In the face of persistent conflicts and protection challenges across Bangsamoro’s vulnerable communities, local efforts continue to pave the way for sustainable peace. Magungaya Mindanao Inc. (MMI), with support from IDEALS and funding from the Global Community Engagement and Resiliency Fund (GCERF) Philippines, has been instrumental in assisting these communities.
One of the key initiatives under the Support to People’s Empowerment through Amplifying Community Voices for Kalilintad in Mindanao (SPEAK) Project involved open discussions and updates on pressing peace and protection issues. Held recently, this initiative brought together 39 Community Peace Monitors (CPMs) from Mamasapano and South Upi, areas in Maguindanao del Sur that have been heavily affected by recurring conflicts and displacements driven by unresolved clan disputes.
Persistent Challenges
The discussions highlighted both emerging and long-standing issues plaguing these communities. In South Upi and its neighboring areas of Datu Hoffer, Upi, and Datu Odin Sinsuat, a staggering 85 Indigenous Peoples (IPs) have been killed from 2018 to the present, leaving their families without justice. The victims’ families have consistently called on local and regional authorities to take decisive actions, including prosecuting identified perpetrators, to restore faith in Bangsamoro’s justice system.
In Mamasapano and South Upi, the recurring nature of conflicts has led to repeated displacements, deeply affecting civilians’ lives and livelihoods. Despite various peace-building initiatives by local and regional authorities, many issues remain unresolved, underscoring the need for long-term solutions and preventive measures.
Consolidating Voices for Action
The CPMs engaged in open space discussions to identify and consolidate these peace and protection concerns. Their collective goal is to bring these issues and proposed solutions to the attention of their local government units and relevant ministries during upcoming town hall meetings. The initiative aims to amplify community voices and ensure that grassroots concerns are addressed in regional policies.
Call for Justice and Peace
The families of the victims, alongside community leaders, continue to advocate for stronger interventions by law enforcement and regional leaders. They emphasize that achieving justice for the deceased and preventing future incidents are critical steps toward fostering democracy and peace in Bangsamoro.
This event underscores the importance of community participation in addressing deeply rooted conflicts and the role of projects like SPEAK in empowering marginalized voices. As town hall meetings approach, hopes remain high for meaningful dialogue and actionable commitments to advance peace and protection in Bangsamoro.