Mindanao Enters a New Phase of Growth and Stability

Mindanao’s Upward Trajectory Reinforced by Peace and Investor Confidence

Mindanao is experiencing one of its strongest periods of economic confidence in years, according to MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno. With nearly all localities declared insurgency-free, the region is seeing renewed interest from national agencies, foreign partners, and private investors.

At a December 5 press conference in Davao City, Magno described this moment as a crucial opportunity for Mindanao to fast-track development programs long hampered by conflict and outdated perceptions.

Key developments outlined include:

• Expanded development programs in 2026, including an upcoming memorandum of understanding with the Department of Transportation.
• Closer cooperation with agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, DICT, and the Office of the President to accelerate regional projects.
• Creation of the PPP One-Stop Facilitation Center, designed to simplify processes and support LGUs and private partners without requiring initial travel to Manila.
• Growing foreign support, with funding from the EU, ADB, JICA, and multiple grants for Tawi-Tawi and BARMM.
• Rising interest from Middle Eastern and ASEAN groups, especially in sectors tied to BARMM’s development.
• Improving economic indicators, including lower inflation and reduced poverty and unemployment rates.

Secretary Magno emphasized that investor attention is increasing because the region is now positioned for large-scale development.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Regional Connectivity

MinDA is aligning efforts with ASEAN and BIMP-EAGA to restore air and sea routes with neighboring countries, while prioritizing upgrades to airports and seaports through PPP arrangements. Improved connectivity is seen as essential to expanding trade and unlocking Mindanao’s role in regional markets.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s priority agenda for Mindanao complements these efforts with a focus on:

• Food security and modernized agriculture
• Renewable energy expansion
• Accelerated infrastructure and digital transformation
• Inclusive, sustainable growth across all provinces, including BARMM

The administration views Mindanao’s rise as vital to achieving long-term national prosperity.

Explore Mindanao’s Path to Regional Leadership

With strengthened peace, rising investment, and a unified development agenda, Mindanao stands poised to shape the country’s economic future. Stakeholders are encouraged to take part in building the region’s next chapter.