Access Bangsamoro launched to provide online platform for BARMM discussions

THE ACCESS Bangsamoro Website (accessbangsamoro.ph) was launched Thursday (May 30) “to promote the free flow of information, analysis, and discussions” relating to the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and the transition into the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The online and social portal, with funding assistance from the Australian government, is hosted by the Institute for Autonomy and Governance and the Policy Center of Ateneo School of Government. “During the transition period, the structures and processes to implement the BOL and rebuild democratic institutions will be put in place. Access Bangsamoro will serve as a platform for education and discussion, help create sound and effective evidence-based public policy, and engage as wide a part of society as possible,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven J. Robinson said at the launching ceremony in Cotabato City. The portal will focus on three critical issues: intergovernmental relations, public finance management, and the parliamentary and electoral system. In a message posted on its Facebook page, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag (Murad) Ebrahim said in support of the project, “While we continue to face critical issues and challenges during this transition period, we in the Bangsamoro Government will remain steadfast in pursuing good governance… We hope that Access Bangsamoro will provide a significant space for research and discussions that will promote transparency, accountability, and moral governance in the Bangsamoro.”