Sulu, Philippines – September 2024
In a powerful show of unity, the people of Sulu gathered for a peace caravan calling for the reintegration of their province into the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The event, held recently in Sulu, saw participants carrying placards and Bangsamoro flags, as they voiced their collective plea: “Without Sulu, there is no BARMM!”
The peace caravan was organized to push for Sulu’s re-entry into BARMM, despite the province’s rejection of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) during the 2019 plebiscite. Leading the charge were women members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), along with provincial ministry offices, schools, and other community organizations, all rallying for unity and the restoration of Sulu’s place within BARMM.
Background on Sulu’s Exclusion from BARMM
Sulu initially opted out of joining BARMM following the 2019 plebiscite on the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). While the rest of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) transitioned into BARMM, Sulu voted against joining the newly created autonomous region, making it one of the few areas within the original ARMM to decline membership.
The decision not to join was controversial, especially considering Sulu’s deep historical and cultural ties to the Bangsamoro region. Many local leaders, including Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan II, had questioned the legality and fairness of the plebiscite process. Governor Tan even brought the case to the Supreme Court, arguing that the inclusion of Sulu in BARMM was unconstitutional and that the BOL violated the 1987 Constitution. However, in 2021, the Supreme Court upheld the legality of the BOL, dismissing Sulu’s petition and reaffirming the constitutionality of the new Bangsamoro government.
The Call for Reintegration
Despite the plebiscite’s outcome and the legal ruling, many in Sulu continue to feel a strong connection to BARMM. The peace caravan reflects growing support within the province for reintegration, with participants highlighting the economic, political, and social benefits of being part of the autonomous region. Advocates argue that inclusion in BARMM offers greater representation for the Moro people, access to government resources, and a stronger platform for self-governance under the BOL.
“The voices of the people are clear — they want Sulu to be part of BARMM,” said one of the caravan organizers. “We believe that by coming together as one Bangsamoro, we can achieve peace, progress, and a better future for all.”
The peace caravan signifies a renewed push for Sulu’s reintegration into BARMM, as community members hope their message will resonate with regional and national leaders. While there are no immediate plans for another plebiscite, the people of Sulu remain determined to pursue their goal of rejoining the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
The event marks a significant moment in Sulu’s ongoing journey toward greater political autonomy and reflects the enduring spirit of the Bangsamoro people. Whether this movement will gain further traction and result in another bid for reintegration remains to be seen.
