Cotabato City — The Development Academy of the Bangsamoro (DAB), through its Center for Research and Policy Development (CRPD) Division, presented findings on the Temporary Appointment System (TAS) outlined in Article 305 of the Bangsamoro Civil Service Code. The two-day policy study rollout, held on December 4-5 at the Grand Summit Hotel, evaluated the effectiveness and impact of the TAS provisions and proposed recommendations to better address the needs of former combatants in the region.
Article 305 allows up to 30% of first-level Plantilla positions in the Bangsamoro Government, with a salary grade 9 or below, to be allocated to Mujahideen and Mujahidat (former combatants), regardless of civil service eligibility.
Addressing Social Justice and Workforce Development
BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim underscored the significance of inclusive policies in fostering social justice and human capital development in the region.
“This activity demonstrates the Bangsamoro’s dedication to cultivating an effective workforce while ensuring social justice and human capital development,” he stated.
“Let us remember that our greatest asset is our people, and by investing in our human resources, we are investing in the future of the Bangsamoro,” Ebrahim added.
DAB Officer-In-Charge Executive Director Abdul Khyr Macasayon highlighted the importance of inclusive discussions to refine the TAS.
“Article 305 is a pillar that guides civil service recruitment, appointments, and promotions in our region,” he said. “Our objectives are clear: to enhance comprehension, foster meaningful discussions, and inspire suggestions for improving the effectiveness of Article 305.”
Study Highlights Key Findings and Gaps
Fairodz Taalim, DAB-CRPD Division Chief, presented the study findings, which revealed gaps in the implementation of TAS. Out of 467 Plantilla positions allocated under TAS, only 77 were filled by Mujahideen and Mujahidat, representing 16.49% of the 30% target mandated by Article 305.
The Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Management (MFBM) recorded the highest number of TAS hires, followed by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs (MIPA), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), Ministry of Health (MOH), and Ministry of Human Settlement and Development (MHSD).
Key challenges identified in the study included insufficient communication about TAS opportunities, limited career development pathways for temporary staff, and a lack of transparency in the selection process.
Recommendations for a Better System
The study emphasized the need for improvements in communication strategies, the establishment of career development pathways, and enhanced transparency in the TAS implementation process. It also suggested optimizing training programs and strengthening organizational practices to address the aspirations of Mujahideen and Mujahidat, aligning with both short-term and long-term needs.
DAB officials stressed that the rollout provided actionable steps and insights to improve the TAS, ensuring its alignment with the broader goals of the Bangsamoro government.
Inclusive Opportunities for Former Combatants
Qualified members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) are eligible to apply for TAS positions under Article 305. Engr. Windel Diangcalan, Director III of Technical Management Services, facilitated the event, which was attended by selected Mujahideen and Mujahidat currently serving in BARMM.
The findings and recommendations aim to enhance the Temporary Appointment System, empowering former combatants to contribute meaningfully to the Bangsamoro Government while addressing their needs for stability, career growth, and social reintegration.
