The ongoing peace process in Mindanao faces significant challenges as delays in decommissioning former combatants and distributing essential socio-economic packages threaten hard-earned progress. These packages, which include skills training, stipends for children of ex-rebels, housing, and health insurance, are crucial for transforming former conflict zones into peaceful civilian communities.
Since the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2014, there have been notable advancements. However, trust issues between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) continue to complicate the situation.
Recently, the MILF paused the decommissioning of 14,000 combatants. The group also ceased key engagements with the government until the appointment of a new peace panel chair. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. replaced MILF chairman Murad Ebrahim with Abdulraof Macacua, a move that has sparked concerns over allegations of corruption within the interim Bangsamoro government.
Trust Issues Persist
Tirmizy Abdullah, a history professor at Mindanao State University in Marawi, emphasized the divide between MILF leaders and community members, particularly former combatants. He pointed out that unequal distribution of peace dividends remains a core issue.
The cause of conflict is because of the unequal distribution of peace dividends.
Tirmizy Abdullah, Mindanao State University
Abdullah expressed concern over the outcomes of the upcoming elections, questioning the future of MILF members in parliament if they fail to secure a majority. He views the elections as a key opportunity for normalization, allowing those who once engaged in jihad to lead peaceful lives.
He stated, 'One of the reasons why we want to have an election is to have elected officials who will continue the work on normalization.' The success of the peace process hinges on these developments, making the stakes higher than ever for the Moro people.