In the heart of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), a quiet but powerful revolution is unfolding—one that weaves together tradition, justice, and inclusive governance. The Teduray, Lambangian, and Menubu Dulangan communities, long custodians of the region’s ancestral lands and cultural integrity, are steadily gaining ground in their rightful place within the political structures of the Bangsamoro.
For the first time in its history, the municipality of South Upi in Maguindanao del Sur has selected an Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) from the Lambangian tribe to sit in the Sangguniang Bayan. Alongside this historic selection, the Teduray youth also celebrates a landmark achievement—their first-ever youth representative has been chosen to carry their voice into the halls of local governance.
These milestones, facilitated by the Timuay Justice and Governance (TJG)—the recognized Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) of the Teduray and Lambangian peoples—represent more than just seats at the table. They signify a broader commitment to self-determination, cultural preservation, and intergenerational leadership.
A Tradition of Trust Over Paper
At the core of this initiative is a deeply respected sectoral and rotational representation system, an agreement between tribal leaders and local government units. Though unwritten, this verbal pact is grounded in Indigenous values where honor, trust, and sacred responsibility outweigh formal documentation.
In 2025, following the national and local elections, it will be TJG’s turn to select the next IPMR under this rotational framework. Such an approach not only fosters unity among Indigenous groups but also ensures equitable representation across tribal and generational lines.
“Wag Kayong Magpabíli ng Ancestral Domain N’yo”
Meanwhile, another historic gathering unfolded in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, where the STEMADCO General Assembly brought together five major clans from the Teduray and Menubu Dulangan tribes. In attendance were prominent leaders, including Hon. Datu Muhamad Sangki, Vice Mayor of Ampatuan, and Hon. Baisheradine, a local barangay captain, who both expressed unwavering support for Indigenous rights.
During an open forum, Vice Mayor Sangki addressed the crowd with a passionate plea:
“Wag kayong magpabíli ng ancestral domain n’yo kasi sa inyo ‘yan, at ng mga anak n’yo, at ng anak pa ng mga anak ninyo.”
(Do not sell your ancestral domain—because it belongs to you, your children, and your children’s children.)
It was a message that struck at the heart of Indigenous stewardship: protecting land is protecting life itself.
“Ipapamana Pa Natin”
Echoing this call was Hon. Datu Mario K. Kadingilan, who reminded the assembly:
“Alagaan natin ang kalupaan natin dahil ipapamana pa natin sa next generation.”
(Let us take care of our land because we will pass it on to the next generation.)
These leaders are not only pledging support—they are actively shaping a new narrative in BARMM, one that elevates Indigenous perspectives from the margins to the mainstream of governance.
Even the Philippine Army present during the assembly committed to supporting these intercultural dialogues, a rare and commendable gesture that recognizes the vital role of peaceful, community-based decision-making.
Why IP Inclusion Matters Now More Than Ever
The inclusion of IPMRs in local legislative bodies, especially in a region as culturally complex as BARMM, is not merely symbolic—it is a structural necessity. For too long, Indigenous Peoples in the Bangsamoro territories have been left out of political conversations that directly affect their lands, identities, and futures.
Their involvement ensures that laws and policies account for ancestral domain rights, environmental sustainability, and Indigenous education and health systems. Most importantly, it creates a governance model that reflects justice rooted in tradition, not just legal instruments.
As the political tides shift in Mindanao, the Teduray, Lambangian, and Dulangan peoples are proving that inclusive governance is not only possible—it is powerful. Their leadership is grounded in wisdom passed down through generations, carried forward by youth representatives, and fortified by community solidarity.
The Path Forward
The journey ahead remains challenging. The threats to ancestral lands persist—from commercial interests to bureaucratic neglect. Yet, with every IPMR seated, every clan assembly held, and every elder and youth heard, the path toward a just, inclusive, and peaceful BARMM becomes more defined.
As the TJG aptly declares:
Padayon!
Let this be the beginning of governance rooted in justice, tradition, and unity.
In the evolving story of the Bangsamoro, the Indigenous Peoples are no longer just witnesses—they are authors of a future where every voice, every tribe, and every generation matters.