Maguindanao del Sur Aims for Agricultural Transformation Toward Peace and Prosperity: Reflection on the Visit of Mayor Nathaniel Midtimbang of Datu Anggal to Former Agriculture Secretary Piñol
COTABATO CITY (October 16, 2025) — What started as a friendly visit from the son of Maguindanao del Sur Governor Datu Ali Midtimbang could become a pivotal moment for the province, setting the stage for its evolution into one of Mindanao’s top food production zones.
Yesterday, Mayor Nathaniel Midtimbang of Datu Anggal, a former Vice Governor of the province, had breakfast with Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol, a journalist and former Secretary of Agriculture of the Philippines, to share his vision of transforming Maguindanao del Sur into a major agricultural production area.
A Shared Vision for Development
Mayor Midtimbang’s proposal deeply resonated with me. Since my early days in public service—first as the Mayor of Mlang and later as Governor of North Cotabato—I have always dreamed of seeing Maguindanao emerge from conflict through agriculture-driven peace and prosperity, Piñol stated in a social media post.
While my previous offers of assistance went unrecognized by past provincial leaders, this initiative by Mayor Midtimbang may finally be the breakthrough I have long awaited, Piñol stated in his social media post, Piñol continued.
“I told my father, Governor Datu Ali, that if no change occurs within three years of his governorship, we have no right to ask for the people’s support in the upcoming elections,” Mayor Nathaniel Midtimbang explained to Piñol.
Overcoming a Difficult Past
Transforming Maguindanao del Sur will not be an easy journey. The province still bears the stigma of being a conflict area, remembered for tragic events such as the Ampatuan Massacre, the Mamasapano incident that claimed the lives of the SAF 44, and the disappearance of three goat traders from Batangas. The presence of several Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps further reinforces this perception.
However, beneath this troubled history lies a province rich in natural resources and agricultural potential.
Agriculture as the Key to Peace and Prosperity
Covering 547,174 hectares, including a significant portion of the Liguasan Marsh, Maguindanao del Sur boasts vast and fertile land ideal for cultivating corn, sorghum, and soybeans.
“These crops could pave the way for developing the cattle and goat industry, while parts of the Liguasan Marsh could be utilized for freshwater aquaculture—all contributing to a more diverse and resilient local economy,” Piñol said.
Currently ranked as the third poorest province in Mindanao, with a 43.3% poverty incidence, Maguindanao del Sur has every opportunity to rise and transform into a food production hub for the region.
Crafting the Agricultural Development Blueprint
“After our fruitful discussion, I assured Mayor Midtimbang of my commitment to assist in developing an Agricultural Development Blueprint for the province. This strategic plan will be presented to Governor Datu Ali Midtimbang and other provincial leaders to initiate Maguindanao del Sur’s agricultural transformation,” marked the conversation between Piñol and Mayor Midtimbang’s son, Nathaniel.
Piñol commented that this endeavor should not be difficult. “The programs and strategies have been on my mind and close to my heart for some time—ready to help transform the province from a land of conflict and violence into a zone of peace and progress.” (BMN/BangsamoroToday )
