The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is symbolized as a historic achievement in the pursuit of self-governance for the Bangsamoro people. However, beyond the political milestones and rhetoric of peace, the region continues to grapple with structural, economic, and security challenges that call into question the effectiveness of its governance.

The progress of the region since its establishment in 2019 is encompassing as they have made significant strides in political stability with the transition of government into institute reforms aimed at greater autonomy and development. There were key legislative measures, such as the Bangsamoro Administrative Code and the Bangsamoro Education Code which reflects the efforts to institutionalize governance frameworks which are tailored to the region’s unique needs. Additionally, infrastructure and socio-economic programs have seen notable expansion, particularly in underdeveloped rural areas.

There are initiatives that suggest a movement towards addressing long-standing inequalities. International and national funding has bolstered BARMM’s capacity to implement reforms which include decommissioning former combatants, investing in education, and expanding healthcare services.

Even though BARMM is still facing many challenges during the year 2024, BARMM has actually recorded significant achievements across various sectors by contributing to the region’s development and stability. In the educational sector, The Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) significantly improved access to education by hiring 4,962 permanent employees, including 4,228 teachers. In the school year 2023-2024, a total of 1,102,914 students enrolled in K-12 and Alternative Learning Systems, with an additional 28,993 learners benefitting from the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

Furthermore, 15,090 students completed technical-vocational programs. The Abot Kaalaman sa Pamilyang Bangsamoro (AKAP) Program provided learning opportunities for 7,676 children in remote areas through Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM). To support higher education, the AHME Scholarship Program funded 4,200 scholars with financial aid amounting to PHP 60,000 per semester. Additionally, the Ministry of Social Services and Development’s (MSSD) ABaKa Program provided financial assistance to 17,285 indigent learners. Transport accessibility for students improved with the deployment of buses in Cotabato, Marawi, and Lamitan, as well as speedboats for Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

In the healthcare sector, the approval of four new hospitals across three provinces in BARMM has strengthened healthcare access. This was through the assistance and approvement of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). Additionally, a zero-balance billing system has been rolled out which reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for residents. Medical missions and expanded immunization campaigns have also been implemented to combat preventable diseases, particularly in remote communities.

In line with the peace agreement, the transitional government has facilitated the decommissioning of over 20,000 former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, integrating them into mainstream society through livelihood programs and skills training. However, full reintegration remains a challenge nevertheless as economic and social opportunities for former combatants are still limited.

Despite these advancements in several sectors, BARMM continues to face major obstacles that threaten its stability and development especially in political and governance issues, where political fragmentation exists as there are rival factions within the Bangsamoro leadership and local power struggles that lead to conflicts in making decisions and the inefficiencies in governance. There are also allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the allocation of funds that still persist, which undermines the trust in the government.

There are also economic and social challenges such as the sustainability of economic growth which is one of the most debatable issues within BARMM as even though investment figures have improved, the region remains dependent on external funding. Additionally, despite job creation efforts, many graduates still struggle to find employment due to mismatch between available jobs and workforce skills.

The path of BARMM remains an ongoing narrative of growth and challenges. Its ability to consolidate governance reforms, promote economic sustainability, and maintain peace will shape its future as an autonomous region. With continued institutional strengthening, investment in local enterprises, and reinforced security efforts, BARMM certainly has the potential to fully realize its vision of self-governance and inclusive development. However, the road ahead remains complex which requires sustained collaboration among government leaders, communities, and stakeholders to ensure long-term progress.

References:

Bangsamoro Information Office. (2024). Retrieved from https://bangsamoro.gov.ph

Committee on Information, MILF Central Committee. (2024). BARMM exceeds investment target by 181%—Attracting P4.7 billion. Retrieved from https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2862/barmm-exceeds-investment-target-by-181---attracting-p4-7-billion