Economy of war torn R12 bouncing back

COTABATO CITY — Central Mindanao’s business climate has been showing signs it is bouncing back from the devastations wrought by nagging security problems in the region, the Regional Development Council (RDC) yesterday said.

"We are confident that the improvements in the economy can soon overtake setbacks," said Cotabato City Mayor Muslimin Sema, chairman of RDC in Region 12.

The RDC-12 covers the cities of Cotabato, Kidapawan, Tacurong, Koronadal and Gen. Santos and the provinces of North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Sarangani.

Sema, concurrent administrator of the Southern Philippines Development Authority, said in the city alone, the Cotabato Light and Power Company poured in an additional P100 million for its expansion in the 37 barangays here and nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat and Sultan Kudarat towns in Maguindanao.

"Restaurants and fast-food outlets have also been sprouting like mushrooms in many key areas in the region, including the South Cotabato-Sarangani-Gen. Santos City area. This is the best indication that the business atmosphere in the region is virtually improving," Sema said. — John Unson