Mindanao steps up: Davao hosts BIMP-EAGA meetings, trade fair

DAVAO CITY (November 11) — Mindanao is taking the regional spotlight this week as Davao City welcomes delegates from Southeast Asia for the high-level meetings and trade fair of the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

From Tuesday to Thursday, officials and business leaders will convene for the 33rd Senior Officials’ Meeting and 28th Ministerial Meeting, which will assess ongoing projects and set new directions for the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 — a roadmap for inclusive growth, stronger connectivity, and shared prosperity across the subregion.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, who serves as the Philippines’ signing minister, said the gathering affirms Mindanao’s readiness to lead in regional cooperation and sustainable development.

“We are not just showcasing products here — we are demonstrating capacity, confidence, and commitment to regional development,” Magno said.

He added that the meetings reflect the country’s firm commitment to deepen BIMP-EAGA ties in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to position Mindanao as a key driver of integration and innovation in the region.

As a prelude to the ministerial meetings, the BIMP-EAGA Trade and Tourism Fair opened Sunday at SM Lanang Premier, featuring a wide range of local delicacies, crafts, eco-tourism sites, and investment opportunities from the four member countries. The fair runs until November 11.

Organizers said the event aims not only to promote trade and tourism but also to strengthen people-to-people ties, highlighting the region’s shared culture and aspirations for progress.

“Mindanao is ready to connect, collaborate, and lead,” Magno said, expressing optimism that this year’s BIMP-EAGA meetings will open new doors for communities and businesses across the island.