Project Title: BARMM Learning Center
Principal Architect: Gloryrose Dy Metilla
Junior Designers: Jenelle Metilla
Project Type: Government
Client: MILG BARMM
Stage: Ongoing
Project Location: Datu Binasing, Pigcawayan, Cotabato Province

The BARMM Learning Center is an ambitious initiative aimed at fostering education among young Muslim children in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Spearheaded by Principal Architect Gloryrose Dy Metilla and supported by Junior Designer Jenelle Metilla, this project embodies a vision of inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and accessibility in education. Situated in Datu Binasing, Pigcawayan, Cotabato Province, the center is being developed as a safe and stimulating space for children to thrive academically and socially while embracing their rich cultural heritage.

A Space Rooted in Cultural Identity

The BARMM Learning Center is more than just a school; it is a space where tradition meets modernity, ensuring that young learners can engage with their studies in an environment that reflects their cultural background. The architectural design draws heavily from traditional Moro aesthetics, featuring intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and motifs inspired by local art and craftsmanship. This approach allows students to feel a strong connection to their identity while receiving quality education.

Incorporating these elements into the building’s design does more than enhance its visual appeal. It also fosters a sense of belonging and pride among the children and the wider community. This fusion of culture and education ensures that the facility is not just a place of learning but also a center of cultural preservation and expression.

Designing for Learning and Community

The center’s architectural layout is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. Spacious classrooms, well-ventilated learning areas, and natural lighting create an environment conducive to learning. The use of sustainable and locally sourced materials ensures that the center is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.

Beyond classrooms, the center will feature multipurpose halls, interactive spaces, and outdoor learning areas that encourage experiential learning. These spaces aim to support not only academic activities but also extracurricular and community engagement initiatives. This holistic approach to learning allows children to develop skills beyond traditional academics, including problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking.

A Commitment to Inclusive and Accessible Education

Education in the BARMM region has faced numerous challenges, including limited access to quality schools, socio-economic barriers, and historical conflicts. The BARMM Learning Center seeks to address these issues by providing a safe and inclusive space for children of diverse backgrounds to learn together. With a focus on equity in education, the project ensures that all students, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to quality learning materials, modern teaching methods, and trained educators who understand their unique needs.

The design also prioritizes accessibility by including features such as ramps, wide doorways, and gender-sensitive facilities to accommodate all learners, including those with disabilities. These thoughtful considerations ensure that the learning center can serve as a model for inclusive educational infrastructure in the region.

Government Support and Community Collaboration

The project is a collaborative effort between the MILG BARMM (Ministry of the Interior and Local Government – BARMM) and various stakeholders committed to uplifting education in the region. By working closely with local leaders, educators, and the community, the project team ensures that the learning center is designed to meet the actual needs of its users.

Public participation is a crucial element of the project. Community members are engaged in discussions about the design, construction, and future use of the facility. This collaborative approach ensures a sense of ownership among the people and reinforces the center’s role as a community-driven initiative.

Future Impact and Sustainability

Once completed, the BARMM Learning Center is expected to have a long-lasting impact on the region’s education sector. By providing a well-equipped and culturally enriching learning environment, the center aims to improve literacy rates, support early childhood education, and promote lifelong learning among young Muslims in the region.

Additionally, sustainability is at the core of the project. The incorporation of solar energy, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient materials aligns with environmental best practices, ensuring that the center remains functional and self-sustaining for years to come.