Breaking the Cycle of History: Achieving Lasting Peace and Prosperity in BARMM
In the quest for peace, we must be mindful of the pitfalls that history has taught us. It is no secret that previous revolutionaries turned administrators have struggled to implement the peace they fought for. However, we have reason to believe that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) can defy this pattern. As we commemorate peace month in September, let us learn from history and ensure that we navigate the rough road ahead with caution.
The journey towards peace is long, challenging, and often frustrating. However, the real challenge lies in bringing economic prosperity to all stakeholders. Failing to address this issue will undoubtedly hinder our progress. Despite recent developments, BARMM remains the poorest region in the Philippines. Government data reveals that poverty rates in the area are twice the national average. In fact, 37.4% of the people in BARMM are living below the poverty threshold, equating to 1.71 million poor families. The figures are alarming, and if we are to achieve lasting peace, we must make significant strides in reducing poverty levels in this region.
To achieve progress, all stakeholders must strike a balance between idealism and pragmatism. Maintaining this delicate equilibrium is crucial for effective outcomes. Excessive idealism can lead to inflexibility and ineffectiveness, while an excess of pragmatism can breed corruption. Both extremes are detrimental and may result in frustration, pushing people back towards conflict. Historical precedents such as the Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook for Regions IX and XII and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao serve as cautionary tales. These institutions were founded on lofty ideals but ultimately disappointed their constituents as idealism gave way to a flawed system.
In 1976, President Marcos set the country on a path to peace with the Tripoli Agreement, granting limited autonomy to conflict-ridden Muslim Mindanao. Now, nearly five decades later, President Marcos has the opportunity to bring this landmark agreement to fruition. By building upon the work of his predecessors, he can move all branches of government towards the goal of lasting peace and prosperity. Empowering institutions like the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity will be vital in addressing this long-standing challenge. Additionally, the private sector should play a significant role in generating employment and economic growth within BARMM.
Improving the access of local entrepreneurs to funding is a crucial area that requires attention. Aggressively pursuing Islamic finance, an idea conceived back in the 1970s with the Al-Amanah Islamic Investment Bank of the Philippines, can help remedy this issue. Furthermore, ensuring peace and order in this historically volatile region falls upon the shoulders of law enforcement, many of whom were former rebels. Without the collective effort of all stakeholders, the billions of pesos in government funds and foreign assistance grants allocated to this region might go to waste, just as they did in the past.
The leaders of the Bangsamoros must embrace this moment, serving their people with integrity and utilizing the substantial resources at their disposal. If they succeed, lasting peace and prosperity can become a reality in Mindanao. However, failure to do so may result in history repeating itself. Let us seize the opportunity before us and break the cycle of history once and for all.
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