BARMM governors push for lasting peace, stronger rule of law in region
Five governors of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao join together to create the Bangsamoro Governors’ Caucus (BGC). Present at the launching of the program are (L-R) Maluso, Basilan Mayor Hanie A. Bud as representative of Governor Jim Hataman, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Mahail Tan, Maguindanao Del Sur Governor Bai Mariam Mangudadatu, Lanao Del Sur Governor Manintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. (spokesman) and Tawi-Tawi Governor Yshmael “Mang” I. Sali.
MANILA, Philippines — The five governors of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have affirmed their commitment to strengthen joint efforts in promoting the rule of law, peace and order, and inclusive governance and development in the region.
The BARMM Governors Caucus (BGC) was officially launched in Cagayan De Oro City on June 6, 2023, as a platform to address common issues faced by the Local Government Units (LGUs) in the BARMM and engage in dialogues with other stakeholders.
Formed after a series of consultative talks, the BGC comprises the provincial governors of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
“The BGC is fully supportive of the peace process and the BARMM. Through the BGC, the governors will foster cooperation with national and regional governments as well as multi-sectoral groups, employing data-driven decision-making to promote the rights and welfare of our constituents,” said Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., acting as the group’s spokesperson.
Governor Adiong also disclosed the caucus’ identified priorities: Rule of Law, Peace and Order, and Inclusive Governance and Development.
Adiong emphasized the importance of establishing and maintaining orderly regional peace and development.
“It is a shared responsibility among the national and regional governments, local government units (LGUs), and law enforcement agencies. To improve coordination in law enforcement and address security challenges, the BGC will actively engage with law enforcement agencies, peace mechanisms, and other relevant entities,” Adiong stressed.
Additionally, the BGC monitors and supports the swift completion of the decommissioning process and is ready to collaborate with national and regional agencies, decommissioning bodies, and peace mechanisms to achieve this goal.
Adiong further highlighted the BGC’s commitment to enhancing coordination between national and regional governments, peace mechanisms, and relevant agencies.
“Our objective is to ensure effective law enforcement and expedite the decommissioning process. The BGC will also advocate for the equitable allocation of public funds and greater representation and participation of citizens in governance across diverse geographical, political, and ethnic groups in the region,” he said.
The BGC aims to facilitate citizen and group involvement in development and governance through electoral policies promoting inclusivity. Additionally, the BGC called for convening the Council of Leaders in the BARMM to enhance LGU and sectoral group representation in regional governance.
“We are open to collaborating with stakeholders who share similar advocacies and are eager to explore common ground with others to achieve sustainable peace and development in the region,” he added.
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