OFFICIALS of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) jointly launched the Bangsamoro Barter Trade in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi on Tuesday, July 18. With the formal rebirth of barter trade in the area, economic activities are expected to take center stage between BARMM and Mindanao on one hand, and the country s oldest trading partners Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia on the other. The BARMM Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) spearheaded the launching in Bongao town with MinDA and Tawi-Tawi provincial government officials. The Philippines is a major player in the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines-East Asean Growth Area). Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo, MTIT director general, said the revival of the famous barter trading system will provide an inclusive environment and more business opportunities that will eventually help propel economic growth in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Taw
Officials say reviving the age-old tradition of barter trade in Mindanao will not only stimulate local economies but also foster cross-cultural connections