The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has been placed under a state of calamity due to the effects of El Niño.

According to the Office of the Chief Minister Proclamation No.002, the declaration of the region-wide state of calamity will aid the communities affected and expedite the significant interventions, including response and recovery efforts.

“This declaration will effectively control the prices of the basic goods and commodities for the affected areas and afford the BARMM and its LGUs ample latitude to utilize and appropriate funds for rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts of, and to continue to provide basic services to, affected populations, in accordance with the law,” the proclamation reads.

The Chief Minister has the power to proclaim a state of calamity under the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

Concerned BARMM ministries, offices, and agencies were also urged to put in place necessary measures to address the impact of the dry spell.

“All ministries and other government agencies concerned are hereby directed to implement and execute medical assistance, relief, and rehabilitation work in accordance with pertinent operational plans and directives,” the proclamation added.