3 ARTICLE I1 Powers and Functions of the Commission SEC. 8. Powers and Functions To accomplish its mandate, the Commission shall have the following powers and functions: (a) Provide advice and assistance to the President in the formulation, coordination, implementation and monitoring of policies, plans, programs and projects affecting Muslim Filipino communities; when so authorized, represent the President on matters concerning Muslim Filipino communities; serve as a link between the President and public or private agencies, internal or external, that are involved in such programs and projects; and recommend such affirmative actions as may be necessary for their efficient and effective implementation; (b) Undertake and coordinate development programs and projects for the advancement of Muslim Filipino communities, including designing, implementing and maintaining settlements for Muslim Filipino communities; (c) Act as the primary government agency through which Muslim Filipinos can seek government assistance and redress; serve as the medium through which such assistance may be extended to Muslim Filipinos; for this purpose, the Commission is hereby authorized, subject to existing auditing rules and regulations, to give grants-in-aid out of its appropriations or other appropriate funds to cooperating government agencies for such programs or projects for the development of Muslim Filipino communities; provide services including legal assistance, medical aid, relief and other forms of assistance for socio-economic upliftment of Muslim Filipino communities; (d) Enter, subject to existing laws, policies and guidelines, into such contracts, agreements or arrangements with government or private agencies or entities as may be necessary to attain the objectives of the Commission; (e)In accordance with pertinent laws, rules and regulations then in force, and subject to guidelines provided by the President, promote and enhance the development of domestic trade and commerce among the members of the Muslim Filipino communities; or promote or facilitate the establishment by members of the Muslim Filipino communities of venture