The Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) conducted the second Bangsamoro Peace Forum dubbed as “CABataang CABabaihan sa Ika-Walong Anibersaryo ng Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB)” to commemorate the historic signing that affirmed the commitment between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) eight years ago.
The forum discussed the role of women in the Bangsamoro peace process and was held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex on March 27, 2022, in collaboration with the Bangsamoro Youth Commission.
“This day marks the beginning of our incredible journey towards building a bureaucracy dedicated to every Bangsamoro. Their sacrifices and to assure our next generation of a better future,” Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim stated in a recorded speech.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament and Social Services Minister Atty. Raissa Jajurie presented the salient features of the CAB in front of 150 individuals from youth, women, and civil society organizations participants.
“Ang CAB ay hindi lamang isang dokumento na nilagdaan ng 2014,” she stated. “Ang pinaka-core niya ay ang Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. Ang storya natin bilang Bangsamoro ay dumaan at nakaranas ng iba’t ibang historical injustices at marginalization.”
Jajurie shared the timeline, research, and actual data of the historical injustices and marginalization of the Bangsamoro community that eventually led to the assertion of the Bangsamoro’s right to self-determination.
Further, distinguished female leaders from the Bangsamoro Government and sectors of the society shared their experience, knowledge, and initiatives in their respective fields in sustaining the gains of the Bangsamoro Peace Process.
The panelist includes Ms. Helen Rojas from the Office of MP Hadja Bainon G. Karon for the Bangsamoro Government; Ms. Norsalam G. Bago from the Office of MP Engr. Aida M. Silongan for Social Welfare Committee – MILF; Ms. Marites C. Completano, Office of MP Dr. Susana S. Anayatin for the Settlers Community; and Noraida Abdullah-Karim, Director for Mindanao Programme, CFSI for the Civil Society Organization.
Meanwhile, BYC facilitated the Kwentong Bangsamoro with panelists BYC Maguindanao Commissioner Nas Dunding, Bangsamoro Peace Champion Finalist 2020 Lo Ivan Castillon, MPOS-BARMM Peace Program Officer IV Sittie Janine Gamao, and Bangsamoro Peace Champion Finalist 2021 Ms. Helen Betito.
The panelists shared their stories, experiences, and best practices in doing their advocacies and endeavors to their respective communities and sectors.
The Bangsamoro Peace Forum is in observance of National Women’s Month and Bangsamoro History Month to recognize the role of women in sustaining the gains of the peace process and promote awareness in the significant Bangsamoro historical narratives in the pursuit of peace and development in the region.
