Cotabato City — The Bangsamoro Government has called on peace stakeholders, especially within the security sector, to intensify efforts toward fostering stability and collaboration in the region. The appeal was made during the 6th cohort of the Bangsamoro Peace Institute (BPI) training organized by the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) on December 8-10 at the Blue Lotus Hotel in Cotabato City.
MPOS Minister Hussein Muñoz emphasized the critical role of cooperation in achieving peace, highlighting the evolving nature of security challenges in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“In this generation, where security challenges evolve in complexity, your commitment to learning conflict resolution and integrating these strategies into broader development initiatives is both timely and commendable,” said Muñoz. He stressed that the event was not just a training session but a collective commitment to peace, adding, “Through your participation, you are equipping yourselves with vital skills and knowledge, leading the way to a more prosperous and secure future for your communities.”
Stakeholders Highlight the Importance of Partnerships
Jorge Kiman, chairperson of Al-Ihsaan and a participant from Basilan, underscored the need for strengthened collaboration between civil society organizations (CSOs) and the security sector.
“Partnering between CSOs and the security sector addresses the root causes of instability, such as poverty, marginalization, and historical grievances. This collaboration fosters trust and achieves sustainable peace in the region,” Kiman said.
Meanwhile, Police Colonel Rodolfo Inoy Jr., director of the Philippine National Police in Tawi-Tawi, noted the relative peace in his province.
“We are very lucky in Tawi-Tawi because we are the most peaceful province in BARMM. Our crime volume is very low, even during the recent elections,” Inoy stated.
Tackling Emerging Security Challenges
UNDP Cotabato Field Office Head Winston Camarinas discussed the complexities of the Bangsamoro region, pointing to shifting conflict dynamics.
“Previously, conflicts in BARMM were largely vertical, involving clashes between revolutionary forces and security forces. While those have been resolved, horizontal conflicts—community-based disputes—have emerged, requiring focused attention from both the police and CSOs,” Camarinas said.
He also announced plans to extend support to BARMM’s island provinces, acknowledging the limited resources in these areas. The Australian government, through UNDP Philippines, provided primary funding for the BPI program, reinforcing its commitment to peacebuilding in the region.
Strengthening Foundations for a Peaceful Future
The Bangsamoro Peace Institute serves as a platform for stakeholders to develop skills in conflict resolution, engage in meaningful dialogue, and address the root causes of instability. Participants and organizers expressed optimism that such initiatives would help pave the way for sustainable peace and development in the Bangsamoro region.
The call for collaboration reflects BARMM’s continued efforts to strengthen the foundations of peace amid the complexities of regional security, fostering hope for a more harmonious and progressive future.