In a crucial step to develop the science education schooling system in the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Science and Technology spearheaded the crafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Bangsamoro Science High School System through a stakeholder consultation and Small Group Discussions (SGD) held on November 7-10, 2023.

Taking place at the Acacia Hotel in Davao City, the two-day activity was attended by various stakeholders and officials from ministries and offices in the region. Their objective was to conduct an SGD and establish a comprehensive and well-informed set of Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs) for the Bangsamoro Science High School (BSHS).

Minister Engr. Aida Silongan, MAPDS, Deputy Minister Engr. Edzel Mohammad Jilhano, Bangsamoro Director-General Engr. Abdulrakman Asim, Atty. Norhussien Lauban, Director II Nasrodin U. Buisan, RCh from Technical Management and Operation Services, Director II Nasrodin A. Buisan from Research and Development Services, Rocaya G. Edres, Chief of Science Education, Scholarships, and Grants, alongside other MOST officials, led the activity. 

Representatives from different offices including the Office of the Floor Leader – Atty. Mehrab Bahri, Bangsamoro Attorney General Office – Atty. Bibbo Domado, Bangsamoro Transition Authority Office – Atty. Nabila Mohamad, Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education – Dir. Johnny Balawag, Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs (MIPA) – Ma’am Judith Tino, Office for Settlers Community – Sir Edgardo Ramirez, Office of the Wali – Omarkhalid Ampatuan, and other stakeholders also participated.

During the opening session, Minister Silongan emphasized the significance of this initiative in developing the BSHS system in the Bangsamoro region.

“With the enactment of Bangsamoro Autonomy Act no. 40 or the Bangsamoro Science High School System’s Act of 2023, our ministry is tasked with overseeing the establishment of the institution, including the development of its implementing rules and regulations. These rules are a shared responsibility, representing diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise. This diversity enables us to create fair, inclusive rules that address the needs and challenges of our Bangsamoro educational system, ensuring their strength and inclusivity,” Minister Silongan remarked in her opening statement.

Throughout the discussion, participants openly addressed issues and concerns, fostering a collaborative atmosphere to resolve challenges and build consensus. This approach not only promotes the development of IRRs but also ensures a shared sense of ownership and commitment to their successful implementation.

Recently, the Bangsamoro Parliament enacted Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 40, also known as the “Bangsamoro Science High School Systems Act of 2023”. As stipulated in the law, the Ministry of Science and Technology must promulgate the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) within six (6) months of the act’s passage. The IRR will outline benefits for qualified students and provide guidelines for the school’s operation, among other aspects.

The conducted SGD and consultations were a significant step to ensure a more focused and detailed exploration of the intricacies of the BSHS IRRs. It allows for a tailored approach to rule-making that considers specific challenges and opportunities, expediting the process of IRR development to ensure operational regulations are in place.

The key resource persons concluded the discussion with their message of support and commitment, ensuring that their efforts and insights contribute to the region’s quality and progressive education for the benefit of the Bangsamoro people, aligned with the government’s goals.

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[Information and Communication]