Book Launch: “Advancing Bangsamoro Aspiration” Aims to Foster Understanding and Peace in the Region
COTABATO CITY (February 27, 2025) —The book titled “Advancing Bangsamoro Aspiration” was successfully launched in a collaborative effort between the Institute of Bangsamoro Studies (IBS) and the Centre for Peace & Conflict Studies (CPCS) on Thursday. This significant event aimed to enhance youth education and promote understanding and peacebuilding within the Bangsamoro region.
The launch featured insightful remarks from esteemed speakers, including Minister Mohagher M. Iqbal, Robert “Bobby” Alonto, and Dr. Emma Leslie from CPCS.
In his speech, BARMM Education Minister Iqbal praised Prof. Abhoud Syed M. Lingga, who authored the book emphasizing that the book represents a critical resource for the youth in understanding the continuous call for peace and the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. “Such intellectual contributions are instrumental in guiding the younger generation towards a profound understanding of our aspirations,” Iqbal said.
Alonto, a long-time friend of Prof. Lingga, shared his reflections on the journey with the author of the book, describing it as a mixture of “the best of times and the worst of times.” He said, “During those challenging periods, we were compelled to respond to the urgent call to fight for the aspirations of the Bangsamoro due to the persistence of oppressive forces and their ruthless tyranny.”
Dr. Emma Leslie, founder of CPCS based in Cambodia, articulated the concept of aspirations as a “chance to continue to dream and imagine what else the Bangsamoro can be,” highlighting the importance of identity among the people of the homeland.
The book launch attracted around 50 participants, including representatives from various Civil Society Organizations, regional offices, and media personnel.
To ensure widespread accessibility, the organizers produced hundreds of copies of the book for distribution to universities, Bangsamoro libraries, and individuals who purchased it.
Additionally, a QR card was provided, enabling attendees to easily access and download the ebook version through the organization’s official website, ensuring that the insights contained within the book reach a broader audience dedicated to the peace and development of the Bangsamoro region.
Prof. Lingga is the founder of the Institute of Bangsamoro Studies, a non-profit and non-government organization based in Cotabato City, engaged in research on Bangsamoro history, culture, politics, economy, and contemporary affairs. Lingga holds Master of Arts degrees in Islamic Studies and Education. (Amera M. Basalon , Bai Onamayda P. Dilanggalen, Melody N. Flores, BSIR Intern Students of BMN from USM, BMN/BangsamoroToday)
