BARMM’s Reformation Efforts to Bring Lasting Peace to Bangsamoro

COTABATO CITY (May 24, 2024) — A significant stride towards peace and development, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has spearheaded a major reformation and re-establishment initiative aimed at former members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). This event, held from May 21 to 22, 2024, under the auspices of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) through Project Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (TUGON), took place in the island provinces of Basilan and Sulu.

The reformation event was hosted at two strategic locations: the 64th Infantry Battalion in Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan, and the 11th Infantry Division in Bus-Bus, Jolo, Sulu.

The Project provided essential support to ninety former ASG members, each receiving PhP10,000 in cash assistance and food relief packages valued at an additional PhP10,000. These packages included 100 kilograms of rice and a variety of groceries, crucial for their reintegration into the community.

Before this recent support, the beneficiaries had already been awarded PhP100,000 each to initiate livelihood projects. These projects were developed through specialized training sessions facilitated by the Ministry of Trade Investment and Tourism (MTIT), ensuring that the former combatants are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to establish sustainable income sources.

In addition to financial aid, the reformation process included comprehensive counseling sessions led by religious leaders. These sessions addressed the psychological and spiritual needs of the participants, offering guidance and fostering a sense of community and support. This holistic approach is designed to empower individuals to overcome past challenges and embrace positive societal roles.

Key figures present at the event included MILG Basilan Provincial Director Ra-diyah M. Akmad, Sulu Provincial Director Emini T. Kadiri, Local Government Operations Officer of MILG Regional Office Tohammi M. Abas, Sumisip Vice Mayor Gulam S. Hataman, Deputy Mufti of Lupah Sug Abdulrahman S. Al-Hari, and representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including LTC Rolando T. Granados and 1LT Dwight B. Nava. (Hasna U. Bacol, BMN/Bangsamoro Today)