Sec. 1. Intergovernmental Relations Body. – Pursuant to Sec. 2. Art. VI of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) is created to coordinate and resolve issues on intergovernmental relations through regular consultation and continuing negotiation in a non-adversarial manner.

              The Chief Minister shall appoint or designate representatives of the Bangsamoro Government to the IGRB, as well as its Secretariat, through a Special Memorandum Order. – Pursuant to Sec. 2. Art. VI of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) is created to coordinate and resolve issues on intergovernmental relations through regular consultation and continuing negotiation in a non-adversarial manner.

              The Chief Minister shall appoint or designate representatives of the Bangsamoro Government to the IGRB, as well as its Secretariat, through a Special Memorandum Order.

a.  Philippine Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum;

b.  Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board;

c.  Joint Body for the Zones of Joint Cooperation;

d.  Intergovernmental Infrastructure Development Board;

e.  Intergovernmental Energy Board;

f.  Bangsamoro Sustainable Development Board; and

g.  Council of Leaders.

Sec. 1. Justice System in the Bangsamoro. - The Bangsamoro justice system shall be administered in accordance with the unique cultural and historical heritage of the Bangsamoro.

The dispensation of justice in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall be in consonance with the Constitution, Shari'ah, traditional or tribal laws, and other relevant laws.

Shari'ah or Islamic law forms part of the Islamic tradition derived from religious precepts of Islam, particularly the Qur'an and Sunnah.

Shari'ah shall apply exclusively to cases involving Muslims. Where a case involves a non-Muslim , Shari'ah law may apply only if the non-Muslim voluntarily submits to the jurisdiction of the Shari'ah court.

The traditional or tribal laws shall be applicable to disputes of indigenous peoples within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

The provisions of this Article shall not prejudice the rights of non-Muslims and nonindigenous peoples.[1]

Sec. 2. Shari'ah Courts. - Shari'ah courts within the Bangsamoro territorial jurisdiction shall form part of the Philippine judicial system subject to the supervision of the Supreme Court. The regular courts within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall continue to function under the supervision of the Supreme Court.[2]

Sec. 3. Power of the Parliament to Enact Laws Pertaining to Shari'ah. - The Parliament shall have the power to enact laws on personal, family, and property law jurisdiction.

For this purpose, the Parliament shall enact laws governing commercial and other civil actions not provided for under Presidential Decree No. 1083, as amended, otherwise known as " Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines," and criminal jurisdiction on minor offenses punishable by arresto menor or ta'zir which must be equivalent to arresto menor or fines commensurate to the offense.[3]

Sec. 4. Jurisdiction of the Shari'ah Circuit Courts. - The Shari'ah Circuit Courts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall exercise exclusive original jurisdiction over the following cases where either or both parties are Muslims: Provided, That the non-Muslim party voluntarily submits to its jurisdiction:

a.  All cases involving offenses defined and punishable under Presidential Decree No. 1083, where the act or omission has been committed in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

b.  All civil actions and proceedings between parties residing in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region who are Muslims or have been married in accordance with Article 13 of Presidential Decree No. 1083, involving disputes relating to:

  i.  Marriage;

  ii.  Divorce;

  iii.  Betrothal or breach of contract to marry;

  iv.  Customary dower or mahr;

  v.  DDisposition and distribution of property upon devorce;

  vi.  Maintenance and support, and consolatory gifts; and

  vii.  Restitution of marital rights;

c.  All case involving disputes relative to communal properties;

a.  All cases involving ta'zir offenses defined and punishable under Shari'ah law enacted by the Parliament punishable by arresto menor or corresponding fine, or both;

b.  All civil actions under Shari'ah law enacted by the Parliament involving real property in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region where assessed value of the property does not exceed Four hundred thousand pesos (₱400,000.00); and

c.  All civil actions, if they have not specified in an agreement which law shall govern their relations, where the demand or claim does not exceed Two hundred thousand pesos (₱200,000.00).[4]

Sec. 5. Jurisdiction of the Shari'ah District Courts. - The Shari'ah District Courts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall exercise exclusive original jurisdiction over the following cases where either or both are Muslims: Provided, That the non-Muslim party voluntarily submits to its jurisdiction:

a.  All cases involving custody, guardianship, legitimacy, and paternity and filiation arising under Presidential Decree No. 1083;

b.  All cases involving disposition, distribution, and settlement of the estate of deceased Muslims, probate of wills issuance of letters of administrators or executors regardless of the nature or the aggregate value of the property;

c.  Petitions for the declaration of absence and death, and for the cancellation or correction of entries in the Muslim Registries mentioned in Title VI of Book Two of Presidential Decree No. 1083;

d.  All actions arising from customary and Shari'ah compliant contracts in which the parties are Muslims, if they failed to specify the law governing their relations;

e.  All petitions for mandamus, prohibition, injunction, certiorari, habeas corpus, and all other auxiliary writs and processes, in aid of its appellate jurisdiction;

f.  Petition for the constitution of a family home, change of name, and commitment of an insane person to an asylum;

g.  All other personal and real actions not falling under the jurisdiction of the Shari'ah Circuit Courts wherein the parties involved are Muslims, except those for forcible entry and unlawful detainer, which shall fall under the exclusive original jurisdiction of the Municipal Trial Court;

h.  All special civil actions for interpleader or declaratory relief wherein the parties are Muslims residing in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region or the property involved belongs exclusively to Muslim and is located in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

i.  All civil actions under Shari'ah law enacted by the Parliament involving real property in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region where the assessed value of the property exceeds Four hundred thousand pesos (₱400,000.00); and

j.  All civil actions, if they have not specified in the agreement which law shall govern their relations where the demand or claim exceeds Two hundred thousand pesos (₱200,000.00).

The Shari'ah District Court in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall exercise appellate jurisdiction over all cases decided upon the Shari'ah Circuit Courts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region within its territorial jurisdiction as provided under Article 144 of Presidential Decree No. 1083, as amended.[5]

Sec. 6. Shari'ah High Court. - There is hereby created within the Bangsamoro territorial jurisdiction, as part of the Philippine judicial system, a Shari'ah High Court. It shall exercise exclusive original jurisdiction over the following cases where either or both parties are Muslims: Provided, That the non-Muslim party voluntarily submits to its jurisdiction:

a.  All petitions for mandamus, prohibition, injunction, certiorari, habeas corpus, and all other auxiliary writs and processes, in aid of its appellate jurisdiction; and

b.  All actions for annulment of judgements of Shari'ah District Courts within outside the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

The decisions of the Shari'ah High Court shall be final and executory except on questions of law which may be raised before the Supreme Court following the procedure for appeals from the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court.

Nothing contained herein shall affect the original and appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court as provided in the Constitution.[6]

Sec. 7. Composition and Organization of the Shari'ah High Court. – The Shari'ah High Court shall be composed of five (5) Justices, including the Presiding Justice.[7]

The Parliament may recommend to the Supreme Court the complete organization of the Shari’ah High Court in Cotabato City, where the seat of the Bangsamoro Government is located.

Sec. 8. Shari'ahHigh Court Administrator and Clerk of Court. - The Supreme Court shall, upon recommendation of the Presiding Justice of the Shari'ah High Court, appoint the court administrator and clerk of court of the High Court. Such other personnel as may be necessary for the Shari'ah High Court shall be appointed by the Presiding Justice of said court.

The pertinent provisions of existing law regarding the qualifications, appointments, compensations, functions, duties, and other matters relative to the personnel of the Court of Appeals shall apply to those of the Shari'ah High Court.[8]

Sec. 9. Compensation, Benefits, Tenure, and Privileges.- Justices of the Shari'ah High Court shall have the same rank, prerogatives, salaries, allowances, benefits, tenure, and privileges as the Justices of the Court of Appeals.

Judges of the Shari'ah District Courts shall have the same rank, prerogatives, salaries, allowances, benefits, tenure, and privileges as judges of the Regional Trial Court.

Judges of the Shari'ah Circuit Courts shall have the same rank, prerogatives, salaries, allowances, benefits, tenure, and privileges as judges of the Municipal Trial Court.

Pending the complete organization of the Shari'ah High Court, the decisions of the Shari'ah Courts shall be appealable to the Court of Appeals.[9]

Sec. 10. Qualifications of Shari'ah Judges. -

a.  Shari'ah Circuit Court - No person shall be appointed judge of the Shari'ah Circuit Court unless a citizen of the Philippines who is a Muslim, a regular member of the Philippine Bar, at least thirty (30) years of age, must have been engaged in the practice of law for five (5) years or more, and has completed at least two (2) years of Shari'ah or Islamic Jurisprudence.

b.  Shari'ah District Court - No person shall be appointed judge of the Shari'ah District Court unless a citizen of the Philippines who is a Muslim, a regular member of the Philippine Bar, at least thirty-five (35) years of age, must have been engaged in the practice of law for ten (10) years or more, and has completed at least two (2) years of Shari'ah or Islamic Jurisprudence.

c.  Shari'ah High Court - No person shall be appointed as justice of the Shari'ah High Court unless a natural-born citizen of the Philippines who is a Muslim, a regular member of the Philippine Bar, at least forty (40) years of age, must have been engaged in the practice of law for fifteen (15) years or more, and has completed at least two years of Shari'ah or Islamic Jurisprudence.

A Shari'ah Justice or Judge must be a person of competence, integrity, probity, and independence.

The Supreme Court may grant the incumbent Shari'ah District and Circuit Court judges who are not regular members of the Philippine Bar a reasonable period within which to qualify, pending which they shall allowed to continue discharging their duties.[10]

Sec. 11. Practice of Law Before Shari'ah Courts. - The following are eligible to practice before Shari'ah courts:

a.  A Shari'ah counselor-at-law; and

b.  A regular member of the Philippine Bar: Provided, That a Muslim, or non-Muslim who submits to the jurisdiction of the Shari'ah court, who acts on one's behalf as counsel, shall be allowed to appear as such before any Shari'ah court.[11]

Sec. 12. Appointment and Discipline of Shari'ah Court Personnel. - The Supreme Court shall appoint the Shari'ah court personnel and shall have the power to discipline them.[12]

Sec. 13. Composition. – There is hereby created a Shari'ah Public Assistance Office, to be headed by a director assisted by two (2) counselors who are members of the Philippine Shari'ah Bar. They shall be assisted by an immediate staff.

The director and two (2) Shari’ah counselors shall be appointed by the Chief Minister.

Unless otherwise provided by regional law, the compensation of the director and the Shari'ah counselors shall be equivalent to the salary grade of a Director III and a trial lawyer of the Public Assistance Office, respectively.

The Shari'ah Public Assistance Office is hereby established in each of the Shari'ah judicial districts to provide free legal assistance to poor or indigent party litigants.[13]

In the absence of an appropriate ministry or office to which the Shari'ah Public Assistance Office may be attached, it shall, in the interim, be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister.

Sec. 14. Functions. – The Shari’ah Public Assistance Office shall have the following functions:

a.  Provide free legal assistance to indigent party litigants with cases before the Shari’ah Courts;

b.  Prepare and file petitions, complaints and/or responsive pleadings, and represent indigent defendants in ordinary civil actions before the Shari’ah Courts;

c.  Prepare and file responsive pleadings and represent indigent defendants/respondents in special proceedings before the Shari’ah Courts;

d.  Prepare affidavits and represent indigents in any stage of criminal proceedings before the Shari’ah Courts; and

e.  Perform such other functions as may be assigned by higher authorities.

Sec. 15. Composition. – There is hereby created a Shari’ah Special Prosecution Service for Shari’ah administration of justice in the Bangsamoro. The Shari’ah Special Prosecution Service shall be attached to the National Prosecutorial Service of the National Government. The Bangsamoro Government shall recommend the qualified applicants for the position of the Shari’ah prosecutors and personnel of the Shari’ah Special Prosecution Service to the Secretary of Justice of the National Government.

Sec. 16. Functions. – The Shari’ah Special Prosecution Service shall have the following functions:

a.  Assist in the administration of the Shari’ah justice system in the Bangsamoro;

b.  Conduct the preliminary investigation and prosecution of criminal cases where both parties are Muslims and they fall under Shari’ah Criminal Justice System, as provided for in the Bangsamoro Organic Law;

c.  Monitor all criminal cases filed with the Shari’ah Courts, maintain an updated record of the status of each case, and adopt such systems and procedures as will expedite the disposition of such cases; and

d.  Perform such other functions as may be assigned by higher authorities.

Sec. 17. Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems. - The indigenous peoples shall have the right to use their own commonly accepted justice systems, conflict resolution institutions, peace building processes or mechanisms, and order customary laws and practices within their respective communities and as may be compatible with the national legal system and with internationally recognized human rights.

The traditional justice systems are the mechanisms to determine, settle, and decide controversies and enforce decisions involving disputes between members of the indigenous peoples concerned in accordance with the customary laws of these communities.[14]

Sec. 18. Office for Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems. – The Office for Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems is hereby created, with the primary responsibility of overseeing the study, preservation, and development of traditional or tribal justice systems within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. It shall be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister.

The Office for Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems shall ensure the full participation of Moro or non-Moro indigenous peoples in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies, related to the strengthening of tribal justice systems: Provided, That such system shall maintain their indigenous character in accordance with the respective practices of each tribe.

Sec. 19. Composition. - The Office for Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems shall be headed by a Director II and assisted by support staff, all of whom shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. Appointees shall be preferably members of tribal communities. 

Sec. 20. Functions. – The Office for Traditional or Tribal Justice Systems shall have the following functions:

a.  Conduct the study and preservation of traditional or tribal justice systems within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

b.  Promote the development, formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies, related to the strengthening of tribal justice systems;

c.  Coordinate with ministries, offices and agencies within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to ensure meaningful and timely consultation with tribal leaders in relation to item (b); and

d.  Perform such other functions as may be assigned by the Chief Minister and higher authorities.

Sec. 21. Regular Courts. - Regular courts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region shall continue to exercise their judicial functions, as provided by law.[15]

Sec. 22. Alternative Dispute Resolution. - The Bangsamoro Government adopts the principles of conciliation and mediation in settling disputes, with the Parliament enacting the necessary legislation to institute the mechanism for alternative dispute resolution. The Shari'ah courts and traditional or tribal adjudicatory tribunals may utilize this mode of settlement and resolution of cases.[16]

Chapter 1

  Sec. 1. Power of Control.– As Head of the Bangsamoro Government, the Chief Minister shall have control and provision of all ministries, agencies, offices, bureaus, commissions, boards and instrumentalities of the Bangsamoro  Government. The Chief Minister shall ensure that laws are faithfully executed.[1]

Chapter 2

Rule Making Power

Sec. 2. Executive Orders. - Acts of the Chief Minister providing for rules of a general or permanent character in implementation or execution of powers vested by the Bangsamoro Organic Law or by law shall be promulgated in executive orders.[2]

Sec. 3. Administrative Orders.- Acts of the Chief Minister which relate to particular aspect of governmental operations in pursuance of his duties as head of the Bangsamoro Government shall be promulgated in administrative orders.[3]

Sec. 4. Proclamations. - Acts of the Chief Minister fixing a date or declaring a status or condition of public moment or interest, upon the existence of which the operation of a specific law or regulation is made to depend, shall be promulgated in proclamations which shall have the force of an executive order.[4]

Sec. 5. Memorandum Orders. - Acts of the Chief Minister on matters of administrative details or of subordinate or temporary interest which only concern a particular officer or office of the Bangsamoro Government shall be embodied in memorandum orders.[5]

Sec. 6. Memorandum Circulars. - Acts of the Chief Minister on matters relating to internal administration, which the Chief Minister desires to bring to the attention of all or some of the ministries, agencies, offices, bureaus, commissions, boards and instrumentalities of the Bangsamoro Government, for information or compliance, shall be embodied in memorandum circulars.[6]

Sec. 7. Power of Appointment. –The Chief Minister Shall be the appointing authority of heads of ministries, offices, commission, boards, agencies , bureaus , and offices of the Bangsamoro Government or, other offices of the Bangsamoro-owned or controlled corporation , or entities with original charters.

The Chief Minister shall likewise be the appointing authority of the deputy ministries; directors, or the equivalents, and all positions with a salary grade 25 and above, unless otherwise  expressly provided for by law.

The Speaker  of the Parliament  shall exercise  administrative  supervision over the legislative personnel, staff; and secretariat of the Bangsamoro Parliament , and shall be the appointing  authority of all career positions in the parliament including coterminous and contractual positions , as well as contact of service  thereat. provided, that speaker shall consult with Chief Minister on the appointment those applying for positions  with salary 25 and above . provided, however,  at the appointment of personnel  under the office of the individual Members of Parliament shall be made only upon recommendation of the member concerned who shall exercise direct supervision and control over such personnel.    

The heads of offices shall appoint officials and employees to positions with salary  grade 24 and below in their  respective  agencies or offices.

Sec. 8. Power to Issue Designation. - (1) The Chief Minister may designate an officer already in the government service to perform the functions of an office, in concurrent capacity in appropriate cases, when: (a) the officer regularly appointed to the office is unable to perform his/her duties due to lawful cause/s or by reason of serious illness, unauthorized absence of at least fourteen (14) days; or (b) there exists a vacancy. Provided, that a designation shall not exceed one (1) year and subject to the limitations as may be provided by law.[8]

Chapter 4

Sec. 9. Power to Contract Domestic or Foreign Loans. - The Parliament, by a vote of the majority of all its members, may authorize the Chief Minister to contract domestic or foreign loans, credits, and other forms of indebtedness to finance the construction, installation, improvement, expansion, operation or maintenance of public utilities, infrastructure facilities, housing projects, acquisition or real property, implementation of other capital investment projects, and for the development and welfare of the people of the Bangsamoro.

Subject to acceptable credit worthiness, and in compliance with the Constitution, relevant laws and regulations, such loans may be secured from domestic loans requiring sovereign guaranty, whether explicit or implicit, which would require the approval of the National Government.

The National Government shall assist the Bangsamoro Government in complying with the requirements for a speedy issuance of the sovereign guaranty to finance local infrastructure and other socioeconomic development projects in accordance with the Bangsamoro Development Plan. Within thirty (30) days from the submission by the Bangsamoro Government of its application for sovereign guaranty, the National Government shall inform the Bangsamoro Government of the actions taken on the application.[9]

Chapter 5

Sec. 10. Power of Eminent Domain. - The Chief Minister shall determine when it is necessary or advantageous to exercise the power of eminent domain in behalf of the Bangsamoro Government, and direct the Bangsamoro Attorney General, whenever such action is deemed appropriate, to institute expropriation proceedings in the proper court.

Chapter 1

Different Offices in the

Office of the Chief Minister Proper

A.    INTERNAL AUDIT OFFICE

Sec. 15. Internal Audit Office. - The Internal Audit Office shall be directly under the Office of the Chief Minister, and shall be composed of an Internal Auditor V as Chief of Division, and support staff. It shall:

a.      Advise the Chief Minister on all matters relating to management control and operations audits;

b.      Conduct management and operations audits of the Office of the Chief Minister’s functions, programs, projects, activities with outputs, and determine the degree of compliance with its mandate, policies, government regulations, established objectives, systems and procedures/processes and contractual obligations;

c.       Review and appraise systems and procedures, organizational structures, asset management practices, financial and management records, reports and performance standards of the Office of the Chief Minister;

d.      Analyze and evaluate management deficiencies and assist top management by recommending realistic courses of action; and

e.      Perform such other related duties and responsibilities as may be assigned or delegated by the Chief Minister or as may be required by law.

B.    INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Sec. 16. Information and Communications Office. - The Information and Communications Office shall be directly under the Office of the Chief Minister, and shall be composed of an Information Technology Officer III as Chief of Division, and support staff. It shall:

a.      Implement proper information and communication technology security measures to ensure the efficient operation of the available information-technology facilities in the Office of the Chief Minister Proper;

b.      Administer, maintain, and enhance existing network infrastructure, application systems, websites and other information and communication technology systems that serve as tools in administration of the Management Information System (MIS) of the Office of the Chief Minister;

c.       Provide strategic technical support in the storage, collection and generation of data and information both from primary and secondary data sources, necessary for monitoring, oversight committees, decision-making and dissemination in the Office of the Chief Minister;

d.      Monitor and ensure Office of the Chief Minister’s compliance to national government’s ICT standards and policies, such as compliance to the Transparency Seal;

e.      Provide advice and technical reviews in the procurement of ICT-related items by the Bangsamoro Ministries, Offices, Agencies, and units thereof for purposes of endorsement to the Ministry of Finance, and Budget and Management;

f.        Propose management policies, systems and processes to ensure economical and efficient delivery of information and communication technology support service to all offices of the Office of the Chief Minister;

g.      Provide accountability for information technology resources through accurate analysis and evaluation of office's ICT needs, sound procurement, cost-effective installation and maintenance, maintaining software/hardware standards, and regular accurate inventory and reporting of hardware, peripherals and software;

h.     Ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the ICT system, LAN and data security, including user access to computer and telecommunications facilities;

i.        Monitor and support Inter-/Intra-net functionality, security and integrity in the Office of the Chief Minister;

j.        Coordinate with the Bangsamoro Information and Communications Technology Office on all ICT issues of common interest for cost effective resolutions; and

k.      Perform other office functions that may be directed by the Chief Minister.

C.    LEGAL AND LEGISLATIVE LIAISON OFFICE

Sec. 17. Legal and Legislative Liaison Office. - The Legal and Legislative Liaison Office shall be headed by an Attorney V, assisted by support staff. It shall:

a.      Form part of the Legal Liaison Network of the Bangsamoro Government, to cooperate and coordinate on legal, policy, and legislative matters concerning the Office of the Chief Minister;

b.      Assist the Office of the Chief Minister in the promulgation of rules governing the activities of the Office of the Chief Minister           Proper; and

c.       Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

Sec. 18. Nature of Offices. – The Information Technology Officer III and attorneys appointed in the Legal and Legislative Liaison Office shall all hold office co-terminus with that of the appointing Chief Minister.

D.   SPECIAL OFFICE FOR OTHER BANGSAMORO COMMUNITIES

Sec. 19. Special Office for Other Bangsamoro Communities. – The Office for Other Bangsamoro Communities is created to ensure the protection of the rights and enhance the economic, social, and cultural development of Bangsamoro people residing in communities outside the Bangsamoro Autonomous  Region.

Sec. 20. Mandate.– The Special Office shall be the primary office of the Office of the Chief Minister in recommending policies and a systematic program for promoting the welfare of Bangsamoro communities outside the region, including provision of services, in coordination with local government units as well as appropriate national government agencies.

Sec. 21. Organization and Composition. - The Special Office shall be headed by an Executive  Director assisted by a Deputy Executive Director, with the ranks of  Director II and Director I , respectively, who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. Their appointments shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

The Office of the Chief Minister may propose the appropriate structure for this Office.

Sec. 22. Functions. – The Special Office shall have the following functions:

a.      Receive information on and assess the economic, social, and cultural needs of Bangsamoro communities located outside of the region;

b.      Recommend to the Chief Minister projects and activities for the promotion of the welfare of Bangsamoro communities outside the region;

c.       Undertake projects and activities in coordination with the appropriate ministry, office, or agency, including the Bangsamoro Satellite Coordinating Offices;

d.      Represent the Bangsamoro communities outside BARMM in the Council of Leaders; and

e.      Perform such other functions as may be directed by the Chief Minister or other proper authorities.

Chapter 2

Councils in the Office of the Chief Minister

A.    BANGSAMORO DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

AND MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

Sec. 23. Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.- The Bangsamoro Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (Bangsamoro DRRMC) shall be chaired by the Chief Minister with the Minister of Science and Technology as Vice-Chair for Disaster Mitigation and Prevention, the Minister of the Interior and Local Government as Vice-Chair for Disaster Preparedness, the Minister of Social Services and Development as Vice-Chair for Disaster Response, and the Bangsamoro Director-General of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) as Vice-Chair for Disaster Recovery and Rehabilitation. The Chief Minister shall identify the member-agencies of the Bangsamoro DRRMC.

The Bangsamoro Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BDRRMO) of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government shall serve as Secretariat of the Bangsamoro DRRMC. 

Sec. 24. Functions of the Bangsamoro DRRMC. – The Bangsamoro DRRMC shall coordinate, integrate, supervise, and evaluate the activities of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils (LDRRMCs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. The Bangsamoro DRRMC shall be responsible in ensuring disaster sensitive regional development plans, and in case of emergencies shall convene the different regional line agencies and concerned institutions and authorities.[2]

The Bangsamoro DRRMC, in discharging its functions, shall utilize the facilities and services of the Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READI) to undertake operations on DRRM in the region.[3]

Sec. 25. Declaration of State of Calamity. – TheChief Minister may proclaim a state of calamity whenever typhoons, flash floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, or other natural or man-made calamities that cause widespread damage or destruction to life or property occurs in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region[4], and the lifting thereof, based on the criteria set by the Bangsamoro DRRMC. The Chief Minister’s declaration may warrant domestic and international humanitarian assistance as deemed necessary.[5]

B.    BANGSAMORO ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Sec. 26. The Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council. – The Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council (BEDC) shall serve as the governing board and policy-making body of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA). It shall serve as the planning, coordinating, and monitoring agency for all development plans, policies, programs and projects of the Bangsamoro Government including its constituent LGUs.

Its powers, functions and appropriations are provided for under Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 6.

Sec. 27.   Composition. – The BEDC shall be composed of the following regular members:

Chairperson: Chief Minister

Vice-Chairperson: BPDA Bangsamoro Director General

Members:

a.      Speaker of the Bangsamoro Parliament

b.      Majority Floor Leader of the Bangsamoro Parliament

c.       Minority Floor Leader of the Bangsamoro Parliament

d.      d)      All Provincial Governors

e.      All City Mayors

f.        Five Private Sectors Representatives   

            The Chairperson, upon the recommendation of the majority of the members of the BEDC, shall select the private sector representatives to the BEDC, subject to the guidelines and qualification criteria to be formulated and approved by the BPDA. Voting and non-voting ex officio members shall be determined in the internal rules and regulations to be formulated by the BEDC.

Additional members from other sectors may be considered upon recommendation and approval of the BEDC.

Sec. 28. Council Secretariat.– The Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) serves as the Technical Secretariat of the Council.

C.     

a.     

b.     

c.     

C.    BANGSAMORO PEACE AND ORDER COUNCIL

Sec. 29. Bangsamoro Regional Peace and Order Council (BRPOC). – The Bangsamoro Regional Peace and Order Council is composed of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Co-Vice Chairperson and the regional counterparts of the ministries, offices and agencies represented at the National level.

The Chief Minister and the Minister of the Interior and Local Government shall serve as Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson, respectively, with the Regional Director of the Philippine National Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region as Co-Vice Chairperson. Members of the Council are the Chairpersons of the Parliament Committees on Local Governments and Public Order and Security, Ministers and heads of offices and bureaus as may be designated by the Chief Minister, subject to existing laws.[6]

Sec. 30. Duties and Functions. – The duties and functions of the Bangsamoro Regional Peace and Order Council are, as follows:

a.         Formulate plans and recommend such measures to improve or enhance peace and order and public safety in their respective areas of responsibility;

b.        Monitor the implementation of peace and order programs and projects at the provincial, city/municipal level, the operations of Bantay-Bayan and such other counter-insurgency and peace programs;

c.         Make periodic assessment of the prevailing peace and order situation in their respective areas of responsibility and submit reports thereon with their recommendations to the Chairperson of the National Peace and Order Council;

d.        Receive complaints against government personnel, civilian or military, endorse the same to the agency concerned and demand/compel such agency to submit report or action taken thereon; and

e.         Perform functions as may be provided by law or executive issuances issued by the Chief Minister in coordination with the National Peace and Order Council. The Chairpersons of the respective Provincial, City/Municipal Peace and Order Councils shall be responsible for the proper management and supervision of their respective Civilian Volunteers (Bantay-Bayan) in coordination with other concerned government entities.[7]

Sec. 31. Organizational Relationship.– Lower level Peace and Order Council shall be under the functional supervision of the next higher Peace and Order Council.[8]

Chapter 3

Attached Agencies and Offices

A.    BANGSAMORO BOARD OF INVESTMENTS

Sec. 32.The Bangsamoro Board of Investments – There is hereby created the Bangsamoro Board of Investments mandated to promote the development of the regional and national economy in consonance with the principles and objectives of achieving global competitiveness, fostering economic efficiency, encouraging and supporting investments that promote region-wide development, and creating productive and quality employment.

Accordingly, and consistent with Article XII, Section 8 of the Bangsamoro Organic Law:

a.            The Parliament may grant tax exemptions incentives under the Bangsamoro Organic Law upon a vote of majority of all its members: Provided, That these tax exemptions and incentives shall not diminish national revenues;

b.           Provided, Further, That the grant of tax exemptions and incentives administered by the Regional Board of Investments (RBOI) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as provided for in Executive Order No. 458, Series of 1991, in relation to Executive Order No. 226, Series of 1987, otherwise known as the “Omnibus Investment Code” shall continue to apply.

Sec. 33.  Powers and Functions of the Bangsamoro Board of Investments. – In accordance Executive Order No. 458, Series of 1991, and consistent with Article XII, Section 8 of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the following powers and functions of the Board of Investments (BOI) over investments within the BARMM shall be exercised by the Bangsamoro Board of Investments (BBOI) of the Bangsamoro Government:

a.      Approval/denial of applications for registration under the Omnibus Investments Code of 1987;

b.      Cancellation of certificates of registration of enterprises registered with the Bangsamoro Government, and including those enterprises previously registered with the BOI;

c.       Evaluation of incentives to be availed by enterprises registered with the Bangsamoro Government;

1.       Special tax credit on raw materials and supplies, net value earned and net local content and domestic capital equipment;

2.      Income Tax holiday; and

3.      Reduced income tax.

d.      Grant additional incentives, aside from those incentives under Book I, Title III, Article 39 of Executive Order No. 226, series of 1987; Provided, that the grant of tax incentives shall be in accordance with Section 8, Article XII of the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

            Sec. 34.Regional Investment Priorities Plan. - The Bangsamoro Government shall prepare a Regional Investment Priorities Plan, through the Bangsamoro Board of Investments, consistent with Articles 27 to 31, Chapter II of the Omnibus Investment Code of 1987.

The preferred areas of investment to be listed in the Regional Investment Priorities Plan shall be based on long-run comparative advantage, taking into account the value of social objectives and employing economic criteria along with market, technical, and financial analysis.

The Regional Investment Priorities Plan as formulated shall be integrated in the national Investment Priorities Plan upon the approval of the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Sec. 35.Composition of the Board of Governors. - The Board of Governors shall be composed of the BBOI Chairperson as Chair, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism as ex-officio Vice-Chair, the Minister of Finance, and Budget and Management and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform as ex-officio members, and two (2) member-Governors. The Chairperson and the two (2) member-Governors shall be appointed by the Chief Minister and shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

Sec. 36.Qualifications of Governors of the Board. – The Governors of the Board must be citizens of the Philippines, residents of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for at least six (6) months prior to their appointment, at least thirty (30) years old, of good moral character and of recognized competence in any of the following fields: law, economics, finance, banking, commerce, industry, agriculture, engineering, and management.

Sec. 37. Secretariat to the BBOI. – The BBOI Secretariat shall provide technical support to the Board, and shall be headed by a Board Secretary VI, with support staff.

Its functions include:

a.      Preparing the agenda and all other necessary documents and materials for the meetings of the Board;

b.      Notifying Board members of the meeting and recording their attendance;

c.       Recording each action taken up during the meetings; preparing and signing appropriate resolutions, if needed;

d.      Maintaining all records of the Board;

e.      Coordinating with the Bureau of Investments under the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism on policy matters that may need cooperation and coordination; and

f.        Performing other related functions as may be directed by the Board.

B. BANGSAMORO INFORMATION OFFICE

Sec. 38. Bangsamoro Information Office. – The Bangsamoro Information Office  (BIO) shall  serve as the communications arm and center of information  of the Bangsamoro Government.  It shall be an attached office to the Office of the Chief Minister.

Sec. 39. Mandate.– The Bangsamoro Information Office is mandated to be the center of information through the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region’s communication platforms to promote transparency, moral governance, and to enrich the quality of public discourse.

Sec. 40. Powers and Functions. – The Bangsamoro Information Office shall have the following powers and functions:

a.      Provide an institutional and effective information arm in the Bangsamoro Government;

b.      Develop a well–managed information feedback and feed forward mechanism  between the Bangsamoro Government and its constituents;

c.       Establish a network of information officers within the Bangsamoro Government;

d.      Conduct  continuing  research necessary in the performance of its functions;

e.      Strengthen communication linkages with local government  units in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

f.        Coordinate with public and private media outlets and practitioners; and

g.      Perform such other functions as may be directed by the Chief Minister or other proper authorities.

Sec. 41. Organization and Composition. - The Bangsamoro Information Office shall be headed by an Executive Director assisted by a Deputy Executive Director, with the ranks of  Director II and Director I , respectively, who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. Their appointments shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

It shall be composed of the following:

A.     Administrative Section, which shall be responsible in providing administrative support to the office; and

B.     Operations Division, which shall consist of the following sections:

a.    News, Media and Print Section;

b.   Broadcast Section;

c.    Research, Planning, and Monitoring Section;

d.   Media Relations Section; and

e.    Provincial Field Section.

Other divisions may be created by the office with the concurrence of the Cabinet.

C.    OFFICE FOR SETTLER COMMUNITIES

            Sec. 42. Office for Settler Communities. –The Office for Settler Communities shall serve as the primary agency responsible in promoting the welfare and addressing issues and concerns of settlers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. It shall be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister.

            Sec. 43. Mandate.  –The Office for Settler Communities is mandated to ensure that settlers  enjoy  the rights guaranteed to them by the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the Constitution, and all other laws as may be enacted by the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Sec. 44. Powers and Functions. -The Office for Settler Communities enjoys powers and authority on the following matters as provided for under the Bangsamoro Organic Law and sanctioned by existing laws and regulations: 

a.         Provide  advice and assistance to the Chief Minister in the formulation, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of policies, plans, programs, and projects affecting settler communities;

b.         Act as the primary agency through which settlers can seek government assistance and redress;

c.          Serve as the medium through which such assistance may be extended to settler communities, when necessary;

d.         Coordinate with concerned ministries, agencies, and other offices, when necessary, in the performance of its functions; and

e.         Perform other functions as may be provided by law or assigned by the Chief Minister.

 Sec.  45. Organization and Composition. - The Office for Settler Communities shall be headed by an Executive Director assisted by a Deputy Executive Director, with the ranks of  Director II and Director I , respectively, who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. Both shall be members of settler communities.  Their appointments shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

It shall be composed of the following:

a.      Technical Division;

b.      Administrative Section; and

c.       Such other units as may be created by the office with the concurrence of the Chief Minister.

D.   BANGSAMORO PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Sec 46. Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority. - The Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) shall serve as the planning, coordinating and monitoring agency for all development plans, policies, programs and projects of the Bangsamoro Government.  The BPDA shall act as the counterpart of the NEDA in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. It shall also serve as the Technical Secretariat of the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council (BEDC).

Sec. 47.Organizational Structure – The BPDA shall be headed by a Bangsamoro Director-General, assisted by a Deputy Director-General and three (3) Directors II, divisions and support staff as provided for under Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 6.

Sec. 48. Functions and responsibilities of the BPDA. — The functions and responsibilities of the BPDA are those defined and provided for under Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 6.

E.    BANGSAMORO PILGRIMAGE AUTHORITY

Sec. 49. The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority. – The Bangsamoro Government shall have primary jurisdiction over Hajj and Umrah matters affecting pilgrims from within the Bangsamoro. The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority shall act in close coordination with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos on Hajj and Umrah matters involving offices and agencies outside of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

Sec. 50. Mandate. - The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority is primarily responsible for the administration of the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of pilgrims from within the Bangsamoro. It shall formulate and implement programs, projects and activities for the efficient and effective administration and supervision of the conduct of pilgrimage activities of Bangsamoro pilgrims.[9]

Sec. 51. Functions. - The Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority shall formulate the necessary guidelines to ensure the timely processing of the Bangsamoro pilgrim’s travel documents and the equitable and reasonable collection of fees. It shall also accredit qualified and deserving sheikhs. It shall likewise formulate, subject to the approval of the Chief Minister, the time table of annual Hajj activities which must be posted in all areas accessible to Bangsamoro Muslims.

Pursuant to the above, collections shall be limited to mutawiff and passporting and/or processing fees only.  Collected fees shall be deposited in a special trust fund which shall be established by the Authority, the expenses from which shall be subject to existing auditing laws, rules and regulations.

The pilgrims shall be accorded free choice of travel agencies and airlines or other means of transportation to and from the site of pilgrimage, Provided, that pilgrims comply with the prescribed arrival and departure schedule fixed by the Ministry of Hajj of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Provided, further, That all pilgrims shall be legitimate holders of round-trip tickets to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia : Provided, furthermore, That the pilgrims shall be free to choose on where to purchase or acquire other logistics, materials and supplies for the pilgrimage.

In no instance shall the pilgrims be forced to purchase such logistics, materials and supplies from the Authority or its authorized agents or representatives.[10]

The Authority shall directly engage and enter into agreements with the appropriate authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, upon consultation with, and prior approval by, the Chief Minister.

Sec. 52. Organization and Composition. – The Office of the Bangsamoro Pilgrimage Authority shall be headed by an Executive Director assisted by a Deputy Executive Director, with the ranks of  Director II and Director I , respectively, who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. Their appointments shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

It shall be composed of the following divisions:

a.      Pilgrimage Operations Division;

b.      Endowment Administration Division;[11]

c.       Administration and Finance Division; and

d.      Such other divisions as may be created by the office with the concurrence of the Chief Minister.

F.    DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY OF THE BANGSAMORO

Sec. 53. Development Academy of the Bangsamoro. - The Development Academy of the Bangsamoro (Academy) shall be the central human capital development arm of the Bangsamoro Government. It shall be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister and shall have the following powers and functions:

a.      Capacitate BARMM officials and employees with the end in view of producing highly and globally competitive administrators, bureaucrats and technocrats; and

b.      Develop opportunities through programs and policies in the BARMM which shall be grounded on creative and innovative ideas generated through conduct of timely and relevant researches.

Sec. 54. Organizational Structure. - The Academy shall be headed by an Executive Director II to be assisted by five (5) Division Chiefs, with support staff. It shall be composed of the following divisions:

1.       Finance and Administrative Division (FAD) - the FAD shall provide for the administrative and financial support services needed by the Academy.

2.     Center of Training and Assessment (CTA) - the CTA shall offer and implement development services such as training and other capacity building programs, projects, services and activities for Academy.

3.      Center of Research and Policy Development (CRPD) - the CRPD shall design, conduct and formulate research and policy development agenda of the Academy.

4.      Center of Education and Extension (CEE) - Designs and implements short-term course offerings and specialized graduate degree programs of the Academy; and prepares curriculum, modules and other instructional technologies and conducts regular reviews of the same.

5.     Center of Knowledge Management (CKM) - the CKM shall develop and maintain technologies or communication channels, implement programs and activities to allow the exchange of knowledge, practices and strategies among the Academy’s workforce towards improved performance and competitive advantage.

Sec. 55. Executive Committee. - There shall be an Executive Committee composed of the Academy’s Executive Director II as Chairperson, with the Division Chiefs as members.

Sec. 56. Functions of Executive Committee. - The Executive Committee shall administer the affairs of the Academy in accordance with such powers, functions and responsibilities as may be delegated by the Office of the Chief Minister.

Sec. 57. Office of the Executive Director. - The operations and the management functions of the Academy shall be vested in the Executive Director with a salary grade of 27 and who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister. He/she shall serve for a fixed term of six (6) yearswithout prejudice to reappointment. The Executive Director shall have the following powers, duties and functions:

a.      Serve as the head of the Academy;

b.      Preside over meetings of the Academy;

c.       Represent the Academy in all meetings and other undertakings relevant to the mandates of the Academy;

d.      Manage the day-to-day affairs of the Academy;

e.      Sign contracts with donor institutions, partners and other institutions relevant to the mandates of the Academy;

f.        Issue orders and directives to all Academy’s officers, consultants and employees in the exercise of the Academy’s mandates;

g.      Submit regular reports and other necessary documents as requested;

h.     Receive in trust legacies, gifts, donations of real properties and personal property of all kinds and administer the same in behalf and for the benefit of the Academy; and

i.        Perform such other powers and functions as delegated by a competent authority.

G.   BANGSAMORO DARUL-IFTA’

Sec. 58. Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’. –The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ shall serve as the consultative body for policy-making through Islamic jurisprudence in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. The Darul ifta' shall be composed of the BARMM Mufti and council of duly recognized ulama. As such, it shall promulgate, adopt and implement policy guidelines, procedure, rules and regulations necessary for the proper management and operation of the Office. It shall be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister.

            Sec. 59. Mandate.  –The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ is mandated to strengthen Islamic preaching and guidance, and utilize knowledge and social capital of the Ulama for the common good.

Sec. 60. Powers and Functions. - The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ shall have the following powers and functions:

a.      Promulgate  fatawa  (Religious  Edicts)  pertaining  to  the  whole  breadth  of  Islamic jurisprudence;

b.      Spearhead the promotion of intrareligious and interreligious dialogues for the attainment of peaceful co-existence;

c.      Serve as consultant to the Office of the Chief Minister pertaining to religious affairs;

d.  Collaborate and exchange information pertaining to Ramadhan moon-sighting locally and internationally specially among nearby South East Asian Muslim Countries; and administer the BARMM Government Domain, Web Hosting server , E-mail Services and other online  and/or services.

e.      Perform other functions as may be provided by law or assigned by the Chief Minister.

 Sec.  61. Organization and Composition. - The Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ shall be headed by the Bangsamoro Mufti, assisted by a Secretariat headed by an Executive Director. The Bangsamoro Mufti shall be appointed by the Chief Minister and shall preferably be from among the resident Ulama of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.  Their appointments shall be co-terminus with the appointing authority.

It shall be composed of the following:

a.      Fatwa Division;

b.      Research Division;

c.       Information and Communications Division;

d.      Administration Section; and

e.      Such other units as may be created by the office with the concurrence of the Cabinet.

Sec. 62. Bangsamoro Mufti. - The Bangsamoro Mufti shall have the following powers and functions:

a.      Call for regular and special sessions with his Islamic Jurist in promulgating fatawa;

b.      Act as the presiding officer during the regular and special sessions of the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’;

c.       Exercise over-all management and supervision of the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’;

d.      Represent Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ in promotion of moral governance, intrareligious and interreligious dialogues, and other gatherings needing the presence of Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’;

e.      Approve the implementation of programs, projects and activities of the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’;

f.        Declare the start and end of Ramadhan Fasting including Eid’l Fit’r and Eid’l Adha;

g.      Provide reference to the Chief Minister on matters pertaining to religious affairs and other thematic Islamic events; and

h.     Perform such other duties and functions as may be assigned by the Chief Minister or as may be determined by law.

H.  COOPERATIVES AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE AUTHORITY

Sec. 63. Cooperatives and Social Enterprise Authority. – The Cooperatives and Social Enterprise Authority shall be the primary entity to promote the viability and growth of Bangsamoro cooperatives and social enterprise in the Bangsamoro region. It shall be the sole agency of the Bangsamoro Government that registers cooperatives and social enterprises. It shall be attached to the Office of the Chief Minister.

Sec. 64. Mandate.– The Cooperatives and Social Enterprise Authority with all the branches, sub-divisions, instrumentalities and agencies of the Bangsamoro Government shall ensure the provision of technical guidance, financial assistance and other services to enable the cooperatives and social enterprises to develop into viable and responsive economic enterprises.[12]

Sec. 65. General Concepts. – A cooperative is a duly registered association of persons, with common bond of interest, who have voluntarily joined together to achieve a lawful common social or economic end, making equitable contributions to the capital required and accepting a fair share of the risks and benefits of the undertaking in accordance with the universally accepted cooperative principles.

A social enterprise is a social mission-driven organization that has specific objectives that serve its primary purpose. Social enterprises seek to maximize profits while maximizing benefits to society and the environment. Their profits are principally used to fund social programs.[13]

Sec. 66. Powers and Functions. – The Cooperatives and Social Enterprise Authority shall be headed by a Director III, with the following as the functions:

a.      Formulate, adopt and implement integrated and comprehensive plans and programs on cooperative and social enterprise development consistent with the existing policy on cooperatives and the overall socio-economic development plans of the autonomous regional government;

b.      Develop and conduct management and training programs upon request of cooperatives and social enterprises;

c.       Support the voluntary organization and consensual development of activities that promote cooperative movements and provide assistance towards upgrading managerial and technical expertise upon request of the cooperative concerned;

d.      Coordinate the efforts of the Local Government Units in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and the private sector in the promotion, organization and development of cooperatives;

e.      Require all cooperatives, their federations and unions in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to submit their annual reports and their financial statements, duly audited by certified public accountants, and general information sheets;

f.        Assist cooperatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in accessing financial and other forms of assistance under such terms and conditions as are calculated to strengthen their viability and autonomy;

g.      Administer all grants and donations coursed through the regional government for cooperative development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region without prejudice to the right of cooperative to directly receive and administer such grants and donation upon agreement with the grantors and donors thereof;

h.     Upon request of either or both parties, to mediate and conciliate disputes within a cooperative or between cooperatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

i.        Formulate and adopt continuing policy initiatives in consultation with the cooperative and social enterprise sector in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region through public hearings; and

j.        Perform such other functions under existing laws.

Sec. 67. Organizational Structure. - The Cooperatives and Social Enterprise Authority shall be headed by an Executive Director II to be assisted by three (3) Division Chiefs, with support staff. It shall be composed of the following divisions: (a) Administrative and Finance Division; (b) Cooperative Development Division; and (c) Social Enterprise Division.

Sec. 68. Functions of the Administrative and Finance Division. – The Administrative and Finance Division shall be responsible for the day - to - day operations of the Authority and shall carry out the following functions:

a.      Provide administrative support to theAuthority;

b.      Manage the finances of theAuthority; and

c.       Carryoutotheradministrativefunctionsassignedby the Chief Minister or other competent authority.

Sec. 69. Functions and duties of the Cooperative Development Division. – The Cooperative Development Division shall be headed by a Division Chief, and shall have the following functions and duties:

a.      Recommend policies, strategies, plans and programs on cooperatives and extend necessary support and technical assistance towards upgrading managerial/ technical and fiscal capabilities of cooperatives;

b.      Processing and issuance of Certificate of Registration, and Certificate of Compliance;

c.       Provide mediation and arbitration services to registered cooperatives;

d.      Conduct monitoring and inspection of cooperatives; and

e.      Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

Sec. 70. Functions and duties of the Social Enterprise Division. – The Social Enterprise Division shall be headed by a Division Chief, and shall have the following functions and duties:

a.      Promote and advocate social enterprise in community development;

b.      Assist social enterprises in the development of their business model;

c.       Organize the Bangsamoro Social Enterprise Coalition;

d.      Provide support and assistance to social enterprises whenever necessary; and

e.      Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

Sec. 71.  Support to Local Government Units. – In a province, city or municipality that has its own Cooperative Development Office, the Authority shall provide support and assistance whenever necessary. Those local government units without a Cooperative Development Office shall be assisted by a Cooperative Development Specialist in the implementation of their cooperative programs.[14]

I.      BANGSAMORO INFORMATION COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY OFFICE

Sec. 39.  Bangsamoro Information Communications Technology Office.– The Bangsamoro Information Communications Technology Office (BICTO) shall have the following powers and functions:

a.      Periodically formulate a BARMM ICT strategic development plan for approval of the Bangsamoro Cabinet;

b.      Formulate and recommend appropriate policies, procedures, standards and guidelines relating to the acquisition, disposal, use, implementation, utilization, management, security and protection of ICT resources;

c.       Administer the implementation of major programs, activities, and projects relating to Information and Communications Technology within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

d.      Monitor and ensure the implementation, and undertake review and periodic updating, of the Bangsamoro Government’s e-Government Plan;

e.      Promote and monitor the compliance of the BARMM Ministries to existing ICT laws, policies, standards, and guidelines;

f.        Facilitate the configuration of Centralized Information Systems, which shall be installed in the Information and Communications Office under the Office of the Chief Minister, to enable rapid access to reliable information and reinforce government services in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region;

g.      Develop, manage and maintain the Bangsamoro Government-owned ICT Infrastructure, except otherwise provided by law or executive issuance;

h.     Ensure the alignment of regional ICT development plans with the Bangsamoro Development Key point agenda;

i.        Promote collaborative efforts to ensure ICT capabilities and capacities across all sectors in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region; and

j.        Perform such other related functions as may be assigned by law or higher authorities.

Sec. 73.Organizational Structure. – BICTO shall be headed by an Executive Director II, who shall be appointed by the Chief Minister under co-terminus status. He/she shall be assisted by two (2) Division Chiefs, with support staff. Its divisions are: (1) The ICT Infrastructure and Services Division, which shall develop, install, interconnect, maintain, and protect the ICT infrastructure, systems, and databases of the Bangsamoro Government, as well as connect databases to those of their national counterparts, as far as practicable; and (2) The Planning and Capacity Building Division, which shall develop plans, programs, and activities related to the development and use of ICT.

Chapter 4

Power of the Chief Minister to Reorganize Executive Offices