PEACE is more than the absence of war or overt violence. It is also the REALIZATION of JUSTICE where respect for fundamental rights and freedom of person is experienced.
BCJP Press Statement RE: SULU CRISIS
Thursday, April 26, 2007 9:07 AM
Press StatementApril 23, 2007
BOOBY BENITO
Coordinator
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phils. Inc.
09197245492
GIVE PEACE A CHANCE IN MINDANAO;
RESOLVE THE WAR IN SULU NOW!
The Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace in the Phil’s. Inc. (BCJP) is appealing to the Philippine government for an immediate ceasefire with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and come up with immediate steps to prevent the escalation of the armed conflict in Sulu and respond to the humanitarian needs of some 50,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) from eight towns of the island province.
BCJP also appreciate the initiative from the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and from the Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID) for their united stand in this issue: calling the government and MNLF to cease fighting and talk to resolve their differences in the negotiating table.
The present hostilities going into the second week, wherein military blamed the Moro National Liberation Front under Habier Malik for attacking the Marines camp in Panamao last April 13. But reports from other sources said Malik was provoked when the Marines attacked his camp last April 11 allegedly in pursuit of the Abu Sayyaf.
Another sources traced the present clash to a series of massacres of Moro families in Indanan and Patikul towns as told by MNLF State Chairman Khaid Ajibon and Ustadz Zain Jali, chairman of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress. Malik is an area commander under Khaid Ajibon.
In this battle for airing out of issues, the Bangsamoro are at the disadvantage since the military has the Manila media awaiting its press releases. As for the Bangsamoro who has limited access to media usually get the popular blame, thus their cynicism against the national government and the military – and even against the Christians – deepens and hardens.
On the other hand, not only Christians, but BCJP and some Muslim religious leaders condemn Abu Sayyaf barbarism in the recent beheading of seven hostages in Parang, Sulu. They were as outraged as President Arroyo, who vowed for the time to obliterate the Abu Sayyaf. That outrage, to most Filipinos, justifies the pursuit of Malik and his forces – the rogue MNLF – to the end. But people should be made to understand that what is in the papers is not the whole truth. Its one sided in favor of the government.
The hostilities have already disrupted the election campaign. The evacuation -- now estimated to be as large as 50,000 -- can disenfranchise many voters. All these are happening in MNLF- influenced communities and will adversely affect Misuari’s chances of winning in the coming election
Our Role in the May 2007 Election
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:55 PM
BCJP is decided to participate in whatever capacity in the forthcomong Matt 2007 election. Financially, we are delpleted, but our didication and commitment cannot stop by financial constraints as it was proven in the past. We were able to compete with other Huge networks and organizations who has financially stable in terms of advocacy. Last February, BCJP was very glad when the Asia Foundation throuh the CBCS invited in a Call to Proposal for ElecReform Program being funded by the USAUD. dyring the meeting in Estosan Hotel in Cotabato City, 1 participant asked question will the The Asia Foundation priorize their partners for approval. Tatine of TAF categorically answered that not in their criteria for approval. 2 months after, it was found out that all proposal from not member was rejected. It was the UNYPAD and CBCS proposal has been approved. For the second time around, we are victim of discrimination. I expereinced this when I was an Executive Director of some NGO. TAF asked me to submit proposal, after complying all the required documents, with no explaination, the Asia Foundation simply said. Your proposal is no more acceptable because the contract for the project was ended.
BCJP Relief and Rehab initiatives for Pagalungan IDPs
Monday, April 23, 2007 4:34 PM
RAIDAH ABUBAKAR, BCJP Relief and Rehab Program officer initiated and convened different relief organizations in Cotabato City to provide relief assistnace for more than 1,000 families displaced by armed conflict between the Matalam and Montawal clan in Pagalungan, Maguindanao. at first, Ms. Abubakar called up CFSI, BDA, MERN and Save The Children where she inquired about their plan in response to the IDPs situation. meeting was called up by the Save the Children, CFSI and other relief organizations. during the planning meeting on April 16 at SC office, MERN through UNYPAD and Save the Children tandem were able to distributed non food assistance in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao. This initiaves made by UNYPAD and SC raised so many questions to RAIDAH. BCJP is an official memebre of MERN, but most of MERN activities, BCJP was not informed nor invited. One question is what is the participation of members? is it the UNYPAD only? Save the Children? Nevertheless, the issues would not stop BCJP from its Pro activtive participation with the activities. we are doing this because our people are sufferings..
JustPeace ACTIVITY REPORT
Tuesday, April 03, 2007 6:44 PM
Activities:
: Peace Dialogue
: Peace Rally
: Relief Distribution
: Medical Mission
Date Covered : March 2007
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ACTIVITY:
Ø Advocacy for the implementation of the January 29, 2007. (8 points Consensus Resolutions) on Midsayap conflict has been highlighted through:
• Peace dialogued with the Military, MILF-CCCH and stakeholders in Southern Chtistian College (SCC)-Midsayap
• Peace Rally during the commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre
• Radio Program “Bitiala Kalilintad” over Radio Station DXMY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Relief Distribution to be headed by the Al Ihsan Foundation on March 19, 2007 in Barangay Sambulawan, Lomopog and Kapimpilan, Midsyap, Cotabato
Medical Mission to be headed by the UNYPAD on March 21 at Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap.
Peace Rally in commemoration to the Jabidah Massacre to be spearheaded by the BCJP and MBDRFI on March 18, 2007
Presentation of the accomplishment to Jan Nielen of CORDAID on March 21. UNYPHIL – men was tasked to present to be assisted by MBDRFI
Accomplishment:
Ø A motorcade with rekorida of at least 10 vehicles were able to mobilized by the CBCS-KRMC member organizations from People Palace going to Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007
Ø Peace Rally at Cotabato City plaza on March 18, 2007 – CBCS tasked the BCJP to represent the CBCS in the speakers. Dondon Banzali represent the CBCS while Mayor Mus Sema represent the MNLF.
Ø Relief assistance distributed to more or less 1,000 Families of IDPS in Barangay Sabulawan, Midsyaap Cotabato headed by the Al Ihsan
Ø More than 100 families of IDPs were able to received Medicines and medical check up from the Medical Mission headed by the UNYPAD in Barangay Sambulawan, Midsayap Cotabato on March 21, 2007
Ø CBCS was able to participate in the CODE NGO Congress in Ateneo De manila University and UP Diliman Quezon City represented by the Al Ihsan and BCJP
OVERVIEW OF the bangsamoro youth congress
Friday, March 30, 2007 10:16 PM
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
To strengthen unity of the Bangsamoro Youth
Theme:
"Breaking Barries: Building bridges of Understanding and Cooperation"
It is an attempt to strengthen the unity of 13 Bangsamoro ethno linguistic tribes & group that were separated and divided by their cultural/traditional differences and geographical location
Objectives
To develop a process of consultation and dialogue from a broad range of identified Bangsamoro youth leaders in Mindanao;
To promote unity and alliance among Bangsamoro youth, their organizations
To create at least five venues for dialogue and advocacy between the youth and the government and MILF peace panels
To discuss particular and common issues affecting the young people
To share ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
To look into their respective and common condition experiences from their own perspective
Main Activity
To hold a 3 days activity called “Bangsamoro Youth Congress” as culminating activities of the caucus which will be chosen from the different organization who participated in the consultation. The said congress it self will benefit at least fifty (50) participants who are chosen from the series of cluster caucus.
Major activities
Conveners Meeting
Cluster Caucus
Bangsamoro Youth Congress
Target Participants
18-25 years of age
Decision-maker of their Organization
Tribal and geographical Representation
Expected Output
developed alliances with peace groups Popularized the call for a strong and meaningful participation of the youth and
The Bangsamoro youth and children have established a solid alliance and strengthened their role in order to collectively reassert their legal and fundamental rights to determine their own future and political status vis-à-vis the on-going peace talks.
The Conveners Meeting
UNYPAD Inc
MINSED Foundation
UnYPhil Inc.
UnYPhil-Women
MYRO
MYB
BCJP
Cluster Caucus
Central Mindanao
Venue: Fiesta Cotabato , Cotabato City
Date: November 18,2006
Participated by 23 persons representing 11 youth organizations from different provinces in Central Mindanao
SoCSarGen CLUSTER
Venue: Isla Parilla, Alabel, Sarangani;
Date: December 22, 2006
Participated by 23 youth leaders from 10 Youth organizations from Different provinces in SoCSarGen.areas
Davao Region
Venue: Norul Hidaya, Upper Salazar, Mati, Davao Oriental;
Date: December 28, 2006
Participated by 22 youth leaders from 7 Youth organizations from Different provinces in Eastern Mindanao Region
Outputs FROM THE 3 CLUSTER CAUCUS
Overview of the project has been presented (e.g. Proposal submitted to HATAG KALINAW competition & shirt listing, online voting and defend to the panel)
Provide inputs on Bangsamoro situation
Inputs on Conflict Transformation (Moro Perspective)
Inputs: Children’s Rights : Islamic & Non-Islamic Perspective
WORKSHOPS (on particular issues that is commonly affecting the Bangsamoro youth)
Have shared ideas, stories, culture, passions, longings, and struggles
Identified common recommendations/alternatives (to be discussed during the proper Bangsamoro Youth Congress)
Position Paper addressed to the GRP & MILF Peace Panel to continue the impasse peace process
One representative was able to attend in a 3 to 4 months long SCHOOL OF PEACE in Bangalore, India
Has been discussed in the Media through several interviews (DXMS & DXMY)
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Phil’s. Inc.
Monday, March 26, 2007 11:41 AM
Organizational Profile
A Brief history:
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines was established out of the need for complex Human Rights issues, Peace and Development and Environmental problems of the Bangsamoro communities in the Philippines. This initiative of dynamic Peace, Human Rights and Environmental Advocates create an atmosphere for a collaborative effort of the Bangsamoro youth and people’s organizations and other social entities in working together for comprehensive and non-violent solutions to the present social and economic crisis in the poor and marginalized communities in the country.
Organized in late 2003, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has been registered to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as non-profit, non-stock and non-political organization, where environmental issues, peace and development as well as gender issue are its primary concern.
In the last Three (3) years of operation, CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE has already significantly acquired, developed and enriched its experiences in various fields such as:
ADVOCACY/CAMPAIGN/NETWORKING
PEACEBUILDING
&
INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE Advocacy is done in close collaboration with multi sectoral groups that has concerns with Human Rights, Peace and Development, Gender, Environmental protection and the differently able Persons.
CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE is a member—network of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), Mindanao People Caucus (MPC), Mindanao Emergency Response Network (MERN), Kutawatu Coalition of Development NGO (K-CODE), Cotabato City Transparent and Accountable Network (CCTAN), Bantay Ceasefire, Mindanao Invisible Link - Cotabato Cluster and Tiyakap Kalilintad
Convenor/Founding member of Young Moro Forum (YMF), Mindanao Interfaith Human Rights Advocates (MIHRA), Taskforce Tiyakap Mindanao (TTM)., Mindanao Interfaith Coalition Against Injustice (MICAI) and founding member of the CENTER FOR JUSTPEACE IN ASIA, a network of peace movement from all over Asia based in Hong Kong Sar.
VISION
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the Philippines Inc. (BCJP) envisions a community where people live in harmony, peace and in tranquility through individual, family, social and community transformation.
MISSION
To identify individuals and groups who are involved with grassroots communities using traditional methods of peacemaking, conflict transformation and development and to help create critical solidarity and collaboration among these groups to help counter the various forces of oppression and exploitation of natural resources work and defend the rights of the marginalized Bangsamoro communities and facilitate their initiatives to uplift their living condition
GOAL
Established a Self Reliant community that promotes peace; enjoy human rights; observe justice; equality and freedom; and protects environment through culturally relevant peacemaking, peacebuilding conflict transformation and development
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
1. Document Human Rights and environmental abuses in the communities where few other organizations can safely operate
2. Strengthen unity among Bangsamoro Civil Society Organization and indigenous peoples groups.
3. Uphold and defend the rights and welfare of the marginalized sector of society
4. Launch educational campaigns aim at raising the consciousness of the Bangsamoro people and their communities on issues affecting their lives
5. Support and participate in any non-violent solution of the Bangsamoro people for genuine development and Justpeace restoration in Mindanao
6. To mobilize financial resources for community-based development project and support self-reliant efforts of the community
7. To foster interfaith and inter tribe dialogue with the purpose of developing a common contemporary challenges.
Present Programs:
Human Rights:
Human Rights Violation Documentation - Bangsamoro Political detainees and other victims of abduction – in collaboration with the Taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP and the Consortium of the Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS)
Advocacy/Campaign
a. Against Anti-Terror Bill –
b. Anti E.O 546
c. Supporting the Anti Torture Bill
Through a series of Fora, Symposia and Seminars, Signature Campaign, Press Releases/Statement/Conferences - target of this activity is the Civil Society Organization, Students, the Academe and the Moro communities – assisted by the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP)
Human Rights Education/Orientation – Beneficiaries of these initiatives were various civic, sectoral and religious organization and Moro in Davao Oriental province- in collaboration with the taskforce Detainees of the Philippines. (TFDP)
Peacebuilding:
Bangsamoro Youth Congress – an attempt to unite Bangsamoro youth from the 13 ethno-linguistic groups divided by cultural/traditional practices and geographic location. The project assisted by the British Council through its HATAG KALINAW Mindanao program. Major provinces in Mindanao who are dominated by Moro were clustered into 4, Cluster 1 comprising Central Mindanao, Cluster 2 is SoCSarGen, Cluster 3 Eastern Mindanao and Cluster 4 is Western Mindanao. After cluster caucus for these 4 clusters, Bangsamoro Youth Congress will be conducted as culminating activities where the major issues and concerns as well as the recommendations from the caucus will be discussed and given due action which will be identified by the participants in the Congress.
Awareness Raising on the GRP-MILF Peace Process - To strengthen the participation of the Bangsamoro youth in the GRP-MILF peace talks with the end in view of responding to the special needs and protection of children in armed conflict situation. The project is supported by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Launching of a Young Moro Forum – Series of Youth consultation to the Bangsamoro youth it will be culminated in a launching of the Young Moro Forum – in partnership with the Mindanao People Caucus (MPC)
School Of Peace – identify and send participants to attend 4 – months School Of Peace in Bangalore, India to encourage young people from around Asia to become agents of transformation in the task of building cultures and communities of justpeace. – the project is supported by the Center for Justpeace in Asia (CJPA)
Conceptualization and Development of Module/Manual of Culture of Peace in a Moro Perspectives
People with Disability Empowerment – the project is supported by the Handicap International (HI) where differently people persons organize and train.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Moro CSO: Reform ARMM, support the peace process, call for solidarity
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Tuesday, March 22, 2011
BCJP Calls for Peace in the Middle East
BCJP Call for peace in the Middle East
The Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) condemns the US-led war of aggressions against the people of Libya. This wide scope military action to intervene the internal conflict between the government of President Muammar Quaddafi and the opposition was done by virtue of a UN Resolution that resulted in the operation called "Operations Odyssey Dawn".
To bomb Libya, in order to overthrow the Kaddafi government on the pretext of “humanitarian intervention is total hypocrisy and will only worsen the situation. Why are these great western powers exhibiting such concern for the seven million or so Libyans?
Aside from the truth having been exposed especially with regard to the invasion and occupation of Iraq, why these powers were not concerned about the lives lost and the destruction wreaked on Gaza when it was being bombarded by Israel in 2009, or when Palestinian refugees were massacred in Sabra-Shatilla in 1982? Why are they not as quick to condemn and call for international intervention - diplomatic, economic and military – against the continuing mailed-fist treatment of unarmed protestors in other North African states such as Egypt and Yemen and those in the Middle East such as Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet? Bahrain has already declared martial law, killed scores of demonstrators, and has welcomed 1000 elite Saudi Arabian troops to help quell the unrest.
Why are they tolerating the mercilessly killings of a pro-democracy civilians and monks in a peaceful protests rally against the military regime in Burma in 2009? In the Philippines, the martial law alone caused the lives of about 120,000 to 160,000 lives mostly of the Moro Peoples. The biggest lost due to massacres in the 70s. The big wars continue on the backyards of the Moro Peoples that until now caused unaccounted lives. The 2001 all out war policy of President Joseph Estrada that commemorated its 9th anniversary on March 21 caused the displacement of thousands of innocent civilians and millions worth of properties destroyed and burned yet did somebody ever cried for "international community intervention?
Today there are still a little less than a hundred thousand (accumulated) number of IDPs who are victims of the 2008 Military Surgical Operations who have not yet returned to their places of origin as they have nothing to return. They have suffered much longer than the Libyan people, however the International community particularly the UN is blind, voiceless and deaf.
BCJP also criticizes the Arab League and the Organization of the Islamic Conference for its failure to resolve the Libyan political crisis and violence without calling on foreign intervention. The Arab League and OIC are tooth-less tigers. The political crisis and violence have brought the scourge of violence and Western imperialism to Libya and her people in the guise of saving the Libyans from Colonel Moammar al-Gadhafi could be the long-sought excuse the Western world was waiting for to get into the Libyan oil pie and help themselves.
We call on to all peace loving people, CSOs, peace movements and human rights defenders all over the world to lend their voice to the call for peace in the Middle East. Demand and urge their respective government’s involvement in facilitating peace and cessation of violence between western forces and Middle Eastern governments.
No to US led war of aggression in Libya!
Stop the Operation Odyssey Dawn Now!
Reference;
Bobby Benito
Cell No. 09994972939 or 09057500530
Tel. No. 390 2729
Email; bc.justpeace@gmail.com
The Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) condemns the US-led war of aggressions against the people of Libya. This wide scope military action to intervene the internal conflict between the government of President Muammar Quaddafi and the opposition was done by virtue of a UN Resolution that resulted in the operation called "Operations Odyssey Dawn".
To bomb Libya, in order to overthrow the Kaddafi government on the pretext of “humanitarian intervention is total hypocrisy and will only worsen the situation. Why are these great western powers exhibiting such concern for the seven million or so Libyans?
Aside from the truth having been exposed especially with regard to the invasion and occupation of Iraq, why these powers were not concerned about the lives lost and the destruction wreaked on Gaza when it was being bombarded by Israel in 2009, or when Palestinian refugees were massacred in Sabra-Shatilla in 1982? Why are they not as quick to condemn and call for international intervention - diplomatic, economic and military – against the continuing mailed-fist treatment of unarmed protestors in other North African states such as Egypt and Yemen and those in the Middle East such as Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet? Bahrain has already declared martial law, killed scores of demonstrators, and has welcomed 1000 elite Saudi Arabian troops to help quell the unrest.
Why are they tolerating the mercilessly killings of a pro-democracy civilians and monks in a peaceful protests rally against the military regime in Burma in 2009? In the Philippines, the martial law alone caused the lives of about 120,000 to 160,000 lives mostly of the Moro Peoples. The biggest lost due to massacres in the 70s. The big wars continue on the backyards of the Moro Peoples that until now caused unaccounted lives. The 2001 all out war policy of President Joseph Estrada that commemorated its 9th anniversary on March 21 caused the displacement of thousands of innocent civilians and millions worth of properties destroyed and burned yet did somebody ever cried for "international community intervention?
Today there are still a little less than a hundred thousand (accumulated) number of IDPs who are victims of the 2008 Military Surgical Operations who have not yet returned to their places of origin as they have nothing to return. They have suffered much longer than the Libyan people, however the International community particularly the UN is blind, voiceless and deaf.
BCJP also criticizes the Arab League and the Organization of the Islamic Conference for its failure to resolve the Libyan political crisis and violence without calling on foreign intervention. The Arab League and OIC are tooth-less tigers. The political crisis and violence have brought the scourge of violence and Western imperialism to Libya and her people in the guise of saving the Libyans from Colonel Moammar al-Gadhafi could be the long-sought excuse the Western world was waiting for to get into the Libyan oil pie and help themselves.
We call on to all peace loving people, CSOs, peace movements and human rights defenders all over the world to lend their voice to the call for peace in the Middle East. Demand and urge their respective government’s involvement in facilitating peace and cessation of violence between western forces and Middle Eastern governments.
No to US led war of aggression in Libya!
Stop the Operation Odyssey Dawn Now!
Reference;
Bobby Benito
Cell No. 09994972939 or 09057500530
Tel. No. 390 2729
Email; bc.justpeace@gmail.com
Friday, March 18, 2011
Not from ARMM areas, Sec. Robredo says of protesters
By Muhammad Musa
March 13, 2011 - “Ang balita ko ang mga nag-rally ay hindi taga ARMM, ito’y galing sa Sultan Kudarat province. Hindi naman sakop ng ARMM ang Sultan Kudarat…” (I heard that those who gathered for the rally were not residents of ARMM; they come from Sultan Kudarat province. Sultan Kudarat was never been part of ARMM”
This was the statement of Sec. Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), who told reporters that when consultations on the House Bill 4164 were conducted to the people of Maguindanao province.
The consultation was held at the ARMM Cultural Complex, Cotabato City on Thursday March 10.
Robredo doubted the protesters who have brought people in the street of Gov. Gutierrez Avenue in the City of Cotabato for an anti-rally campaign during the consultations about the HB 4146 filled by Maguindanao 1st District Rep. Bai Sandra Sema to the House of Representative on the 7th of February.
The proposed HB 4146 is an Act resetting the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) elections to synchronize with the 2013 National and Local elections.
The protesters led by a progressive group asked the government to conduct the elections on August 8, 2011, saying this wasalready fixed by Republic Act 9054, in order to give the people of ARMM to choose their leader whom they know and trust to lead the region.
The protesters believed that although the ARMM past administrations have full of controversies over the alleged “culture of goons, guns and corruption” it is the right timing to change the ARMM’s negative image by having the election.
Another group of ‘pro-ARMM election’ emphasized that the right of suffrage is an element of democracy that should not be denied to the people of ARMM, so that can freely choose their leaders.
In a related development, RLA Speaker Hon. DatuRoonie Q. Sinsuat told reporters that the ARMM administration has a concrete stand on the matter being discussed saying RA 9054 that if the President would appoint officials to be placed in ARMM government as officer-in-charge, the incumbent should be considered first.
However, Robredo disclosed during the consultation that only the ARMM officials are enjoying but the condition of the people has never changed.
He said the poverty incidence in the ARMM is so high in the four provinces of ARMM.
Meanwhile, Abdulbasit Benito, the Secretary of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Committee (CBCS-KRMC) suggested in choosing the OIC of the ARMM, there should a screening committee that will represent the areas of the mainland and the western Mindanao. These representatives will help craft the criteria for choosing the right person to head the region.
He suggested the following criteria: first must be a Bangsamoro—a native inhabitant of ARMM; second it has a background on NGO work; third no record on bad governance; fourth they should have clout to the two Moro fronts the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); fifth he/she can facilitate the full realization of Bangsamoro’s right-to-self-determination; and sixth God fearing.
Meantime, Rep. Sandra Sema said the deferment of the ARMM election would save government funds and give way to uninterrupted GPH-MILF peace talks.
ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Naguib B. Sinarimbo said that the consultation was conducted by the House Committee on Electoral Reforms and Suffrage and the Muslim Affairs upon the request of P-Noy Aquino through the suggestion of Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council or LEDAC.
After consulting the residents of Maguindanao and Cotabato City, the next two rounds of consultations will be held in Marawi City in Lanao and Zamboanga City for the western Mindanao constituents.
March 13, 2011 - “Ang balita ko ang mga nag-rally ay hindi taga ARMM, ito’y galing sa Sultan Kudarat province. Hindi naman sakop ng ARMM ang Sultan Kudarat…” (I heard that those who gathered for the rally were not residents of ARMM; they come from Sultan Kudarat province. Sultan Kudarat was never been part of ARMM”
This was the statement of Sec. Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), who told reporters that when consultations on the House Bill 4164 were conducted to the people of Maguindanao province.
The consultation was held at the ARMM Cultural Complex, Cotabato City on Thursday March 10.
Robredo doubted the protesters who have brought people in the street of Gov. Gutierrez Avenue in the City of Cotabato for an anti-rally campaign during the consultations about the HB 4146 filled by Maguindanao 1st District Rep. Bai Sandra Sema to the House of Representative on the 7th of February.
The proposed HB 4146 is an Act resetting the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) elections to synchronize with the 2013 National and Local elections.
The protesters led by a progressive group asked the government to conduct the elections on August 8, 2011, saying this wasalready fixed by Republic Act 9054, in order to give the people of ARMM to choose their leader whom they know and trust to lead the region.
The protesters believed that although the ARMM past administrations have full of controversies over the alleged “culture of goons, guns and corruption” it is the right timing to change the ARMM’s negative image by having the election.
Another group of ‘pro-ARMM election’ emphasized that the right of suffrage is an element of democracy that should not be denied to the people of ARMM, so that can freely choose their leaders.
In a related development, RLA Speaker Hon. DatuRoonie Q. Sinsuat told reporters that the ARMM administration has a concrete stand on the matter being discussed saying RA 9054 that if the President would appoint officials to be placed in ARMM government as officer-in-charge, the incumbent should be considered first.
However, Robredo disclosed during the consultation that only the ARMM officials are enjoying but the condition of the people has never changed.
He said the poverty incidence in the ARMM is so high in the four provinces of ARMM.
Meanwhile, Abdulbasit Benito, the Secretary of the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Kutawato Regional Management Committee (CBCS-KRMC) suggested in choosing the OIC of the ARMM, there should a screening committee that will represent the areas of the mainland and the western Mindanao. These representatives will help craft the criteria for choosing the right person to head the region.
He suggested the following criteria: first must be a Bangsamoro—a native inhabitant of ARMM; second it has a background on NGO work; third no record on bad governance; fourth they should have clout to the two Moro fronts the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); fifth he/she can facilitate the full realization of Bangsamoro’s right-to-self-determination; and sixth God fearing.
Meantime, Rep. Sandra Sema said the deferment of the ARMM election would save government funds and give way to uninterrupted GPH-MILF peace talks.
ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Naguib B. Sinarimbo said that the consultation was conducted by the House Committee on Electoral Reforms and Suffrage and the Muslim Affairs upon the request of P-Noy Aquino through the suggestion of Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council or LEDAC.
After consulting the residents of Maguindanao and Cotabato City, the next two rounds of consultations will be held in Marawi City in Lanao and Zamboanga City for the western Mindanao constituents.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Remembering Jabiddah Massacre
March 18, 1968
Today marks the 43rd commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, wherein between 28 and 64 Moro youths were mercilessly massacred in Corregidor Island allegedly by the government soldiers under the command of then Gen. Fabian Ver during the Marcos dictatorial regime. It was happened when Moro recruits undergoing rigid training for sabotage, jungle warfare, and guerilla tactics in Simunul island of Tawi-Tawi and Corregidor, respectively.
It was widely believed that the purpose of the training was a secret preparation for the Philippine Military operation in Sabah-code named “Operation Merdeka”. This belief was substantiated by the revelation of Jibin Arula (the lone survivor of the carnage) made to report to the whole world the brutal incident because they refused to follow the order and execute the demon plan of then Pres. Marcos.
Afterwards, simultaneous condemnation from various sectors was staged against the government and the reason for the formation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and later the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The Senate and congressional inquiries into the Jabidah massacre in 1968 yielded inconclusive findings. No one was held accountable for the horrible killings. The officers and enlisted men who were court-martialed were all cleared. Alas, the Jabiddah massacre and other massacres including rampant of human rights violations and other carnage committed against the Bangsamoro have not given justice and it seems continuing up to this time.
The only living witness to the massacre, Jibin Arula has just passed away last month. Until his death he was not able to get justice, along with his comrades.
It is in this pursuit, the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP), a human rights and peace advocate organization, joins the Bangsamoro Civil Society and other peace organizations for the peaceful initiatives calling for the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) towards the signing of the negotiated political settlement of the Moro Question on the basis of the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination and freedom.
We firmly believe the justice that has been denied to the Bangsamoro will only be resolved through the signing of peace agreement-- for it is the most peaceful solutions and would finally resolve the Bangsamoro problem and conflict in Mindanao.
“Let us resolve the Mindanao conflict, sign and implement peace agreement! Now Na!”
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP)
Int. 003-c, Don E. Sero Street, Rosary Heights 4 Cotabato City,
Telephone No. +63 64 390-2726
Mobile No. +63999497293
Email Addresses: bc.justpeace@gmail.com,
centerforjustpeace@yahoo.com
Today marks the 43rd commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre, wherein between 28 and 64 Moro youths were mercilessly massacred in Corregidor Island allegedly by the government soldiers under the command of then Gen. Fabian Ver during the Marcos dictatorial regime. It was happened when Moro recruits undergoing rigid training for sabotage, jungle warfare, and guerilla tactics in Simunul island of Tawi-Tawi and Corregidor, respectively.
It was widely believed that the purpose of the training was a secret preparation for the Philippine Military operation in Sabah-code named “Operation Merdeka”. This belief was substantiated by the revelation of Jibin Arula (the lone survivor of the carnage) made to report to the whole world the brutal incident because they refused to follow the order and execute the demon plan of then Pres. Marcos.
Afterwards, simultaneous condemnation from various sectors was staged against the government and the reason for the formation of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and later the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The Senate and congressional inquiries into the Jabidah massacre in 1968 yielded inconclusive findings. No one was held accountable for the horrible killings. The officers and enlisted men who were court-martialed were all cleared. Alas, the Jabiddah massacre and other massacres including rampant of human rights violations and other carnage committed against the Bangsamoro have not given justice and it seems continuing up to this time.
The only living witness to the massacre, Jibin Arula has just passed away last month. Until his death he was not able to get justice, along with his comrades.
It is in this pursuit, the Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP), a human rights and peace advocate organization, joins the Bangsamoro Civil Society and other peace organizations for the peaceful initiatives calling for the government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) towards the signing of the negotiated political settlement of the Moro Question on the basis of the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination and freedom.
We firmly believe the justice that has been denied to the Bangsamoro will only be resolved through the signing of peace agreement-- for it is the most peaceful solutions and would finally resolve the Bangsamoro problem and conflict in Mindanao.
“Let us resolve the Mindanao conflict, sign and implement peace agreement! Now Na!”
Bangsamoro Center for JustPeace (BCJP)
Int. 003-c, Don E. Sero Street, Rosary Heights 4 Cotabato City,
Telephone No. +63 64 390-2726
Mobile No. +63999497293
Email Addresses: bc.justpeace@gmail.com,
centerforjustpeace@yahoo.com
CBCS and HB no. 4146: Answering questions by questions by GMA
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JABIDAH MASSACRE: A Call to justice as a closure
A Call to justice as a closure to the Jabidah Massacre
March 18, 2011
Bobby Benito
Executive Director
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP)
43 year ago on March 18, 1968, a group of Moro men were recruited and trained by Government soldiers in Corregidor, Bataan. But when they found out that they will be sent to invade Sabah they refused and were subsequently killed. Fortunately, one survives, Jibin Arula who jumped into the water and swam for days before being found by fishermen near Leyte.
A few days ago Jibin Arula passed away, the only living witness to the massacre. Until his death he was not able to get justice.
Jabidah massacre as the incident came to be known was the turning point for many Moro to be awakened and become aware of their oppression and marginalization during the Marcos regime. The massacre served as the motivating factor for the Moro to arm themselves and fight the Marcos government.
The added tragedy to the massacre was that up to this day it did not get the justice it deserved and thus there is no closure to the incident nor to the memory of those who died.
The justice that has been denied can only be achieved if the problem in Mindanao will be resolved through the peace talk. So, the Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) is calling for justice through the continuation of the peace talks between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and immediate signing of the peace agreement.
Justice for the massacre victims!
Justice for all victims of violence and aggressions!
Sign the comprehensive compact agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF! Now Na!
March 18, 2011
Bobby Benito
Executive Director
Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP)
43 year ago on March 18, 1968, a group of Moro men were recruited and trained by Government soldiers in Corregidor, Bataan. But when they found out that they will be sent to invade Sabah they refused and were subsequently killed. Fortunately, one survives, Jibin Arula who jumped into the water and swam for days before being found by fishermen near Leyte.
A few days ago Jibin Arula passed away, the only living witness to the massacre. Until his death he was not able to get justice.
Jabidah massacre as the incident came to be known was the turning point for many Moro to be awakened and become aware of their oppression and marginalization during the Marcos regime. The massacre served as the motivating factor for the Moro to arm themselves and fight the Marcos government.
The added tragedy to the massacre was that up to this day it did not get the justice it deserved and thus there is no closure to the incident nor to the memory of those who died.
The justice that has been denied can only be achieved if the problem in Mindanao will be resolved through the peace talk. So, the Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace Inc. (BCJP) is calling for justice through the continuation of the peace talks between the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and immediate signing of the peace agreement.
Justice for the massacre victims!
Justice for all victims of violence and aggressions!
Sign the comprehensive compact agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF! Now Na!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Laying the Foundation for a reform ARMM
The majority of the grassroots leaders we talked are for the postponement of ARMM Elections for valid reasons: peace and order condition, ensure that the peace process (incorporate GPH – MNLF and possible agreement between GPH and MILF) does not get derailed by partisan politics, synchronize elections will reduce expense loss of lives and properties, most of the ongoing rido in Maguindanao are post election related violence. Postponement of the ARMM elections gives PNOY enough space to solve the region’s problems. Among the systems that needed to be fixed are auditing, budgeting, and human resource concerns, among many. It will also give ample time to consensus building for agenda (reform agenda) such as peace and security, governance, delivery of basic services, environment etc. Laying the Foundation for a reform ARMM
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