The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said that the seamless transfer of the Province of Sulu to Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula) is in progress pursuant to Executive Order No. 91 s. 2025 on the uninterrupted service delivery in the province during the transition.

The DILG, as the Vice-Chair of the Technical Working Group (TWG), remains committed to coordinating with stakeholders in the implementation of the transition plan and to resolving Sulu’s challenges on institutional, organizational, and personnel matters.

“Our commitment, together with the DBM, Civil Service Commission, the Bangsamoro Government, and the local government units of Sulu, is to ensure stability, continuity, and improved delivery of public services,” the DILG said.

Under E.O. 91, the Province of Sulu and its local government units (LGUs) were declared part of Region IX, thereby repealing their regional affiliation with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for government agencies to lead a phased and seamless transition, the DILG underscored the need for stronger coordination among stakeholders. “As Sulu reintegrates with Region IX, this transition process demands collective effort, careful planning, and strong partnerships,” said the DILG.

The DILG stated that it is spearheading the creation of a Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to address personnel management in the province, which is expected to be completed later this month.

Moreover, the Bangsamoro Government will submit a comprehensive list of BARMM issuances to supplement the institutional arrangements during the transition.

As LGUs also call for continuous augmentation from the national government to address funding and manpower gaps, the Department said the TWG will submit a request to the Office of the President (OP) to authorize BARMM to implement programs and projects in Sulu until 2026.

During this transition, the government is committed to keeping public service uninterrupted while laying down a stronger foundation for good governance and local development in Sulu.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-Smooth-integration-of-Sulu-to-Zambo-Region-underway/NC-2025-1235