COTABATO CITY: The Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has allocated PHP256 million for enhancing local governance, improving disaster preparedness, and bolstering emergency response for local government units (LGUs). According to Philippines News Agency, MILG Minister Sha Elijah B. Dumama-Alba announced Wednesday that her office's proposed budget for 2025 was raised from PHP1.9 billion to PHP2.17 billion. The increase was recently approved by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) finance committee. Alba, who also serves as a regional parliament member, said the increased budget would significantly impact LGUs, enabling them to better respond to disasters and uphold public safety standards. 'The new funding will equip LGUs with essential resources, such as firefighting boats for island provinces, advanced training for emergency response, and strengthened disaster contingency measures,' she said, adding that these efforts aim to improve resilience across the Bangsamoro region, especially in high-risk areas. Aligned with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim's Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda, the expanded budget reflects the ministry's commitment to fostering inclusive, accountable, and responsive local governance structures. 'This initiative is part of MILG's broader goal to create a more inclusive and accountable local governance system within the Bangsamoro region, promoting long-term stability and development,' Alba added. The increased funding will also support various public safety programs to reinforce stability and development throughout BARMM.