ARMM Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP), Z000-

Z036

Dir. ISMAEL MABANING Director, DENR-ARMM ARMM Compound, Cotabato City

Ms. SHIRLEY ANTENOR Planning Officer, DEN R-ARMMARMM Compound, Cotabato City

Tel. N0. (O64) 421-4392/4Z1-4387

Dir. DOMINGO LOZANO Director, DAR-ARMM ARMM Compound, Cotabato City

Ms. REBECCA BAUTIST A Chief, Technical Division, DAR-ARMMARMM Compound,

Cotabato City

Tel. No. (O64) 421-6512

Ms. MARABENE UY Chief, Administrative Division HLURB-ARMM

Tel. No. (O64) 421-I552

Engr. BAHAMA ANDAR Engineer Ill, DPWH-ARMM. ARMM Compound, Corabato City

Tel. No. (064)421,1732

Engr. MACAPADO D. BENITO Chief, Infrastructure Development Planning Division RPFP

TWCI secretariat RPDO-ARMM

Tel. No. (O64) 421-1398

Engr. GAMAR S. ZAPANTA Planning Officer Ill RPFP TWO Secretariat RPDO-ARMM

Tel. No. (O64) 421-1398

RPDO REVIEW GROUP ED DIAMADEL E. DUMAGAY, CESO

Engr. MLANG U. MADAL, MPS-DM