SPDA, Busco ink deal for agri-business development

The Southern Philippines Development Authority and Busco Sugar Milling Co. signed last week, a memorandum of agreement that formally sealed an agreement of cooperation and documented the seriousness of both entities in working together toward the development and transformation of thousands of hectares of idle SPDA lands in Lanao del Sur into a self-contained integrated agri-business/agro-industrial pursuits. Sugarcane, other crops, and bio-fuel (ethanol) production after more than six months of intense dialogue and negotiation.

The MOA was signed by SPDA Chairman Saeed Daof and Busco Chairman Roman Ozaeta Jr. It spelled out ways and means on what SPD and Busco intend to do to help the national government in addressing national food and energy security concerns, providing thousands of jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities to Muslims, Christians and indigenous peoples, promoting a culture of peace, attracting interest in Mindanao as an investment destination, and making as priority the expeditious improvement of the quality of life of the people in the area.

Ozaeta said Busco accepted the invitation and challenge by the government through Daof, “to extend our helping hand to bring its expertise and capabilities to help foster and accelerate the balanced growth of Southern Philippines for national, social and political stability particularly in the municipalities of Wao and Bumbaran, Lanao Del Sur.”

Busco was established in 1988, and is today the second biggest producer of raw and refined sugar in the country. According to Ozaeta, Busco commits itself to undertake thorough surveys and feasibility studies, at no cost to the government, within six months after the signing of the MOA and the receipt of all pertinent data from SPDA. Busco will then initiate and complete the land survey and/or feasibility studies to determine the suitability of the area for sugarcane plantation and other crops. Such undertaking will be the basis or road map for the systematic preparation of a master development plan of the project site.

Staff Undersecretary Charito Eligir, representing PMS Secretary Cerge Remonde, expressed her support of the project.

Usec. Nebil Tan who represented Peace Secretary Hermogenes Esperon Jr., said the MOA signing was a milestone that will push a diversified agri-business/agro-industrial undertaking in the region. This multi-million project is an example of how unity and cooperation will propel Mindanao to fulfill the dreams and aspirations of our forefrathers as a land of promise. Tan said the project is noteworthy, demonstrating the newly-instituted SPDA policy that emphasizes private-sector, market-driven and profit oriented initiatives with less dependence on government funds, transparency, and most of all, dedication to public service.

UP Regent Nelia Gonzalez for her part, expressed her willingness to put across to the attention of UP and collateral state universities, the advisability of undertaking technical cooperation with the SPDA-Busco technical working committee that will prepare the master development plan for the project.

Daof, who initiated and spearheaded the negotiations with Busco, upon his assumption to duty as SPDA chairman seven months ago said, “The project will contribute immensely toward the advancement of the peace and development process in Mindanao. It will help accelerate the completion of the 1996 GRP-MNLF peace agreement as envisioned by President Arroyo in revitalizing SPDA through E.O. 560.