The Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG) has released a report highlighting that the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) does not meet the requirements for provincial status under the Local Government Code. The findings have significant implications for the governance and development of the SGA, which comprises 63 barangays that transitioned from North Cotabato to BARMM following the ratification of Republic Act No. 11504, or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).
Governance Challenges in the SGA
Initially envisioned to be divided into four municipalities, the SGA’s governance structure has faced political and logistical hurdles. Instead, the Development Coordinating Office (DCO) was created, followed by the establishment of the Office of the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA) by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). SGADA currently functions as both a municipal and provincial entity.
This unique administrative setup has raised concerns, particularly in electoral representation. During the 2022 elections, SGA voters could not participate in choosing municipal or provincial officials, highlighting a governance gap. To address this, eight municipalities were formed through legislation, with their creation ratified by voters. However, the question of provincial status for the SGA remains unresolved.
Failing the Provincial Criteria
The IAG report outlines why the SGA does not qualify as a province under the Local Government Code. Key deficiencies include:
- Land Area: The SGA spans only 552.314 square kilometers, far below the required 2,000 square kilometers.
- Population: The combined population of the eight municipalities is under the 250,000-inhabitant threshold.
- Income: The average annual income of the proposed province has not been certified by the Bureau of Local Government Finance, failing to meet the economic criterion.
Additionally, the SGA does not fulfill the contiguity requirement, further complicating its bid for provincial status.
Recommendations and Future Steps
The report suggests annexation to Maguindanao del Norte as a more viable solution. However, it recommends deferring this move until after the 2025 BARMM elections to ensure proper consultation and decision-making. Both annexation and the creation of a legislative district for the SGA will require an act of Congress, which the report advises should only proceed after the First Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections and the 2025 National and Local Elections.
In the interim, the report recommends that the eight SGA municipalities continue operating under their existing structure, with elections for municipal officials set for 2025. This would provide legitimacy to their governance while broader structural issues are addressed.
Ensuring Inclusivity and Representation
The IAG emphasizes the importance of inclusive consultations and transparent decision-making processes. Allowing sufficient time for dissemination of proposals and stakeholder input will ensure that the governance structure of the SGA aligns with the needs and aspirations of its residents.
The findings underscore the complexity of integrating the SGA into the Bangsamoro region’s governance framework. As BARMM continues its transition, addressing these challenges will be crucial to fostering inclusive development and stable governance.