LOOKING at the different posts on Facebook about the opinions and stand of people regarding the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), it somehow illustrates the different types of electorates we will be having in the upcoming plebiscite.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front with their United Bangsamoro Justice Party that will come together as one strong political block to deliver the needed vote to ratify Republic Act 11054.
According to a report from the International Alert Philippines, a significant majority of the youth in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) will vote YES to the ratification of the BOL.
The same report also discussed that a little more than half of the youth from the cities of Cotabato and Isabela are in favour of BOL at 56.8% and 58.8% respectively. However, more information and education campaigns are needed in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi where more than half of youth respondents were either not in favor or unsure of the BOL. This survey report shows us ways of moving forward for the ratification of BOL.
People within the core territory of the Armm and those areas that opt to be part of the Bangsamoro demand for a more mature political discussion of the BOL. But unfortunately, the discourse among the electorates in Cotabato City and Isabela City is connected to the upcoming midterm elections. They are made to believe that the BOL is anchored to advance the political interests of certain politicians and their clans. This should not be the case.
As of now, there is no study that breaks down the different types of voters for the BOL. The study of the different types of voters could have helped us in preparing a better campaign. From our understanding here at Al Qalam, we have narrowed down some voters’ profiles to these six archetypes:
One, there are those that are loyal and committed to the Bangsamoro cause. They are inclusive and open minded. They are willing to initiate the structural changes and have a deep understanding of the historical and national context of the law.
Two, there are those who claim exclusive ownership of the Bangsamoro. They feel that they are the sole beneficiary of the peace process. They do not offer compromises, nor do they allow other schools of thought into their vision of a Bangsamoro state.
Three, there are the cynical voters. Due to negative experiences or personal views, these people have chosen not to read the BOL as they have no trust in their local leaders. This leads them to vote in an uninformed manner.
Four, there are also potential voters for yes. They are those who are open to understanding the BOL, but due to circumstances do not have the resources to get the right information. This could be due to geographical or socio-political factors.
Fifth, there are the interfaith alliances between the Moro-Muslim and Christian groups that live in these areas. For these voters, it is important to keep an open mind and have a thorough understanding of each side’s grievances.
Lastly, we have the academic-minded voters. These are educated voters whose choices are dependent on their school of thought in viewing the BOL. They can be Islamic scholars, or activists, or academicians that follow Marxist theories. If the BOL as they perceive it is complimentary to their views, then they will vote yes.
Where do we see our people in these categories? How do we utilize our resources for the campaign of the BOL? If so, then we can come to a better understanding of why the Bangsamoro will vote the way it does. These points of view are incredibly helpful in getting to the root of their votes, not just for the Bangsamoro, but for the whole nation.
So, where do you fall under these voter categories? This is a time to ask difficult questions. It is also that time in the history of Bangsamoro for the people to accept that the change we want begins from and within our local contexts.