The Mindanao region is seen to outgrow Luzon if it is able to achieve and sustain peace in the region, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan told reporters this week maximizing Mindanao's potential for growth and development, through a Bangsamoro economic plan, will be the focus of the discussions at the Philippine Development Forum (PDF) to be held in Davao in January 2013. He added that if there is peace in Mindanao, investors can start looking at the region and plan for long term investments on agriculture and tourism as well as allied industries, writes Cai Ordinario for Rappler News.