Iligan Boosted by Regional Developments as Philippines Assumes BIMP-EAGA Chairmanship

The Philippines has formally taken the chairmanship of the BIMP-EAGA subregional cooperation mechanism, placing Mindanao Development Authority at the forefront of strategic preparations for the 33rd Senior Officials Meeting and the 28th Ministerial Meeting in Davao City. This shift in leadership marks a crucial moment for Mindanao and nearby cities like Iligan as regional cooperation continues to accelerate.

MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno welcomed the National Secretariats of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Malaysia to Mindanao for a series of high-level preparatory meetings. He reaffirmed MinDA’s commitment as the Philippine Coordinating Office for BIMP-EAGA to strengthening collaboration, supporting inclusive development, and positioning Mindanao as a vital growth hub within the subregion.

Iligan Positioned to Benefit From Stronger Mindanao Regional Linkages

The annual Senior Officials Meeting serves as a platform to review progress across BIMP-EAGA’s priority pillars, including connectivity, food and agribusiness, tourism, environment, and socio-cultural and education sectors. With Mindanao’s elevated leadership role, cities such as Iligan stand to gain from enhanced infrastructure planning, increased regional cooperation, and broader development opportunities.

During the discussions, MinDA Deputy Executive Director and Philippine National Secretariat Head Asec. Montenegro underscored the need for stronger institutional mechanisms to support the implementation of BEV 2035 and ongoing BIMP-EAGA initiatives. The Asian Development Bank likewise provided technical guidance to strengthen strategic planning and improve execution across the subregion.

Key outcomes of the National Secretariats Meeting included the refinement of the draft Joint Statement for the upcoming Ministerial Meeting, finalization of the Senior Officials Meeting agenda, and preparations for the Ministerial Retreat, Bilateral Meetings, and the Chief Ministers, Governors, and Local Governments Forum.

These efforts reflect national directives to fast-track inclusive growth and reinforce Mindanao’s role as a strategic gateway for trade, tourism, and innovation, with ripple effects expected across urban centers including Iligan.

Take Action: Follow Regional Moves That Strengthen Mindanao and Iligan Growth

As Mindanao steps deeper into regional leadership, residents, stakeholders, and local sectors in Iligan are encouraged to stay engaged with these developments. Strengthening cross-border cooperation is key to unlocking broader opportunities, and this new BIMP-EAGA chairmanship positions Mindanao and Iligan for greater economic momentum. Stay informed and take part in the region’s forward push.