Cotabato city: Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento announced that the agency is formulating a "catch-up" plan aimed at accelerating the development of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance progress and economic growth within these areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, the "catch-up" plan will focus on Camp Abubakar in Maguindanao Del Norte along with other MILF bases. The plan aims to sustain ongoing development and facilitate economic activities in these regions. Secretary Sarmiento recently visited Camp Abubakar on May 28, marking his first visit to the area. He was accompanied by local officials and representatives from international donor agencies during his visit.

During his visit, Sarmiento led the distribution of essential farming implements such as rice sacks, spades, spray packs, and wheelbarrows to MILF members, their families, and other residents within the camp. Camp Abubakar, which was once a site of conflict in 2000, is now witnessing significant infrastructure development, including well-paved roads, schools, health centers, and thriving business establishments.

The Master Development Plan for Camp Abubakar includes various structures like a madrasah, school library, kitchen facility, and an innovative farming area equipped with a catfish tank, greenhouse vegetable garden, poultry shed, and goat house. These developments are part of a 20-year strategic plan to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Sarmiento praised the efforts of partners involved in the transformation initiative, stating that the areas have the potential to be developed into industries capable of exporting products beyond the Philippines. This integrated camps transformation initiative aligns with the Master Development Plan, serving as a unified framework for stakeholders to support the Normalization Process under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Camp Abubakar is one of the six government-recognized MILF camps under the CAB, a landmark peace agreement signed between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF in 2014.