BLA Profile:
The Bangsamoro Library and Archives, historically established as the Regional Library in 1980, holds the distinction of being the only regional library in the Philippines. Its growth mirrors the administrative transitions of the Bangsamoro region, evolving from its foundation under the Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook and later, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, to its present f
orm in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Operating under the direct administration of the Office of the Chief Minister, as provided by Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 13 or the Bangsamoro Administrative Code, BLA plays a dual role: safeguarding the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Bangsamoro people while also providing modern library services. Its mission extends to advancing knowledge dissemination, supporting education and research, and ensuring the preservation of documentary heritage for present and future generations. BLA is currently located in the BTA Annex Building (formerly RLA Building) within the Bangsamoro Government Center, Gov. BLA History:
BLA traces its origins to a Memorandum of Agreement signed on June 25, 1980, between The National Library, represented by Director Serafin D. Quiason, and the Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook (LTP), chaired by Simeon A. Initially known as the Regional Library because Cotabato City was part of Region XII at that time, it formally opened to the public with Mrs. Dulay as its first head (1981–1986). Leadership then passed to Mrs. Matabalao (1987–1991) and subsequently to Mrs. Pinadtaya K. Milanes (1991–2010). During Mrs. Milanes’ tenure, the institution secured its own building, which currently houses the liaison office of the Office of the Wali of Bangsamoro and the KAPYANAN Project. Leadership continued under Mr. Yasin Mohammad, who served as Chief Librarian from 2010 until his retirement in 2015. Following Mr. Mohammad’s retirement, Ms. Kamilah S. Unda was designated as officer-in-charge of the institution, a role she held from 2015 to 2019, during the transition from ARMM to BARMM. Unda’s leadership saw the renaming of the ARMM Regional Library to the Bangsamoro Library and Archives. The Bangsamoro Administrative Code later formalized this change, providing not only for the rebranding but also for the expansion of the institution’s mandate. From a regional library, the BLA was transformed into a dual-function institution: a center for knowledge and research, and the official archives authority of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. This marked a new chapter in its history, aligning the BLA’s functions with the governance priorities and cultural identity of the Bangsamoro people. In 2020, Ms. Unda was appointed as Chief Librarian, serving in this capacity until November 2024, when she became the first Director II of the BLA, marking a historic milestone for the institution. Under her leadership, BLA undertook critical transitions, including modernization, adaptation to emerging community needs, and the strengthening of its identity as both a library and archives authority. Her vision and dedication laid the groundwork for the institution’s continued growth and relevance. Today, BLA stands as a vital resource for knowledge, research, and cultural identity, serving simultaneously as a hub for modern library services and as the official archival institution of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. BLA Mandate:
The BLA serves as the official repository for BARMM’s vital documents, including government reports, laws, and the Bangsamoro Gazette. It provides public access to these records, offers free library services, supports local library development, and collaborates with the National Library of the Philippines and other entities to enhance regional information access. Quality Policy
As part of the OCM, the BLA adopts the OCM’s Quality Policy, reflecting a commitment to a quality management system aligned with ISO 9001:2015 standards. This policy, rooted in moral governance, serves as the OCM’s service pledge to the Bangsamoro community. Through this commitment, BLA aims to deliver responsive, effective, and efficient services that advance Bangsamoro aspirations, ensuring compliance with requirements and fostering continual improvement. Guided by the principles of moral governance,
we, the OCM-BARMM, in pursuit of becoming a premier institution,
commit to provide responsive support to the Chief Minister
in the overall regional administration towards the attainment of the
aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. This we pledge by delivering effective and efficient services,
while ensuring compliance with relevant requirements,
and fostering continual improvement of our quality management system.
