#Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)

[arkipelagic]

The flag of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao

Green (top side) reflects the Islamic teachings and principles that majority of the population subscribe to.

White (middle) signifies peace, sakina (tranquility) and righteousness.

Red (bottom side) symbolizes the blood of the fallen mujahideen who fought for the recognition of identity and self-determination of the Bangsamoro.

Crescent symbolizes the principles that guided the Bangsamoro who struggled for self-determination.

7-Rayed Star represents the five (5) provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur including the City of Marawi, Basilan including the City of Lamitan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, the City of Cotabato, and the 63 barangays erstwhile part of North Cotabato that compose the Bangsamoro territory.

Kris symbolizes the protection and resistance of the Bangsamoro and other Indigenous People in the Bangsamoro territory against oppression, tyranny and injustice.

— Atty. Laisa Alamia, Bangsamoro Transition Authority

January 21, 2019 marks the creation plebiscite for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. The only autonomous region in the Republic of the Philippines, this came after decades of violence from militant Bangsamoro groups in response to waves of dispossession, massacres, discrimination, and other ill treatment at the hands of the Philippine state throughout the 20th century.

[flavjourneys]

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao: A Land of Peace, Culture, and Promise

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is a region of profound significance in the Philippines. Established through years of collective struggle and peace-building efforts, BARMM stands as a symbol of hope, self-governance, and unity for the Bangsamoro people. Encompassing five provinces—Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi—along with the cities of Marawi, Lamitan, and Cotabato, BARMM is a land of cultural richness, natural beauty, and untapped potential.

A Historical Journey to Autonomy

BARMM was officially established in 2019 following the successful ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). This historic milestone marked the culmination of decades of negotiations between the Philippine government and the Bangsamoro people, primarily led by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The creation of BARMM is more than just a political achievement—it is a step toward lasting peace, providing the Bangsamoro people with the ability to govern their own affairs while preserving their unique identity and culture.

The Cultural Heartbeat of Mindanao

BARMM is a vibrant mosaic of ethnic and religious diversity. Its population is predominantly Muslim, with the Tausug, Maranao, Maguindanaon, Yakan, and Sama-Bajau tribes serving as the pillars of its cultural identity. Each group contributes unique traditions, languages, and practices that enrich the region’s cultural heritage.

Tausug: Known as the "people of the current," the Tausug are skilled sailors and traders. Their traditional dances, like the Pangalay, reflect grace and fluidity, inspired by the movements of the sea.

Maranao: Residing around the picturesque Lake Lanao, the Maranao are celebrated for their artistry, particularly in weaving and the intricate okir designs seen in carvings and architecture.

Maguindanaon: With a name meaning "people of the floodplain," the Maguindanaon excel in music, notably through the kulintang, a traditional gong ensemble that serves as the heartbeat of their festivities.

A Tapestry of Natural Wonders

BARMM boasts a wealth of natural attractions, making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure and serenity.

Lake Lanao (Lanao del Sur): One of the largest lakes in the Philippines, Lake Lanao is not only a source of livelihood but also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Maranao people.

Basilan’s Islets and Beaches: With its unspoiled white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Basilan offers a tranquil escape for beach lovers.

Bongao Peak (Tawi-Tawi): A sacred mountain that provides a panoramic view of the region's lush landscapes and the Sulu Sea, Bongao Peak is a pilgrimage site for locals and visitors alike.

Bud Bongao: Known for its spiritual significance, this iconic peak in Tawi-Tawi is surrounded by dense forests and is home to playful macaques.

Festivals and Traditions

BARMM’s festivals reflect its deep-rooted faith and traditions.

Shariff Kabunsuan Festival (Cotabato City): A celebration of the arrival of Islam in Mindanao, this festival features colorful fluvial parades, cultural performances, and religious ceremonies.

Pakaradjaan Festival (Basilan): An annual event that showcases the cultural pride of the Yakan people through traditional dances, weaving demonstrations, and culinary fairs.

Pagana Maranao: A traditional Maranao banquet, Pagana Maranao is more than just a feast—it is a cultural experience where guests are treated to delicacies while seated on intricately woven mats adorned with vibrant tapestries.

Economic Potential and Development

BARMM is emerging as a region of economic promise. Its fertile lands are ideal for agriculture, producing rice, corn, coffee, and exotic fruits like durian and mangosteen. The fishing industry thrives in the waters surrounding Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, making BARMM a major supplier of seafood.

The regional government is focused on sustainable development, fostering industries that align with its natural resources and cultural heritage. With investments in tourism, infrastructure, and education, BARMM is paving the way for economic growth while maintaining its identity.

A Region of Peace and Resilience

The Bangsamoro people’s journey to autonomy has been marked by resilience and determination. Today, BARMM serves as a beacon of hope, proving that unity and peace are achievable through dialogue and mutual respect.

As the region continues to grow and heal, it invites the world to discover its beauty, culture, and story. Whether you’re exploring the serene landscapes, immersing yourself in its traditions, or engaging with its warm and hospitable people, BARMM promises an experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Discover Bangsamoro

BARMM is not just a place—it is a testament to the strength and spirit of its people. Visit the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and witness a land where history, culture, and progress intertwine. A land of promise, peace, and pride awaits you.

[bcpchranaw]

𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐌’𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐱-𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲: 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲

In celebration of the 6th Bangsamoro Foundation Day, a Focus Group Discussion was held on January 22, 2025 (Rajab 22, 1446H) at Capitol Hill, Awar Street, East Basak, Marawi City. This meaningful event brought together distinguished guests to discuss the progress and challenges of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) during its six-year transition.

Notable guests included Prof. Ayesha Merdeka M. Alonto, Executive Assistant at the Office of Information, Press and Publications of Mindanao State University - Main Campus and daughter of the late Moro revolutionary leader Datu Abul Khayr Alonto; Hon. Haroun Al-Rashid A. Lucman, Jr., former Regional Vice Governor of ARMM; Mr. Emilian Berutti, a PhD Candidate in International Relations and Doctoral Researcher at the Centre on Conflict, Development, Peacebuilding (CCDP); Ms. Eve Froneberg, a Research Associate and PhD Fellow at the Center for Conflict Studies at Philipps University Marburg, Germany; Ahmad Nour-al-Dinn Tamano, Head of the Provincial Tourism, Arts and Culture Office (PTCAO); Hon. Jalal "Bubuly" Decampong, 2nd District Board Member of Lanao del Sur; and representatives from PHILHEALTH-BARMM.

The program featured an invocation by Senior History Researcher Nor-Jamal G. Batugan, welcome remarks by Commissioner Robert M. Alonto, and engaging discussions on the topic: "How do you perceive BARMM's achievements during its six-year transition, and what key gaps still need to be addressed?" A historical reading by Commissioner Robert M. Alonto on Sultan Kudarat's 1562 visit to Ranao and his dialogue with M'ranaw-Iranun datus provided cultural depth and historical context. The event concluded with closing remarks from Executive Assistant Mohandis Iman M. Lucman, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and continued dialogue for the region’s growth and development.

[daphenominchief]

Province of Sulu, et al. vs. Hon. Salvador Medialdea, et al. G.R. Nos. 242255, 243246, and 243693, September 9, 2024

FACTS:

These consolidated petitions challenge the constitutionality of Republic Act No. 11054, also known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

The Province of Sulu, represented by Governor Abdusakur A. Tan II, filed a petition arguing that the BOL violated several constitutional provisions.

Specifically, Sulu argued that the BOL (1) abolished the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), a constitutional creation, without a constitutional amendment; (2) provided for a parliamentary form of government without an Executive or Legislative branch; (3) automatically included the ARMM in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM); (4) denied the people of Sulu the option to join BARMM; (5) erased the autonomy and identity of indigenous peoples in Sulu; and (6) designated the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to lead the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

Other petitioners-in-intervention, such as the Philippine Association of Islamic Accountants (PAIA), Governor Esmael G. Mangudadatu, and Algamar A. Latiph, also filed petitions or comments either supporting or opposing the Province of Sulu's claims.

The Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA) also filed a petition assailing the constitutionality of the BOL, arguing that it abolished the ARMM, a constitutional creation.

Congress members Abdullah and Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo filed a petition seeking to annul COMELEC Resolution No. 10469, which set the plebiscite for the BOL ratification on two separate dates.

The Supreme Court issued resolutions consolidating the petitions.

The Solicitor General filed a consolidated comment, arguing that petitioners lacked legal standing and that the BOL is constitutional.

The MILF filed a comment ad cautelam, urging the Court to uphold the constitutionality of the BOL.

The League of Bangsamoro Organizations, Inc. filed a Comment-in-Intervention asking that the Province of Sulu's Petition be dismissed.

The 2019 plebiscite on the BOL showed that the Province of Sulu rejected the ratification of the statute, while other areas in the ARMM voted in favor.

The BOL included a provision that the provinces and cities of the ARMM would vote as one geographical area.

ISSUES:

Do the petitioners have legal standing to challenge the BOL?

Are the issues raised justiciable, or do they involve political questions?

Is the inclusion of the Province of Sulu in the BARMM despite its rejection of the BOL unconstitutional?

Does the BOL violate indigenous peoples' rights?

Is the Bangsamoro Organic Law, in general, constitutional?

Is the provision in the BOL that requires the provinces and cities of the ARMM to vote as one geographical area for purposes of the plebiscite constitutional?

Does the parliamentary form of government in the BARMM violate the Constitution?

RULING:

Answer: The Supreme Court partially granted the petition in G.R. No. 242255 and declared the Bangsamoro Organic Law unconstitutional insofar as it included the Province of Sulu in the BARMM because it was in violation of the Constitution. The Court held that the provinces and cities of the ARMM cannot be treated as a single geographical area for the plebiscite. The remaining provisions of the BOL were deemed constitutional.

Legal Basis:

Judicial Power: The judicial power includes the duty of the courts to settle actual controversies and to determine if there has been a grave abuse of discretion by any branch of government. The Court can address issues that go beyond purely political questions.

Justiciable Controversy: There must be a definite and concrete dispute touching on the legal relations of parties having adverse legal interests which can be resolved by a court of law. There must be a conflict of legal rights susceptible to judicial resolution and not a hypothetical dispute.

The court can rule on the constitutionality of a statute if there is a justiciable controversy that needs to be resolved.

Locus Standi: A party must show a personal and substantial interest in the case, sustaining direct injury from the challenged act. In cases of transcendental importance, this requirement can be relaxed for citizens, taxpayers, or voters.

Right to Suffrage and Local Autonomy: Constituents of each province and city in the ARMM must be given the freedom to exercise their right to suffrage and local autonomy.

Autonomous Regions: The creation of autonomous regions takes into consideration the historical and cultural heritage, economic and social structures, and other relevant characteristics shared by its constituent areas.

Plebiscite: The inclusion of a province or city in an autonomous region must be determined by the will of the majority of the voters in each geographical area during a plebiscite.

Constitutionality of Laws: Laws must conform to the Constitution, not conflict with other laws, and withstand judicial review.

Doctrine of Hierarchy of Courts: The doctrine limits the choice of venue when there are significant issues requiring factual findings. However, direct recourse to the Supreme Court may be allowed in certain instances, including when there are genuine issues of constitutionality and issues of transcendental importance.

Application:

The Court found that the Province of Sulu had legal standing because it sufficiently alleged a breach of its constituents' rights of suffrage and local autonomy.

The Court determined that there was a justiciable controversy regarding the inclusion of the Province of Sulu in the BARMM despite its rejection of the BOL.

The Court ruled that the provision in the BOL that treated the provinces and cities of the ARMM as one geographical area for the plebiscite violated the Constitution because it did not allow the people of Sulu the option to join the BARMM. The will of the majority of voters in Sulu must prevail.

The Court held that the remaining provisions of the BOL, based on the challenges raised, are not unconstitutional.

The Court found the PHILCONSA petition did not present a justiciable case or controversy and lacked legal standing. The Dimaporo petition was considered moot.

Conclusion: The Supreme Court partially granted the petition, declaring the inclusion of the Province of Sulu in the BARMM unconstitutional. The Court upheld the constitutionality of the remaining provisions of the BOL.

DOCTRINE OF THE CASE:

The will of the majority in each geographical area taking part in a plebiscite for the creation of an autonomous region determines their inclusion therein.

The Constitution guarantees the right of suffrage and local autonomy to the constituents of each province and city composing the ARMM.

The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review to determine the constitutionality of laws and actions of the government when there is an actual case or controversy.

Locus standi can be relaxed in cases involving transcendental public interest.

RATIO OF THE CASE:

The ruling underscores that the autonomy of each province and city within the ARMM must be respected, and that they cannot be treated as a single unit for purposes of determining their inclusion in a new autonomous region.

The decision emphasizes that the right of suffrage is fundamental, and that the people of a specific territory must be given the opportunity to decide whether or not to join an autonomous region.

The ruling reinforces that the Supreme Court has a duty to ensure that laws and government actions conform to the Constitution, even in matters of peace and regional autonomy.

The decision clarifies that the creation of autonomous regions must respect the unique characteristics of each area, including the will of the people and their historical and cultural heritage.

The ruling affirms that while the Bangsamoro Organic Law is a significant step towards lasting peace, it must still adhere to the basic principles of the Constitution.

[abuddinganthropologist]

Jabidah Massacre: Forgotten voices.

We must not stop talking about the atrocities made during the Marcos regime. Having conversations, casual or not, it is incredibly helpful to #NeverForget. The dictatorial government attempted to silence and censor the decry of its people—the Filipinos will never stop in asking for accountability and justice.

"In 1962, Diosdado Macapagal reasserted the claim of the Philippines over Sabah. This gave birth to the “Operation Merdeka” which was a high-profiled and confidential military operation. Its plan was to reclaim Sabah from Malaysia through encroaching Sabah and destabilize its state. In 1967, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. furtively assigned Abdul Latif, to take charge on a secret commando unit code named “Jabidah” to take charge of the Operation Merdeka.

The members of this unit, which were usually composed of young men subjected to indoctrination, after knowing the true nature of their mission mutinied and were assassinated in return. There were no actual accounts of the reason for the mutiny but some attributed it to the: (1) poor living conditions during the military training (2) the hardship and exhaustion during training. (3) trainees being told to fight “communists” but found out that they will actually fight their Sabahan brothers which they felt close kinship too due to Islamic faith. The Jabidah Massacre was what started the Moro Resistance."

Sources: Bangsamoro Information Office, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (March 17, 2021). "Remembering Jabidah and the seeds of the struggle". BARMM Official Website. Republic of the Philippines. Philippine Claim to North Borneo (Sabah), Vol. II. Government of the Philippines. August 2, 1962.

[jamalashley-blog]

Federalism :Many Nations–One State

BARMM DismembermentOn September 9, 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that the Province of Sulu is not a part of the Bangsa Moro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) since the province voted against the ratification of the new Bangsamoro Organic Law in the plebiscite held on January 21, 2019. This now opens a Pandora box. Can the constituent provinces, cities, and other local government units…

[thephenominchief]

PNP begins review applications of qualified MILF, MNLF members into the police force

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has begun reviewing the applications of members of two of the country’s top Moro fronts who wish to gain entry into Philippine National Police (PNP). On April 27, 2022, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government and the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) signed an agreement that will allow qualified Moro Islamic Liberation Front…

[isaiahnoelarcenas]

Social Justice and Legal Education

Constitution and legal system: The social justice and human rights values enshrined in the Philippine Constitution offer a legal framework for defending the rights of all citizens, especially the underprivileged groups in Mindanao. More justice and fairness can also be achieved by laws and policies that preserve indigenous rights, the environment, and land rights. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, or BARMM, was established in 2019 with the intention of addressing historical injustices and giving Indigenous Muslims and other cultural communities the ability to choose their own development goals. Legal aid: For individuals who cannot afford private attorneys, free or inexpensive legal services from agencies such as the Public Attorney's Office, non-governmental groups, and law schools help guarantee access to justice. This is especially important for Mindanao's underprivileged populations that are threatened by human rights abuses, land grabs, or displacement. Pro bono initiatives: To support underprivileged people and communities, a large number of attorneys and other legal experts donate their time and knowledge, which helps to fund pro bono legal services in Mindanao. Community-based paralegals: Skilled individuals in the community can offer fundamental legal support and increase knowledge of rights and privileges, enabling the local populace to successfully traverse the legal system. Human rights organizations: Groups like the National Union of Peoples' Lawyers and the Mindanao Human Rights Center work to protect human rights, keep track of violations, and advance legislative and policy changes that assist Mindanao's underprivileged populations. Public interest litigation: Attorneys can utilize strategic litigation to oppose legislation that discriminate against their clients, hold government officials responsible for violating their human rights, and protect the rights of marginalized communities. Advocating for policies: Attorneys and other legal professionals can influence laws and policies that advance social justice and specifically address issues that the people of Mindanao experience by participating in the formulation and legislative processes. Notwithstanding these efforts, there remain obstacles and restrictions: Insufficient availability of legal services: A lot of Mindanao's communities, especially those in outlying areas, still do not have access to legal aid or competent legal counsel. Corruption and impunity: Weak legal systems and corruption can make it more difficult for the disadvantaged to access the court system. Complexities of the conflict: Mindanao's protracted conflict presents special difficulties that frequently call for comprehensive solutions that go beyond merely legal actions. All things considered, even though the legal system and the legal profession have their limitations, they nevertheless contribute significantly to the advancement of social justice and the general welfare of the people of Mindanao by offering structures for defending rights, guaranteeing access to the legal system, pushing for change, and confronting injustices. To guarantee that law and the legal profession successfully contribute to a more just and equitable society in Mindanao, ongoing efforts to fortify legal institutions, enhance access to legal services, and address the underlying causes of inequality are imperative.

[pannaginip]

ABS-CBN: DOH asks public to get vaccinated vs measles amid rise in cases

The Department of Health (DOH) is "concerned" and "on alert" as it sees a week-on-week upward trend of measles (tigdas) cases, recording 1,627 cases from January 1 to April 6--a number five times higher than the 308 cases in 2023.

An outbreak has already been declared in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), with 48% of the country's measles cases coming from the region, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said Thursday.

[DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo] assured enough supply of vaccines for nationwide routine childhood immunization in health centers and in public schools, and for the outbreak response in BARMM.

Domingo shared adults can still get vaccinated against measles, but children below 5 years old are more prone to the illness as they have weaker immune system compared to adults.

(There are many reasons people refuse to be vaccinated--the most common being that people think it is ok to get measles because it will eventually get well. But that's not measles, it's chickenpox. We have that misconception that they're the same and safe to get infected. No, it can be deadly.) [Domingo explained.]

2024 Apr. 18

[renesf]

BARMM Delivers Rodrigo Duterte His First Embarrassment In A Long Time

Screenshot The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has gracefully declined Rodrigo Duterte’s generous offer of Mindanao’s secession from the Philippines.  Apparently, the BARMM officials failed to receive the memo that what Davao City desires is engraved in the collective dreams of the entire Mindanao island. Duterte, renowned for his clairvoyant abilities to decipher the…

[arkipelagic]

MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews / 10 December) – The Bangsamoro Parliament unanimously approved the Bangsamoro Indigenous Peoples Act (BIPA) of 2024 on its third and final reading during a special session on Tuesday, according to a press release from the regional legislative body’s Publication and Media Relations Division.

The law, which was passed with 63 votes in favor, zero against, and no abstentions, “has been recognized as a historic success in the region’s ongoing peace process and commitment to inclusive governance.”

BIPA recognizes the IP’s ownership over their ancestral domains, referred to as fusaka ingëd, and natural resources in these territories.

The press release quoted Ramon Piang, chair of the committee on Indigenous Peoples affairs as saying that the BIPA is an enhanced version of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act, “specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the Bangsamoro’s indigenous population.”

Indigenous Peoples in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) include the non-Moro IPs (Téduray, Lambangian, Dulangan Manobo, Erumanun Ne Menuvu, Higaonon, B’laan), and the Badjao, Sama Dilaut, Jama Mapun, Sama Bangingi, and Sama Pangutaran in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The Supreme Court, however, has ruled with finality on Sulu’s removal from BARMM. (MindaNews)

[thxnews]

Pangandaman Allocates P5 Billion for BARMM Rehabilitation Fund

  Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman has approved the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to P5 billion for the Special Development Fund (SDF) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The release of the fund is in accordance with Section 2, Article XIV of Republic Act 11054, that the National Government shall provide the SDF with P5 billion annually, for a period of 10 years, to the BARMM Government “for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of its conflict-affected communities.”  

Pangandaman making a statement. Photo by DBM.   "Tulad po ng ipinangako ko, at alinsunod po sa tagubilin ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, patuloy po ang DBM na aalalay sa BARMM sa abot ng aming makakaya. We will ensure that we will help in its smooth transition process and strengthening its communities." “Umaasa po kami na magagamit ng wasto ang pondong ito para matugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga komunidad sa BARMM. We hope that BARMM takes advantage of this funding by fully utilizing it to help those in need, and to improve areas that needs further development,” Pangandaman added.   The most recent conflict to have erupted in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was the five-month siege, from 23 May to 23 October 2017, of Marawi City — capital of Lanao del Sur, one of six provinces in the region. The clash resulted in P17 billion in property damage and lost opportunities, according to Task Force Bangon Marawi, the government inter-agency body in charge of rehabilitation efforts in the conflict zone. In 2018, Task Force Bangon Marawi said in an initial estimate that at least P49.8 billion is needed to restore affected parts of Marawi. The allocations shall be directly released by the Bureau of Treasury to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Government through an authorized government servicing bank (AGSB), subject to cash programming by the National Government. The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has allotted: - P64.76 billion for Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Annual Block Grant; - P5.0 billion as Special Development Fund for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of conflict-affected communities; - P4.59 billion for its share in taxes, fees, and charges collected in the region.   Sources: THX News & Department of Budget and Management. Read the full article

[daphenominchief]

Sula vs. Commission on Elections, G.R. No. 244587, 10 Jan 2023

The court upholds the authority of the Commission on Elections and dismisses allegations of irregularities in the conduct of a plebiscite for the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Facts:

The case "Sula v. Commission on Elections" (G.R. No. 244587) was decided on January 10, 2023, by the Philippine Supreme Court.

Petitioners Amil P. Sula, Gaspar S. Asi, and Hussien K. Malig, Sr., residents and registered voters of Cotabato City, filed a Petition for Certiorari, Prohibition, and Mandamus with Application for a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Writ of Preliminary Injunction against the COMELEC.

Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi also filed a Petition-in-Intervention.

Petitioners challenged the plebiscite held on January 21, 2019, in Cotabato City, which ratified Republic Act No. 11054 (the Organic Law) and included Cotabato City in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

They alleged irregularities, including manipulation of voter registration, biased Plebiscite Committee members, flying voters, and the use of force, violence, threats, and intimidation.

Petitioners argued the plebiscite was conducted beyond the statutory period and that the question posed to voters was misleading.

COMELEC, represented by the Office of the Solicitor General, denied these allegations and asserted the plebiscite was conducted within the prescribed period and in accordance with the law.

The case was brought before the Supreme Court for resolution.

Issue:

Should the Petition-in-Intervention of Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi be granted?

Did the COMELEC commit grave abuse of discretion in ratifying the Bangsamoro Organic Law and including Cotabato City in the BARMM as a result of the January 21, 2019, and February 2, 2019, plebiscites?

Should a Temporary Restraining Order or Writ of Preliminary Injunction be issued to enjoin the COMELEC from implementing the Bangsamoro Organic Law?

Ruling:

The Petition-in-Intervention of Cotabato City Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi was granted.

The COMELEC did not commit grave abuse of discretion in ratifying the Bangsamoro Organic Law and including Cotabato City in the BARMM.

The prayer for the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order or Writ of Preliminary Injunction was denied.

Ratio:

The Supreme Court found that the Petition-in-Intervention met the requirements for intervention, with the petitioner-intervenor having a legal interest in the matter being litigated, and the intervention would not delay the proceedings or prejudice the original parties.

The Court emphasized that the COMELEC, as the constitutional body mandated to enforce and administer all laws and regulations relative to the conduct of elections and plebiscites, had the authority to set the plebiscite dates within the prescribed period.

The Organic Law became effective on September 10, 2018, and the plebiscites held on January 21 and February 6, 2019, were within the 150-day period provided by law.

The Court held that the question posed to voters in the plebiscite was compliant with the Organic Law's provisions.

Regarding the allegations of irregularities, the Court found that these were factual in nature and required evidence, which the petitioners failed to provide.

Discrepancies in the Certificate of Canvass of Votes were reconciled during the retabulation process.

The Court reiterated that allegations of fraud, violence, or intimidation must be supported by conclusive evidence, which was lacking in this case.

Consequently, the Court dismissed the petition for lack of merit and denied the prayer for a Temporary Restraining Order or Writ of Preliminary Injunction.

[normanblogs]

Miss Universe Philippines and the Lanao del Sur trip

Miss Universe Philippines and the Lanao del Sur trip

Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi visits Lanao del Sur The Miss Universe Philippines Organization continues its commitment to promoting tourism and advocating for charity during the recent visit of its queens to Lanao del Sur. In partnership with Save the Children Philippines, Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi visited the Municipalities of Marantao and Marawi City to…

[thephenominchief]

Successful plebiscite conducted in SGA with 81% Voter Turnout

SPECIAL GEOGRAPHIC AREA — Saturday, April 13, marked a historic milestone among the residents of the Special Geographic Area (SGA) in North Cotabato under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), following the creation of the new eight municipalities. This, as 72, 358 out of 89,594 registered voters across the 63 barangays in the SGA participated in a plebiscite held in 67…