BANGSAMORO PEACE PROCESS

A Research Report
Senior High School
Caraga Regional Science High School
Surigao City

In Partial Fulfilment
of the Requirements for Media and Information Literacy
STEM

by
Dapar , Christian B.
Elumba, Sidrick B.
Ting, Santi Gabriel L.
Arbiol, Jahaziel Emshen R.
Claros, Riarme Kish G.
Conol, Winslet Kate H.
Dominical, Danielle Ann C.
Gargao, Rosemiergem M.
Omac, Kezziah E.
Soledad, Tiffany Zea G.
Tantoy, Mary Faith P.
Grade 12 - Faraday

OCTOBER 2024
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
CARAGA REGION
SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF SURIGAO CITY
CARAGA REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
BRGY. SAN JUAN, SURIGAO CITY
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Unit III
Information Literacy
Activity 5: Organizing Your Findings

Bangsamoro Peace Process

The Bangsamoro peace process is a crucial initiative aimed at resolving the longstanding
conflicts in the Southern Philippines, particularly within the Bangsamoro region of Mindanao. This
area has a complex history marked by centuries of resistance against various governing authorities,
which has fostered a unique cultural identity among its Muslim-majority population. The
establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2019
marked a significant milestone, providing a framework for self-governance and addressing
historical grievances. However, the journey toward lasting peace faces several challenges,
including socioeconomic inequality, political instability, and the integration of former combatants
into civilian life. Additionally, issues of governance and effective service delivery need to be
addressed. Despite these challenges, notable opportunities exist, such as increased international
support, the potential for economic development, and the active engagement of local communities
in the peace process. Understanding these dynamics is essential for evaluating the prospects of
achieving sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro region.

Understanding the historical context of the Bangsamoro peace process is vital for grasping
the complexities of current peace efforts in the Southern Philippines. According to Harding and
Ingram (2022), the Muslim-majority areas in Mindanao have a long history of resistance against
various governing authorities, shaping their quest for autonomy and self-determination. This
historical backdrop is characterized by cycles of conflict and attempts at peace, often met with
disappointment. The establishment of the BARMM in 2019 represents a significant development,
as it provides a framework for local governance and aims to address longstanding grievances.
However, the region’s historical struggles continue to inform the challenges faced by the
Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and the expectations of local communities. By analyzing
these historical dynamics, one can better understand the current status of the peace process and the
efforts required to achieve lasting stability and prosperity in the region.

The BTA faces many challenges that threaten the momentum of the peace process in the
Bangsamoro region. As outlined in the International Crisis Group report (2023), one primary
hurdle is managing community expectations, which are often elevated due to the promises of the
peace agreement. Local populations anticipate significant improvements in governance and
economic opportunities; however, the realities of implementation can fall short, leading to
disillusionment and frustration. Compounding this issue is the impact of COVID-19, which has
strained resources and complicated service delivery in a region already grappling with
socioeconomic challenges. These factors create a delicate balance for the BTA, as it must navigate
community expectations while ensuring effective governance amidst ongoing disruptions. Failing
to address these challenges could risk a backslide into conflict, underscoring the importance of
responsive and inclusive leadership in maintaining peace and stability in the Bangsamoro region.

Despite these challenges, significant achievements have emerged from implementing the
Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), highlighting the potential for effective
governance and community engagement. According to the Bangsamoro Government (2024), the
past decade has seen notable legislative milestones, including the passage of laws that establish
the framework for self-governance, economic development, and social services. Initiatives to
foster sustainable development have also been launched, focusing on infrastructure improvements,
education, and healthcare access. These accomplishments reflect the commitment of the
Bangsamoro authorities to fulfill the terms of the peace agreement and serve as a testament to the
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: Roland Sering Street, Brgy. San Juan, Surigao City
Telephone No.: (086) 827-5115
Email Address: crshs13@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CRSHSOnlineBoard
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
CARAGA REGION
SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF SURIGAO CITY
CARAGA REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
BRGY. SAN JUAN, SURIGAO CITY
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

active involvement of local communities in shaping their governance. For instance, recent projects
aimed at enhancing rural infrastructure and educational facilities illustrate the tangible benefits
arising from the peace process. By building on these achievements and addressing ongoing
challenges, the Bangsamoro region can cultivate a more stable and prosperous future, reinforcing
the significance of the peace process as a pathway to long-term reconciliation and development.

To summarize, the Bangsamoro peace process is shaped by a complex interplay of

historical context, ongoing challenges, and recent achievements. The historical resistance of the
Muslim-majority areas in Mindanao has laid the groundwork for a unique identity and a quest for
autonomy, which is critical for understanding the current dynamics of the peace process. The BTA
faces significant hurdles, including managing high community expectations and the complications
introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which threaten to undermine the momentum of
peace efforts. However, alongside these challenges, there have been notable achievements under
the CAB, fostering legislative progress and initiatives aimed at sustainable development.
Addressing the research question, it becomes evident that while substantial obstacles remain, the
commitment to effective governance and community engagement offers promising avenues for
achieving lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region.

In light of the increased international support from various organizations, such as the
United Nations and the European Union, there is potential for enhanced development projects that
could alleviate some socioeconomic challenges. However, potential risks remain, such as the
resurgence of conflict if community expectations continue to be unmet. By building on these
foundations and addressing these critical risks, there is potential for a more stable and prosperous
future for the people of Bangsamoro.

__________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: Roland Sering Street, Brgy. San Juan, Surigao City
Telephone No.: (086) 827-5115
Email Address: crshs13@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CRSHSOnlineBoard
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
CARAGA REGION
SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF SURIGAO CITY
CARAGA REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
BRGY. SAN JUAN, SURIGAO CITY
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

References

International Crisis Group. (2023, May 1). Southern Philippines: Making Peace Stick in the
Bangsamoro. Retrieved October 1, 2024, from

https://t.ly/wUIAc

Office, B. I., & Office, B. I. (2024, March 31). Reflecting on a decade of peace: A look back at the
Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro - BARMM official website. BARMM Official
Website - Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

https://t.ly/F8BsW

The long road to peace in the southern Philippines. (2022, January 18). United States Institute of
Peace.

https://t.ly/I-l5r

__________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: Roland Sering Street, Brgy. San Juan, Surigao City
Telephone No.: (086) 827-5115
Email Address: crshs13@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CRSHSOnlineBoard
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
CARAGA REGION
SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF SURIGAO CITY
CARAGA REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
BRGY. SAN JUAN, SURIGAO CITY
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Peer Feedback for the Bangsamoro Peace Process by Group 4

Strengths
1. Comprehensive Overview
- The summary provides a well-rounded and in-depth explanation of the Bangsamoro peace process,
addressing its historical roots, current challenges, and recent achievements. This balanced approach
gives the reader a thorough understanding of the complexities involved.
2. Integration of Sources
- The use of various references, such as Harding and Ingram (2022) and the International Crisis
Group (2023), adds credibility and depth to the discussion. It shows a thoughtful engagement with
scholarly and reputable sources.
3. Clear Structure
- The flow from historical context to the challenges faced by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority
(BTA), and finally to the achievements under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro
(CAB), is logical and easy to follow. This structure makes the content digestible while ensuring a
cohesive narrative.
4. Focus on Solutions
- Highlighting the achievements and ongoing efforts for sustainable development offers a sense of
hope, reinforcing the idea that, despite challenges, there is progress in the peace process.

Areas for Improvement

1. Clarification of Terms
- Some readers may not be familiar with specific terms such as the "Bangsamoro Transition
Authority (BTA)" or "Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB)." A brief explanation
of these terms when first introduced would make the summary more accessible to readers
unfamiliar with the topic.
2. More Data or Examples
- While the text discusses challenges and achievements in general terms, providing more specific
examples or data (e.g., concrete infrastructure projects or key laws passed) would enhance the depth
of analysis and make the points more tangible.
3. Flow of Certain Sections
- The section discussing the challenges caused by COVID-19 could be better integrated with the
socioeconomic difficulties mentioned earlier. Connecting these challenges more explicitly would
reinforce the impact of external factors on the peace process.

Suggestions
- Consider expanding on the "increased international support" mentioned in the introduction by
providing examples of how external actors (like international organizations or foreign
governments) have contributed to the peace process.
- Highlight potential risks more explicitly. While the text mentions challenges like disillusionment
and socioeconomic difficulties, discussing specific consequences if these issues aren’t addressed
(e.g., the resurgence of conflict) could give the analysis more urgency.

Overall, this summary demonstrates a solid understanding of the Bangsamoro peace process and its
multifaceted nature, making it a valuable contribution to the discourse on peace and governance in the
Southern Philippines.

__________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: Roland Sering Street, Brgy. San Juan, Surigao City
Telephone No.: (086) 827-5115
Email Address: crshs13@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CRSHSOnlineBoard