Manila, Sept. 3 -- Nearly three decades after the signing of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front (GPH-MNLF), an official said Wednesday that Mindanao has reaped substantial dividends in economic growth, infrastructure, education, and social cohesion.

In a statement, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said the transformation of conflict-affected areas into hubs of opportunity reflects how far the region has progressed.

"The gains we are reaping today are the fruits of that collective courage," Magno said, referring to the landmark deal between the GPH and the MNLF.

Magno cited that MinDA has facilitated numerous partnerships ...