MSSD and PLGU-Sulu Convene for Transition Plans
COTABATO CITY (July 15, 2025) — The Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) and the Provincial Government of Sulu held an executive meeting on July 14, 2025, to address issues regarding the upcoming full devolution of social services.
The meeting was led by Governor Abdusakur “Totoh” Tan II and Vice Governor Abdusakur “Papang” Tan, along with various municipal mayors and representatives from the MSSD, including Atty. Mohammad Muktadir Ahmad Estrella, Deputy Minister Nur-Ainee Tan Lim, Director Zoraya Masakal, and Sulu Provincial Social Welfare Officer Hadja Imelda Pangiluan.
Atty. Estrella expressed concerns that some regionally funded programs, such as Kupkop and Unlad, which focus on Bangsamoro communities, might be discontinued.
MSSD said in its Facebook paost that Sulu local government unit reaffirmed its support for the MSSD, emphasizing that no workers would be laid off and that services would not be interrupted. Despite the province’s move to separate from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), social service officials must maintain their commitment.
The meeting concluded with the establishment of a Coordinating Group dedicated to coordinating the province’s transition plans, ensuring that services will continue without disruption during this period of change. (Tu Alid Alfonso, BMN/Bangsamoro Today)
