Sulu Province Joins Zamboanga Peninsula Region
MANILA, Philippines — The province of Sulu has officially become part of the Zamboanga Peninsula Region, also known as Region IX. This significant change was enacted through Executive Order No. 91, signed on July 30, 2025, by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
This move follows the Supreme Court’s affirmation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) as constitutional roughly ten months prior. Despite the law establishing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the court clarified that Sulu province is not included in BARMM since its residents voted against ratification.
Legal Basis and Transition Guidelines
The executive order states, “In view of the Supreme Court Decision and Resolution in Province of Sulu v. the Executive Secretary, et al., the Province of Sulu is hereby declared a part of Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula).” This declaration applies to the provincial government, all local government units (LGUs) within Sulu, as well as national government agencies operating in the area.
Authorities have been directed to facilitate a smooth, phased transition throughout fiscal year 2025. To ensure public services continue without disruption, the order permits both BARMM and Sulu governments to establish institutional arrangements for cooperation during this interim period.
Oversight and Leadership for the Transition
A technical working group will oversee the transition process. Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman will chair this group. BARMM Chief Minister and concurrent Interior Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua will serve as co-chair, while Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla will be vice chair.
Local leaders noted the importance of collaboration among government units to maintain service delivery and administrative stability during the changeover.
This historic reorganization marks a new chapter for Sulu province as it integrates into the Zamboanga Peninsula Region, promising closer ties and potentially more focused development initiatives.
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