Duterte orders revival of barter in Mindanao

President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the revival of the ancient commercial practice of barter in Mindanao.

Duterte signed on Monday Executive Order No. 64 reviving barter in Mindanao, promoting its growth, and constituting the Mindanao Barter Council (MBC).

“The revival of barter in Mindanao will not only create jobs and business opportunities, but will also strengthen trade and commerce between and among member-states of the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines – East ASEAN Growth Area),” the order read.

The order also sought for the creation of MBC which will supervise, coordinate and harmonize policies, programs and activities on barter in Mindanao.

“The MBC shall be attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for policy and program coordination. It shall establish a principal office in Jolo, Sulu, as may be necessary and practicable,” the order said.

The MBC will be composed of the DTI Secretary as Chairperson; Chairperson of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and Commissioner of Bureau of Customs (BOC) as Vice-Chairpersons.

Representatives from the Finance, Foreign Affairs and Agriculture departments were also included in the MBC with representatives from Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Ports Authority.

The MBC may also invite representatives from major Muslim ethno-linguistic groups to participate in its proceedings.

Funds for he operationalization of the MBC will be sourced from the funding sources to be determined by the Department of Budget and Management.  /muf