THE official campaign period for the referendum of the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao RA 11054 (OLBARMM) or simply called as BOL officially started last December 7, 2018.
Unfortunately, election-related violence has also started with two casualties reported as of the writing of this article.
Possible hot spot areas for the upcoming plebiscite are the City of Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, and the island provinces of the ARMM. Political polarization have divided the communities in terms of those who are in favour of the ratification of the BOL (which includes its inclusion to its geographical areas) and those who are not in favour of its ratification.
Studies have shown that various forms of political and social polarization increase the risk of violent conflict within communities. The areas mentioned have clear data as to how to mitigate conflict and violence. But the question is how strong is our local institutions and other contingent factors to mediate the conflict potential in region?
As I mentioned in my previous article, the Bangsamoro Administrative Region, once put into effect, will radically change the system of governing, social services, finance, education, and more. It will finally allow the Bangsamoro people -- all thirteen recognized tribes and the indigenous peoples of these areas -- self-governance and self-determination. But not all people within the Bangsamoro share the same view.
Crucial in this campaign is for the government to address two of the most critical demographics in regards to the plebiscite. The youth and the traditional leaders are of two different outlooks and perspectives on life, but these are not mutually exclusive. Both must be recognized and acknowledged in the plebiscite.
The Bangsamoro youth are an important demographic as they are the literal future of the region. Without their input, any legacy that the Bangsamoro wishes to establish would be lost. As the future leaders of the region, giving room for their voices allows for better public services and programs. Preventing and countering violent extremism is especially important in the youth, as they are vulnerable to narratives of negative radicalization due to their idealism and beliefs. However, they must learn the proper way of handling the campaign. Negative campaign strategy is counter-productive.
The traditional leaders of the region are also a critical demographic. In the culture of the Bangsamoro, these leaders have a say in the governing and civil procedure of their respective communities. However, they also speak a different language compared to the millennial and the younger generations. Hence, a need for them to reach out to our youth and conduct religious and political dialogue is a must.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front has to understand that a common thread that is important in both demographics are the bonds of kinship. It is here where the Bangsamoro finds bonds of trust and confidence, especially in family affairs the conduct of business, governance, and other civil affairs. This bond has also been used to address century old conflict called rido.
Groups in the Bangsamoro engaged in political conflict for the BOL typically focus on their differences, which can result in pushing the individuals and parties toward polar opposite positions. We must learn to strategise that encourage people to consider their common interests that can help to mitigate such effects. Thus, proper messaging is important. Let’s bring the message that BOL is for peace and peace is possible within our lifetime.