COTABATO CITY, October 7, 2026 — Fifty Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) are set to benefit from ₱2.5 million in funding released by the Office of Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito under his 2026 Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF) to strengthen community-based nutrition services across the Bangsamoro.
The fund was released today, October 7, during an activity at D & M Restaurant in Cotabato City, through the Ministry of Health (MOH) under Minister Dr. Kadil Jojo Sinolinding Jr. The allocation translates to an average of ₱50,000 for each of the 50 BNS covered by the program.
The funding will support community-level nutrition programs and activities to be carried out by the BNS, including nutrition monitoring, education, community outreach, and other interventions aimed at improving the health and nutritional well-being of children and families.
The initiative reflects the continuing effort of the Bangsamoro government to bring essential health services and development assistance closer to communities, consistent with the administration's grassroots-oriented approach under Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua.
Benito expressed appreciation to Minister Sinolinding and the MOH for their partnership in ensuring that the TDIF support reaches frontline community workers.
“The Barangay Nutrition Scholars are among the people who are closest to our communities. They see firsthand the needs of our children and families. By supporting their work, we are also strengthening our efforts to build healthier communities,” Benito said.
The fund release also carries personal significance for Benito as his term as a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is set to end on October 29, 2026, as the Bangsamoro prepares for the transition to the regular BARMM government.
In his farewell message, Benito expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve during the transition period.
“As my term in the Bangsamoro Parliament comes to an end, I leave with a grateful heart. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve our people and to be part of this historic period in the Bangsamoro. More than anything, I am grateful for every opportunity we had to bring programs and assistance closer to our communities,” Benito said.
He also expressed his appreciation to Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua, Minister Dr. Kadil Jojo Sinolinding Jr., the Ministry of Health, the BNS, and other partners for their cooperation in implementing programs that directly benefit Bangsamoro communities.
“My term may end, but my commitment to our people does not. I hope that the initiatives we have started will continue and that the regular BARMM government will build on the gains we have achieved during this transition,” Benito added.
He urged the 50 BNS to continue serving their communities with dedication and compassion, emphasizing their important role as a link between government health programs and families who need support.
As the BTA prepares to conclude its mandate, Benito said he leaves public office with hope that the programs and institutions developed during the transition will continue to grow and deliver meaningful services to the Bangsamoro people.
The ₱2.5-million allocation for the 50 BNS is among the initiatives implemented through Benito’s TDIF as his term draws to a close, providing continued support for grassroots nutrition efforts across the region.
