BARMM Declares State of Calamity Amid Oil Crisis, El Niño Threat

COTABATO CITY (May 28) — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has been placed under a state of calamity as regional authorities move to confront the twin threats of a worsening global oil crisis and the looming impact of the El Niño dry spell.

BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua issued Proclamation No. 0002, Series of 2026 on May 14, formally declaring a region-wide state of calamity following recommendations from the Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC).

Regional officials said the declaration comes as rising fuel prices continue to strain local economies while prolonged dry conditions threaten agriculture, water supply, food security, and vulnerable communities across the Bangsamoro region.

“This declaration allows the Bangsamoro Government to mobilize all available resources swiftly and effectively to protect lives, support affected communities, and strengthen the region’s resilience against ongoing crises,” Macacua said.

The Bangsamoro government said assessments conducted by ministries, offices, and regional agencies revealed an urgent need for intensified government intervention to address growing social and economic pressures.

With the declaration in place, BARMM authorities can accelerate emergency response and recovery operations, fast-track resource mobilization, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and expand social protection and emergency assistance programs throughout the region.

Officials added that the measure also reinforces BARMM’s newly adopted contingency plans and existing disaster response mechanisms, allowing government agencies to respond more quickly and flexibly as conditions evolve on the ground.

“The Bangsamoro Government remains committed to safeguarding lives, protecting livelihoods, and ensuring that assistance reaches communities through coordinated and inclusive actions,” Macacua reiterated.

He also called for a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society” approach, urging local government units, partner agencies, and communities to work together in carrying out response and recovery efforts.

The declaration places BARMM among the regions now intensifying climate and economic preparedness measures as El Niño conditions continue to threaten large portions of the country while global fuel instability drives up the cost of transportation, food, and basic commodities.