TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno is calling for aggressive investments in physical, digital, and institutional connectivity to integrate the economies of the BIMP-EAGA growth corridor. The strategy aims to position the region as a competitive player in the global digital economy.
A Vision for Collective Growth
Secretary Magno delivered the message via video during the 1st BIMP-EAGA Digital Alliance Meeting held at the Tagum City Hall Atrium. He echoed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s earlier statements at the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit, emphasizing the opportunity to integrate regional economies further. The goal is to reduce development gaps and enable smoother movement of goods, services, and people under Vision 2035.
The Mindanao Development Authority sees inter-regional connectivity as central to this vision. Magno stressed that this aligns with the Philippine digital transformation agenda and the broader BIMP-EAGA cooperation framework. The current momentum, which includes upgrades to Mindanao's digital backbone and tech-driven agriculture, must be sustained.
Four Pillars of Digital Growth
Magno outlined four strategies aligned with the BIMP-EAGA Digital Cluster. The first is the aggressive expansion of Digital Infrastructure to ensure reliable access for every community. He emphasized that no barangay should be left offline as the digital economy grows.
The second pillar focuses on Digital Literacy and Upskilling to prepare the workforce for a rapidly changing environment. Third is Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship, leveraging tools to strengthen the blue and green economy, including sustainable fisheries and climate-resilient agriculture. Finally, Digital Solutions and Platforms will harness artificial intelligence to improve governance, education, trade, and public services.
A Boon for Trade and Transport
For Davao City and its surrounding provinces, the push means direct benefits in trade and infrastructure. Davao serves as the primary trade and logistics hub connecting Mindanao to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Producers in Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Davao del Norte gain smoother export access to ASEAN markets.
The plan also accelerates the restoration of direct air routes, such as Davao–Manado and Davao–Kota Kinabalu, and sea links. These improvements lower transit times and costs for both trade and tourism. Barangay-level connectivity upgrades aim to eliminate digital blind spots across rural areas.
Building a Digitally Literate Workforce
Local workers, students, and jobseekers stand to benefit from regional digital literacy programs. These initiatives prepare them for remote tech roles and international digital services. The focus on upskilling is crucial for staying competitive.
Small business owners can leverage cross-border e-commerce platforms and AI tools to scale beyond the domestic market. Support for startups and MSMEs is a key component of the economic sustainability pillar. This opens new revenue streams and market opportunities.
Technology for Farms and Public Services
Farmers and fisherfolk will benefit from climate-resilient agritech and sustainable fisheries tools. These technologies improve crop yields and reduce waste. Digital platforms also streamline public service delivery across local government units, enhancing education and trade clearances.
Magno acknowledged the vital contribution of the Department of Information and Communications Technology. He affirmed MinDA's commitment to working with national agencies, local governments, the private sector, and BIMP-EAGA counterparts. The ultimate goal is to turn ideas into concrete programs.
