The Inter-Governmental Relations Board (IGRB): A Political Track

The establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) marked a significant milestone in the peace process and regional autonomy in the Philippines. However, the complex relationship between the national government and BARMM inevitably involves nuanced and sometimes ambiguous areas, often described as the “grey areas,” which require careful navigation and effective governance frameworks. The Inter-Governmental Relations Board (IGRB) was created as a key institution to manage these challenges.

The IGRB is a specialized body mandated to facilitate, coordinate, and oversee inter-governmental relations, particularly between the National Government and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Established under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), the IGRB aims to foster harmonious cooperation, address jurisdictional ambiguities, and resolve conflicts that may arise from overlapping powers or unclear provisions of law.

The Core Functions of the IGRB:

1. Policy Coordination and Consultation – The IGRB serves as the primary platform where the national government and BARMM discuss policy issues affecting their relationship. This includes areas such as fiscal management, law enforcement, education, and health services, ensuring policies are harmonized and mutually reinforcing.

2. Dispute Resolution – One of the critical roles of the IGRB is to address disputes that arise from the grey areas of their relationship. These can include conflicts over jurisdiction, resource sharing, or implementation of policies. The IGRB acts as a mediator to facilitate amicable resolutions, avoiding legal battles and fostering stability.

3. Clarification of Jurisdictional Boundaries – The legal provisions establishing BARMM contain certain ambiguities regarding their authority scope and concurrent powers. The IGRB provides clarity and interprets these provisions to prevent overlaps and conflicts in authority.

4. Monitoring and Evaluation – The IGRB monitors compliance with agreements and laws related to inter-governmental relations. It evaluates the implementation of policies and resolves issues proactively to maintain smooth cooperation.

5. Development of Joint Programs and Initiatives- To promote regional development and peace, the IGRB encourages joint projects between the national government and BARMM, fostering collaboration on socio-economic initiatives.

Powers of the IGRB:

The IGRB is endowed with significant powers to carry out its functions effectively, including:

1. Advisory Authority – The IGRB can issue recommendations and opinions to both the national government and BARMM on matters related to their relationship. While its recommendations are not legally binding, they carry significant weight in policy formulation and resolution efforts.

2. Commissioning Studies and Reports – The IGRB has the power to commission research, surveys, and reports to gather necessary data for informed decision-making and formulation of policies related to inter-governmental relations.

3. Facilitating Agreements – The IGRB can assist in drafting, negotiating, and formalizing agreements, treaties, or protocols between the national government and BARMM to formalize collaborative efforts.

4. Supervisory Function – The IGRB exercises oversight over the implementation of policies, agreements, and resolutions to ensure compliance and to address emerging issues promptly.

1. Dispute Settlement – While the IGRB primarily mediates disputes, it has the authority to refer unresolved cases to higher judicial or administrative bodies if necessary. It may also establish panels or committees to investigate specific issues. Allah knows best.

(Note: This article is shared by BMN/BangsamoroToday with the author’s permission, Abdullah P. Salik, Jr.)