MILF: TAF Sponsors Planning Workshop for BLMI’s Executives and Staff

From the MILF Website  (Mar 2): TAF Sponsors Planning Workshop for BLMI’s Executives and Staff

The Asia Foundation (TAF) headed by Mr. Steven Rood, Ph.D, Country representative and Regional Adviser for Local Governance of TAF, sponsored last February 16-17, 2013 at the El Manuel Convention Hall, Cotabato City, a Planning Workshop for members of the BLMI’s Oversight Committee, Steering/ Executive Committee and staff which concentrated on how the institute performs and enhances; its mandate, role and strategies as a human capacity building institution that cater to the human development needs of the Bangsamoro most particularly members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The one and a half-day activity was facilitated/ moderated by Dr. Radzak Sam, former professor of the Mindanao State University in Maguindanao and Cotabato City State Polytechnic College, Cotabato City. Dr. Sam is also a visiting professor of the International Islamic University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia before and after he retired from public service. On hand to help facilitate and oversee the activities were Dr. Rood himself, Ms. Noraida Chio, a TAF member and other three members of the Foundation. Also present was Ms. Samrah Karon, a representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The activity was attended by no less than Mohagher Iqbal, MILF Chief Negotiator, BLMI’s Chairman of the Oversight Committee and now the Chairman of the newly created Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and Abdullah Camlian, another member of the MILF Peace Panel.

The BLMI’s Steering Committee members who were present were Shiekh Mahmud Ahmad, Executive Director, Ismael Abdullah, Omsar Paradan, Mohammad Ishaq Macapoli, Uz. Abdulsalam Alabat, an expert on Sharia’h Law,Ahmad Mama, Majid Nur, Tirson Tahir and Mr. Zamin Unti, BLMI Administrative Officer. Four volunteer staff also attended.

The workshop was fruitful as the participants were guided by the facilitators on how to strengthen its strategies in performing its mandate; determine its expectations during the pre-BTA, BTA and Bangsamoro Period. Likewise, the management of the institution was also asked to expand its offices while the peace process is nearing its end in due time.

On its part, the TAF suggested the conduct of trainings on Communication and Documentation Skills, Financial Management and a Seminar on the Ministerial Form of Government, etc. It also recommended the development of registry of Bangsamoro professionals. A Writeshop , which is an activity to be sponsored also by TAF, is scheduled this March 5-7, 2013 at the Pinnacle Hotel, Davao City for BLMI’s Steering Committee members and staff. The Foundation is credited for extending its assistance to the fullest just to enhance the capabilities of BLMI officials and other members of the MILF who are recipients of various trainings held at the BLMI.

In his short remarks, Iqbal emphasized the importance of unity and learning in imparting skills and knowledge to the participants in activities conducted by the institute. He said that, “learn, teach and implement” are a must for BLMI members to effectively deliver their mandate to the people.
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