Dialogue Mindanaw

Reflective Dialogues on the GRP-MILF Talks

MAY 2010

CONTENTS

List of Abbreviations Executive Summary Introduction Small Group Discussion Key Findings Poll Survey Results Insights and Recommendations Appendix: A. Matrices to Questions 1, 2, 3, 4 B. List of Resource Speakers C. Clarificatory Questions

3 4

9 33 41

43 67 67

D. Brief Background and History of the GRP-MILF Peace Talks

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

ARG ARMM BAC BAG BUT CDO COT DVO GRP ILI KOR MILF MNLF MNL PAL SUL TAW ZAM Autonomous Regional Government Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Bacolod Baguio City Butuan City Cagayan de Oro City Cotabato City Davao City Government of the Republic of the Philippines Iligan City Koronadal City Moro Islamic Liberation Front Moro National Liberation Front Manila/Rizal Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Jolo, Sulu Bongao, Tawi-Tawi Zamboanga City

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INTRODUCTION
Put people at the heart of the peace process and recognize their aspiration to be authors of their own destiny1If people own the process and its outcome, arguably they will be ready to bear the costs and the sacrifices required to build a more just and peaceful society. From February to March this year, a series of consultations on the GRP-MILF Peace Talks, called Dialogue Mindanaw, were conducted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) in thirteen strategic areas nationwide. OPAPP was responding to the clamor for more consultations and peoples participation in the peace talks. Dialogue Mindanaw, which is also called Reflective Dialogues, is part of the biggest communication plan embarked on by OPAPP. The plan includes a public relations and media advertising campaign to reach a broader audience and public conversations at the grassroots communities. From as far north in Baguio, down south to Bacolod, up to the southernmost island of Sulu, close to 4,000 people participated in the Reflective Dialogues. Organizers of the dialogues that were tapped by OPAPP are respected academic institutions and NGOs know in the regions. Participants come from a wide spectrum of ethnic and religious groups to basic sectors carefully selected by organizers from farmers to soldiers, Muslim imams to Catholic nuns, artists, students, activists, internally-displaced persons, local government officials. The experience was, for many participants, a memorable first, a first time to discuss and interact with a diverse mix of people from various ethnic groups and sectors. Often, the experience of getting to speak ones views and listen from others left a deep impression on the participants. In several dialogue sites, participants who were chosen to react on the reflective dialogues expressed their thoughts and feelings not only through words but also through songs, action exercises, prayers, chants even jokes. The response was varied: from passionate speeches and strong emotions to words of gratitude for being invited to the dialogue to reflective pauses on what can be done. I am impressed by this Reflective Dialogue. This should have been done a long time ago when the peace talks started but its better late than never. It is good that the true sentiments of different sectors are aired out and heard. (LGU official) This dialogue is a symbol of unity and solidarity. I believe that the time will come when there will be peace and unity among Muslims, Christians and Lumads. We dont have unity because of the land grabbing system practices. This is where
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Quote lifted from Garcia, Ed. Peacemaking Requires a Marathon Mentality: Reflective Peace Practice from a Filipino Perspective. Delivered at the Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Second Distinguished Lecture, Series of 2009, on Comparative Peace Processes and their Relevance to the Philippine Setting)

conflict started when the ancestral lands of Muslims and Lumads were taken. (Lay religious) Moved by this experience, a song-writer artist from Camiguin rewrote lines from her own song Kapayapaan and sang it in front of the participants during a post-discussion plenary session: Sa aming lamesa, may lumad at Krsitiano, rebelde at Muslim, magkasama salo-salo. . . Lahat tayo ay magkaiba-iba, makulay na kultura, gumagawa ng paraan, kapayapaan mapag-usapan. . .Magkasamang nagtawanan, pwedeng maghawakan iyan ang kapayapaan, pwedeng simple lang. . . Objectives. Dialogue Mindanaw aimed to engage the people at all levels by informing them about the issues being discussed in the GRP-MILF peace talks, and by securing their honest feedback on these issues; create a space where people can express their sentiments on the issues; and create interest and participation in the ongoing GRP-MILF Peace Talks Dialogue Process. The Reflective Dialogue has three main components: 1. Information: To provide a balanced information about the GRP-MILF peace talks. 2. Dialogue: To discuss earnestly in a spirit of dialogue and not debate. 3. Consultation: To solicit ideas, views and recommendations from different sectors and regions. Areas Covered. The Dialogue Mindanaw was conducted in 13 strategically-located dialogue sites, nine in Mindanao and four in the rest of the country. The dialogue sites are Iligan City, Cotabato City, Koronadal City, Davao City, Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Zamboanga City, Jolo, Puerte Princesa City, Baguio City, San Mateo, Rizal and Bacolod City. Areas covered in the dialogues are the following: Iligan City Dialogue Cotabato City Dialogue Lanao region, Marawi City, Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Kidapawan City South Cotabato,

Koronadal City Dialogue Saranggani, Gen. Santos City Davao City Dialogue

Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley 5

Butuan City Dialogue Cagayan de Oro City Dialogue

Caraga region including Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte Northern Mindanao area including Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Bukidnon, Camiguin and Gingoog City Zamboanga Peninsula (Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur) and Basilan areas Sulu Tawi-Tawi Palawan Northern Luzon area namely Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley and the Cordillera Administrative Region. Central Luzon, National Capital Region, Southern Luzon Samar, Iloilo/Panay, Cebu, Bacolod/Negros Occidental, Bohol, Negros Oriental and Leyte.

Zamboanga City Dialogue

Sulu Dialogue Tawi-Tawi Dialogue Palawan Dialogue Baguio City Dialogue:

Metro Manila (Rizal) Dialogue

Visayas Dialogue

Participants. About 3,769 participants attended the 13 dialogues representing various sectors: local government units, academics, non-government organizations, the religious, the business sector, fisherfolks and farmers, diverse general public including women and the youth, from the Muslim, Christian, and Lumad communities. Partners. The regional partners are a mix of academe and NGO networks. Seven major universities in Mindanao participated, namely: Notre Dame University, Notre Dame of Marbel University, University of Mindanao, Xavier University, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Notre Dame of Jolo College and Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi. The six partner NGOs are Nagkakaisang mga Tribu ng Palawan, an indigenous peoples NGOs; Pakigdait, Inc., a Moro NGO; Cordillera Network of NGOs; and two Catholic religious NGOs: Caraga Conference for Peace and Development and Pax Christi, University of St. La Salle. The Manila-based Mindanao Solidarity Network is a group of NGOs led by the Gaston Z. Ortigas Peace Institute, Peacemakers Circle Foundation, Balay Rehabilitation Center, among others. Information. Resource persons who are experts on the peace negotiations gave the respective positions of the government and the MILF. The objective of their presentations is to inform not to debate, convince or persuade. This was followed by a brief open forum where clarificatory questions that pertain to the inputs were asked. A primer was also distributed that provides more detailed information on the talks. (See Annex A on Resource Persons and Presentations). Small Group Discussion. The small group discussion follows after the speakers presentation. Participants are divided into 30 groups with at least ten members each. The purpose of the small group discussions is to provide a space where people can reflect on the issues for themselves based on the information they hear and 6

understand. A facilitator directs the discussions and a documenter record the answers to four questions.

4 SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Attitude toward the peace talks What do you feel about the current GRP-MILF talks? 2. Information about the peace talks What issues in the GRP-MILF peace talks are clear to you? What are not clear? 3. Ways forward on the peace process Which issue in the GRP-MILF peace talks do you think is most important? What should be done to address it?

4. Acknowledging other related issues What other issues related to the GRP-MILF peace talks should also be considered? How should these issues be handled?

Poll Survey After the sharing, a poll survey was conducted concerning their understanding and attitudes towards the following issues: the term "Bangsamoro," Constitutional change, expansion of ARMM geographic coverage, relationship between ARMM government, control over coastal waters, sharing of revenues from natural resources, control over strategic minerals and level of confidence on the peace negotiations. (See Appendix 5 on complete listing of Poll Survey Questions.) Writeshop The results generated from the nation-wide dialogues were collated and analyzed by representatives of the 13 regions during a Regional Management Team Writeshop held on April 7-9 in Cebu City. The regional teams reported their reflections on both the process and substance of the dialogues.

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SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION RESULTS
Introduction. Over three hundred small group discussions were conducted nationwide during the dialogues held in thirteen areas. The purpose of the small group discussions is to provide a space where people can reflect on the issues for themselves based on the information they hear and understand. A facilitator directs the discussions and a documenter records the answers to four questions: 1. Attitude toward the peace talks. What do you feel about the current GRPMILF talks? 2. Information about the peace talks. What issues in the GRP-MILF peace talks are clear to you? What are not clear? 3. Ways forward on the peace process. Which issue in the GRP-MILF peace talks do you think is most important? What should be done to address it? 4. Acknowledging other related issues. What other issues related to the GRPMILF peace talks should also be considered? How should these issues be handled? Dialogue Not Debate. Participants from all over the regions welcomed the dialogues as an innovative process where they get to interact with a diverse mix of people from various ethnic groups and sectors. A typical small group discussion would perhaps gather a soldier, a youth leader, an imam, a Lumad datu, a Moro activist, a Christian settler, and so on. Often, the experience of getting to speak ones views and listen from others left a deep impression on the participants. Perceptions vs. Realities. The perceptions of participants in these small group discussions do not necessarily reflect reality. Perceptions are shaped by various factors, among them their ability to understand issues relating to the peace process. To begin with, the intricacies of the Mindanao peace process are not easy to comprehend for a public that gets little information on the subject. The Reflective Dialogues is an effort to address this information gap. This is why resource persons were invited to explain the current positions of the GRP and the MILF peace panels. However, given the limited time and perhaps language barriers, we do not expect the audience to understand the issues based only from one session. Thus, patterns and trends emerging from the reflective dialogues are inconclusive because they are based on peoples lack of information. A Snapshot of Public Opinion. Public opinion is fluid and may shift depending on peoples reactions to certain events at a time a research or similar undertaking is conducted. Therefore, the conclusions reached in this report can only be said to represent opinions when the small group discussion was undertaken.

Collation and Writing Process. The documentation reports generated from the small group discussions were collated by the thirteen Regional Management Teams. The results generated by the RMTs were presented and analyzed by representatives of the13 regions during a writeshop held on April 3-5 in Cebu City.

GROUND RULES
Small group discussion participants were instructed to strictly adhere to the following: 1. Only one person talks at a time. We should listen attentively to the person speaking. 2. Empty your cup. Start with a clean slate. 3. It is important for us to know everyones ideas and opinions. There are no right or wrong answers simply opinions, ideas, perceptions or experiences. They are all valuable. 4. Do not argue or debate. Simply state you view. 5. Everyones opinion or view, whether positive or negative is important. Let us all listen and let us give everyone a chance to share.

From the reports and presentations made, the answers to the four questions were collated and processed into matrices that were, in turn, became the basis of statements made in this report. (See matrices at the end of this report.) Further reference can be made to the thirteen regional reports for validation or substantiation of the findings. The pertinent dialogue site is indicated by their abbreviations (i.e. ILI for Iligan City; MLA for Manila). Each dialogue site covers a number of areas. The Iligan dialogue, for instance, include participants from Marawi City, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. (See table below for a list of abbreviations and coverage areas.) As far as practicable, this report strives to retain the original form of how participants uttered their statements in articulating their feelings or thoughts. This is in order to bring out the voices of the participants. Editing is only done for purposes of clarity.

AREAS COVERED 6. Respect Lanao Region for each other should be observed Kudarat, Cotabato City Cotabato, Sultanat all times South Cotabato, Saranggani, Gen. Santos City Davao & Compostela Valley Caraga Region Northern Mindanao Zamboanga Peninsula & Basilan Sulu Tawi-Tawi Palawan Northern Luzon Central Luzon, National Capital Region, Southern Luzon Visayas

DIALOGUE SITE Iligan City Cotabato City Koronadal City Davao City Butuan City Cagayan de Oro City Zamboanga City Jolo Bongao Puerto Princesa City Baguio City Metro Manila Bacolod

ACRONYM ILI COT KOR DVO BUT CDO ZAM SUL TAW PAL BAG MNL BAC

KEY FINDINGS

QUESTION 1. Attitude toward the peace talks. What do you feel about the current GRP-MILF talks?
A. Hopeful and Happy. Some participants expressed they are happy over the resumption of the peace talks and of having participated in Dialogue Mindanaw. Many also hoped that the peace talks will successfully lead to the signing of a peace agreement which will result to a cessation of hostilities and peace and development in their communities. While they look forward to witnessing an agreement to be signed by the GRP and the MILF, there are many though who are wary about rushing an agreement as the May 10 polls draws near, fearing that it would trigger fresh waves of violence. Some asked: why not wait for the new administration before signing?

1. Resumption of the Peace Talks. Participants from all across the 13 regions have expressed that they are glad about the resumption of the GRP-MILF peace talks. (Note: At the time the dialogues were conducted, the peace talks between the GRP and MILF just formally resumed on 9 December 2009.) Many view the peace talks as a more viable option in resolving conflict instead of going into war. They believe that with the resumption of the peace talks, armed hostilities will cease. Many positively regard the continuous efforts to negotiate by the two panels as a good sign that both strive hard to work for peace in Mindanao. They point to indicators of positive developments in the peace talks: the reconstitution of the GRP panel; exchange of drafts; formation of the International Contact Group, involvement of the international community; the conduct of Dialogue Mindanaw itself; grassroots/sectoral participation including women; and the return of the International Monitoring Team. (For a historical overview of the GRP-MILF Peace Talks, please see Appendix E.) Government is also perceived as taking the right step towards pushing with the peace talks and appears to the people as being determined to address the Mindanao problem. Negotiations seem to progress no matter how small but at least they are talking, as one participant puts it. 2. Dialogue Mindanaw. All across the 13 regions, an overwhelming number of participants declared their appreciation of having participated in Dialogue Mindanaw. They regard the dialogue as a clear sign that the peace talks is moving forward. Many are pleased that more information about the peace talks is being shared and that they also get to hear the perspectives of both the GRP and the MILF. Many perceive Dialogue Mindanao as a good indicator of grassroots participation in the peace process where different sectors are given the chance to articulate their feelings and opinions about the peace talks and of being listened to. They feel optimistic that the inputs from the dialogues may inform and enlighten the two parties for a better understanding of the issues concerning the people. Many are inspired, motivated and encouraged. For 10

many participants coming from Luzon, Visayas, and Palawan, it is the first time they get to hear and understand Mindanao issues. 3. Signing of a Peace Agreement. Many are hopeful that the peace negotiations will eventually lead to the successful signing of a peace agreement. For some, the peace agreement could mean a permanent cessation of hostilities and bring about peace and development in Mindanao. a. Cessation of Hostilities. With the resumption of the peace negotiations, many are hopeful that the process will bring about cessation of hostilities between the AFP and the MILF. Because fighting is temporarily halted, people can go back making a living and taking a break from the conflict. Displaced people can return to their homes and children can go back to school. Development projects that were suspended because of the outbreak of hostilities can now be resumed. They hope, however, that both parties must abide by their agreement: no arms build-up, no arms training, no recruitment and no establishment of camps. b. Peace and Development. The success of the peace talks will hopefully bring about peace and development to Mindanao: they can live in peace; their lives will be better; innocent people will longer be affected; conflict areas will be rehabilitated and developed; kidnappings will stop. There are many participants however who are wary about rushing an agreement that could possibly trigger conflict resulting to violence, recalling the events after the botched signing of the MOA-AD in August 2008. Some participants ask: why not wait for the new president? B. Worried, Anxious and Doubtful . While many participants are happy about the resumption of the talks and the conduct of the dialogue, many more are worried, anxious and doubtful over the following: the signing of a new agreement towards the end of the term of the Arroyo administration; the sincerity of the parties and possible vested or hidden interests behind the negotiations; the integrity of the negotiations due to lack of transparency, lack of information, holding the peace talks in Malaysia and the composition of the panel. the peace talks being used as a justification to amend the Constitution for political interests; the outbreak of violence that could happen with the signing or even the nonsigning of an agreement; the impact of the agreement on the indigenous peoples; the establishment of a sub-state; MILF-led government in Mindanao and the effect of a new agreement on the GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement signed in 1996.

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4. Elections 2010 and New Administration. Many are worried about the forging of an agreement at this time around election season and close to the end of the term of President Arroyos administration. Among speculations raised by participants are: Why now? Whats the motive behind this? Will the new administration honor the agreement? At the same time, there are worries that the new administration might not be open at all to forging an agreement with the MILF. 5. Sincerity of the Parties. Many participants expressed feelings of mistrust and suspicion on both the GRP and the MILF. Government, in particular, is perceived as not sincere and not serious enough in pursuing the peace negotiations. Reasons cited are the apparent shifting positions on the part of government, its inability to honor consensus points and its supposed delaying tactics to extend the time of signing. At the same time, the sincerity of the MILF is also being questioned by some participants due to what appears to them as unreasonable or impossible demands made by the group. Both parties are also seen as hardline on their positions and wont give to any compromise. 6. Vested or Hidden Interests. Another prevailing perception is that there are vested or hidden interests that are operating behind the peace talks. Examples of these perceptions are: talks might be politically-motivated; there might be personal interests involved; politicians might take advantage of the peace agreement. Among the most persistent speculations raised by participants relate to vested interests over Mindanao resources, over speculations that there are powerful players who struggle to control the islands natural resources. There is no mention, however, of who these supposed players are. 7. Conduct of Negotiations. Various aspects of the conduct of the peace negotiations are among sources of doubt and worry among many participants that include the lack of transparency, lack of information, selection of venue, and composition of the panel, among others. a. Lack of Transparency. Lack of transparency in the peace talks is what appears to be the most frequently-cited factor by participants on why they cast doubts and suspicions on the parties. The negotiations are held behind closed doors and draft agreements are kept under wraps. b. Lack of Information. Coupled with lack of transparency is the lack of information and public disclosure on the details of the negotiations. Participants scored the limited information being shared to the public, and because little is being revealed, many speculations, whether accurate or false, abound. c. Venue of the peace talks. Many are questioning why the peace talks is being held outside the country. Another source of doubt is the role of Malaysia as facilitator which many speculate as having vested interests in Mindanao. d. Composition of the panel. Some panel members appear to many as not sincere and competent enough to be negotiators

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owing to the lack of criteria in the process of selection of panel members. 8. Charter Change. Participants have mixed views on the prospect of amending the Philippine Constitution to accommodate new arrangements arising from any new peace agreement While many are open to changing provisions in the Constitution, should it be the only way to reach an agreement, an equal number of participants however are cautious. A constant source of worry is that there may be interest groups who will use the peace agreement as an excuse to introduce Charter changes for political reasons. 9. Outbreak of Violence. There are many who fear that the signing of a new peace agreement or the collapse of the peace talks itself - may trigger outbreaks of violence. Those coming from conflict areas in Central Mindanao are anxious that, based on their experience, war always breaks out when there is a breakdown in the talks. Participants outside of Mindanao such as those coming from the Visayas fear that conflict may also spill over to other areas outside what they call as the usual war zones. With the May 10 polls coming, participants are wary that outbreaks of violence in Mindanao may be used as a convenient justification for the declaration of a failure of elections. Others see the scenario of widespread chaos and disorder as justification for the nonsigning of an agreement. 10. Indigenous Peoples (Lumads). Participants representing various nonIslamized indigenous tribes in the dialogues expressed feelings of dissatisfaction, dismay, even anger, at how they were left out in the peace negotiations between the GRP and the MILF. They claim that the parties did not consult them although territorial claims of the MILF that are being discussed in the negotiations include areas covered within their own ancestral domains. They are also saddened that despite many Lumads being caught in the armed conflict between the government and the MILF right within their own areas, their own rights and assertions for self-determination are not recognized and respected. 11. Establishment of a sub-state. There are fears among some participants that the establishment of a sub-state might lead to the separation of Mindanao from the Philippines. Granting of a sub-state might further divide the country and aggravate the peace and order situation in Mindanao with the national government losing control. On the other hand, regions with a substantial Bangsamoro population welcome the formation of a sub-state as a step towards the fulfillment of their aspirations for self-determination. 12. Concerns about MILF-led governance. Will the MILF guarantee a good government if a new agreement is signed? There are some of the apprehensions from some participants such as those coming from Zamboanga and Iligan about being governed by the MILF. Some also raised doubts about the MILFs right to represent all Bangsamoro groups and its inability to control its own commanders. Granting the demands of the MILF is also seen as a bad precedent for another armed group that might arise and likewise wage armed struggle against the government. According to some, they also fear a repeat of history such as another breakaway group emerging from the ranks of the MILF, which was what 13

the MILF did to the MNLF in the past. There are also some who believe that the MILF has a valid cause but some civilians get hurt or killed because of the fighting. 13. GRP-MNLF 1996 Final Peace Agreement. Many are wondering what will be the impact or consequence of a new agreement with the MNLF on the Final Peace Agreement signed by the Philippine government in 1996. Participants in dialogue areas held in Sulu, Iligan, Cotabato and Zamboanga specifically call for the implementation of the 1996 FPA before the government signs any agreement with the MILF. C. Frustrated, Cynical and Disappointed Some participants have become frustrated, disappointed, and cynical over the long delay of negotiations and over what they see as a waste of money and resources because nothing is really happening. Many believed that the talks is fragile because of a weak state that lacks the capability to enforce agreements. 14. Long delay of negotiations. The GRP-MILF talks now spans for 12 years and many participants blamed the delaying tactics of the government as the reason for the delay. They are frustrated at the slow pace of the negotiations and have long given up hope witnessing the realization of peace during their lifetime. According to many, the talks have gone on for a long period of time yet until now no concrete solution has been achieved. But some participants remain steadfast in waiting for the sake of the many who have died due to the conflict. While the process is long and arduous as many issues need to be resolved, they call for more patience in continuing with the talks so that peace will ultimately be attained. 15. Waste of money and resources. The long duration of the peace talks is viewed by some participants as a waste of money and already draining the resources of government since it began in 1997. A few suggests that the money spent for the talks be better re-allocated to basic needs and social services. 16. Nothing is happening. An attitude of cynicism is shown by many participants who believe that nothing is really happening in the peace talks and that it is useless. Others believe that the talks will end nowhere because there is no guarantee that it will be upheld, citing the Supreme Court intervention in the MOA-AD, that put to nil all the hard work done by the peace panels. Some expressed they are tired of attending many conferences, submitting many recommendations, outputs, position papers and similar documents that were presented to the peace panels but never really get to be reflected in the output of the talks. Despite the talks, many believe that there are really no significant gains as the decades-old conflict remain unresolved and the culture of violence still prevail. 17. Fragile talks, weak state. Many participants are cynical about agreements being signed or implemented, citing the experience of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) and the GRP-MNLF1996 Final Peace Agreement. For them, the GRP-MILF talks 14

stands on fragile grounds as manifested when the GRP panel was prevented from signing the MOA-AD and the same document being soon after declared as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. (However, a number of participants also say that they are apprehensive about the spectre of the MOA-AD being resurrected. For them, the MOA-AD was already declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court and there is no point bringing it back.) They also cited the non-implementation of some provisions under the GRP-MNLF 1996 FPA as another indication of a weak state. Confused or Do not Know 18. What is the peace talks really all about? The dialogues reveal that there is a substantial number of people, especially from Luzon and Visayas, who are confused about the details of the peace talks or who simply do not understand what it is all about. Some admit that it was only during the dialogues that they first heard about the peace talks. Many point to the lack of information drive as the culprit. But even if informed, many confessed that they find the issues vague and are unable to grasp and understand the intricacies of the peace talks. Apathetic or Indifferent 19. I dont care. There is still a number of participants who admitted that they are not concerned about the peace talks and they feel nothing about it at all. It is either because they were simply not informed or they find the issues in the peace talks not affecting them. 20. Wait and see. Some adopt a wait and see attitude, whether or not any agreement will eventually have an impact on them.

QUESTION 2: What issues in the GRP-MILF peace talks are clear to you? What are not clear?
Participants have cited aspects of the following issues as both clear and unclear to them: 1. On Bangsamoro Homeland/Ancestral Domain: What is its concept, scope, status quo, proprietary rights, historical basis of claim, MOA-AD, meaning of terms, purpose of territorial claims, and consequence, among others? 2. On Bangsamoro Identity: Who are the Bangsamoros? 3. On Governance: What will be the government system, who will be the leaders and what will be its relation to the national government? 4. Revenue-Sharing on Natural Resources: How much goes to whom (GRP and MILF); what is the basis for the sharing; and why is there sharing at all? 5. Conduct of the Peace Talks: What is basis for selection of venue and third party facilitation; what is the criteria of choosing panel members; how are peace talks actually being held; how can the public participate; is there a timetable; what is the process of information and communication dissemination; why are foreign observers present in the talks? 15

6. Constitutional Change: Why is there a need for constitutional change and how will it be changed? 7. Indigenous Peoples/Lumads: What will happen to the indigenous peoples, to their ancestral domain and indigenous governance? Will there be sharing of resources with them?

A. On Bangsamoro Homeland/Ancestral Domain CLEAR Concept Scope This territory includes the whole of ARMM but the MILF seeks to expand the territorial coverage to include areas outside ARMM that are dominated by Bangsamoros. GRP however insists only on enhanced autonomy. Bangsamoro Homeland is the territorial claim of the MILF which is the whole of Mindanao. It is the territory which used to be under the control of the Moro sultanates.

Status Quo There is a status quo for all areas negotiated in the peace talks and that results of previous plebiscites should be respected.

Respect of proprietary rights The MILF will respect proprietary rights, particularly titled lands, and will not confiscate lands that fall within the Bangsamoro ancestral domain.

Historical basis of claim MOA-AD The Supreme Court declared the MOA-AD unconstitutional; The recent peace talks impasse was because of the aborted signing of MOA-AD. There was lack of information dissemination on the MOA-AD which is why some Mindanao communities did not clearly understand it and opposed it. The MOA-AD is about the territorial rights of the Bangsamoro and landownership claims. The underlying reason behind the MILFs ancestral domain claim is to recover lands that were lost by the Bangsamoros.

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UNCLEAR Meaning of Terms What is meant by the terms Bangsamoro Homeland, ancestral domain, ARMM, sub-state, Bangsamoro Juridical Entity, autonomy and federal system and how are they all differentiated from each other?

Purpose of Territorial Claims Why is there a need on the part of the MILF to claim the Bangsamoros ancestral domain? Why is there a need to expand their territory which already includes ARMM?

Coverage What areas are included or fall under Bangsamoro Homeland, expanded ARMM or sub-state? Is there a listing of inclusive areas showing the coverage of what was under the MOA-AD, the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity (BJE)? What is the basis for the inclusion of these areas? Who decides which areas are included or excluded and how is this decided? How are boundaries demarcated?

Consequence What will happen to Christians and Lumads living in the proposed expanded territory? Will they be forced to give up their lands when the Bangsamoros be given back their ancestral domain? What about Christian-dominated areas? Will they be covered? What happens if the MILF go beyond the demarcated boundaries? Who should be given homeland controlthe first to occupy the land or the next to transcend or the last? How will CARP be implemented in the context of ancestral domain?

B. On Bangsamoro Identity Who are the Bangsamoros? CLEAR Bangsamoros are believers of Islam. 17

They are all the inhabitants of Mindanao. They are still Filipinos. Some Bangsamoros do not want to be called Filipinos as they believed that their homeland has never been part of the Philippines. Bangsamoros are culturally different from majority Christians. They have their own unique identity. They have a right to be who they are. People in Mindanao however are free to identify themselves as Bangsamoro, Lumad or anything else. MILF defines Bangsamoro to include all inhabitants in Mindanao while GRP limits its definition to followers of Islam.

UNCLEAR Who really are the Bangsamoros? Are they believers of Islam or the ancestors in Mindanao? Are Lumads included? Who defines who the Bangsamoros are? Can Bangsamoros include even those not living in Mindanao? What about the Lumads claim that they are the original natives? What is the implication of Bangsamoro identity? Dual citizenship? How did the term Bangsamoro came about?

C. On Governance CLEAR The MILF only wants autonomy and not total independence from the Philippines. MILF desires to have its own system of government and that there shall be changes in the political structure. MILF wants full control of their government structure/areas but cant guarantee security. A proposed sub-state is that it is a state within a state as a result of ARMMs expansion. 18

UNCLEAR What kind of autonomy shall be given to the MILF? Is it full or partial autonomy? Is the system federal or another form? Why is there need to change from presidential to federal? Why not take example of federalism? What will the Bangsamoro political structure be like if ARMM be expanded? Will the MILF replace the current ARMM leadership? What will be the relationship between the sub-state with the national government and the LGUs? If MILF will run the affairs of government, how will they share authority with government? How will it operate and what are its mechanisms? Is the government prepared to give full authority to the sub-state? What about territorial rights of regional or municipal governments? Concept of power sharing is not clear how will it be done? At which instances can Bangsamoros independently decide and act? Are we going to separate from the Philippines or shall we have our own government? Will there be a need for a passport if one goes to the sub-state? Where will the sub-state pay taxes? Why does MILF want Bangsamoros to be separated from the Philippines? Can self rule or autonomy answer the clamor for self-determination? What will the identity of the Philippines be if Bangsamoros separate themselves? What happens to Philippine territory if Bangsamoro will separate? What will happen to non-Muslims if granted? What will happen to Christians? To Lumads? What are the exact areas affected by the expansion of the ARMM? Government structure is unclear since GRP is dealing with both MNLF and MILF. Will GRP provide separate government structures for both MILF and MNLF? There will be full autonomy for the MILF. But what about the MNLF? 19

What is the relationship between the GRP-MILF talks with the 1996 GRP-MNLF peace agreement? Do the MILF and MNLF differ from each other as to their objectives? What is the difference between MNLF and MILF? When Bangsamoros become autonomous, does this mean the Shariah law will be the law in Bangsamoro areas? How will it be implemented? How will the MILF implement Islamic governance in Muslim areas? What is the difference between self-determination vs. independence?

D. On Revenue-Sharing on Natural Resources CLEAR The GRP and the MILF disagree over the sharing arrangement of natural resources. MILF proposes a 75-25 percent scheme over revenues derived from natural resources, with 75 percent accruing to the Bangsamoro which will be used for community development. GRP, however, proposes a 50-50 percent as provided for under RA 9054. The sharing of revenues is 35-35-30 percent under RA 9054 namely: 35% to the province or city; 35% to the regional government; and 30% to the central government or national government.

UNCLEAR But how will the sharing be done? Is it fair? How did they arrive at the 75%-25% revenue sharing? Shouldnt the sharing be 50-50? Why is there such a scheme of income sharing in the first place? How will revenues be shared? Why does the MILF asking for revenues shared from the national government? Who will control and manage the coastal waters within and beyond 15 kms. from the coastline? Who controls strategic minerals and how? Why is the GRPs position to solely control strategic minerals of ARMM? How will these resources be shared and why is the MILF claiming these resources? Who should have control over the minerals found in the Bangsamoro homeland? 20

E. On the Conduct of the Peace Talks CLEAR There is an ongoing peace talks between the GRP and the MILF. The peace talks have four strands, namely identity, territory, resources, and governance; and that there is ceasefire while talks are ongoing. The government is prepared to deliver proposed set of actions. Any agreement reached by the parties will have to pass through Congress first. MILF demands right to self-determination not independence. Bangsamoro wants independence MILF demands autonomy. MILF demands secession. MILF wants self-rule. MILF is the largest armed group in Mindanao. MILFs vision is to let Islam rule the nation. MILF wants to reclaim lands that once had been theirs.

UNCLEAR What exactly are the demands of the MILF and what is its agenda? Who give the authority to the MILF to represent the Bangsamoros? Why is there separatism? How can separatism be possible?

Venue and Facilitation Why is the peace talks being held in another country? Why is negotiation being done in Malaysia? What is Malaysias role and how was it chosen? Why Malaysia and not others like OIC?

Composition of Panel How are panel members selected and screened? Are they acceptable to both groups? What are the roles and responsibilities of the peace panel members? Do they really represent their constituents? 21

Mechanics Why is there need to conduct plebiscites after the signing of an agreement? What exactly are the executive doables? Who initiated the peace negotiations? How are negotiations being conducted? What is the purpose of the negotiations? What are the mechanisms of the peace talks such as policies, parameters, procedures and guidelines? Who funds the peace talks? How is it spent and who spends it? Are there sanctions if agreements reached are not being followed?

Public Participation in the Peace Talks How involved is civil society in the peace talks? What is the role of civil society groups in the peace process? Are there grassroots consultations of other sectors like women and IPs? Why only consulting civil society groups and not the common people? What is the role of the PNP and AFP in the peace process? Who are involved in the process and how is it being conducted? How are other Muslims, non-Muslims and their concerns included in the peace talks?

Timetable Timetable is not clear. How long do peace negotiations take? When will it end?

Information and Communication What transpires in the peace process? How are these communicated to stakeholders? How do peace panels connect to the civilians and get the perspectives of different sectors?

Foreign observers Is there need to have foreign observers to monitor the peace process. 22

Why is there a need for an International Contact Group?

F. On Constitutional Change CLEAR Government is willing and determined to talk with the MILF on matters that would result in peace in Mindanao provided that all matters must be within the parameters of the constitution. Some of the demands of the MILF are not possible because these are against the Constitution and government is operating under a constitutional framework. For an agreement with the MILF to be possible such as the MOA-AD, there must be some provisions amended in the constitution. The Supreme Court declared the MOA-AD unconstitutional because the Philippine Constitution does not allow a sub-state arrangement under the Philippine government.

UNCLEAR How can the agreement of both GRP-MILF be implemented without conflicting with laws and constitution? What process will the government undertake to change the constitution? Will the constitutional change affect the peace talks? How will constitutional change be done? Why is there still a need for constitutional change? How will the government address MILF concerns given constitutional limitations? Will the panel respect the constitution provision/mandate? Will leaders not compromise on whats mandated in the constitution? How will constitutional amendments be made without being used by those with political interests?

G. On the Indigenous Peoples/Lumads UNCLEAR Where do Lumads position themselves and how does the peace process affect them?

23

Why are Lumads not being considered when in fact there is already the IPRA law? How come only the MILF have peace talks? How come the government does not hold peace talks with other tribes like Blaan, Tboli and other Lumads do not have peace talks? The Lumads were accordingly the first settlers in Mindanao and as such, they claim to be the original landowners of the areas claimed by Bangsamoros. Will they be included? Why are IPs involved in the conflict? How will Lumads be guaranteed that they will be given the freedom of choice?

QUESTION 3. Ways forward on the peace process Which issue in the GRP-MILF peace talks do you think is most important? What should be done to address it?
The most frequently-cited issues considered by dialogue participants as among the most important are Bangsamoro Homeland/Ancestral Domain, Governance, Bangsamoro Identity, Resources, Conduct of the Peace Negotiations, Concerns over the Indigenous Peoples/Lumads, and MNLF-MILF Relations. These topics were discussed by the resource persons while delivering their inputs during the dialogue. Right to selfdetermination has been mentioned several times in the regional reports as another important issue but the writing team believes that it is a cross-cutting theme of the issues under governance, identity, ancestral domain and resources and thus must not be treated separately. A. Ancestral Domain 1. Process of Delineating Territories. Foremost among the concerns raised by participants is the process on how areas falling within the territorial claims of the MILF be identified and defined. Participants suggest that thorough data-gathering be made to justify inclusion of areas. While a number of participants appear to indicate openness to the MILFs territorial concerns, many insist that it will be done following certain conditions such as the following: boundaries should be clearly demarcated; areas for of ARMMs expansion will only cover Muslim-dominated areas; rights of Lumads should be respected; and most importantly, public consultations and massive information drives be conducted in affected areas. a. Actual surveys should be undertaken to take into account the history and background of the areas to validate territorial claims. Another basis will be actual occupancy and help Bangsamoros in locating their territorial borders.

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b.

c.

d.

e. f.

g.

Identity which areas have dominant Muslim or Christian population through the assistance of the National Statistics Office prior to the conduct of plebiscite. Only those with predominant Muslim population should be included. Boundaries between the ancestral domain of Bangsamoros and Lumads should be established and respected in accordance with customs (i.e. Mamalu and Tabunaway story). Tribal governance such as the Timuay system should be recognized in the ancestral domain territory of the Lumads. A plebiscite must be conducted to get the consent of the people and ensure that the plebiscite is clean and honest. Consensus is needed at the local level Those affected or dislocated due to the ancestral domain/territorial claims must be given just compensation. A nationwide memorandum shall be issued to inform people together with a massive public information drive and consultations. Implementing rules and regulations should be established to provide guidelines in the delineation of areas that will be included or excluded in the expanded ARMM. Congress should pass a law on the delineation of Bangsamoro territorial claims.

2. Review of the MOA-AD. Quite a number of participants, notably from the Cotabato, Iligan and Manila dialogues, strongly voiced a review of the MOAAD and suggested the following action points: a. Revise the MOA-AD and make the Supreme Court review its decision. b. Comply with the directives stated in the Supreme Court ruling on the MOA-AD. c. Educate the people about the Bangsamoro struggle for ancestral domain and initiate a national information drive up to the grassroots level. d. Establish a group from both the GRP-MILF panels to focus in resolving the MOA-AD issue. e. It should have a five-year transition period B. Governance 3. System of Governance and Relationship with National Government. Participants want the system of governance and relationship between the MILF and the National Government to be clearly defined down to the regional, local and barangay levels. 4. Sub-State/Autonomy. Participants offer the following suggestions: a. There should be a referendum to determine the acceptability of a sub-state or an expansion of ARMM, especially in areas where there are Christian settlers. b. A specific branch, office or department should be created in government to focus on the sub-state as demanded by MILF. c. Equal treatment and respect of Muslim and Non-Muslim should be ensured under sub-state. d. Socio-economic political, and development funds must be given to Muslim and IPs. 25

e. Since MILF/ Muslim have their own cultural practices and laws, these laws should be implemented in their area. f. Amend and revise constitution regarding sub-state. g. The purpose, goal and mechanism of implementation should be transparent to the people and there must be clear guidelines. h. The national government should not insist its own process and system to the MILF and Muslim areas. i. GRP must give the political autonomy and not just administrative autonomy to MILF. j. National government should have limited intervention k. Consider federal system of government. l. Bangsamoros must be allowed to draft their own constitution. 5. Constitutional Change and Other Legal Amendments a. Amend the constitution so that the proposed political structure as agreed in the peace talks be accommodated. b. Amend RA 9054 to expand ARMM. c. There should be enabling environment to foster a peaceful coexistence between and among ethnic affiliations under an appropriate, relevant and responsive political structure where each can live in the way they saw fit for them. d. Prior to the shift of a new government structure whether under federal, expanded autonomy or sub-state system, there should be a public information education and advocacy drive coupled with capability building programs broadening the avenues of public participation. e. In a society where there is a majority and minority population, the former should take the lead in articulating and catering into the aspirations of the later that are peculiar to them otherwise, attempts to resolve problems may be relegated to the background. 6. Reforms in Governance. a. b. A sub-state system should be set in place that will pave the way for governance reforms. Good governance must be based on acceptable culture and tradition of the Bangsamoro people.There should be social reforms through Islamic governance. Islamic laws should be enforced under a Bangsamoro sub-state. The judicial system should be based on the Shariah. Islamic values should be integrated in governance. ARMM should demonstrate good governance. There should be an evaluation on its performance. Do reflections and assess the ARMMs experience so that GRP-MILF panel will no longer start from scratch and not repeat the same mistakes. The failure of ARMM reflects the failure of the government to respect and consider the Bangsamoro culture. Capacity-building programs for governance should be set in place. This may include education and training for Bangsamoro leaders to enhance their capability for governance as well as trainings on agriculture or sustainable development, human capacity development, among others. The Bangsamoro Leadership Institute must also be strengthened. 26

c. d. e.

f. g.

C. Bangsamoro Identity 1. Let the Bangsamoros define who are the Bangsamoros and do not use anymore the definition under RA 9054. 2. There must be consensus building of all stakeholders who are to comprise the Bangsamoro. 3. Bangsamoro identity be established, recognized and respected by government. If possible, recognition of Bangsamoro Identity be established through legislation. D. Resources 1. Strategic resources such as marine and water should be jointly controlled and managed by Bangsamoro and national government. 2. Mechanics and guidelines for the sharing scheme of revenues should be clarified. Who will collect? 3. GRP need to collaborate with Bangsamoro leaders to consider the following: Establish natural resources and management development plan b. Create mechanism and policies on the utilization, management, and benefit sharing of natural resources. c. Conduct extensive researches on Bangsamoro natural resources. a. E. Peace Talks 1. Transparency and Process of Disclosure of Information. Both the GRP and the MILF panels should be transparent to the public of their process, issues, concerns and agreements. Specific recommendations from participants in Iligan were worded as follows: a. The present administration is interested in signing an interim agreement with the MILF. If this is done, there might be a danger of forcing things and signing a paper which will bind the next administration. This is also will mean trouble if the people are not consulted before the signing. It is important therefore that before any signing is done, the paper should be presented to the people first. With what happened to the MOA-AD, there is mistrust and to win the trust again of the people, the paper should be presented to the people first. The result of this dialogue will be an input or the talking point of the next president and next congress. Before the signing of any agreements a plebiscite should be conducted. The draft agreement shall part of the discussion of the dialogue (both draft of the Government and the MILF). The document should be shown and inform the public. There should be a declaration of nonbinding discussion to be presented for the next president. The eight barangays in Iligan City which were included in the proposed BJE under the MOA-AD categorically stated that they should be excluded. They insist that a plebiscite must be conducted and that they will present a resolution passed by the Sangguniang 27

b.

Panlalawigan specifically stating that they are excluded which will be addressed to Malacanang and the peace panels. c. Right process must be complied. Results of the dialogue must be revealed first before going to the next level. People should know what is happening in the peace talks and people should be consulted. Issues of transparency could be addressed by public consultation, dialogue and information campaign. If possible, TV coverage of the actual peace negotiations or a summary thereof is suggested. Panel members must establish trust and confidence building measures. GRP should be sincere and implement agreements made with MILF and MNLF. Transparency and proper reporting and feedbacking for public awareness must be done. Install a feedback mechanism for monitoring purposes.

d.

e.

f.

2. Public Participation. Peoples participation through dialogues and consultations should be expanded. a. A framework is recommended so that all actions will be guided. b. Consult with all sectors, civil society groups and communities, especially at the grassroots in all areas. They may even give advice on how they resolve conflict in their own communities methods applicable for GRP and MILF. It is also important to have dialogues between Muslims and Christians. Hold extensive, bottom-up dialogues. c. Community-based peace processes should also be established. d. Keep holding dialogues and consultations like Dialogue Mindanaw to serve as inputs for peace talks. Differences can be overcome by dialogue and consultation. e. Mandatory consultations should be made LGUs, internally-displaced people and women as mandated under the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 during all levels of the peace negotiations. f. The negotiation process should be explained to the public so they could grasp whats happening. Give feedback to people involved in consultations. g. Conduct deeper conflict analyses to clarify and validate issues claimed by GRP and MILF, and sustain the public consultation process with the Muslim and Christian.

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3. Representation. GRP-MILF talks must be represented by all sectors. There should be equal representation / grassroots representation from all tribes so that all the issues will be exhaustively discussed. Create a multi-sectoral body that would create the implementing rules and regulations on the peace talks. There should a group composed of civilians who should be included as part of the negotiating team. 4. MNLF. MNLF should be involved in the GRP-MILF peace talks. Their issues should also be consolidated in the talks. 5. Dissemination of information and feedback mechanisms. A massive information dissemination should be undertaken so people will know what is happening in the peace talks. The mistakes in MOA-AD should be avoided. Effective information drive and campaign will assuage fears and anxieties of those who fear losing their lands or be subject of a new political structure. a. Special regional information and communication centers should be established in all areas affected in the peace process to facilitate all forms of information and communication relating to the peace process, to be transmitted to all stakeholders both in the grassroots and LGU. b. Social marketing of Bangsamoro issues is needed so that people will appreciate and understand Bangsamoro aspirations. c. Institutionalize a mechanism in the LGUs that will facilitate the dissemination of peace issues. 6. Venue. Venue for the negotiation should be in Mindanao to be witnessed by the people. 7. Body to monitor implementation of agreement. a. The International Contact Group shall monitor and ensure the implementation of any signed agreement. b. The presence of the IMT, ICG or any international monitoring body should be expanded and sustained. c. A credible body must monitor the abuses and wrongdoings in the implementation of the GRP-MILF agreement. 8. Composition of the Panel a. The members of the GRP and MILF peace talks panel should be those who understand the historical contexts of the Mindanao situation as well as the sentiments of the people. b. The peace panel members should be screened on the basis of their integrity, sincerity and competence. c. Local officials should be involved in the peace talks. 29

d. Choose members of negotiating panels who can inspire trust and confidence of the people. e. Only those from Mindanao should be chosen as panel members 9. Security Aspect a. Demobilisation, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) must be part of the comprehensive agreement. It can contribute to peace and decrease peoples anxiety in Mindanao. Amnesty should be provided to MILF combatants. MILF can merge with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. There should be a sincere implementation of the ceasefire agreement. The role of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) should be strengthened. Set up rules and guidelines for peace talk violations. Set up a group or body to monitor these violations then take due action also to prevent peace talks impasse. Parties should take responsibility for violations.

b. c. d. e. f.

10. Rehabilitation Aspect. Rehabilitate victims of conflict in Mindanao through developmental programs to address poverty, health, education, and others. 11. Timetable. The GRP-MILF Peace Panel should set a time frame within which a peace agreement would have been reached. F. Lumad Concerns 1. Representation in the Peace Talks. Lumads should be part of the negotiations including the NCIP. They should be seriously involved from planning, formulation, resolution and implementation of ancestral domain, resources, territory, and governance. Lumad agenda should be part of the talks. There should be a separate consultation for IPs only. Consultation must go down to the grassroots level. Separate talks should be held for IPs. 2. Governance. Lumads should be allowed to govern in their own territories in accordance with their own systems of governance also. Respect the rights of IPs based on the IPRA law and customary law. Tribal governance such as the Timuay system should be recognized in the ancestral domain territory of the Lumads. 3. Ancestral domain. Boundaries between the ancestral domain of Bangsamoros and Lumads should be established. Ancestral domain of IPs should be respected. Delineation of boundaries should be done in accordance with customs (i.e. Mamalu and Tabunaway story). Speed up the delineation and titling of ancestral lands. Create a separate region or municipality for IPs and do not include them in the proposed political structure. 4. Respect of Indigenous Peoples. There is a need to move from generic towards operational definition, e.g. respect of Indigenous People in Bangsamoro Territory be operationally defined. Use of specific definition 30

of terms on the territory and structure of government for a more expanded discussion and dialogue. 5. Natural Resource. Natural resource management of IP lands and resources (energy, fuel, marine/coastal) must be part of the agenda of the talks. IPs should have clear benefit-sharing scheme of resources. G. MILF-MNLF Relations 1. OPAPP should initiate a forum attended by the MNLF, MILF and civil society. It should be open to the public.

QUESTION 4. Acknowledging other related issues What other issues related to the GRP-MILF peace talks should also be considered? How should these issues be handled? Participants came up with a range of issues that they believe should be considered in the GRP-MILF peace talks foremost of which are on Human Security/Peace and Order; Human Rights Violations; Internal Displacement; Discrimination against Muslims; Social and Economic Development of Mindanao; Understanding and Appreciation of Mindanao's Culture; Education and Other Social Services; Interfaith Dialogue; Implementation of the 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement; Peace Constituency Building and Fostering of Culture of Peace; Role of Media; Land Tenure; Women's Agenda and Environment. A. Human Security/Peace and Order. This issue is one expressed by many participants, especially those who attended the Zamboanga dialogue, as among the most urgent. Participants in the Cotabato, Koronadal and Davao dialogues voiced strong statements clamoring for the justice of the deaths of journalists and lawyers who were massacred in Ampatuan town, Maguindanao on November 23 last year. 1. Dismantle political warlords and abolish private armies 2. Carry out disarmament and full implementation of gun ban. Conduct an inventory of all loose firearms. All firearms must be registered. 3. Implement stricter laws at the Philippine ports to control the entry of high-powered ammunitions. 4. The issue of kidnapping must be included as an agenda in the peace talks. MILF must help in bringing an end to the kidnappings and killings in Mindanao; 5. Effectively deal with the Abu Sayyaf group and other armed groups. B. Human rights violations. The outbreak of hostilities following the aborted signing of the MOA-AD spawned rights abuses from both the MILF and the AFP. Among calls made by participants were: 1. Respect of international humanitarian laws and human rights protocols 2. Give justice and compensation to victims of armed conflict and human rights violations 3. Exact full accountability from officers in charge of military institutions during war and impose sanction on those who violated the rules in peace talks 31

4. Conduct a study on the impact of the long-term peace negotiation among the people in the armed conflict-affected areas 5. Stop recruitment of children to the MILF 6. Massive IEC on human rights C. Internal Displacement. More than half a million civilians were displaced following military offensives in pursuit of MILF rebel commanders in post-MOAAD violence in August 2008. While many have returned to their homes, still a number have remained in evacuation centers in Maguindanao and North Cotabato. D. Discrimination against Muslims. Muslim participants have cited experiences of discrimination and expressed hopes that with the peace agreement, biases against them will be effectively addressed. In the same manner, Christians also say that they, too, have encountered biases from Muslims. Suggestions were made that the peace talks must include ways on how to address the issue on religious and cultural discriminations. 1. Pass and enact laws that will prevent discrimination against Muslims 2. Conduct dialogues among communities to raise awareness 3. Hold cultural exchange programs and interactions between Muslims and Christians, and even Lumads 4. Conduct educational campaign for religious and cultural cohesion 5. Peace education in the curriculum/ educational campaign to help eliminate discrimination against Muslims 6. Government should regulate the media on the accuracy of information about Mindanao and Muslims being disseminated to the public E. Social and Economic Development of Mindanao. 1. Create and improve sources of jobs and livelihood, especially agriculture; kabuhayan projects for the poor, especially women. 2. Provide Muslim livelihood, agricultural and education support to address peace concern in Mindanao 3. There should be halal programs of agricultural products in Bangsamoro homeland. An Ulama Council should be created to determine which products were halal or haram. To collect revenues, a Baitalmal must be established headed by the Ulamas. 4. Capacitate existing appropriate government line agencies with additional mandates relative to promotion and development of Halal Program in Mindanao 5. Ibalik sa Mindanao ang pera ng Mindanao

F. Understanding and Appreciation of Mindanaos Culture 1. Subjects about the cultural and political history of Mindanao, focusing on the root causes of the conflict, must be integrated in the curriculum. 2. Rewrite history books whose content will be reviewed and agreed to by the three major groups of people in Mindanao 3. Conduct massive awareness campaign on the history and background of the Bangsamoros as well as the GRP-MILF conflict especially for Luzon and Visayas 32

4.

Popularize peace process all over the Philippines

G. Education and Other Social Services 1. A provision on the form of educational system in the proposed Bangsamoro Homeland, whether Madrasah or current system,must be included once an agreement has been reached. 2. Increase literacy among Bangsamoro and other IPs. 3. Prioritize education (free elementary and secondary education, with miscellaneous fees covered). Free education should be given. 4. Education should help raise the awareness of the people about GRP-MILF issue and issues related to peace. Peace advocacy should be integrated in the school curriculum. 5. Provide educational opportunities for Bangsamoro children who were left by parents who died during the war by the government and the MILF. 6. Enhance the form of education through implementing it at all levels (in the elementary up to tertiary level) religiously with regards to Islamic governance. The Government should treat this issue as important. 7. Educate children in order to prevent them from doing criminal acts in the future and to prevent them from wanting to become rebels and exact vengeance. 8. Out-of school youths must be given priority in terms of education, skills training and livelihood assistance. Discuss the Madaris system of education in the context of the peace process where Islamic values system are integrated in the curriculum H. Interfaith Dialogue 1. Conduct inter-faith and intra-faith dialogue between and among Muslims and Christians. 2. Foster interfaith forum for people to know and better understand each other; to foster an environment where there is respect, acceptance and solidarity to each and every culture. 3. There should be interfaith dialogue and activity to restore the brotherhood of Muslim and Christian and to restore mens relationship with God/ I. Implementation of the 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement and Lessons Learned 1. The government must implement fully the Final Peace Agreement especially the payment of benefits to the MNLF. 2. Settle the issues first between the Philippine government and the MNLF before granting the demands of the MILF. 3. Cull out success factors, lessons learned, and strategies used by the GRP during the pre-signing of the September 2, 1996 final peace agreement i.e. rehabilitation and transformation of Peace and Development Communities being mobilized by Peace and Development Advocates (PDAs) who are former MNLF combatants but now working towards peace and development of their own villages with links to government agencies and other donor agencies. PDAs themselves can be tapped.

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12. Peace Constituency Building and Fostering of Culture of Peace a. Disable an enabling environment for violence and war. Dismantle all the structures and systems that support it. b. Conduct peace education. c. Conduct continuous dialogues for peace d. Involve other stakeholders and sectors in the peace process and address their own issues as well (i.e. Lumad, women, CSOs, civilians in general, other stakeholders) e. Peace formal agenda: it initiates public participation in the whole peace process. f. Sustain and strengthen the culture of Peace g. Support community-based peace initiative programs h. Sustainability of the gains of the peace talks i. Change of attitude and proper use of words e.g. why not say Philippine Conflict instead of Mindanao Conflict 13. Role of Media a. Media reportage must not be discriminatory against the Bangsamoro people. b. Enjoin ABS-CBN, GMA and other TV networks to come up with a program about the peace talks similar to Iboto mo, i-patrol mo. c. Make media reporting of issues fair and unbiased (i.e., reporting should not label Muslims and put them in a bad light) 14. Land Tenure a. Proper collaboration and synchronization of government agencies b. Conduct survey prior to issuance of CADT c. Compensation for Bangsamoros and Lumads who were displaced of their lands 15. Womens Agenda a. Representation in the peace negotiations b. Operationalize the National Action Plan in compliance with the UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1880.

16. Environment a. There should be also peace talks about mining issues as source of conflict b. Regulate entry and operation of mining industries c. Address illegal logging as one of the source of local conflicts and source of local funds of politicians d. LGU should be careful in the utilization of local resources as one of the source of local conflicts

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3
POLL SURVEY
The reflective dialogue conducted a poll among the participants concerning their understanding and attitudes towards the following issues: the term "Bangsamoro," Constitutional change, expansion of ARMM geographic coverage, relationship between ARMM government, control over coastal waters, sharing of revenues from natural resources, control over strategic minerals and level of confidence on the peace negotiations. (See Appendix 5 on complete listing of Poll Survey Questions.) Areas Covered. Pre- and post surveys were conducted in the following dialogue sites: Caraga, Manila, Baguio, Northern Mindanao, Bacolod and Lanao. Only post surveys were conducted in the following sites: Jolo, Central Mindanao, Davao, South Cotabato, Palawan, Zamboanga and TawiTawi. In this consolidated report, only post survey results will be discussed. Participants. The number of participants who responded to the post-survey by dialogue site are shown in table 1. It may be observed that in all survey areas the number of respondents are less that the total number of dialogue participants. Jolo has the highest number of questionnaires filled with 325 and Manila has the lowest with 154 questionnaires completed. Table 1. Distribution of respondents by dialogue sites DIALOGUE SITES Bongao, TawiTawi (Taw) Manila (Mnl) 3 . Butuan City (But) Iligan City (Ili) Baguio City (Bag) Cagayan de Oro City (CDO) Puerto Princesa, Palawan (Pal) Bacolod City (Bac) Koronadal City (Kor) Cotabato City (Cot) Zamboanga City (Zam) Davao City (Dvo) Jolo, Sulu (Sul) Number of Respondents 251 154 236 187 244 177 302 194 186 263 256 230 325

35

Question 1: When you hear the word Bangsamoro people, who do you think are referred to? _____1. All the natives and inhabitants of Mindanao upon the Spanish conquest of the Philippines (including the Lumads) _____ 2. All the 13 ethnolinguistic tribes professing Islam. _____ 3. All the inhabitants of the present ARMM (Muslims, Christians, Lumads) _____ 4. All the inhabitants of the present ARMM, including those of the neighboring communities who agree to be part of the Bangsamoro. _____ 5. I do not know.

Bangsamoro Identity. The first question refers to the respondents understanding of the term Bangsamoro people. This is a question of identity. As explained by Prof. Aboud Lingga in his presentation, Bangsamoro identity is one of the major issues in the peace talk and for the MILF, it refers to the original inhabitants of Mindanao at the time of the conquest including the Lumads. This is one of the alternatives that may be chosen by the respondents. The results show that this item is the choice by a relatively large number of the respondents in the following dialogue sites: TawiTawi - 62%; Cotabato- 47%; Lanao-40%; Palawan- 39%; and Sulu 35%. On the other hand the GRP resource persons pointed out to a definition of Bangsamoro identity based on the RA 9054 Organic Act, namely: These are citizens who are believers in Islam and who have retained some or all of their own social, economic, cultural and political institutions. This is the second alternative in the questionnaire and favoured by approximately a fourth of the respondents of most of the dialogue sites. The other alternatives, namely: all inhabitants of the present ARMM; and ARMM and those neighboring communities who agree to be part of Bangsamoro were also opted by less than a fourth of the respondents. It may be gleaned from these data that except for the first alternative which shows a clear majority in most of the ARMM covered dialogue sites, all other dialogue sites registered less than a third of the respondents favouring the alternative. Table 2a. Percentage distributibution of responses to Bansamoro identity by dialogue site Sites Ta w Alternatives 1. All native inhabitants at the time of conquest (incl. Lumads) 2. All 13 tribes professing Islam 3. All inhabitants of the present ARMM 4. ARMM and those neighboring communities who agree to be part of Bangsamoro 5. I do not know 6. No answer Mnl But Ili Bag CDO Pal

62 % 15 % 8%

32% 16% 26% 28% 10% 15% 33% 6% 24% 11% 20% 16% 13% 15% 40% 19% 31% 39%

11 % 4% -

18% 4% 9%

20% 14% 7%

13% 6% 2%

26% 15% 6%

24% 3% 6%

17% 15% 2% 36

Table 2b. Percentage distributibution of responses to Bansamoro identity by dialogue site (cont) Sites Bac Alternatives 1. All native inhabitants at the time of conquest (incl. Lumads) 2. All 13 tribes professing Islam 3. All inhabitants of the present ARMM 4. ARMM and those neighboring communities who agree to be part of Bangsamoro 5. I do not know 6. No answer Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

15% 27% 20%

27% 25% 10%

47% 31% 10%

21% 29% 16%

23% 28% 18%

35% 22% 16%

34% 5% 0%

20% 9% 10%

8% 5% 0%

18% 8% 7%

16% 3% 11%

23% 4% 0%

QUESTION 2. What is your attitude toward the proposal to change the Philippine Constitution in relation to the search for peace in Mindanao? ___ _1. Yes, I support the proposal to amend the constitution, if necessary. _____2. No, do not change the Constitution. ___ 3. Look for other options. ___ 4. I do not know. Constitutional Change. Constitutional amendments are necessary in order to respond to the call for structural change such as expansion of the ARMM, management and sharing of resources, and governance. This item is responded favorably by the participants in the following dialogue areas: TawiTawi 72% ; Sulu -65%; Bacolod55%; Manila- 54%; Cotabato- 53%. The following areas are not in favor and/or have doubts, hence have asked for the possibility of looking for other options: Butuan 59%; CDO 54%; Koronadal 51%; Zamboanga 51%; and Baguio 49%. (tables 3a & 3b) Table 3a. Percentage distribution of attitudes toward Constitutional Change in relation to the search for peace in Mindanao Sites Taw Alternatives Yes, I support amendments No, do not change Look for other options Dont know No answer Mnl But Ili Bag CDO Pal

72% 12% 14% 3% 0%

54% 14% 25% 3% 5%

31% 28% 31% 5% 6%

49% 25% 19% 6% 2%

40% 21% 28% 5% 6%

43% 26% 28% 0% 3%

44% 23% 17% 10% 5%

37

Table 3b. Percentage distribution of attitudestoward Constitutional Change in relation to the search for peace in Mindanao (cont) Sites Bac Alternatives Yes, I support amendments No, do not change Look for other options Dont know No answer Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

55% 14% 29% 2% 0%

42% 24% 27% 2% 5%

53% 17% 21% 8% 2%

41% 26% 25% 3% 5%

43% 18% 29% 3% 7%

65% 7% 14% 6% 8%

QUESTION 3. Are you in favor of expanding the geographic coverage of the Autonomous Regional Government of Muslim Mindanao to include predominantly Muslim municipalities and barangays? _____1. Yes, I am in favor of expanding the area of ARMM. _____ 2. No, I am not in favor of expanding the area of ARMM. ___ __3. I do not know.

ARMM Expansion. The scope of the Bangsamoro homeland is one of the unresolved issues of the GRP-MILF peace talks. The Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) describes the Bangsamoro ancestral domain to include the present ARMM and additional barangays in Regions IX, XII and Palawan. The third question in the survey asks the respondents if they favor the expansion of the ARMM. This was responded favorably by the dialogue participants of TawiTawi 79%, Sulu 60%, Iligan -48% and Cotabato- 48%. Palawan which is included in the MOA_AD registered a yes of only 31%. The participants in the other dialogue sites express a strong negative response. These are: Butuan 69%, Zamboanga 67%; Bacolod -65%; Cagayan de Oro 62%; Baguio 65%; Davao 57%; Palawan 50%. (Table 4a & 4b) Table 4a. Percentage distribution of responses to the expansion of the geographic coverage of the ARMM to include predominantly Muslim barangays Sites Taw Alternatives Yes, I favor No, I am not in favour I do not know No answer Mnl But Ili Bag CDO Pal

79% 18% 3% 79%

40% 45% 8% 6%

16% 69% 10% 5%

48% 39% 10% 4%

21% 65% 10% 4%

18% 62% 6% 14%

31% 50% 15% 4%

Table 4b. Percentage distribution of responses to the expansion of the geographic coverage of the ARMM to include predominantly Muslim barangays Sites Bac Alternatives Yes, I favour 26% 28% 48% 24% 28% 60% 38 Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

No, I am not in favour I do not know No answer

65% 8% 0%

61% 8% 3%

40% 10% 3%

67% 7% 2%

57% 7% 8%

19% 9% 12%

QUESTION 4. What do you think is the appropriate relationship between the qUEST Autonomous Regional Government and the National Government? ______1. Present ARMM structure ______2. Federal state, like USA ______3. Special administrative region, like Hongkong ______4. Others _________________________________________ ______5. I do not know

Relationship between ARMM and the National Government. Question No. 5 presents the opinions on the appropriate relations between ARMM and the National Government. While the GRP resource persons insisted on the existing ARMM structure, resource persons on the MILF expounded in their presentation their proposal for a State - substate relationship, that is a federal form of government with a higher degree of selfdetermination like the Sarawak sub-state arrangement. As stated by Prof. Aboud Lingga, it is a federal state similar to the Malaysian practice. In the questionnaire a third option was included, the special administrative region like the Cordillera Administrative region. Results show that of the 13 regions, majority of the respondents in Butuan (34%), Baguio (33%), CDO (36%) and Zamboanga (32%) preferred to retain the present ARMM structure. On the other hand, Tawi-Tawi (45%), Puerto-Princesa (34%), Bacolod (39%), Koronodal (30%), Cotabato (32%), and Sulu (45%) favoured a federal state. Manila and Davao regions have approximately the same percentage on the choice between present ARMM structure and federal state. The item special administrative region registered as the third choice of all the regions except for Bacolod (30%). A fifth of the Zamboanga respondents registered an I no not know answer. If we combine I dont know and no answer, about a fourth of the Cotabato dialogue site respondents belong to this category. Table 5a. Percentage distribution of appropriate relationship between ARMM and the National Government by dialogue sites Sites Taw Alternatives Present ARMM structure Federal State Special administrative region Other options I do not know No answer Mnl But Ili Bag CDO Pal

35 45 8 13 -

29 29 19 6 8 9

34 24 8 6 21 7

23 41 10 7 12 7

33 28 20 2 10 7

36 25 10 6 12 10

26 34 9 2 19 9

Table 5b. Percentage distribution of appropriate relationship between ARMM and the National Government by dialogue sites (cont) 39

Sites Bac Alternatives Present ARMM structure Federal State Special administrative region Other options I do not know No answer 17 39 30 5 8 -

Kor 27 30 11 8 19 6

Cot 22 31 9 13 15 10

Zam 32 25 10 7 20 5

Dvo 33 34 8 6 10 8

Sul 23 45 6 6 13 6

5. What kind of control over coastal waters do you think is appropriate for the Autonomous Regional Government? ____ 1. The Autonomous Regional Government has the only administrative authority within 15 km from the coastline. _____2. The Autonomous Regional Government has sole control and authority within 15km from the coastline and joint management of waters beyond 15kms. _____3. I do not know.

Control over coastal waters. For the MILF, the Bangsamoro ancestral domain would consist of land, waters, seas, air and other resources. The next question covers the waters. How should the coastal waters be managed? Results show that regions with majority of respondents who preferred ARMM to have only administrative authority within 15 kms from the coastlines are the following: Butuan (39%), Baguio (37%) , Koronodal (38%), and Davao (42%). On the other hand, regions with majority of respondents who favoured ARMM to have sole control within 15kms and joint management beyond 15 kms are the following: Tawi-Tawi (48%), Manila (48%) Sulu (47%) Iligan (43%) Puerto Princesa (36%) and Zamboanga (35%). CDO, Bacolod and Cotabato registered an almost equal opinion on the first and second item. It should be noted though that more than quarter of respondents in Butuan 28%/10%, Iligan 19%/10%, Baguio 29%/5%, CDO 16%/10%, Puerto Princesa 23%/14%, Koronadal 16%/12%, Cotabato 24%/12%, Zamboanga 28%/6, Davao 20%/12% and Sulu 19%/14 either answered I do not know and no answer respectively. Table 6a. Percentage distribution on the kind of control over coastal waters

Sites Taw Alternatives ARMM has only administrative authority within 15 kms from the coastline ARMM has sole control within 15 kms and joint management beyond 15 kms I do not know No answer

Mnl

But

Ili

Bag

CDO

Pal

39%

32%

39%

28%

37%

38%

27%

48% 13% -

48% 10% 10%

24% 28% 10%

43% 19% 10%

30% 29% 5%

36% 16% 10%

36% 23% 14%

40

Table 6b. Percentage distribution on the kind of control over coastal waters (cont)

Sites Bac Alternatives ARMM has only administrative authority within 15 kms from the coastline ARMM has sole control within 15 kms and joint management beyond 15 kms I do not know No answer

Kor

Cot

Zam

Dvo

Sul

42% 43% 15% 0%

38% 34% 16% 12%

33% 32% 24% 12%

31% 35% 28% 6%

42% 27% 20% 12%

19% 47% 19% 14%

6. What do you think is the appropriate sharing of the revenues from the natural resources in the Autonomous Regional Government?
Please check Autonomous Regional Government 100% 75% 60% 50% 40% 25% 0% National Government 0% 25% 40% 50% 60% 75% 100%

_____ I do not know (Hindi ko alam) Sharing of Revenues from the Natural Resources. The current form of sharing under the organic act as shown in RA 9054 is as follows: ARMM 35%; Province 35%; and National Government 30%. MILF proposes a 75%-25% sharing between the Bangsamoro and National Government. The respondents from the following dialogue sites favour the MILF proposal: Tawi-Tawi 56%; Sulu 42%; Bacolod 38%, Iligan 40%; Bacolod 38%, Mnl 34%. Only a fourth or less of the respondents in the other dialogue sites favour the 75-25% sharing. Butuan (28%) respondents favour the 6040% sharing and the Zamboanga (25%) and Davao (27%) sites respondents support a 50-50% sharing. Notable is a the large number of Cotabato dialogue respondents who answered I do not know. Table 7a. Percentage distribution of the appropriate sharing of revenues from the natural resources in ARMM Sites Taw Alternatives ARMM Natl Govt 100% 0% 17% Mnl But Ili Bag CDO Pal

1%

1%

3%

3%

1%

3% 41

75% 25% 60% 40% 50% 50% 40% 60% 25% 75% 0% 100% I do not know No answer

56% 7% 16% 2% 2% 1% -

34% 15% 23% 6% 4% 1% 8% 8%

9% 12% 28% 13% 11% 2% 1% 24%

40% 18% 14% 3% 2% 0% 6% 13%

28% 23% 16% 7% 5% 2% 5% 10%

28% 13% 24% 8% 9% 1% 5% 12%

24% 13% 23% 7% 6% 0% 11% 13%

Table 7b. Percentage distribution of the appropriate sharing of revenues from the natural resources in ARMM Sites Bac Alternatives ARMM 100% 75% 60% 50% 40% 25% 0% I do not know No answer Natl Govt 0% 25% 40% 50% 60% 75% 100% Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

4% 38% 17% 24% 5% 5% 0% 8% 13%

3% 25% 11% 18% 10% 9% 4% 8% -

5% 28% 8% 20% 4% 5% 0% 31% 5%

2% 20% 9% 25% 10% 10% 4% 13% 7%

3% 24% 10% 27% 4% 6% 3% 7% 15%

9% 42% 5% 11% 2% 2% 3% 6% 21%

QUESTION 7. How do you think the Autonomous Regional Government and the National Government should share in the control of the strategic minerals found in the region? (Ex: uranium, petroleum, other fossil fuels, mineral oils, all sources of potential energy RA 9054) ____1. Sole control by National Government. ___ 2. Joint management by the Autonomous Regional Government and National Government ___ 3. I do not know.

Control of Strategic Minerals. The opinions of Dialogue Mindanaw participants on the sharing of control over strategic minerals in the ARMM region are shown in Tables 8a & 8b. Data show all regions favoured the joint management by ARMM and National Government with Baguio (84%) registering the highest percentage followed by TawiTawi (80%) Bacolod, (78%), Manila (71%).On the item sole control by the National Government Zamboanga got the top percentage at 25% followed by CDO (21%) and Davao (20%). Manila, Butuan, Puerto Princesa, Koronadal, Cotabato and Sulu dialogue site respondents have percentage higher than 20% who answered I do not know and no answer. Table 8a. Percentage distribution on the sharing of control over strategic minerals in the ARMM 42

Sites Taw Alternatives Sole control by Natl Govt Joint management by ARMM and Natl Govt I do not know No answer

Mnl

But

Ili

Bag

CDO

Pal

14% 80% 6% 0%

7% 71% 4% 18%

20% 59% 11% 9%

12% 69% 12% 7%

7% 84% 5% 5%

21% 70% 5% 4%

14% 61% 17% 8%

Table 8b. Percentage distribution on the sharing of control over strategic minerals in the ARMM Sites Bac Alterantives Sole control by Natl Govt Joint management by ARMM and Natl Govt I do not know No answer Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

18% 78% 5% 0%

17% 62% 11% 10%

19% 57% 14% 10%

25% 57% 13% 5%

20% 67% 6% 7%

9% 62% 13% 17%

8. How confident are you that the current peace negotiation will help bring peace to Mindanao? ___ 1. Very confident. ___ 2. Somewhat confident. ___ 3. Not confident.

Level of Confidence on the GRP-MILF Peace Negotiation. The last question measures the level of confidence on the GRP-MILF peace negotiation. Results show Tawi-Tawi registered the highest percentage on the item very confident at 59% followed by Butuan at 41%. On the contrary, Sulu got the lowest percentage on the same item with 21% followed by Iligan 24%, Manila 27% and Bacolod 27%. Except for Tawi-Tawi and Butuan, all regions have the highest rating in somewhat confident with Bacolod registering the highest percentage at 60% followed by Baguio (50%), CBO (49%), Iligan (48%) Korononal (46%), and Davao (45%). Generally, all regions scored low on not confident item with Sulu on top with 26% followed by Cotabato (25%), Zamboanga (24%) and Iligan (22%). Rizal (18%) and Sulu (18%) had the highest number who did not answer the no answer item. Table 9a. Percentage distribution on confidence on the current peace negotiation by dialogue sites Sites Taw Alternatives Very confident Somewhat conficent Not confident 59% 29% 13% Mnl 27% 44% 11% But 41% 40% 10% Ili 24% 48% 22% Bag 28% 50% 18% CDO 31% 49% 14% Pal 32% 42% 16% 43

No answer

0%

18%

9%

6%

3%

6%

10%

Table 9b. Percentage distribution on confidence on the current peace negotiation by dialogue sites (cont) Sites Bac Alternatives Very confident Somewhat confident Not confident No answer Kor Cot Zam Dvo Sul

27% 60% 12% 0%

33% 46% 14% 7%

31% 35% 25% 8%

32% 39% 24% 4%

35% 45% 12% 8%

21% 35% 26% 18%

44

4
INSIGHTS AND KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Public dimension of the peace talks. Peace negotiation does not happen in a social vacuum, no matter how we try to insulate it. While we manage positions of the major political actors, we also need to manage the movements and emotions outside the closed door sessions. 2. Participation. It is good to engage the people. Make the peace process more participatory. Konsult Mindanaw and Dialogue Mindanaw confirm that on the ground, people are not that polarized, the way the political elite portray the situation. People may lack information but they are not stupid. They may be critical, but they are not totally cynical. They want to help. 3. People as partners as well as judges. Eventually, any peace agreement will have to face: public opinion; legal action; armed resistance; international pressure.

MODEST CONTRIBUTION OF THE DIALOGUE

1. Research. Through the Dialogue Mindanao, collection of extensive data on peoples perception became possible. 2. Communication Program: exchange of information between the peace agencies and communities 3. Historic event: multisectoral caucus on a large scale 4. Build up of broader peace constituency 5. Network of institutions with strategic location and useful skills.

KEY RECOMMENDATION
Form a composite communication team to be composed of trusted experts of GRP, MILF, civil society tasked to: 1. Inform people about the gains of the peace talks. 2. Acknowledge and clarify points of difficulty in the search for lasting peace. 3. Expand and diversify the channels for peoples participation.

45

If people feel we understand them, they will also understand our negotiated positions.

Building Social Infrastructure for Peace

Even the best efforts of government leaders constantly face constraints and limitations. It may be that if people own the process, they will work hard to ensure viable outcomes and overcome the inevitable obstacles that arise once the agreement is in place. The earlier we engage in the task of building the social infrastructure of peace, the sooner societies will come closer to another reality where the dignity of difference is celebrated, political tolerance observed and a just peace becomes possible.

---Ed Garcia, international peace advocate

46

APPENDIX A: Matrices to Questions 1, 2, 3, 4

QUESTION 1: Attitude toward the peace talks. What do you feel about the current GRP-MILF talks?
A. Happy 1. Resumption of peace Talks (COT, ILI, KOR)

2. Continuing efforts to negotiate between two panels

Peace talks very important and necessary because it is here where problems are resolved (ILI); important process towards a negotiated settlement (COT); Happy that peace negotiations are resumed and continuing (KOR, COT) Peace talks is in the right direction/right track towards attaining genuine peace in Mindanao (ILI, DVO) Happy about the resumption of the peace talks that will ultimately lead to peace being attained (ZAM) With peace talks, war ceases. Good start as hostilities temporarily stopped (KOR) Peace talks is the right approach to resolve conflict, not using arms (KOR); negotiations are a welcome development rather than engaging in war. (DVO) Happy about talks resumed but doubtful of the ultimate goal of parties (i.e. political interests) (ILI) Current peace talks is good because it will help resolve the conflict in Mindanao. But hopefully, MOA-AD will be signed (COT) Happy about negotiations but if it ends only in autonomy, not happy (COT) Happy because MILF is now claiming only a higher form of autonomy and no longer independence (COT) Better that there are talks rather than war (COT) Peace in Mindanao depends on the success of the peace talks (COT) Peace talks serves as foundation in addressing other concerns involving other armed groups such as the New Peoples Army (BUT) both panels are working hard and exerting all efforts so that peace talks will not collapse (ILI; COT); shows that both parties want peace in Mindanao (KOR); happy about positive developments in peace talks (ILI, COT): exchange of drafts; GRP panel reconstituted; formation of the ICG, facilitators working hard for the peace talks not to collapse, involvement of international community; conduct of Dialogue Mindanaw; grassroots/sectoral participation including women; return of the IMT (ILI); the presence of ICGs is helpful to ensure the rightness of agenda, get ideas, and making sure everyone is consulted (KOR); peace talks is a long process but effective; (KOR) government seems to be giving importance and exerting efforts on the peace talks (ILI, KOR, SUL); government seems to be sincere (KOR; NCR); appreciates initiative of government to push through with the peace talks (KOR); appears to be addressing Mindanao problem (COT) continuous negotiations will finally bring about peace in Mindanao (SUL, KOR) there is progress in the negotiations (ILI, COT) despite changes in panel composition (COT) peace talks is good if undertaken by the next president and run by a good negotiator; (ZAM) Current peace talks between the GRP-MILF can easily be understood compared to MOA-AD (COT) At least they are talking (BUT) Peace will be achieved because of the sincerity of both GRP/MILF (BUT) Happy that there are actually ongoing peace talks. The govt and MILF are at least making efforts to achieve peace They are making progress no matter how small. (MLA) Dialogue Mindanaw consultation can help the peace talks in moving forward (MLA) Happy that information about the peace talks was given (ILI); becoming more knowledgeable about the peace process (KOR); public is being informed (KOR); Good to get comprehensive information on the GRP-MILF issue which they dont get from media Happy and feels assured that people are being consulted and being listened to; letting people express what they have in mind; thus worries are gone (ILI); happy that we now can be heard on what we want to say because in the past nobody listened to us; people get to express their sentiments and demands (KOR) Its a privilege for an ordinary person to be asked what his/her views are (ILI) Indicator of grassroots and sectoral participation in the peace process; inclusion of grassroots positive sign (ILI); different sectors are given a chance to know the issues and express their feelings and opinions towards these issues (KOR); all sectors should be consulted (COT); in order to fast-track peace process, grassroots should be consulted (COT) Consultation is a good start. (ILI, SUL) We get to hear both sides and the opinions of stakeholders are being listened to. (ILI). Glad that a forum like this organized in Jolo to shed light on the GRP-MILF peace talks (SUL) Happy that they are able to participate, given the chance to talk and listen to the feelings of others; consultation can enlighten, bridge the gap and unite people (ZAM) Consultation/dialogue will lead to a peace agreement (ZAM) Happy about consultation process originating from the grassroots (KOR); Conduct of dialogue will lead to better outcome of the peace talks (KOR); Process of engaging ideas not only among the panel members but also including stakeholders in conflict areas is good. (COT) Reflective dialogues may bring about a higher level of understanding of issues from the two parties. They may be enlightened by the results of these dialogues which will be submitted to both panels (COT). Happy because there is a process where people are being listened to so that there will be solutions to problems. (COT)

3. Conduct of consultations through Dialogue Mindanaw

47

4. Bangsamoros voices, and generally Mindanaos voices, are being heard in the peace talks B. Hopeful 1. Cessation of hostilities (ILI, SUL, ZAM)

Peoples participation should be strengthened because this is what is missing now. (COT) For the first time, participants were given the chance to articulate their views and perceptions about the peace process (TAW) Dialogue Mindanaw gave opportunity to people to know the current developments of the peace process (CDO) Happy that both parties the GRP and the MILF were able to present their sides. (CDO) Happy of the success of the Dialogue Mindanao initiative; feels motivated and encouraged; felt good about the information shared by the resource persons; enlightened about the issues; felt relieved of the new approach of dialogue (CDO) Dialogue provided venue for common tao to participate and be heard (BUT) but information provided by resource persons not enough; people are still being deprived of the real information (BUT) This is long overdue! Dialogue is better than war. Happy to take part; step in the right direction .(BAC) Used to be apathetic but now am awakened/inspired .(BAC) What will come out of this Dialogue? How will results be used? Will this work? What happens after this? (BAC) GRP improving in having peace consultations (MLA) Dialogue Mindanaw involves and seeks opinion of people from different sectors and common people; might even compel people to take action themselves (MLA) Information they know from media and Dialogue Mindanaw not enough to give them clear understanding of the issue and act on it; there is a discrepancy between what they are hearing and what is actually happening (iba ang sinasabi kaysa sa nangyayari) (MLA) Why only now? Still not enough peace consultations. (MLA) Will what we say here [in Dialogue Mindanaw] have effect on the peace talks? (MLA) Bangsamoro voices and Mindanao;s voices are now being heard in the peace talks. (MLA)

2. Signing of a new agreement

3. Successful peace talks will bring about peace and development

4. Rehabilitation and development of conflict areas 3. Criminality to stop 4. Discrimination against Muslims will end (ILI, ZAM)

Through peace talks, there will be cessation of hostilities between the AFP and MILF (ILI, SUL, ZAM, KOR); thus: people can continue livelihood; people can rest from the conflict; displacement of people to stop (ILI); classes will no longer be disrupted and people no longer uprooted in their villages (TAW) hostilities affect innocent people like what happened in Sarangani (KOR) Many activities/projects including those from women organizations can not be implemented because of the conflict (COT) Cessation of hostilities is easy to say but hard to do. If declared so, there should be no arms buildup, no arms training, no recruitment, no establishment of another camp (ILI) Hoping that a new agreement will be signed (ILI) Limited optimism while hopeful but still worried that Philippine government will renege on what has been agreed upon like what happened to the MOA AD. Because the government rejected the MOAAD, conflict arose, triggering evacuations of people (Cot) Just grant what the MILF/Bangsamoros are asking for, give them the Bangsamoro homeland, so there will be peace and there will be better future for all of us (COT*) Optimistic that lahat ng bagay napaguusapan (proper communication begets proper understanding) (COT) Hopeful of an agreement that is amenable to everyone (CDO) Successful peace talks will bring about peace and development to Mindanao (SUL) Hope that it is successful so that innocent people will not be affected and people will not be disturbed anymore (KOR) Hope that conflict will finally end so there will be peace in Mindanao and people will have better lives (KOR) Peace talks will contribute to understanding peace and development in the barangay. Marginalized areas are now being noticed and get assistance from foreign donors because of the peace talks (KOR) I want peace. GRP and MILF should agree. (KOR) We will be able to achieve lasting, just and widespread peace. (COT) Theres light at the end of the tunnel. Optimistic that it will be successful (COT) Hopeful that it will lead to a road map to peace (COT) Conflict areas will be rehabilitated/developed (ILI) Kidnappings (Abu Sayyaf) to end (ZAM); Biases and prejudices will stop (ILI) Biases against both Muslims and Christians (and vice-versa) are the problem. We have to reduce or eliminate biases. Hopefully, when there is signing, these biases will end. (COT) Muslims will no longer be seen as troublemakers (TAW)

48

5. Concerns of the constituents particularly in conflict areas be addressed 6. Unity of MNLF and MILF 7. More understanding between Moros and Christians 8. Protection of natural resources and documentation of lands 9. Moros given chance to govern Mindanao

Negotiations must address the issues and parties must be answerable to the general welfare of the constituents, particularly in affected areas. (ILI) Other matters such as the displacement and landlessness of Bangsamoro people; human rights issues; economic inequalities and widespread poverty (ILI) Real issues and concerns of people should be addressed (COT) MNLF and MILF should come together for a compromise and both should be represented in the peace talks with GRP (SUL) Peace talks can help bridge understanding between Muslims and Christians (COT, ILI)

Natural resources in (Tawi-Tawi) will no longer be exploited or destroyed by Filipino Christian capitalists and other multi-national corporations (TAW) Untitled lands will be documented (TAW) Optimistic that Moros will be given the chance to govern Mindanao, exercise their basic right to self-determination and self-governance (TAW)

C. Doubtful, Suspicious and Skeptical 1. Sincerity of the Parties*** (ILI, Feelings of mistrust and suspicion on the part of government; engaging in delaying tactics *** (ILI; COT); Fears that what happened to MOA-AD will be repeated again (COT) SUL, ZAM) GRP not sincere in solving problem in Mindanao (SUL; TAW); might just be playing games with the MILF because they just keep promising and assuring but never give what they promised (ILI) Walang patutunguhan kasi pabago-bago; government seems not serious. Whatever they want, sila lang ang nasusunod lagi (COT*) GRP is only deceiving MILF because term of Arroyo administration is soon to end (KOR) Peace talks can only be successful if there is sincerity (ILI) Sincerity of MILF is also being questioned due to the impossible demands of the group. (SUL) Sincerity of both sides doubtful; there might be hidden agenda; some are exasperated at the talks and accused the people behind the talks as insincere (ZAM); Mayor of Zamboanga City disappointed when no member of the peace panel was present when he went to Congress (ZAM); Sincerity of the negotiating panel is the problem. When negotiation collapses, war begins (KOR) Government should honor consensus points with MILF otherwise peace talks will collapse (COT); government always changes its position despite having reached a consensus with MILF; that is why peace talks can not proceed (COT) Government might fool us once again (TAW) We dont trust the government because it is not sincere. (CDO) Is this for real? Question sincerity and transparency. Economics is the real issue. Media brings only bad news about Mindanaw. .(BAC) Intentions of both parties appear insincere, especially the government (MLA) The representatives themselves may not have sincerity and integrity (MLA) Are they the right people to represent the issues? They are top level as compared with grassroots reps. (MLA) There appears to be distrust between the two parties. The armed groups on both sides partly create this distrust. (MLA) GRP does not do its part. There is insincerity on both sides. (PAL) 2. Conduct of Negotiations lack of transparency*****, why outcome of peace talks not publicized; must open talks to the public/public is blind; good if parties are transparent, sincere and truthful; issues are not clear (ILI); do not believe the peace panels due to lack of transparency (ZAM); there should be transparency and both parties must educate the people (KOR); skeptical of peace talks no transparency (TAW); peace panel not transparent (CDO); lack of information (ILI); people have no idea about the peace talks as information dissemination is very limited (SUL; DVO) Does not know what is really happening in the peace talks (MLA) Not all people are informed on what is really going on in the peace talks, which is why some people react violently upon hearing of what has been agreed upon There might even be issues even the government and the MILF are not disclosing to the public (MLA) Composition of the panel** (some panel members not knowledgeable about the peace process, Mindanao history), thus there should be clear criteria and process of selection (ILI); in fact the Lumad representative in the panel resigned because activities are not clear (ILI); not confident with peace panel members they dont seem to be sincere (CDO) why venue of peace talks is in Malaysia, in a foreign country** (ILI, COT) Peace talks only in the dialogue level. No clear presentation of the term of reference regarding the negotiation (KOR) Results from many dialogues like these are not being considered by government (COT). Peace panel not hitting it right and have not responded to the aspirations of the MILF (CDO) Issues in the talks are not fully-defined; information still lacking (BUT) Parties are insincere (DVO) Suspicions might be connected to event in the past, when Executive Orders relevant to peace process keep changing (walang paninindigan) (MLA) Government and MILF keep changing their minds (e.g. sudden changes in agreements) (MLA)

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3. Timing towards the end of Arroyo administration

3. Vested or Hidden Interests

4. Charter change 5. Peace talks just a show

Happy about talks/dialogue but questions what they do with the results because this happens at the end of the Arroyo administration (ILI) Why now? Whats the motive behind? (ILI) Just for the coming elections ?(KOR) Feels skeptical that the Arroyo administration is just maintaining a no war scenario but let the next administration to problematize it (KOR) Fate of peace talks depend on the next administration (KOR) If peace agreement is rushed now, it might only result in violence (COT) New administration might not honor what was already agreed upon (TAW) The peace panel talks will end in a few months with the election of new officials. The new administration might adopt a different policy on peace. The peace talks might even end (MLA) Talks might be politically-motivated (ILI) there might be personal interests involved (ILI); politicians might take advantage of the peace agreement (ZAM); why the rush to sign an agreement (ILI) why in Malaysia (ILI) doubtful about peace talks because of vested interests (KOR) vested interests over the plunder and control of Mindanao resources (ZAM, KOR) Doubtful of hidden agenda (COT) Both parties may have hidden agenda (COT) Funds for the purpose of peace talks might be used by politicians running for elections (TAW) Ongoing struggle is about control over resources in Mindanao (BUT) Personal agenda might be behind the talks (BUT) War is purposely waged because of the war budget. (BUT) Government has a hidden agenda or wants to get something from Mindanaw, particularly its natural resources (MLA) Hostilities are being manipulated so that areas can continuously enjoy aid/funds from the international community (KOR) why is charter change being brought up (ILI) peace talks is difficult because constitutional amendments needed (BAC) Govt might use MILF grievances as an excuse to introduce Charter change and politicize the peace process (MLA) parang palabas lang (COT); Its all talk. Impossible. Sarswela. On-and-off. Question sincerity and hidden agenda..(BAC) Feelings of doubt and reservations as talks might not really lead to peace (MLA)

D. Worried, Anxious, Fearful and Apprehensive 1. War will break out What if peace talks will fail, there will be war again (KOR) While happy that peace talks resumed, worried (naghingawa) that this might be a reason again for war to erupt; civilians, especially our children, are most affected (ILI) Conflict to spill over to other areas which are not part of the war zone (ZAM) Violence might erupt if peace agreement signed (ZAM) We must put an end to these peace talks because conflict will arise again. We are all affected by the armed struggles of Muslims. (KOR) Fears that peace talks will not succeed because governments offer is not acceptable to the MILF (COT) When peace talks collapse, war breaks out such as what happened in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat (COT) war always breaks out during peace talks with the MILF especially when there is a breakdown in the talks; negotiations could lead to more uncertainty and disorder. (DVO). Despite talks, war is continuously waged and life and property continuously being destroyed (BUT) Will this spread to Luzon/Visayas? CIA theory of Muslim domination of the world (BAC) Chaos and disorder (which will affect different sectors) may reign if the two parties do not reach an agreement (MLA) 2. Failure of Election 3. Signing of new agreement What happens if BJE be pursued before election, there might be reactions from politicians/LGUs again, violence may erupt and become basis for the declaration of failure of election (ILI) Worry that there will be an agreement to be signed at all (COT) why rush an agreement now (ILI); hope that panels will not rush into making decisions because the current administration will soon end its term (KOR) Final peace agreement between GRP and MILF does not assure end of hostilities (BUT)

4. No signing of new agreement; fears of sabotage

New administration will not be open to any agreement: It might not be easy for an agreement to be signed under the new administration, or if an agreement is signed now, it might not be honored (COT); now, with lack of time, there will no longer be any agreement (COT) There might be sabotage in the signing of a new accord:

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5. Consequence of GRP-MILF talks on MNLF Final Peace Agreement 6. Lumads

GRP and MILF trying their best to forge an accord but some sectors want to sabotage peace talks. (COT) Many politicians are riding on the talks. (COT) There are delaying tactics to extend time during election. If there should be chaos, then everything will be paralyzed and there will no longer be any signing (COT). No agreement to be forged because demands of the MILF are too ambitious (TAW) Both parties are dead set on their positions and wont give way so they will not come to an agreement. There might be no compromise or halfway at all between the two parties (MLA) Government not giving in to MILF demands, too hard-line Govt does not address nuances of Bangsamoro frustrations Govt also against charter change that can help Bangsamoros (MLA) MILF has too many demands; some demands are unrealistic (MLA) It might create another level of conflict. MNLF is questioning why do GRP go into agreement with MILF when the 1996 FPA is not yet fully implemented. (ILI) What is the need for a new peace agreement with the MILF when there is already an FPA signed with MNLF and prior to it, the Tripoli Agreement (ZAM) What happens to MNLF and GRP agreement? It will be a hindrance to the peace talks (KOR) Lumads/other tribes are not being consulted, grassroots are being left out in the process; what might happen to them; (ZAM) Ancestral domai of Lumads will be included. Moros expand their territories to cover those of the Lumads. (ILI); The ancestral domain of Lumads in Zamboanga del Norte might be included (ZAM) Lumads and Moros dont go together. (ILI) Tribal leaders will be deprived of their leadership. (ILI) What happens to our rights guaranteed under IPRA law if ever there is a peace agreement? (ILI) If Bangsamoro will be established, Bangsa Lumad might vanish. (ILI) Many tribal leaders are not involved in the peace talks. (If they have the taritib ijma, we also have the batasan adansil.) (ILI) They should need to understand what bansa is. It does not refer only to the nation but the relationship between Lumad and Moro. Every gaop has its own territory. (ILI) Worried that peace talks not opened to IPs who are affected (KOR) We, Lumads, support the peace talks because we want the war to stop. Many lumads were affected and many conflicts occur in Lumad areas. What is sad is our rights are not respected in the peace talks. We hope that there is a just solution. (COT) Separate talks should be conducted for IPs (COT) Masakit sa amin mga IPs kasi hindi kami binibigyan ng pansin. Tingin nila sa amin parang manok. Parang hindi tao na parang walang halaga ang boses, hindi kami binibigyan ng pansin ng ating gobyerno. (COT) Hindi nakikita ng gobyerno ang rights ng IPs sa ancestral domain, social and cultural identity. Dapat igalang ang kkarapatan nimn at i-preserve an gaming kultura (COT). Isali ang mga lider ng lumad sa peace talks (COT) Worried that IPs will be caught in the conflict between GRP and MILF (CDO) Peace talks does not include other sectors like the IPs and women, when they are actually affected or have a stake in the issue. (NCR; DVO) Will MILF guarantee a good government if a new agreement is signed? (COT) MILF is getting more violent (ILI) Participants are apprehensive that people from other places will be dictating on the people of Zamboanga City; MILF must lay down arms before coming to talk peace (ZAM) If government grants MILF its demands, another armed group may arise; MILF will ask for more from the government after they are granted what they wanted; (ZAM; TAW) Having talks with MILF will create impression that government is listening to those who are fighting them (ZAM) Worried that government will yield to the demands of the MILF because I am not in favor to their demand that Mindanao be a sub-state as MILF are oppressive and demanding (KOR) Fearful that a new group will just arise from the MILF (like what happened with the MNLF having a breakaway group like the MILF (KOR) Why only the MILF? What about other armed groups such as the NPA? (BUT) MILFs representation on the Bangsamoro people is doubtful (DVO). The representatives are not really talking about the important issues; only they know what they are talking about they do not take into account relevant concerns (MLA) Does not genuinely represent the sentiments of the people. Hindi naman nakukuha ng MILF ang sentiments ng ibang civilians. (MLA) MILF has a valid cause but some civilians get hurt or killed because of their fighting (MLA) Outcome may only benefit MILF, as Malaysia is acting as IMT That Malaysia created the rebel groups (as MNLF) in ARMM, hence if the GRP-MILF reaches an agreement in favor of MILF, this may just benefit those who are behind (MILF) (MLA) MILF can not control their own men. (ILI) MILF is not the real representative of the people because the Bangsamoro people themselves are not aware of what they are fighting for (SUL) People are afraid of being governed by the MILF. (PAL) Why is BJE being discussed when MOA-AD was already resolved; we dont want to be part of BJE (ILI) Apprehensive of the contents of the MOA-AD (ZAM) Disturbed since MOA-AD is not clear and what if granted, it would be difficult to implement and doesnt provide concrete ways of proceeding (CDO)

7. MILF

7. MOA-AD/BJE

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8.Creation of a Sub-State

9. New Peoples Army and other armed groups 10. Problems in leadership/weak governance

Worried on the lack of information on the MOA-AD and what if government and MILF might reach a compromise; what will happen to the IPs (CDO) Fearful of the creation of a sub-state and that this situation will be exploited by some people (ZAM) Worried that Mindanao might be separated from the Philippines and that Bangsamoros will lead Mindanao (KOR) Fears that expansion of territory might be preparatory to separation leading to division (CDO) Sub-state is not acceptable and is unconstitutional (BUT) What will happen to areas of both Muslims and Christians if sub-state is granted? (BUT) Granting of sub-state will further divide the Filipinos and will aggravate the peace and order situation in Mindanao as the national government will lose control (BUT) Worried that peace talks with MILF might set a precedent for the New Peoples Army who may have separate claims and thus resulting to more conflict (CDO)

Worried about inability of leaders to handle or manage conflict (CDO) Worried about weak governance in ARMM (CDO)

E. Frustrated, Cynical, Disappointed 1. Long delay of negotiations 4. Waste of money and resources

2. Lack of direction 3. Nothing is happening

Frustrated and sad at the delaying tactic of the government (ILI; SUL, COT) Im getting old but nothing happening until now (ILI) It has been 30 years. (ILI) Pace too slow and process too long (ILI; KOR; DVO) Peace will never happen in their lifetime (ZAM) Change of leadership every now and then would mean that peace talks will never end because each leader has different mentality (KOR); consumed so much time already (KOR) Frustrated at the delay, there is no timeframe (KOR) Negotiation fatigue will lead to gulo (KOR) Long process builds mistrust (COT) Many have already died because of the conflict. The process is arduous, long and many issues need to be resolved. Let us have more patience in continuing the talks so that peace will ultimately be achieved. (COT) Magka-apo na lang ang apo ko di pa rin ito ma-resolve. (COT) No resolution can be seen to solve Mindanao conflict. Only the United Nations can help such as what happened in East Timor, Russia and Nepal. (COT) Talks going on for a long period of time yet no concrete solution is being achieved (BUT) Parties take long time to reach an agreement; no concrete gains made by the negotiations. (DVO) Why still unresolved till now? It has been there for so long. What can I still do? .(BAC) Peace talks have been going on for too long or forever (walang katapusan) (MLA) Peace talks have taken so long because they keep stopping and resuming and stopping again, mostly because of ceasefire/security violations Lack of clear objectives and directions of the peace talks and no clear end of the current peace negotiations with the MILF. (DVO; KOR, COT) Frustrated and doubtful about peace talks because until now no results yet (KOR, ZAM) Walang nangyayari, pabalik-balik lang ang peace talks (ILI, KOR); peace talks just being used for politics (KOR) Useless, no significant changes to expect (KOR) People are trying to inject new solutions to the problems but these are old and unsettled issues. It is hopeless (KOR). Always talking but nothing happening (KOR) Talks will end nowhere because Supreme Court intervenes. There is no security in the talks (COT). Many conferences were conducted; many recommendations, outputs, position papers and similar documents were presented but these results did not reflect on the output of the GRP-MILF peace process (COT) Still no significant gains or progress (wala pa ring nangyayari); Conflict remains unresolved; root of the problem is not addressed; violence continues in Mindanao; culture of violence is perpetuated (MLA) The Philippines is lagging behind other countries in terms of peace talks and peace gains (MLA) Peace talks is a waste of money and resources, nothing really happens. (ILI); Draining resources of government (KOR) More money spent travelling abroad, sleeping at hotels, going shopping (COT) Peace talks is expensive (KOR) Just remaining in the level of negotiation because the purpose of peace talks is just for government like OPAPP to use funds (KOR) Spending money unnecessarily (TAW) Peace talks already costly to Philippine government since it started in 1986 (CDO)

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 The peace talks are already a waste of money why not just re-allocate budget for basic needs and social services. (MLA) 5. Non-signing of the MOA-AD and non-fulfillment of other agreements The government should consider signing the MOA-AD. (ILI) Sign the MOA-AD now (COT)*** Sad because there were unfulfilled agreements on the ancestral domain as promised a long time ago (CDO) MOA until now is not signed; thus peace talks is ineffective (CDO) Agreements are not being complied with by both sides (may agreement pero di nasusunod) (MLA) What will happen after the peace talks? Will they implement what has been agreed upon? How? Fear that what happened in MOA AD may happen again (MLA) Hopeless, the agreement is not implemented. (PAL) Just like ARMM. Improve first the ARMM before going into another step. (ILI) evolution of substantive powers and authorities to local government including ARMM is not possible. (ILI) Under the present unitary system where powers and resources are siphoned at the center, (ILI) ARMM gives problems instead of providing solution; ARMM further divides the people (ZAM) Although there is autonomous, government is still the one deciding, that is why ARMM is what it is now (COT) ARMM is not the solution. Autonomy is not the answer (COT) The GRP-MILF talks is fragile. A manifestation of fragility is how the GRP panel prevented from signing the MOA-AD and later declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. (ILI) Palabas lang yan (COT) Peace in Mindanao difficult to achieve (SUL) Peace is elusive despite many years of being pursued (ZAM) Disappointed that both the MNLFs final peace agreement and Tripoli Agreement were not enforced; (ZAM) Many agreements have been supposedly reached by the two parties but all these failed to provide lasting peace. (DVO). Speaking of legitimacy, the Sultanate of Maguindanao Mindanaue Dasusalam is the legitimate claimant to the areas subject of the GRP-MILF peace talks. Now what would be our role/participation? Treaties, etc. are documents signed by the sultanate but we were never consulted from the start (COT) Limited engagement of women (CDO) Lack of participation from IPs (see Letter __ ; No __) GRP-MILF might make a decision that does not involve the people; no consultation to be made (BUT) Frustrated because peace talks did not facilitate understanding and unity between and among the different communities/tri-people (CDO) Feel bad for all Mindanawons who have to suffer. Lost loved ones in the conflict. Why is it taking so long? .(BAC)

3. ARMM

6. Fragile talks, weak state 7. Peace talks just a show 8. Peace in Mindanao is elusive 9. Previous agreements not enforced/implemented 10. Lack of participation and consultation

11. Peace talks did not bridge understanding 12. Angry for losing loved ones in the conflict F. Confused or Do not Know 1. What is this peace talks really all about?

2. What is the difference between the agreement with MNLF and the one now being worked out with MILF?

Confused why there is peace talks; dont understand what it is all about as there was no proper information drive; (KOR, ILI) this is the first time we heard about this (ILI); Confused by unclear issues; issues are vague; lack knowledge about the different issues raised in the negotiations (SUL) Many can not grasp and understand the process even if informed (CDO) Many do not know whats going on (ZAM, KOR) Despite information given, issues are still unclear (KOR) The current talks need more consultation, information dissemination down to the barangay level so that there will be community participation. Not many people know what is happening at the toplevel. Those in the top do not feel the suffering of those on the ground. (COT) People should know what the issue is all about and the root causes of these issues. (COT) Many Muslims and Christians are not fully aware of the GRP-MILF issues (BUT) Real issues being discussed by the panel are confusing (DVO). The participants may know about the peace negotiations between the GRP-MILF, but lack knowledge of the different issues raised in the negotiations. (PAL) What is the difference between the agreement with MNLF and the one now being worked out with MILF? (KOR) Many do not understand the draft agreements (BUT) Many cannot understand why there are peace talks between the GRP and the MILF while issues with the MNLF have yet to be resolved. (DVO)

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3. Lack of understanding on history and roots of conflict 4. Why are the peace talks not transparent? G. Apathetic or Indifferent 1. Feels nothing 2. Wait and see

Do not understand the historical context of the issues (CDO) What is the reason why peace talks are not transparent? (but)

Feels nothing because I am not wel-informed (KOR); Feels indifferent and numb to the process (CDO); Lets just wait whether we will be affected or not. (KOR)

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QUESTION 2: Information about the Peace Talks What issues in the GRP-MILF peace talks are clear to you? What are not clear? Issue 1. Bangsamoro Identity Clear Bangsamoro refers to those who believe in Islam; those belonging to Muslim communities (ZAM; DVO) People in Mindanao are free to identify themselves as Bangsamoro, Lumad or anything else (MLA) They are still Filipinos but also clear that Bangsamoros do not want themselves to be called Filipinos in the first place so are not part of the Philippines (MLA) History of Bangsamoro and their struggles (ILI) Bangsamoro identity is clear (KOR) (There is nothing wrong for the Bangsamoro people to be identified as such there must be genuine approach in answering the roots of the problems in Mindanao.) There is full recognition of Bangsamoro identity (SUL). Bangsamoros are culturally different from majority Christians (BUT) They have their own unique identity. They have a right to be who they are. Why is it so hard? (BAC) 2. Ancestral Domain/ Bangsamoro Homeland Meaning of the term ancestral domain is clear (KOR) Territorial scope under MOA-AD is present ARMM and proposed expanded ARMM. It is clear that Zamboanga del Norte is not included (ZAM); There is status quo for all negotiated areas. Iligan do not want to be included in the BJE; feels threatened if peace talks will include barangays in Iligan; results of previous plebiscite should be respected (ILI) MILF demands that ARMM be separated (ILI) MILF will not take away our lands from us. Land titles and prior proprietary rights will be respected vis--vis ancestral domain (ILI). MOA-AD was clear. Muslims want to reclaim their lost lands thats why there was the MOA-AD (ILI). MILF seeks to expand their territory or control (ILI; KOR) Government wants to enhance ARMM while MILF wants more (MLA) Ancestral domain is a consideration to the MILF and MNLF demands (SUL) There are conflicting ideas on territory (SUL). Who really comprise the Bangsamoro community? (KOR) What is the implication of Bangsamoro identity? Dual citizenship? (SUL) BangsamoroS who they really are? (CDO) How was the bangsamoro established? (CDO) What is the difference between ARMM and Bangsamoro homeland? (KOR) Bangsamoro Homeland? How it is being defined? (BUT) Ancestral domain concept is vague. (ILI) What is the territorial coverage of the Bangsamoro homeland? (ZAM) What are the territorial claims of the MILF (objectives, purpose, coverage, budget, source of funds) (SUL) What areas fall under Bangsamoro homeland/ancestral domain? (ILI) What are the distinctions between homeland and sub-state under No.3? Why are Muslims being displaced having their own homeland? (ZAM) Boundaries are not clear. (ZAM, ILI) What were the real objectives and aims of the BJE? (ILI) What is the basis for including the 8 barangays of the BJE? (ILI) What is the difference between the BJE under MOA-AD and the present ARMM? (ILI) How will CARP be implemented in the context of ancestral domain? (ILI) Will Christians give up their lands when ancestral domain be given to the Bangsamoros? (ILI) Will Christians living w/n the expanded territory proposed for expansion be covered? (CDO) Not Clear MILF defines Bangsamoro to include all inhabitants in Mindanao while GRP limits its definition to followers of Islam (ZAM) Who are really the Bangsamoros? (ILI) Who are the real Bangsamoro people are- the believers of Islam or the ancestors in Mindanao? Are Lumads included? (DVO) What does the Bangsamoro identity mean? (MLA) Who comprises the Bangsamoros? (MLA) Who defines who are Bangsamoros? (MLA) Can Bangsamoros include even those not living in Mindanao? (MLA) Bangsamoro people claims to be the original inhabitants of Mindanao. (KOR, CDO)What about IPs, Lumad claims that they are the original natives? (KOR)

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Bangsamoro Homeland is the territory under the control of the Moro sultanate; that it is the present territorial area of the ARMM that covers the areas first settled in by the Lumads. These areas are their natural wealth and patrimony that represent their social, political and cultural identity and pride of the Bangsamoro people. (DVO) The whole of Mindanao is the Bangsamoro homeland (TAW) It is necessary to expand the coverage of the Bangsamoro area over which it would have jurisdiction and management, conservation, development and disposition of natural resources. (TAW)

How they identified areas to be included in the MOA? The limits of their boundaries? (CDO) Why the need to expand their territory which includes already ARMM? (CDO) Can MILF prove that they can develop the land they are asking for expanded territory? (CDO) What about Christian- dominated areas? What happens if the MILF go beyond the allotted boundaries? Who should be given homeland controlthe first to occupy the land, the next to transcend or the last? (DVO) Eighty percent of what the MILF is claiming is not owned by the Bangsamoro.(ILI) Which areas and which people are part of the Bangsamoros? Who decides and how is this decided? What will happen to the Christians and Lumads/IPs in those territories? Wont they be displaced? How does the MILF define homeland? There should be a listing of inclusive areas to show exact coverage.Bangsamoro Juridical Entity (BJE) not clear What happens in non-MILF areas? Why the need at all for ancestral domain for Muslims? (MLA) What went wrong with MOA-AD signing? Why Supreme Court declared MOA-AD as unconstitutional? (MLA; KOR) What was the contents of the MOA-AD? (kor)

MILF claims Mindanao as their homeland (CDO) 3. MOA-AD Clear that Supreme Court declared MOA-AD unconstitutional (ZAM) Recent peace talks impasse was because of aborted signing of MOA AD; there was lack of info dissemination on MOA; some Mindanao communities did not clearly understand the MOA, which was why they opposed it (MLA) 3. Sub-State MOA-AD is about the territorial rights of the Bangsamoro and landownership claims (KOR) A proposed sub-state is a result of ARMMs expansion. Interesting to have a state within a state (ZAM) ARMM will be expanded (SUL) Sub-state is for autonomy of the Muslim/ Bangsamoro (BUT)

What will be the relationship between the national government and the sub-state? If MILF will run the affairs of government, how will they share authority with government? Is the government prepared to give full authority to the sub-state? (ZAM) Are we going to separate from the Philippines or shall we have our own government? (ILI) What will happen to non-Muslims if granted? (ILI) What will happen to the Christians? To IPs (CDO) Are we going to be under the Bangsamoro regime? (CDO) Will there be a need for a passport if one goes to the sub-state? (ZAM) Where will the sub-state pay taxes? (ZAM) Why does MILF want Bangsamoros to be separated from the Philippines? (Bakit kailangan ihiwalay ang Mindanao sa Pilipinas, parte naman yon ng Pilipinas? Hahatiin ang resources? Bakit may ganoon pa? Is Bakit hindi pa satisfied ang mga Muslims kahit binigyan na sila ng ARMM?) (MLA) What will the identity of the Philippines be if Bangsamoros separate themselves? What happens to Philippine territory if Bangsamoro will separate (KOR) Relationship between National and Local/ regional government (substate) What will be the protocol? (BUT) Sub-state what are its mechanisms (BUT) The motive of the MILF to separate from the national government is not lucid. They cannot comprehend the reason for dividing Mindanao while all the other provinces are still under the National Government . Can self rule or autonomy answer the clamor for self-determination? (DVO)

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What about territorial rights of regional or municipal governments? (DVO) What are the exact areas affected by the expansion of the ARMM? (TAW) 4. Governance In case expanded ARMM becomes a reality, political and government structure is clear (ZAM) Bangsamoro will now have the right to self-determination and govern themselves (ZAM) Clear that MILF wants autonomy; not absolute autonomy, but autonomy to rule there area and make decisions; like a federal state (MLA) Some Bangsamoros want independence/to be an independent state, separatism (MLA) MILF doesnt want independence from the Philippines - only self-determination or autonomy (MLA) External aspects of MILF self-determination not a problem only the internal aspects (MLA) There shall be changes in the political structure (SUL) There is need for good governance (BUT) MILF desires to have its own system of government, if not given, then surely there will be war. (CDO) MILF wants full control of their government structure/areas but cant guarantee security (CDO) Is the system federal or another form? (ZAM) Why is there need to change from presidential to federal? (ILI) What kind of autonomy be given to the MILF? Full or partial? (ILI) What do they mean by autonomy? (CDO) What is the role of the national govt? (CDO) Who shall identify priorities and direction? How shall the day-to-day operation be managed? (CDO) Government structure is unclear since GRP is dealing with both MNLF and MILF. Will GRP provide separate government structures for both MILF and MNLF? (ILI) How will the MILF implement Islamic governance in Muslim areas? (ILI) They have ARMM but how come they can not manage well (ZAM) What will the Bangsamoro political structure be like if ARMM be expanded? (MLA; KOR) Why should Bangsamoros adopt Luzon political structure when their laws are different? (MLA) Concept of power sharing is not clear how will it be done? At which instances can Bangsamoros independently decide and act? (MLA) When Bangsamoros become autonomous, does this mean the Shariah law will be the law in Bangsamoro areas? How will it be implemented? (MLA) What form of government will they have if they are under sub-state arrangement? (KOR) Political jurisdiction, political system, sovereignty over territory, boundaries are not clear (KOR). There will be full autonomy for the MILF. But what about the MNLF? (SUL) What type of government they want for areas they are claiming is clear. (DVO) Who should rule over where? If the MOA-AD is signed, who will govern in the area and who will lead the BJE. (DVO) Will the MILF replace the current ARMM leadership? What about the other groups? (MNLF, Lumads). The form of government is yet another issue that needs to be resolved. What about the other groups, can they govern also? (DVO) Will the Bangsa Moro practice democracy? (CDO) What kind of government that will be applied? Or proposed on juridical entity? (CDO) Why not take example of federalism? (CDO) Granting that the MILF demand for self-governance would be granted, what will be the political structure, the

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relationship between the national government and the MILF? Would it be federalism? What about the composition of the armed forces. Would the new government be any different from the ARMM, as the latter is generally rejected? (TAW) They want to rule on their own. How will the national government handle this? (BAC) What is the difference between self-determination vs. independence? (BAC) 6. Revenue-Sharing on Natural Resources There is disagreement over the sharing of resources (SUL) Resource sharing between ARMM/MILF and GRP is 75 and 25 percent (ZAM) with 75 percent going to MILF for community development (KOR). 50-50 revenue sharing of Bangsamoros and national government of natural resources/minerals; proposition to change revenue sharing; RA 9054 is clear percentage sharing of natural resources clear; clear revenue sharing is necessary (MLA) Sharing of revenues is 35-35-30 (KOR) Coastal territory is beyond 15 km (MLA) MILF wants share of the IRA (KOR) All potential resources shall be divided between the national government and the BJE and that MILF is claiming authority and responsibility over these resources within the homeland. (DVO) Interest of MILF to own land (territorial domain) (CDO) Power sharing and management of resources intention of MILF (CDO) There should be a reasonable and equitable sharing of resources between the Bangsamoro and the national government. (TAW) Control and sharing of resources must be fair and equitable. But how? (BAC) 7. Peace Talks - venue - selection of panel members - plebiscite The reason for mediation or facilitation by other countries is so that there will be no biases (ILI). The four strands of the peace talks: identity; territory; resources; and power-sharing. (KOR) There is ceasefire while talks are ongoing. (KOR) There is an ongoing peace negotiations between the GRP and MILF (SUL, MLA, KOR) Why are peace talks being held in another country? (ZAM; ILI; MLA) Why are peace talks held in another country? (MLA) What is Malaysias role and how was it chosen?(MLA) Why Malaysia and not others like OIC? (MLA) How are panel members selected? Are they acceptable to both groups? What are the roles and responsibilities of the peace panel members? (ZAM, ILI, MLA; KOR) Do they really represent their constituents? (KOR) How do peace panels connect to the civilians and get the perspectives of different sectors? (ILI) What are the agreements between GRP and MILF? (ILI) Why is there need to conduct plebiscites after the signing of an agreement? (ZAM) How will the sharing be done? Is it fair? (ZAM) How will revenues be shared? (SUL) How did they arrive at the 75%-25% revenue sharing? Shouldnt the sharing be 50-50? (MLA; KOR) Why cant government give Bangsamoros jurisdiction over coastal waters beyond 15 km? (MLA) Who controls strategic minerals and how? Why is the GRPs position to solely control strategic minerals of ARMM? (MLA) Ancestral waters and Bangsamoro homeland/territory are not clear (KOR) The sharing of revenues and control of coastal waters beyond 15 kms. is not clear (KOR). How will these resources should be shared and why the MILF has to claim these resources? (DVO) Who will manage the ancestral waters? who should have control over the minerals found in the Bangsamoro homeland? (DVO) Why the MILF ask for revenue shared form national? (CDO) Why theres scheme of income sharing? (CDO) 50/50 sharing of revenues or resources and who will control? (CDO) What is the proper sharing of the resources between the GRP and ARMM? (TAW)

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What exactly are the executive doables? (MLA) Who initiated the peace negotiations? How are negotiations being conducted? Who will benefit? (MLA) Why is there a need for an international committee? (MLA) What is the purpose of the negotiations? (KOR) Mechanisms of the peace talks (policies, parameters, procedures and guidelines) are not clear. (KOR) Who funds the peace talks? How is it spent and who spends it? Timetable is not clear. (How long peace negotiations will take? When will these end?) (KOR; SUL) Choice/ screening of panel members (CDO) Are there sanctions if agreements reached are not being followed? (CDO) Communications and progressive information - what transpired in the peace process? (CDO) Why negotiation were done in Malaysia? Not trusting the Philippine government.? (CDO) Is there need to have foreign observers to monitor the peace process. 10. Constitutional Change Government operating under a constitutional framework while having peace talks with MILF; MILF cannot be independent because it is against the constitution (MLA) Government is willing and determined to talk with the MILF on matters that would result in peace in Mindanao provided that all matters must be within the parameters of the constitution (KOR). There must be some provisions changed in the constitution for the MOA/agreement to be approved (KOR; BUT; DVO) The Supreme Court declared the MOA-AD unconstitutional because the Philippine Constitution does not allow a sub-state arrangement under the Philippine government (KOR) There is need for constitutional amendments for a peace agreement to be approved (SUL) How can the agreement of both GRP-MILF be implemented without conflicting with laws and constitution? (CDO) There is a demand and government is doing something to address it (KOR) The government is prepared to deliver proposed set of actions (KOR) Agreement will pass through Congress (KOR) The need for public information about the negotiations through dialogue and consultation (KOR) What will the process that government will undertake to change the constitution? (ZAM) Will the constitutional change affect the peace talks? How? How constitutional change will be done in case? Why is there still a need for constitutional change? How will the government address MILF concerns given constitutional limitations? (MLA) Will the panel respect the constitution provision/mandate? Until when? (CDO) Will leaders not compromise on whats mandated in the constitution? (CDO) Need is recognized but how to do it within current framework? And how not to be used by those with political interests? (BAC)

9. Governments Position

What is really the stand of the GRP in the ongoing negotiation to MILF? (BUT)

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It is impossible for GRP to grant MILFs demands because of constitutional restrictions (SUL) 11. MILF Aims/ Position/Demands MILF demands right to self-determination not independence. (ILI; KOR) MILF demands autonomy (KOR; SUL) MILF wants self-rule (KOR) MILF demands secession. (ILI) MILF is the largest armed group in Mindanao. (ILI) MILFs vision is to let Islam rule the nation. (ILI) Why is there separatism? How can separatism be possible? (MLA) MILF wants to reclaim lands that once had beenn theirs (KOR) Bangsamoro wants independence (CDO) Independence is the real issue. (BAC) 12. MNLF What is the relationship between the GRP-MILF talks with the 1996 GRP-MNLF peace agreement? (ILI) Do the MILF and MNLF differ from each other as to their objectives? (ILI) What is the difference between MNLF and MILF? 13. Lumads Where do Lumads position themselves and how doe the peace process affect them? (ILI) Why are Lumads not being considered when in fact there is already the IPRA law? Why only the Bangssamoros? (ILI) How come only the MILF have peace talks? What about other tribes like Blaan, Tboli and other Lumads do not have peace talks? (KOR) The Lumads were accordingly the first settlers in Mindanao and as such, they claim to be the original landowners of the areas claimed by Bangsamoro. Will they be included? (DVO) Why IPs are involved in the conflict? (DVO) 14. Public Participation in the Peace Process How are we guaranteed that Lumads will be given the freedom to choose? (KOR) How involved is civil society in the peace talks? (MLA) What is the role of civil society groups in the peace process? Are there grassroots consultations of other sectors like women and IPs? Why only consulting civil society groups and not the common people? What is the role of the PNP and AFP in the peace process? (MLA) Who are involved in the process and how is it being conducted? (DVO) How are other Muslims, non-Muslims and their concerns included in the peace talks? (BAC) MILF agenda is not clear. What are exactly the demands of the MILF? (ZAM; KOR; SUL) What are the political roles of the MILF? (SUL) Who give the authority to the MILF to represent the Bangsamoros? (ILI)

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Q3. Ways forward on the peace process 3. Which issue in the GRP-MILF peace talks do you think is most important? What should be done to address it? ISSUE Ancestral Domain THEMES Delineation of Territories RECOMMENDATIONS Identify and define the areas that will be included within the territorial claims of the Bangsamoros. (ZAM, ILI, COT, KOR; MLA; TAW; CDO; DVO; BAC; BAG) Get opinion and consent of people through a plebiscite. A nationwide memorandum may be issued to inform the people. (MLA; PAL). Data gathering to justify / basis for coverage. There should be no territorial expansion unless consultations are made especially in affected areas / Public information drive (CDO) Come-up with a declaration/ agreement b/n GRP-MILF as to specific area recognized by the GRP-MILF & establish implementing rules and guidelines. (CDO) How are Bangsamoro lands going to be delineated? Actual surveys should be undertaken and take into account history of the areas to determine territorial claims. (COT) Congress should pass a law on the delineation of Bangsamoro territorial claims (COT). MILF should be given the ARMM area but boundaries should be clear; expand the territory where Muslims are dominant. IP rights should be respected. (ZAM) Territorial boundary should be established first. The claim of the ancestral domain of the MILF must be carefully identified since some places are dominated by Lumads and Christians (ZAM) The government must consult the MNLF about the territorial jurisdiction; this will create autonomy between MNLF and MILF. (SUL) Conduct of referendum and plebiscite. A plebiscite or referendum should be conducted so people can be given the chance to decide for themselves. (ZAM; SUL; ILI; CDO) Consensus is needed at the local level (ILI). The plebiscite or referendum should be clean and honest. (COT) Identity which areas with dominant Muslim or Christian population through the assistance of the National Statistics Office prior to the conduct of plebiscite. Only those with predominant Muslim population should be included (COT). Understanding of Bangsamoro history and culture Development of ancestral domain MOA-AD The ancestral domain concept is best understood in the context of the history and culture of the Bangsamoros. (COT) Cultural, legal and developmental plans and all aspects of ancestral domain should be clarified and included. (COT) GRP must give to MILF the demands in the MOA-AD and must be given utmost priority. The MOA-AD must be signed. (SUL, COT; CDO) MOA-AD Should be revised to attain lasting peace Should initiate national and massive information drive up to the grassroot level Educate and the IP about the MOA-AD It should have a 5 year transition period Grant the ancestral Domain of Bangsamoro based on their area of occupancy and help them in locating their territorial boarders Boundaries of AD must be clearly defined of what belongs to MILF and bangsamoro and what areas does not anymore belongs to them SC to review its decision on MOA-AD Should consider the displaced and landless member of Bangsamoro. Problem on landlessness should be immediately address SC decision should be followed vis--vis the constitutionality of MOA-AD There should be another group from GRP-MILF to focus in resolving the MOA-AD issue (BUT)

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Delineation from IP ancestral domain and governance (cf no. 10 Lumads) Just compensation

Boundaries between the ancestral domain of Bangsamoros and Lumads should be established and respected in accordance with customs (i.e. Mamalu and Tabunaway story). Tribal governance such as the Timuay system should be recognized in the ancestral domain territory of the Lumads. (COT); Give importance to the tenurial status of the IPs (CDO). Those affected by the ancestral domain/.territorial claims should be justly compensated (KOR, COT).

Governance

Relationship with National Government

Define the system of governance as well as the relationship between the MILF and the National Government. (ZAM, SUL; CDO; DVO; BAC; BAG) The GRP must allow the MILF to govern themselves. .The GRP must sign and give what is due to the MILF. Continue peace negotiations. The relationship between the national, regional, local and barangay levels should be clear. (ZAM) Give their demands and make them responsible and accountable to whatever happens to Mindanao. The MILF should be given the task to control their groups who make trouble in Mindanao. Resolve the Bangsamoro claim for independence. (ZAM) The MILF should frankly state who they want to rule: the National Government, Regional Government, or do they wanted to be represented by someone from their group or total independence? (SUL) The relationship of the national government to the MILF government under the proposed structure should be specifically stated. Negotiators/decision-makers should be critical and fair enough in weighing the pros/cons and costs/benefits of this relationship (KOR)

Sub-State/Autonomy

Referendum should be fully implemented to determine the acceptability of Sub-state, especially in areas where there are Christian settlers. There should be a specific branch/ office / department in government to focus on the sub-state as demanded by MILF. Equal treatment and respect of Muslim and Non-Muslim should be ensured under sub-state. Establish Federal government. Socio-economic political, and development funds must be given to Muslim and IPs. Since MILF/ Muslim have their own cultural practices and laws, these laws should be implemented in their area. Amend and revise constitution regarding substate. The purpose, goal and mechanism of implementation should be transparent to the people and there must be clear guidelines. The national government should not insist its own process and system to the MILF and Muslim areas. (BUT) GRP must give the political autonomy and not just administrative autonomy to MILF. National government should have limited intervention (SUL; TAW) Consider federal form of government (SUL, ILI, COT) The government must identify specific model of government system such as federalism (ILI). Bangsamoros must be allowed to draft their own constitution (COT). Expand ARMM but subject it through a plebiscite who wants to be included or not (MLA).

Constitutional Change/ Legal Amendments to accommodate proposed political structure

Amend the constitution so that the proposed political structure as agreed in the peace talks be accommodated. (ZAM, SUL, COT) Amend RA 9054 to expand ARMM. (SUL, COT) Issue on the constitutionally of the agreement entered into by and between the GRP and the MILF equally important is the issue on sincerity of both parties. This can be addressed by a shift from unitary to a federal form of government. Peaceful co-existence between and among ethnic affiliations under an appropriate, relevant and responsive political structure where each can live in the way they saw fit for them. Prior to the shift, information education, advocacy, capability building and widening the avenue of participation by populace in the process may be opted to. In a society where there is a majority and minority population, the former should take the lead in articulating and catering into the aspirations of the later that are peculiar to them otherwise, attempts to resolve problems may be relegated to the background. (ILI)

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Reforms in Governance

Sub-state structure should be set in place that will pave the way for governance reforms. Islamic values should also be integrated in governance. (COT) Good governance must be based on acceptable culture and tradition of the Bangsamoro people (COT). Islamic laws should be enforced under Bangsamoro sub-state (COT). There should be social reforms through Islamic governance. The judicial system should be based on the Shariah. ARMM should demonstrate good governance. There should be an evaluation on its performance and plebiscite to be conducted if other areas would want to be part of it (ZAM). Zamboanga City should not be part of the ARMM (ZAM) Do reflection and assess ARMM experience so that GRP-MILF panel will no longer start from scratch and not to repeat the same mistakes. (BUT) The failure of ARMM reflects the failure of the government to respect and consider the culture of the Muslim will likely happen with the MILF if will remain insensitive to the culture of the Muslim (BUT) Government must be sincere, committed and transparent; also must deliver basic services effectively. (BAC; BAG)

Capacity-building support for governance

Education and training for Bangsamoro leaders should be conducted to enhance responsibility for governance (ZAM; CDO) Trainings to include agriculture or sustainable development, human capacity development, etc. Strengthen Bangsamoro Leadership Institute (CDO).

Bangsamoro Identity

Definition

Let the Bangsamoros define who are the Bangsamoros and do not use anymore the definition under RA 9054. (COT Determine meaning and scope of Bangsamoro identity. (COT, MLA; BAC) Conduct research and consultation on this (MLA)

Recognition

Bangsamoro identity be established, recognized and respected by government (ZAM, SUL, ILI, TAW, COT; CDO) If possible, recognition of Bangsamoro Identity be established through legislation. (COT) Bangsamoro Identity must be ascertained What it shall comprise. I recommend that there must be consensus building of all stakeholders who are to comprise the Bangsamoro. (ILI)

Resources

Sharing Arrangement

Strategic resources such as marine and water should be jointly controlled and managed by Bangsamoro and national government. Sharing arrangement of 75 25 percent in favor of the Bangsamoros should be clarified. What will be the mechanics? Who will collect? (SUL, COT) GRP need to collaborate with Bangsamoro leaders to consider the following: (ILI) - Establish natural resources and management development plan - Create mechanism and policies on the utilization, management, and benefit sharing of natural resources. - Conduct extensive researches on Bangsamoro natural resources. Equitable distribution with equal responsibility of natural resources between government and Bangsamoros. (MLA). Give control of natural resources to Bangsamoros; amend ARMM. Bigger share for Bangsamoros as they are the inhabitants of the area. Assure a 50-50 sharing of revenues. Compromise in revenue sharing between the 50-50 proposed by GRP and the 75-25 by MILF (MLA). There should be a clear guidelines and mechanism of sharing national and local revenues. (BUT; BAC, PAL)

MILF-MNLF

MILF-MNLF Unity

OPAPP should initiate a forum attended by the MNLF, MILF and civil society. It should be open to the public. MILF and MNLF will have table discussion. Involve CSO in peace process and multi-stakeholders. (SUL) MNLF and MILF should come together for a compromise and both should be represented in the peace talks with GRP (SUL)

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Conduct of Peace Talks

Transparency and Process of Disclosure of Information

GRP-MILF panel should be transparent to the public of their process, issues, concerns and whatever agreement they will achieve. Transparency could be addressed by public consultation, dialogue and information campaign. (ZAM, KOR, BUT; BAG) The present administration is interested in signing an interim agreement with the MILF. If this is done, there might be a danger of forcing things and signing a paper which will bind the next administration. This is also will mean trouble if the people is not consulted before the signing. It is important therefore that before any signing is done, the paper should be presented to the people first. With what happened to the MOA-AD, there is mistrust and to win the trust again of the people, the paper should be presented to the people first. The result of this dialogue will be an input or the talking point of the next president and next congress. Before the signing of any agreements a plebiscite should be conducted. The draft agreement shall part of the discussion of the dialogue (both draft of the Government and the MILF) The document should be shown and inform the public. Declaration of Non-binding discussion before the next president. (ILI, Iligan City LGU) The eight barangays in Iligan City which were included in the proposed BJE under the MOA-AD categorically stated that they should be excluded. A plebiscite must be conducted. A resolution on this shall be submitted to Malacanang and the peace panels will be passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. (ILI) Right process must be complied. Results of the dialogue must be revealed first before going to the next level. People should know what is happening in the peace talks and people should be consulted. (ZAM) TV coverage of the actual peace talks or a summary is suggested (MLA)

Public Participation

Peoples participation through dialogues and consultations should be expanded. A framework is recommended so that all actions will be guided. There should be consultation and dialogue with the LGUs concerned. (ZAM) Multi-sectoral dialogues should be conducted at the grassroot levels on matters affecting peace and security in Mindanao. (KOR). Continuous dialogue and consultation by both parties should be done preferably at the regional and local levels. Invite resource persons who are knowledgeable.(SUL) Community-based peace processes at the grassroots level should be established. (ILI) SECTORS LGUs concerned must be consulted. (ZAM) IDPs should be consulted and be heard by both parties as they area the direct victims of the war. (ILI) Women should be represented in all levels of the peace negotiations as mandated under UN Security Council Resolution 1325. (COT) All stakeholders and relevant sectors should be involved or at least consulted in the peace talks. All sectors should be represented in the negotiations. (MLA, DVO) Real people on the ground / grassroots should talk. Increased participation of civil society groups. (MLA). Create a multi-sectoral body that would create the implementing rules and regulations on the peace talks (CDO) GRP-MILF talks must be represented by all sectors. (ZAM, ILI) There should be equal representation / grassroots representation from all tribes so that all the issues shall be exhaustively discussed. (ILI) Institutionalize a mechanism in the LGUs that will facilitate the dissemination of peace issues (KOR). LGUs should be included, be consulted and be informed of all matter of public concern that affect them such as the MOA-AD (ZAM, KOR). There should a group composed of civilians who should be included as part of the negotiating team. (COT) Women should be part of the negotiation process as stated under UN Security Council Resolution 1325. It is the women who suffer most during armed conflict (COT).

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Keep holding dialogues and consultations like Dialogue Mindanaw to serve as inputs for peace talks. Differences can be overcome by dialogue and consultation. Consult with all sectors, civil society groups and communities, especially at the grassroots in all areas. They may even give advice on how they resolve conflict in their own communities methods applicable for GRP and MILF. Also important to have dialogues between Muslims and Christians. Hold extensive, bottom-up dialogues. Consult with all sectors, civil society groups and communities, especially at the grassroots in all areas. They may even give advice on how they resolve conflict in their own communities methods applicable for GRP and MILF. Also important to have dialogues between Muslims and Christians. (MLA) Conduct deeper conflict analysis to clarify and validate issues claimed by GRP and MILF, and sustained the public consultation process with the Muslim and Christian (BUT) There should be continuous and intensive dialogues that should be conducted. (BAG) Dissemination of information and feedback mechanisms A massive information dissemination should be undertaken so people will know what is happening in the peace talks. (ZAM, SUL, ILI, COT, KOR; TAW; BUT, DVO) The mistakes in MOA-AD should be avoided. A special regional information and communication centers should be established in all areas affected in the peace process to facilitate all forms of information and communication relating to the peace process, to be transmitted to all stakeholders both in the grassroots and LGU. (ZAM) Effective information drive and campaign will assuage fears and anxieties of those who fear losing their lands or be subject of a new political structure. (COT) Social marketing of Bangsamoro issues is needed so that people will appreciate and understand Bangsamoro aspirations (COT). The negotiation process should be explained to the public so they could grasp whats happening (KOR). Give feedback to people involved in consultations. (MLA) Venue Sincerity Venue for the negotiation should be in Mindanao to be witnessed by the people. (ZAM, KOR, BUT) Panel members must establish trust and confidence building measures. (ZAM) GRP should be sincere and implement agreements made with MILF and MNLF. (SUL; TAW) MNLF Participation Body to monitor implementation of agreement Composition of the Panel Transparency and proper reporting and feedbacking for public awareness. Install a feedback mechanism for monitoring purposes (CDO) MNLF should be involved in the GRP-MILF peace talks. Their issues should also be consolidated in the talks. (ZAM) The International Contact Group shall monitor and ensure the implementation of any signed agreement. The presence of the IMT, ICG or any international monitoring body should be expanded and sustained (KOR). A credible body must monitor the abuses and wrongdoings in the implementation of the GRP-MILF agreement (KOR). The members of the GRP and MILF peace talks panel should be those who understand the historical contexts of the Mindanao situation as well as the sentiments of the people (KOR, CDO, BUT). The peace panel members should be screened on the basis of their integrity, sincerity and competence. (KOR, MLA; BAG). Local officials should be involved in the peace talks. (KOR). The GRP-MILF Peace Talks should have steady representatives from both sides. (KOR). Choose members of negotiating panels who can inspire trust and confidence of the people. (KOR). Only those from Mindanao should be chosen as panel members (KOR).

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Security Aspect

Demobilisation, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) must be part of the comprehensive agreement. It can contribute to peace and decrease peoples anxiety in Mindanao. (ILI, KOR; CDO). Amnesty should be provided to MILF combatants (KOR, ,MLA;) MILF can merge with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (MLA) Sincere implementation of the ceasefire agreement. The role of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) should be strengthened. (KOR). Set up rules and guidelines for peace talk violations. Set up a group or body to monitor these violations then take due action also to prevent peace talks impasse. Parties should take responsibility for violations. (MLA)

Rehabilitation Aspect Lumad Timetable Representation in the Peace Talks

Rehabilitate victims of conflict in Mindanao through developmental programs to address poverty, health, education, etc. (MLA) The GRP-MILF Peace Panel should set a time frame within which a peace agreement would have been reached (KOR). Lumads should be part of the negotiation. (COT, DVO) NCIP should be active in the negotiations. IPs should be seriously involved from planning, formulation, resolution and implementation of ancestral domain, resources, territory, and governance. (COT) There should be a separate consultation for IPs only. Consultation must go down to the grassroots level (COT). Separate talks should be held for IPs (COT).

Governance

Lumad agenda should be part of the talks. (COT) Lumads should be allowed to govern in their own territories (COT). Lumads should have separate governance because they have their own systems of governance also (COT). Respect the rights of IP based on the IPRA law and customary law. (ZAM)

Ancestral domain (cf no. 10 Lumads)

Tribal governance such as the Timuay system should be recognized in the ancestral domain territory of the Lumads. (COT) Boundaries between the ancestral domain of Bangsamoros and Lumads should be established. Ancestral domain of IPs should be respected. (COT, CDO; MLA). Delineation of boundaries should be done in accordance with customs (i.e. Mamalu and Tabunaway story). Speed up the delineation and titling of ancestral lands (COT; BAG) Create a separate region or municipality for IPs and not include them in the proposed political structure (COT). Need to move from generic towards operational definition, e.g. respect of Indigenous People in Bangsamoro Territory be operationally defined. Use of specific definition of terms on the territory and structure of government for a more expanded discussion and dialogue (CDO)

Natural Resource

Natural resource management of IP lands and resources (energy, fuel, marine/coastal) must be part of the agenda of the talks. (COT) IPs should have clear benefit-sharing of resources. (COT)

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QUESTION 4. Acknowledging other related issues What other issues related to the GRP-MILF peace talks should also be considered? How should these issues be handled?

ISSUE 1. Social and Economic Development of Mindanao

CONTEXT

RECOMMENDATIONS There should be halal programs of agricultural products in Bangsamoro homeland. An Ulama Council should be created to determine which products were halal or haram. To collect revenues, a Baitalmal must be established headed by the Ulamas. Capacitate existing appropriate government line agencies with additional mandates relative to promotion and development of Halal Program in Mindanao Create/improve sources of jobs and livelihood, especially agriculture; kabuhayan projects for the poor, especially women, Urban land reform and sectoral development should be addressed Give landless people land and farm training; young people must be trained o work, not hold arms, for survival Programs that will lower investment risks in Mindanao should be formulated Food security There should be an effective actual framework in addressing poverty and cultural sensitivity Ibalik sa Mindanao ang pera ng Mindanao Provide Muslim livelihood, agricultural and education support to address peace concern in Mindanao Limit the asset of individual and family

COT, MLA, KOR, ZAM, SUL, TAW, DVO, BUT, BAC, BAG, ILI 2. Peace and Order/Security Dismantle political warlords and abolish private armies Disarmament; full implementation of gun ban; Inventory of loose firearms Effectively deal with the Abu Sayyaf group and other armed groups (i.e. NPA) All private armed groups must be dismantled to end kidnapping for ransom and other criminal activities. Only the armed forces of the Philippines must be allowed to carry guns. Demand government to provide immediate and appropriate response and sanctions to those who violates the law. Implement a fair system in the government Follow the law rightfully and just MILF must help in bringing to an end the kidnapping and killing here in Mindanao; registration of firearms and recognition of their police force, amendment of the constitution to accommodate overhauling of election processes The issue of kidnapping should be included as an agenda in the peace talks

3.. Human rights violations

COT, MLA, KOR, ZAM; SUL, TAW, BUT, BAG, ILI Address human rights violations Stop abuses from both the military and rebel groups Respect international humanitarian laws and human rights protocols give justice and compensation to victims of armed conflict and human rights violations Justice to the victims of Maguindanao Massacre Massive IEC on human rights Justice for the innocent civilians not involved in any conflict including political killings Both MILF and AFP should be educated on IHL (International Humanitarian Law) Accountability and responsibility of those who man the Military Institution during war and sanction who violated the rules in peace talks Disarmament and demilitarization (abolition of private armies, etc.)Ensure surrender of arms of groups and armiesConduct an inventory of loose firearms. Implement stricter laws at the Philippine ports to control the entry of high-powered ammunitions Both parties should observe human rights protocols in the context of the peace process.

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Conduct a study on the impact of the long-term peace negotiation among the people in the armed conflict -affected areas. Equal treatment for all; no discrimination Broaden and strengthen the laws and rights about the agreement Give justice to human rights victims and to victims of extrajudicial killings Fix security problem and make people feel safe so no need for private guards or armies. Rehabilitate victims of armed conflict Stop recruitment of children to the MILF

COT, DVO, MLA, KOR, ZAM, SUL, TAW, DVO, BUT, ILI 4. Internal Displacement Address internally displaced people (IDPs); help women and girls for example, the evacuation centers do not meet their needs (e.g. basic needs like sanitary napkins) Conduct a study on the Impact of the long-term peace negotiation among the people in the armed conflict -affected areas To inform the government about the crucial situation of the victims The issue (victims of the war) will be included to the peace talk Talk to the military to be sensitive to the civilians To pull out the military troops in our areas before the peace talk began Informing the government about the situation of the victims Poor education among Muslim children. Lack of educational opportunity given to children who are left by parents who died during the war by the government against MILF. IDPs should be brought back to their places of origin because politicians are using them as milking cows. Calamity funds were used to fund personal services not public service (COT). ILI, COT, MLA; KOR 6. Understanding and Appreciation of Mindanao History and Culture Muslims are discriminated against for being Muslim (e.g. being refused by taxis) (MLA) Muslims should have fairer and more accurate portrayal of Muslims in media and textbooks (MLA) Discrimination against Muslims will end (ILI, ZAM) Biases and prejudices will stop (ILI) Biases against both Muslims and Christians (and vice-versa) are the problem. We have to reduce or eliminate biases. Hopefully, when there is signing, these biases will end. (COT) Muslims will no longer be seen as troublemakers (TAW) Pass and enact laws that will prevent discrimination against Muslims Conduct dialogues among communities to raise awareness Interfaith groups can also help; support them Also hold cultural exchange programs and interactions between Muslims and Christians, and even Lumads Educational campaign for religious and cultural cohesion Include in the peace talks how to address the issue on religious and cultural discriminations Peace education in the curriculum/ educational campaign to help eliminate discrimination against Muslims Government should regulate the media on the quality of information about Mindanao being disseminated to the public

5. Discrimination

COT, MLA, ZAM, KOR, TAW, CDO, DVO, BUT, PAL, BAG, ILI Education about the Cultural and political History of Mindanao -integration in the curriculum Write a History Book that the three Major groups of People agree to where everyone use in the classroom. Information and education about Mindanao Intensify information dissemination and education about the cultural and political history of Mindanao, focusing on the root causes of the conflict. This should be integrated in the curriculum. Insufficient or wrong information on the history and background of the conflict and the Bangsamoros concerns People, especially non-Muslims, are ignorant.Lack of info also contributes to biases against Muslims Inform and educate people more Conduct massive awareness campaign on the history and background of the Bangsamoros as well as the GRP-MILF conflict especially for Luzon and Visayas Popularize peace process all over the Philippines Generally increase understanding of the position of the Bangsamoros and their needs and aspirations History should be revisited and other sector must be also given consideration such as the IP. It should be maximize in resolving the conflict in Mindanao (CDO, ILI, MLA, BUT)

Clear in Philippine history as Muslims are Mindanao natives and live in the land; Conflict started because of land problems, especially land grabbing; Bangsamoros lands are being taken from them. Conflict is not at all about religion. (MLA)

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7. Education and Other Social Services

7. Lumads

9. Interfaith Dialogues

10. MNLF Implementation of Final Peace Agreement

c. d. e.

f. g. h. i. j. k.

A provision on the form of educational system in the proposed Bangsamoro Homeland, whether Madrasah or current system,must be included once an agreement has been reached. Quality education; provisions for sustainable educational programs to increase literacy among Bangsamoro and other IPs Construction of more school buildings Education of children should be also given priority in terms of budget allocation Education should help raise the awareness of the people about GRP-MILF issue and issues related to peace. Peace advocacy should be integrated in the school curriculum Social services should reach to Muslim areas and remote areas of the IP Poor education among Muslim children. Lack of educational opportunity given to children who are left by parents who died during the war by the government against MILF. Enhance the form of education through implementing it at all levels (in the elementary up to tertiary level) religiously with regards to Islamic governance. The Government should treat this issue as important. Educate them in order to prevent them from doing criminal acts in the future and to prevent them from wanting to become rebels and exercise vengeance. Islamic education would also yield value transformation Prioritize education (free elementary and secondary education, with miscellaneous fees covered) OSY to be given the priority in terms of education, skills training and livelihood assistance; Madaris education to be discussed in the peace process where Islamic values system are integrated in the curriculum Free education should be given. (KOR, BUT, ILI, TAW, SUL, ZAM) Respect of IPRA law Recognition of the rights of the IPs by respecting and acknowledging their territorial domain codification of culture and tradition of different tribe within Mindanao stakeholder Participation in all process of the peace negotiations and post-agreement signing (COT, CDO, ZAM; BUT; PAL, BAG, ILI) Inter-faith and intra-faith dialogue between and among Muslims and Christians Conduct interfaith dialogue Consider cultural differences Respect and understand the culture and religion of others There should be an agreement between Muslim and Christian recognizing and respecting each others cultural belief and tradition The need for the creation of interfaith forum for people to know and better understand each other; to foster an environment where there is respect, acceptance and solidarity to each and every culture. (ZAM) There should be interfaith dialogue and activity to restore the brotherhood of Muslim and Christian and to restore mens relationship with God (ZAM, COT, ILI, BUT) Implementation of MNLF Peace Agreement the issues between the Philippine government and the MNLF should be settled first before granting the demands of the MILF Integration of 1996 AFP- dividends of peace / Success stories to share not just much but at least one or two from he province can share their experiences and results of their experiences. Cull out success factors, lessons learned, and strategies used by the GRP during the pre signing of the September 2, 1996 final peace agreement. GRP may also consider both in the MILF and NPA should an agreement be reached like that of the post programs and projects initiated that facilitated the building of MNLF confidence to work with the GRP in rehabilitation and transformation of conflict affected communities i.e. Peace and Development Communities (PDC) are being mobilized by a Peace and Development Advocates (PDAs) who are MNLF combatants but now working as towards peace and development of their villages with links to Government agencies and other donor agencies. Replicate good practices that work- PDC transformation of PDA modeling (peace and development Advocates) The government must show seriousness of purpose and bring back to the MNLF the concerns. The government must implement fully the Final Peace Agreement especially the payment of benefits to the MNLF. The MILF should enjoin themselves with the MNLF. Tap and maintain the MNLF-PDA in the quest for peace. Poverty

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11. ARMM

12. Culture of Peace/ Peace Constituency Building

l. MNLF-GRP Agreement to be witnessed by international organizations. m. Follow the peace agreement. GRP must implement the 1996 Peace Agreement. n. The government must clear the issue regarding peace talk agreement. o. MNLF peace talks must be addressed first before proceeding to MILF peace talks. (ZAM, SUL, COT, ILI) Evaluate performance of ARMM post-Ampatuan massacre Abolish ARMM Movement for reforms in ARMM Corruption Auditing of funds in ARMM (ZAM, COT, TAW, ILI) Culture of Peace Tracing and focusing on the root causes of the conflict Sustain and strengthen the culture of Peace Support Community peace initiative programs Sustainability of the gains of the peace talks Change of attitude and proper use of words e.g. why not say Philippine Conflict instead of Mindanao Conflict Disable an enabling environment for violence and war. Dismantle all the structures and systems that support it. Peace education Create an environment for peace instead, by starting with providing basic sustenance to all peoples. Consider the interests and impacts of any Agreement on the rest of Mindanaw. Include them in the dialogues, especially those most affected, even if they are not Bangsamoro. Conduct of continuous dialogues for peace Sustain and strengthen the culture of Peace Support Community peace initiative programs Unity and brotherhood must be in the heart and mind on those who are working for peace. Communication Peace constituency building Involving other stakeholders and sectors in the peace process and addressing their own issues as well (i.e. Lumad, women, CSOs, civilians in general, other stakeholders) Peace formal Agenda: it initiates public participation in the whole peace process. Have walk for peace and peace movement activity. (ILI, CDO, BAC, ZAM) Media reportage/mileage as regards the peace shall be made impartial at all times, and not discriminatory against the bangsamoro people enjoin ABS-CBN, GMA to include in their program about the peace talks (i.e. Iboto mo, i-patrol mo) Media role/ in social change. What agreements exist that they are respected? Make media reporting of issues fair and unbiased (i.e., reporting should not label Muslims and put them in a bad light) (KOR, ZAM, ILI, MLA) Proper collaboration and synchronization of government agencies Territorial Mapping Conduct survey prior to issuance of CADT Compensation for Bangsamoros and Lumads who were displaced of their lands (COT, CDO, ILI) Study and teach conflict management. For the soldiers, let them study and understand what Rido is among the Muslims. Perhaps also train them to become community organizers. (COT, CDO, ILI) Representation in the peace negotiations National Action Plan (ZAM, COT, CDO, BAC, ILI, MLA) There should be also peace talks about mining issues as source of conflict Regulate entry and operation of mining industries Address illegal logging as one of the source of local conflicts and source of local funds of politicians LGU should be careful in the utilization of local resources as one of the source of local conflicts (CDO)

12. Role of Media

13. Land tenure

Overlapping of boundaries and claims Conflicting laws and policies

14. Rido 15. Womens Agenda 16. Environment

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17. Security Reforms

If they are sincere the government and the MILF should be sincere on the aims of the peace process there are lots of bloodsheds in the past that should be stopped with the cooperation of both parties. We hope that the national government will seriously monitor and established an office/satellite office in the heart of the area wherein the conflict area particularly in the North/South/Central Mindanao and even the Municipal Level affected. There no real office who handle this problem Its an off and on. The MILF commanders responsible for the killings and destruction in Lanao Del Norte must be brought to justice. (TAW, (ILI)

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APPENDIX B. LIST OF RESOURCE PERSONS

RESOURCE PERSONS ON THE GRP POSITION

DR. RONALD ADAMAT Member GRP Peace Panel for Talks with the MILF

RESOURCE PERSONS ON THE MILF POSITION

PROF. ABHOUD SYED LINGGA Executive Director Institute of Bangsamoro Studies

DR. BAE JANENA TITO Former Commissioner Mindanao Consultative Commission

ATTY. SUHARTO AMBOLODTO Vice-Chair Siad Initiatives in Mindanao Convergence for Asset Reform and Regional Development

DR. GUIMBA POINGAN Mindanao State University

USTADZ MIKE EBRAHIM Deputy Secretary General National Ulama League of the Philippines

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APPENDIX C: CLARIFICATORY QUESTIONS

After the presentation on the GRP and MILF perspectives, the floor was opened for Clarificatory Questions. Participants in the plenary session wrote their inquiries on small sheets of paper. The facilitator threw the various points to respective speakers. The questions here are clustered according to subject matter and arranged alphabetically. The instructions given to participants were to raise only clarificatory questions on the matters tackled by the resource persons. Questions unrelated to the topics discussed were not read by the facilitator. But for purposes of documentation, all questions were included here. ABU SAYYAF GROUP Are there any plan of the government to solve the issues on abu-sayyaf, aside from apprehend them. There are a lot of people apprehended by mistaken identity. (ZAM) How government is handling/resolving MILF involvement with ASG kidnapping? (ZAM) Can we request the AFP representative on the peace process to say something on Abusayyaf to the kidnapping activities affecting MILF particularly in Basilan? (ZAM) If MILF/Bangsamoro is serious on peace... why Abusayap, kidnap for ransom... nandyan pa rin sa Mindanao? (BAC)

ADMINISTRATIVE REGION Cant the government set up applied to the Cordillerans be applied to the Bangsamoro without having them autonomous? Why not administrative like the Cordillera? (BAG)

AGRARIAN REFORM Atty. Ambolodto: on agrarian reforms-- should govt. allow reforms for them, what particular reforms would these be? (Give us 1 or 2 particular reforms that they want to be granted) (BAC)

ALL-OUT WAR Kung tutuusin napakalaki ng nagastos ng pamahalaan hinggil sa usaping pangkapayapaan, at lalo lang lumobo ang problema. Ako bilang mamamayan kasama ang aking pamilya ay sumusunod sa ating Saligang Batas. Kayo, tayo, na hindi kabilang sa Bangsamoro ay di tayo nanggugulo. Andiyan pa ang NPA na isa ring problema sa peace and order. Rekomendasyon: all-out war sa lahat ng armadong grupo laban sa gobyerno. (MLA) Are they, the Bangsamoro, questions the deeds of Mr. Ampatuan? (BAC) Why do the Ampatuans owned vast tract of lands? (ILI) The Ampatuans in Cotabato own the wide tract of land but they are not migrants. Is it alright if their lands will be divided by the natives who consider themselves as Moro? (ILI)

AMPATUAN

ANCESTRAL DOMAIN Ano ang mangyari sa Cotabato City kung mapagbigyan ang hingi ng MILF na ancestral Domain? (COT) Bakit parang binibigyan ng focus ng gobyerno ang mga issue ng MILF lalo nasa Ancestral Domain pero hindi pa rin ito mapapatupad ang Ancestral Domain issues ng indigenous peoples? (COT) There had been issues related to the ancestral domain, some people in power who are abusive on claiming even the lands that are already owned and titled by some families who live long time ago, yet because of the issue open the ancestral domain, tracing their history
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and all, they would claim those lands are theirs. How do we define clearly the issue on ancestral domain? (ZAM) What are the essentials involve in the ancestral domain that will satisfy the Bangsamoro request but declared by the Supreme Court unconstitutional? (BAC)

ARMED GROUPS How do we consider and treat other armed groups such as NPA, CPP, ABU-SAYYAF and etc. in the peace negotiation process? (CDO) Papano kung magkasundo sa MILF, wala na bang susulpot na ibang grupo? (PAL)

ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) The GRP citing the issues on ARMM provision but they do not even respect the whole ARMM provision. In fact, more or less 10% of the agreement was only implemented, but 90% was dissolved. (KOR) The ARMM was established because of the peace agreement between GRP and MNLF. The ARMM is already granted a lot of government support, but it seems that this only made some ruling clans richer but did not make any improvement in ordinary Bangsamoro peoples lives. What is the guarantee that after the peace talks and an agreement is reached, the ordinary Bangsamoro people will benefit and have improved lives? (KOR) How can ARMM be a solution to autonomy when even ARMM is not doing well its part for service? (SUL) Ang enhanced autonomy ba ay isang senyales sa pagiging sensero ng GRP, kahit ito ay di masyado kasali sa usapan pangkapayapaan sa loob ng halos 14 years? (SUL) Di ba pwede extend or improve ng ARMM sa kasalukuyang involvement as a corrupt institution? (SUL) Is there a word 'autonomy' for the Muslims in the declaration of state policy provided for under the Philippine Constitutions? If yes, why not absorb it as Muslim autonomy in a Federal System of Governance by not amending our Philippine Constitution? (SUL) What is enhanced autonomy? (SUL) The creation of ARMM did not need the amendment of constitution the fact that ARMM have a legislative power, why is the case of MILF there is a need to amend constitution? (SUL) What is the stand of the MILF on the counter proposal of GRP for enhanced ARMM? (SUL) Speaking of autonomy, there is a need to ensure that the ARMM region can become selfsupporting entity by legally incorporating its definitive and fair share in the exploitation of its strategic mineral resources such as oil, gas, etc., in the final peace agreement. This will show that there is good faith in ensuring the overall viability of the ARMM sich the basic consideration in the workability and efficiency of any autonomous set-up lies in its financial self-sufficiency. Can the government consider this speaking of sincerity? (SUL) Some people resent that we say we have a Mindanao problemshould we call it ARMM problem ? The ARMM is not the whole of Mindanao. (BAC) How will you address the fact that ARMM, despite the billion of pesos poured to it remains to be the poorest and most corrupt provinces? (BAG) Where did the money really go? (the money for negotiation). (BAG) The set-up of ARMM has similar set-up with what the Bangsamoro people as clamoring of, that is sub-state within a state, there is co-mamnagement. Why is there still a clamor for another set-up of government? State-sub state relationship? Co management? Etc. Why dont we just improve the management/administration of ARMM since it has failed in the past- as run by Misuari, Alonto, Ampatuans? (BAG)

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You showed the tables on armed skirmishes and GNPs of Region 9 ARMM and you said there are now more development efforts for Mindanao. Can you show a table reflecting the amount of money for development going to Mindanao in the last 10 years? (BAC) As admitted by the resource speaker, ARMM remains very poor and underdeveloped. What happened to the billions of pesos poured in since its establishment? (BAC) The financial management was not effectively implemented by their government hence people were not being helped by government. Is there assurance that ARMM leaders will truly help in the said problem or they will just use the money for their own? ITLA & other national government had helped implementation of government infra to addressed all basic needs but we dont know if the political leaders there are really doing their jobs. (DVO) Yong kasalukuyan ba na namumuno ng ARMM ay choice ng MILF? (DVO) Yong autonomy ba ay sapat na sagot na gusto ng Bangsamoro people or MILF? (DVO) Is it necessary to set up an autonomous region? In what way does this contribute to achieving peace, especially here in Mindanao? (DVO) What other powers must be shared by the national government with the Regional Government? (DVO) Are we assured that ARMM will be united under the orchestration of the MILF if the current negotiation will materialize? (DVO) Poverty in the ARMM is not a result of a lack of support by the government, but a result of the individual attitudes and behavior of those people who lived in the claimed bangsamoro area, in fact lots of money was poured to Muslim areas since before but then still no improvements re infrastructure, health, facilities, and other livelihood programs. Where did the budget go? Any valid and concrete program done? Can you give example? (DVO) When you say executive double to enhance ARMM, are you trying to bypass the Philippine Congress to solve this problem in Mindanao? (DVO) Unsa gani nga lugar ang sakiop sa ARMM? (BUT) Resource sharing and allocation in ARMM. There should be transparency in the system through auditing and monitoring. (CDO) Is there any concrete resolution for the education problem in the ARMM area, which has the highest rate of illiteracy? (DVO) The establishment of ARMM I think is the reason and basis for your autonomy. What is lacking with the autonomy youve got? (BAC) Initiative, solution or action thus the ARMM had suggested or implemented to resolve the said problem in Mindanao and what is the result? (BAC)

AUTONOMY Ano ang pagkakaiba ng autonomiya sa karapatan sa sariling pagpapasya? (MLA) Medyo nalilito ako sa difference ng terms na independent at autonomous. Kapag sinabi na ang isang lugar ay autonomous aling mga bagay ang puwede at hindi puwedeng pakialaman ng gobyerno? (MLA) Recognizing that genuine autonomy is key to solving problems in Muslim Mindanao, is the government admitting that ARMM failed in terms of giving autonomy? (MLA) When you say autonomy in the banking and finance area, do you mean the BJE will have its own Clearing House? (DVO) If the GRP-MILF conflict is mainly for self determination, is the GRPs proposal of enhanced autonomy feasible? (BAG)

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BANGSAMORO For the government: If a Lumad identifies himself/herself as Bangsamoro, why cant that person do so? Bakit sinasabi ng gobyerno na hindi puwede? (MLA) Can you please provide a brief historical background on why there exists a Bangsamoro identity, focusing on the sovereignty of BM prior to colonization? (MLA) Why is the concept of Bangsamoro non-inclusive of non-Moro inhabitants? (MLA) Ano po kaya ang posibilidad na baguhin ang pangalang Bangsamoro para iyong pangalang iyon will include the Lumads (all indigenous groups in the ARMM), Christians and Muslims all together? (MLA) Who does the term Bangsamoro originated? (MLA) Was this a name given by the stakeholders Lumads, Christians and Muslims? The power of name? (MLA) Ang Sulu at Tawi Tawi ba ay sa Bangsamoro? What about the other tribes? What will be the status of the non-Bangsamoro people under the Bangsamoro Government and territory? (SUL) I consider myself as a Bangsamoro, but I don't agree much on having another kind of Gov't which the MILF are fighting because ARMM is showing a very disappointing kind of leadership, so why pursue another like it? Will it not be wise to allow those who want to ask question verbally? (SUL) You have said that bangsamoro are the original inhabitants before the conquest, what should we do to those who are not longer here but wanted to be called bangsamoro? (SUL) Will bangsamoro give the land? About those residing in Bangsamoro territorybut don't want to be called or part of bangsamoro nationalists, will the gov't relocate them? (SUL) Are they also Filipino? Do they accept to be Filipino? (BAC) Do they accept/recognize the Philippine Constitution? (BAC) In your concept of Bangsamoro people, will you consider the non-Muslim inhabitants in the Bangsamoro areas or communities as part of the Bangsamoro people? And have the same right? (BAC) Is the Bangsamoro definition in ARMM document the same definition used by this present peace negotiation with the MILF? Why? (BAC) What is the Bangsamoros justice system going to be like? (BAC) It is funny to be making jokes about marriage and wives, but how do Bangsamoro men really look at the roles of women? Of mothers? Of sisters? Of wife or wives? Please make me understand. (BAC) What made you say that we are being colonized by the Philippines, when in fact we are Filipino Citizen of the Philippines? (SUL) Why the consultation with this group today will have negative results, do you think Bangsamoro will submit? (BAC) If Bangsamoro be given total independence, how would it create some precedence to other regions for self-declaration? (BAC) With ire/hatred in their hearts because of unfair treatment of other Filipinos, Muslims will have the tendency to be vengeful/abusive in the use of firearms, so how can govt. trust them on this? What guarantee do we have that such tendency wont be realized? (BAC) Kami ba sa outside ARMM na naniniwala sa Islam at dito na naninirahan ever since hindi ma-consider na Bangsamoro? (COT) Yong sa akin lang po ay gusto ko ng kapayapaan dito sa Mindanao, itigil na po natin ang gyera dito sa Mindanao. Kailan po namin makakamit ang aming tagumpay dito sa Bangsamoro? (COT)

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Ano po ang tingin ng Bangsamoro MILF mga mamamayang Kristiyano at Lumad na napaloob Bangsamoro claim? (COT) The Bangsamoro are also Filipinos, thus they can also avail and exercise all civil and political rights granted by the constitution, e.g. to seek an elected office, to freely participate in the management of local government units in their locality and avail of the support of the central government group. (ZAM) What happens to other groups (armed groups, ilocanos etc.) after Bangsamoro self determination? Why not just an administrative region? (BAG) How about those Ilocanos and other people from other regions who migrated to Mindanao to till the land in Mindanao, are they included as member of Bangsamoro, considering that they are there for so many decades now? (BAG) Bangsamoro people are also created by our God. We must treat them as our brothers/sisters. Is it not a matter of education/faith to resolve all these issues? MindanaoIssues???? (BAG) Does the MNLF represent the whole Bangsamoro People? (DVO) Mindanao belongs to the tri-people of Moro, Lumad and Christians, why consider only the self-determination of Bangsamoro people, what about the Bangsa-Lumad and the BangsaChristian? (DVO) Please expound the definition of Bangsamoro? How will this affect the non-moro? (DVO) How would you reconcile the conflicting definitions on Bangsamoro? Note: The government defines it as citizens who are believers of Islam. (DVO) As you defined Bangsamoro people, does this refer to those who are natives or original inhabitants of Mindanao? Are non-muslim lumads included? (DVO) Does Bangsamoro mean people living in Mindanao regardless of religion and tribe? Are all people living in Mindanao called Moro people? Why??? Is this problem political in nature? (DVO) Naunsa man ang nahitabo sa Davao, nga mao ra man diay ang inyong gipangayo sa gobyerno nga i-recognize ang Bangsamoro Identity. (DVO) Kung seryoso ang Bangsamoro people sa peace process, bakit po yung ibang Muslim warriors have engaged in banditry, kidnapping, etc..? (DVO) Bakit sinasali ang mga kabataang Bangsamoro sa away ng MILF at government forces na kung saan dapat nakikita sila sa loob ng paaralan? (DVO) Pareho lang ba ang Bangsamoro at MILF? (PAL)

BANGSAMORO HOMELAND Kung neutral na maituturing yung Bangsamoro identity, bakit kasama sa consideration kung ano ang isang adjacent area ay majority Muslim? (MLA) Kapag napirmahan na ang SONA sa Malaysia, ano na ang mangyayari sa Mindanao? Kapag nagpunta ang mga Mindanaoans sa Manila, kailangan na ba ang passport? Ganon din ang mga taga-Maynila pag pupunta ng Mindanao, may passport na rin ba? (MLA) Bangsamoro homeland if approved or accepted at its present status re: land area (as MILF proposes) will the Muslims now be scattered all over the country, or will they return to this so-called homeland? (MLA) Why is it the claimed on the Bangsamoro territory is limited only within the context of the autonomous region? (ZAM) What about claims outside the ARMM Region? How do the GRP-MILF resolve the issue? (ZAM) Why is there a need for an expansion of the sovereignty of the Bangsamoro where ARMM was already established? Plebiscitary consent for? (ZAM)

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If the Bangsamoro homeland will be approved, is it a separate state from the Philippines? How could it be? (ZAM) MILF demand entire Mindanao belong to Bangsamoro, Zamboanga Norte walang lungsod, barangay na sakop-ARMM ng Bangsamoro relieve Islam so totally exempted ni sa GRF-MILF peace process. (ZAM) If the basis of inclusion of an area to the ARMM- BANGSAMORO territory is majority of Muslim residents, and the trend now is Muslims migrate to different places in Mindanao ang Luzon and they grow fast in population, therefore eventually, the whole Philippines will become Bangsamoro? (COT) If election fraud, terrorism, private armies, rido and other similar problems cannot at this moment be effectively addressed by the Central Government, does it follow then that the Bangsamoro Entity can solve these problems? What is the difference then between the present system and the Bangsamoro in so far as addressing these problems is concerned? (BAC)

BANGSAMORO JURIDICAL ENTITY

CBCP (CATHOLIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE OF THE PHILIPPINES) What is the opinion of the CBCP towards GRP-MILF negotiations? (COT)

CHARTER CHANGE/CONSTITUTION If amendment of the Phil. Constitution will resolve the self-determination conflict in Mindanao, why does the government not give way? (MLA) Please explain further why the constitution cant be changed given there are already pressures in the peace talks? (MLA) The MILF demand for self-determination needs constitutional amendments in order to address issues and concerns therein, do you think it is right time to introduce constitutional change where election is almost approaching? Why? (SUL) Why not introduce charter change earlier if it is really necessary to address the MNLF/MILF demand? (SUL) Sabi po ng speaker, one nation, one country, one constitution. Paano kung ang constitution mismo ay hindi sumasang-ayon sa Islamic religious law. What is the governments stand on this matter? (MLA) Sa Constitutional amendment na isinusulong ng Bangsamoro o MILF: o o Sino ang mag-aamend ng Constitution? Sa posisyon ng Moro o ng MILF? Constituent Assembly ba? O Constitutional Convention? (MLA)

Once we make our constitution open for amendment, how can we be sure that it might not become a precedent for those clamoring for cha-cha? (MLA) Theres really a need for Constitutional amendment for both parties to abide for. (MLA) Would it be better if the Congress now will pass a resolution respecting any peace agreement between GRP & MNLF to be signed soon? This is to ensure that the next Congress will heed to the agreement, should the Charter Change be through Constitutional Assembly? (KOR) How long will it take to amend the constitution, and would the government be willing to spend on this while there are many people in Mindanao who are suffering from poverty? (KOR) In your presentation, is it correct that you mentioned that only ConCon and ConAss can effectively resolve the MILF Bangsamoro problem? (KOR) The constitution is very detailed. Question is what do you think should be the manner in framing the Philippine constitution? (KOR)
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The 1987 Constitution Article 18 can fast track in amending the constitution to solve the peace process. (ILI) Since you mentioned that there is a need for amendments of the constitution to accommodate some requests of the MILF, are you sponsoring charter change? (SUL) In connection to the constitutional amendment, what are the reasons behind why the government is not amenable to constitutional change to address the Bangsamoro grievances? (SUL) In case there is an amendment of the constitution, what article should be changed as far as the MILF is concerned? (SUL) Do you think it is possible or easy to amend the constitution just to please the Bangsamoro people for their own self-determination? (SUL) According to Sec. Sequis, the gov't cannot give in to all the demands of the MILF, citing legal, judicial, and constitutional constraints, and the government panel could not propose anything. (SUL) Outside the framework of the constitution, if the government is really sincere to have a lasting peace in Bangsamoro homeland, why not change the constitution? (SUL) How does the MILF assess the sincerity of the GRP? Do you think that negotiating within the framework of the Phil. Constitution will work? Where the GRP is using its own Constitution in definitions and its directions. Cant MILF assert it under its term of policy? (BAC) The constitutional amendment is very crucial in addressing the unresolved issue. What is the stand of national government on constitutional amendment? (ZAM) Is it possible for the Philippine government to change constitution to agree with international principle on right to self-determination? (ZAM) Arent the existing GRP-MILF peace talks bounded by the constitution? If so, does that mean that anything that will be agreed along the process could propose a change to the constitution? (BUT) Kung batas ng Republika ng Pilipinas ang masusunod sa usapin, ano pa ang pag-uusapan? Negotiation is bargaining no imposition. Please clarify. (COT) How would the GRP ensure that Peace agenda in Mindanao be adaptable and responsive to the needs of the Moro people if always tied in the Philippine Constitution and by laws? Can GRP possibly go outside of the box? (COT) To Dr. Poingan, nag ingon nga dili magdepende sa constitution, buot ba nimo pasabot nga dili na ta mosunod sa fundamental law of the land? (BUT) To Atty. Ambolodto: most of us in our group recognize the urgent need for constitutional amendments. Can you, show us, if you are part of a team to write down an amendment? How will you specifically state this amendment on an urgent need of your people? Pls. (BAC)

CHRISTIAN SETTLERS Tungkol sa lupa, ano ang mangyayari sa mga Christians settlers na may mga lupa kung masakop sila ng Bangsamoro? Paano ang kanilang lupa basta-basta ba daw yun mababawi? (ILI) For Dr. Poingan. Wala po kaming problema sa Ancestral Domain! settlers Pero ano po ang mangyayari sa mga lupa na may mga na nakatira, nagpakahirap para madevelop yong lupa, Ganon lang ba kasimple ang pagbawi ng mga lupa na yan? (ILI) Wala mi problema sa isyu sa ancestral domain! Ang among problema, unsay mahitabo sa mga yuta nga gi.claim nga ancestral domain pero naa nay mga settlers nga nagpuyo, nagpatulo og singot ug nagpakahirap para ma-develop ang yuta. Ingo nana lang ba ka simple ang pagbawi? (ILI)

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While it is easy to talk about having an independent state for Bangsamorowhat will you do or what will happen to those (Christians) who will not want to be part of it, but they have been there already? (BAC) Under the Bangsamoro governance how will it handle Christians or people who do not believe in Islam that reside within the Bangsamoro territory? (BAC) Since Bangsamoro would include the Lumads and the Christian settlers and Muslimswhat would be the possible engagements of these peoples in Mindanao once the state for Bangsamoro is in place? (BAC) What will happen to the Christians and other people not belonging to the ISLAMIC traditionwould take this independent state that is being proposed by the Bangsamoro but would not want to be part of it? (BAC)

CIVILIANS (See also IDPs) If the armed group has a problem with the government why then are they causing troubles to the civilians (kidnappings and bombings)? (BAC) Where are the representatives of them local government units and the business sectors? (ZAM) Kung diskumpiado o di kuntento ang mga MILF or MNLF nganong girahon nila ang mga tao nga walay labot? (ILI) Sincere po ba ang gobyerno sa peace talk? Bakit urong sulong po ang hakbang ng gobyerno? Kami po sa kauswagan ay masyado na bugbog sa gyera. Ginagawa kaming battle field sana po matapos na ang kagulohan dahil pagod na kami mag-evacuate. (ILI) What if the GRP-MILF Peace Talks Collapse? Im sure its the people will again suffer for the nth time. (ILI)

COASTAL WATERS 15 km. from the coastline is contrary to the archipelagic doctrine of the Constitution (BAC) How could we determine the 15km coastline? (PAL))

CONSTITUTION (See Charter Change.) CONSULTATIONS What are the mechanics to ensure that the sentiments of the people through the various consultations be ultimately made integral part of the terms in the agreement? (ILI) How can we be assured that the results of this consultation will be objective when the organizers who will eventually summarize the results have no representation from the Bangsamoro people? (COT) Atty. Ambolodto, it was mentioned that 25 years after the Bangsamoro Autonomous Juridical area has been signed, the entire Island and group of Islands of Mindanao will be under ARMM. Were there consultations with other regions and provinces of Mindanao. What if they will not join? (BAC) Why is the consultation Mindanao-wide when the purpose of the dialogue is exclusively for ARMM? There is no need for the other region to be involved in the dialogue since ARMM creation is already a law under RA 9054. (COT) Bakit ngayon lang nagkaroon ng consultation? Dapat taga Mindanao lang ang tanungin. Sino ba ang tunay na representative ng mga Pilipino? Mayor, Governor, Congressman, Senator o ang Pangulo? (COT)

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Dami ng movement na ginawa natin sa usapang pangkapayapaan tulad ng dialogue at iba pa, pero wala pa rin pagbabago. Pwede naming malaman sa level ng GRP-MILF kung anu ang pwede nating tutukan na tactics or movement towards Peace? (COT) If the MOA-AD needs community consultation, why is it that during commonwealth time in the declaration of All Moro Land is a public land and the declaration of martial law during Marcos time, and presidential decree of state of emergency of Pres. Arroyo, there were no consultations done before of the declaration? (DVO) The BUC thru kunsult mindanaw conducted many FGD's among the multi-sectoral groups, today dialogue mindanaw, another group of many sectors talk the same topic. What's the difference? Why? (SUL) In the newspaper the press release is that the constitution in Jolo was a resounding success. Governor Sakur Tan said he was not aware of such consultations, he was not even invited. Bishop os Jolo was not invited. (ZAM) Where the Governors of del Norte, del Sur, Sibugay, City Mayors of Pagadian, Dipolog, Dapitan, Isabela City is there a single municipal mayor present. is this consultation representative. (ZAM) When you consulted the local government officers of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi they themselves were not in favor of the demands of the MILF and this was reported in the Philippine star ant the reporter is here. (ZAM) As regards OPAPPs objective to extend this dialogue to the stakeholders, are we to assume that after this dialogue, another series of this dialogue would be conducted by us, but financed and supported by OPAPP? (ZAM) What happened to the outputs of the previous consultations conducted? (ZAM) Will it not defeat the purpose of the dialogue if the panel will not share to us the details of the dialogue? (BUT) Can we tackle the issues one by one for better understanding of the issues and points raised? (BUT)

DDR (Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration) Ang DDR (disarmament, demobilization, reintegration) po ba ay kabilang sa negotiating framework ng gobyerno? Ano po ang katayuan ng DDR sa kasalukuyang usapan pangkapayapaan? Ano ang paninindigan ng MILF dito? (MLA) Puwede po bang mabigyan ng amnesty ng gobyerno ang mga rebeldeng MILF para makapamuhay sila ng mapayapang buhay para mabawasan ang kaguluhan sa Mindanao? (MLA) Ang mga dinakip ng MILF ba ay tinuturing ng peace panel na political prisoner? Pinaguusapan ba sa peace panel ang katayuan ng political prisoners? (MLA) What will the MILF do in return or exchange for all that you enumerated? Disband? Surrender their arms? (MLA)

DECENTRALIZATION You mentioned in your speech that: Philippine Government Political System and Structure are very centralized (mentioned: Centralized in Manila/Malacaang). Question is: how do you view and understand the Local Government Law (Code of 1991) that decentralize authority and functions of National to Local Government Units? (KOR)

DIALOGUE MINDANAW Key speakers: Why do you choose to represent or interpret Bangsamoro for Prof. Abhoud Sheyd M. Lingga and the government for Atty. Bong Montesa? (MLA)

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Presentation: History seems to have been overlooked. In your presentation, you failed to mention the policy of settler migration that displaced many original communities (land grabbing). (MLA) Monitoring: How do we monitor the implementation of the dialogue / how effective is the dialogue? (MLA) Participation: GRP, paano imomotivate ang mga tao sa Mindanao na ma-involve sa dialogues kung sila ay gutom at di nila matanggap ang mga basic govt services? (MLA) What impact/output that we can see/hear after this dialogue that we didnt hear from the last negotiation? (ILI) Whats the difference between the negotiation happened last 2008 and todays dialogue? What can we expect after this Dialogue Mindanaw? (ILI) Is this dialogue to fast track the peace accord before GMA step-down from office? This very day a big rally is held in Marawi City insisting the Ancestral Domain must be included? (ILI) For fair information, speakers from the MILF side should have been invited so we may know the demands/sides of the MILF so that our participation, contributions, ideas are likewise fair. (ZAM) With due respect Prof Lingga nganong wala man gakuha ug representative to speak in behalf of the MILF. (ZAM) Gaano kasigurado na makakarating sa Peace Panel ang lahat na napag-usapan dito? (PAL)

DISCRIMINATION Maganda po ang ipinaglalaban ng MNLF/MILF, kung magkaroon ng katuparan, pero kung mangyari ba na mahiwalay ang ARMM sa National Gov't, hindi ba yon dahilan para magkaroon ng discrimination ang Christians and Muslims? (SUL)

EXECUTIVE DOABLES (GRP) The Government said that it can only grant actions regarding the governance of the Bangsamoro entity with executive doables. Can you cite examples of the things the President can grant to strengthen the political structure of the Bangsamoro Entity without violating the constitution? (KOR)

ELECTORAL SYSTEM Are you saying a corrupt electoral system is permitted to exist, despite the loss of legitimate autonomous rule and exchange for delivering votes to the ruling or current administration during national elections? The end result is a vicious cycle of violence the shapes by politico-economic forces. (MLA)

FEDERALISM Can the federal system be a better solution where people be allowed to decide? (MLA) Please clarify more on federalism. (BAC) We heard that MILF wants federal not autonomy, how is it true? Is it better for the Bangsamoro people? Do you want peace? Embrace ISLAM!!! Because ISLAM is Peace!!! (DVO)

FILIPINO IDENTITY Do you agree that in diversity, there is unity Lets look at the rainbow, it is multi-colored, when we look at it, it is very beautiful. In this respect, despite different cultural values, we can be united. We are one because we are many. Our identity is Pili-pino, pilipina, pinopa, Pilipino talaga. Hindi pilit na pino. Eto pa ba nga tayo? (BAG)
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GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE If MNLF and MILF Peace Agreements will all be approved by the GRP, how will the GRP resolve the issues on political leadership structures in Mindanao - MILF, as separate government, and MNLF a separate government also? (KOR) The questionnaire distributed when the program started is symptomatic of a questionable context of form of government and the call for charter change? Why should this be included? What is this peace conf. for? (BAC)

GOOD GOVERNANCE My Professor at MSU once told us that billions of money (in dollar & in Peso) were really poured out at the Moro province or ARMM region. How can you convince the Mindanao people to believe in the Moro government if most of the reports was discouraging with poor governance massive corruption & irregularities and to mention so much lawlessness and crime. How can you guarantee good governance if this agreement be open? (COT)

GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES (GRP) Ano po ang hinantungan ng pag-uusap ng GRP at MILF? Ano po ba ang matinding solusyon para matigil ang digmaan? Sana ibigay na ng gobyerno ang hinihingi ng Bangsamoro. Hindi na ba matatapos ang gulo sa Mindanao? (COT) Malayo po ang kapayapaan sa kagustuhan ng gobyerno. Bakit kailangan pa nating idaan sa mahabang proseso samantala sa kanila naman ang kanilang hinihingi? (COT) Bakit ang GRP ay nakikipag-usap muli sa MILF na ang napag-usapan at napagkasunduan sa pamamagitan ng MNLF at GRP ay hindi pa tinupad at ginawa ng GRP? Kung dialogue nga ito, bakit ayaw ninyong pasalitain ang invited participants? (COT) What is new in the proposal of the government? (ILI) Are there any proposals from the Bangsamoro that the government granted? What are those? (SUL) Dahil hindi nasagot ang tanong sa Ano ang stand ng gobyerno kung hindi tanggapin ng MILF ang Autonomy? Ano naman ang stand ng MILF kung ito din ang ipipilit ng gobyerno? (Autonomy) (COT) Bakit gusto ng gobyerno na magkaroon ng everlasting peace sa Mindanao ngunit ayaw ibalik sa Bangsamoro ang kanilang sariling lugar? Ang bobo ng gobyerno maliwanag sa history na Bangsamoro na ang buong Mindanao ay pagmamay-ari ng Moro. Ang ARMM ba sagot sa gyera? (COT) Bakit hanggang ngayon hindi pa binibigay ng gobyerno ang hinihingi ng nga bangsamoro sa matagal ng panahon? (COT) Ano ang solusyon ng National Government kapag hindi tatanggapin ng Bangsamoro people or MILF ang ARMM? Bakit hindi matatanggap ng National government ang proposal ng Bangsamoro people or MILF samantala para sa lahat ng taga Bangsamoro people? (COT) Could the GRP give the issues arising MILF demand? (i.e. identity, homeland, resources, governance, security, relation) (ZAM) Bakit ang GRP ay palagi binabanggit ang constitution in dealing the Bangsa Moro? Ano ba mahalaga ang konstitusyon o ang maraming buhay na nalalagas dahil sa guro sa Mindanao. (ZAM) Ontological basis should focus on the similarities of Muslim and non-Muslims as that of a poverty stricken society of poor peasants, poor slum dwellers, poor workers and poor vendors. Thus, where is governments effort to provide genuine asset reforms and genuine asset redistribution to all its poor citizens to be able to speak of genuine peace? (BAC)
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Is there a comprehensive study from the Government side on the life of the people in Bangsamoro area? In terms of history, socio-political cultural life? Is there a government program for these aside from peace talks? (BAC) Atty. Ambolodto: where do you think lies the difficulty of the central govt. to see and understand your issues... why cant they see all this? Have they not seen this before? (BAC) Is the Phil. Govt. willing to cede its sovereign power over a portion of Mindanao in favor of our Muslim brothers in its desire to attain lasting peace in Muslim Mindanao? (BAC) How far can govt give way to MILF demand in terms of constitutional change without dismembering national territory? (BAC) Unsa jud kamatud-anon ang GRP s panagsabot alang sa kalinaw sa Mindanao? (BUT) We, youth will inherit the outcome of this advocacy, thus we ask: Should ever the mechanism failed are there any back-up ton the former policy? (BUT) How can we attain the complete peace and stability in Mindanao and in our country in general if both sides will not follow what is written in the peace process? Are we satisfied of just a dialogue and without proper solutions to the problems of peace? (BUT) What was the recent status of the GRP-MILF peace process? (BUT) Sino po ba ang nagpasimuno ng gulo dito sa Mindanao? MILF o GRP? (DVO) What is the position now of government on the unsettled demands of MILF? (DVO) There is no permanent here on earth as the saying says except for change, my question is that how should the government comprehend such changing in negotiation, if Government has connection to some of the conflict in Mindanao? (BAG) Question to Atty. Suharto: did you make or submit suggestion or suggestions to GRP on how to contextualize the peace and development process based on your culture and tradition? (BAC) Bakit ayaw ibigay ng gobyerno? (PAL) Ano talaga ang stand ng government sa issue? (PAL) Kung taos-pusong malutas ng gobyerno and problema ng Mindanao, bakit limitado lang po and mga karapatang ibinibigay sa mga taga-Mindanao? (SUL) The government is not true when it said they want peace, with the style of government nothing but to delay the talk- the peace talk! (SUL) Anung solusyon ng gobyerno para matigil ang gyera at masulosyunan ang kailangan ng MILF at paanu hindi mabara ng politician ang peacetalk? (COT) What is the status of the GRP talks now? (ILI) To Ronald Adamat. pls. clarify further about the 3 boxes GRP Proposals. (ILI) Why do you not present the GRP draft and MILF draft lack of transparency? Why is there a GRP draft even prior to consultations lack of consultation? (ZAM)

GRASSROOTS PEACEBUILDING Suggestions/Recommendation: Intensify a spontaneous, deliberate, uninterruptive series of peace building programs in the very local level (forum, conference and workshops in addressing immediate issues) (KOR)

GRP-MNLF 1996 FINAL PEACE AGREEMENT What is the treatment of GRP on the September 2, 1996 FPA between the GRP-MNLF already signed and implemented partially? Currently, we are discussing the GRP-MILF Peace Agreement. Does the GRP treat these 2 agreements separately? Or harmoniously? How and what are the updates on these so the public will know? (KOR)

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Bakit hindi pa ipapatupad ang agreement between GRP-MNLF 1996? Bakit magkakaroon pa ng ibang agreement? (KOR) To Hon. Annabelle T. Abaya. You have shared that GRP is facilitating efforts on GRP-MILF Agreements. How then the GRP treats the Sept. 2, 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement? Will the GRP have different perspective and treatment on Governance Structure for MNLF and MILF for Bangsamoro? Please share your insights and the GRP position on these matters so that the public may know. (ILI) While the government is taking fair negotiation with the MILF, what happened to the 1996 peace agreement especially on the issue of complete sovereignty of ARMM? (SUL) It has been legally and politically accepted, recognized, and practiced that the GRP and MNLF have forged series of accords and agreements from 1976 up to now, how does the GRP consider the legal binding of these agreements, how does the MNLF view these agreements? Why are the MILF negotiators include the areas in MOA-AD territory when it is already declared as 'autonomous' under the 1996 peace agreement. Are we synergically solving " Mindanao Problem" or making it more complicated? (SUL) Bakit hindi muna ibigay ang full implementation ng MNLF and GRP peace agreement bago gagawa ng ibang usaping pagkapayapaan? (SUL) Some areas included in the GRP-MNLF peace agreement ay yun din mga areas na ibibigay sa MILF, hindi ba violation ito sa 1996 peace agreement between the MNLF and GRP? (SUL) Why is there another negotiation between GRP-MILF wherein the previous negotiation has not been addressed by the Philippine government? (SUL) What is stopping the Muslims from creating another group to represent them? The government signed a FINAL PEACE AGREEMENT with MNLF, then they started another group a year later with the MILF. Now the government is talking with MILF. How many groups will negotiate peace with government? Ano ang implikasyon ng inihahaing autonomiya ng government sa MILF sa autonomiyang alinsunod sa Final Peace Agreement 1996? Kasiguruhan ba na mapakinggan ang daing ng tri-people sa Mindanao ang Dialogue Mindanaw? Possible ba sa government na magbago ang framework ng pakikipag-usap sa mga nations/RSD struggle sa Pilipinas? Ang illegitimate administration ba ay legitimate to undergo and pursue the signing of an FPA? (COT) Bakit po hindi ma-pirmahan yung peace agreement between GRP & MILF? Kung hindi man siya ma-pirmahan e bakit di naman po ma-implement yung na-pirmahan na dating peace agreement between the GRP & MNLF? (DVO) Will the same peace agreement of the GRP-MILF not run contrary to the agreement forged by the GRP with the MNLF? (BAC)

HISTORY Regarding the use of history to explain the problem, the problem lies in the use of history itself. Do we have correct history? Or there is no correct history at all because we rely more on perspectives? Then, what are the facts? Are these facts authentic and verifiable or again manipulated to suit a certain agenda? The problem is multi-faceted that we need to consider so much information. (BAG)

INTERNALLY-DISPLACED PERSONS (See also Civilians) You cited statistics on number of Bakwits, physical/economic cost of war and number of deaths due to war. Are you referring to the MILF alone or are you including the MNLF war in the 70s? (DVO) So much has been mentioned about the alarming number of IDPs (Internally Displaced Peoples) in the continuing conflict. What are the measures taken by both parties to mitigate the problem? (BAC)

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In every war/conflict, the people caught in between, civilians are the ones who experience tragedy. Do the government/MILF takes care of the traumatic experiencethis inner unseen wounds to be healed if not addressed? (BAC)

ILLEGAL ANNEXATION Since the Philippine government illegally annexes the Bangsamoro homeland or without a plebiscitary consent the question is: If the Bangsamoro forcefully implement their own system of government without due process or without the consent of GRP, can the Philippine government question the sovereignty of the Bangsamoro people as illegal, or whatever? (KOR)

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES (See Lumads) INDIGENOUS PEOPLES RIGHTS ACT (RA 8371) The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) or RA 8371 states that IPs/ICCs want to implement self-determination and self-governance within their ancestral domain. These laws are not fully implemented. Do the IPs of the Philippines need to rise in arms and then seek negotiation and dialogue to so that RA 8371 will be fully implemented? (MLA) With the dialogue, may kasiguruhan ba ang IPRA law para sa mga IPs? (MLA) You made mention about the IPRA Law RA 8371, is there any tendency that some provision in the IPRA will be changed? (KOR) What about IP Rights R.A. 8371? IPRA of 1997 pass a national policy on implementing rules and guidelines of R.A. 8371, IPRA of 1997 and the local government code of 7160 on 1991. (DVO) Ang National Government nag pass through congress ng National policy and General Guidelines para mag-harmonize sa Implementing Rules and Regulations sa Republic Act 8371-IPRA Law of 1997 and Local Government Code 7160 of 1971. Sana may harmonization through policy sa Implementing Rules and Guidelines. (DVO)

INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE/INTERNATIONAL LAW Is there a possibility that the GRP-MILF agreement will take up in International Court of Justice? (ILI) If certain agreement will be signed between the GRP and MILF, Is it possible that the international law will be applicable if such agreement will found not accordance with the constitution and there is a need to amend it? (COT) Why does the Central Government not resolve the Bangsamoro issues thru the History ang international Law? (COT)

JUDICIAL SYSTEM Atty. Ambolodto: in the judicial system, does it mean to say, sir, that the Phil. Judicial System will totally be disregarded? Or will it be an integrated Muslim-Phil Judicial System? How will this be done? Pls. expound a little on this. (BAC)

LACK OF KNOWLEDGE/INFORMATION We, the youth, are not fully equipped with knowledge and info about the peace process, how can we fully understand the conflict between Bangsamoro and the national government? (DVO)

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LEADERSHIP Baka magbunga ang peace agreement ng mas maraming rebolusyon, dahil sa kawalang kasiguruhan ng mabuting pamamahala at taong puwedeng pagkatiwalaan? (MLA) Atty. Ambolodto: What came first, the bombing/shelling of MILF camps by government forces, or the blocking of main arteries/hi-ways by the MILF? I understand the MILF blocked main arteries going to Cotabato entry so government forces have to clear these hiways... Is the political leadership not the main factor of poverty in Muslim provinces? (BAC)

LOOSE FIREARMS You have mentioned about the problems of loose firearms and private armies. Why is giving up arms/firearms not made as a condition for genuine peace talks? (BAC) You said the three main problems are loose firearms, private armies, rido. You said we need SOLUTIONS. In your experience what is your ANALYSIS of why we have the above problemsa good solution is based on good analysiswhat is your analysis? (BAC

LUMADS What is the difference between the Lumads and the Muslims? (ILI) There was MNLF, now MILFwhat will be guarantees or at the minimum, safeguards that no new armed groups will arise for another round of long-winded negotiation? The nonMuslim lumads also want self-determination. Will they have to rebel before their cries are heard (cause it seems the GRP only take seriously that armed lib. Movements)? (BAC) Since Bangsamoro would include the Lumads and the Christian settlers and Muslimswhat would be the possible engagements of these peoples in Mindanao once the state for Bangsamoro is in place? (BAC) Simula noong 1968 marami ng namatay sa mga IPs sa pamamagitan ng crossfire, sakit, gutom sa Evacuation Center at hindi nakapag-aral ang kanilang kabataan. At ang pinakamalungkot nagawang Battle Field ang kanilang Ancestral Domain. Dahilan na patuloy at patuloy ang kanilang paghihirap. For them, ano po ang maitutulong ng Gobyerno? (COT) What is the guarantee that Bangsamoro will respect the right to self determination of the Indigenous People? Why the Bangsamoro does not respect the tradition between Lumads and Muslim brothers? (COT) Ang Lumad sa Mindanao particular dinhi sa North Cotabato, may kaugalingon nga territoryo ug boundary sama sa Ancestral Domain ug labaw sa tanan may kaugalingon nga balaod sama sa Republic Act 8371, Indigenous People Right Act. Sa hisgutanan Peace process apil ba ang territoryo sa Lumad sa bangsamoro Homeland? Kay kon apil man dili ko musugot. (COT) Bakit ang mga Lumad dito sa Mindanao ay laging nawawala sa eksena, ano ba ang mukha ng mga Lumad? Bakit hindi nerespeto ang Self Governance ng mga Lumad lalo na ang territorial boundaries Ancestral Domain na talagang Mindanao ay lupa ng mga pinuno ng mga Lumad, The Land of promised of Lumad Mindanao? Hindi kami matawag na Bangsamoro, kami ang tribong Lumad sa Mindanao, mga kaapohan ni Datu Mamalo Descendants. Bakit mababa ang tingin ng Kristiyano sa mga Lumad? (COT) Sa wala pa ang Spanish Regime, mayroon mang territorial Boundary ang mga Moro at ang Lumad, bakit ngayon sinasakop na nang nga MILF, ang teritoryo ng mga Lumad? (COT) Ang IPs ang 18 tribal groups, ang Moro 13 tribes palagi pa may gyera. Bakit 2/3 ang Moro sa Mindanao? (COT) Bakit may mga biases o discrimination sa tribo lalo nasa gobyerno natin ngayon? Bakit walang magandang pag-entertain sa mga problema sa Lumad dito sa Mindanao? Ang gobyerno biased. (COT)

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Bakit ang mga Lumad dito sa Mindanao, lack of employment galing sa Barangay level, Municipal Level, Provincial level? Bihasa ang mga Lumad na mga empleyado sa Gobyerno lalo na sa mga Teacher. (COT) Anu ang kasiguruhan ng mga Lumad ang makamit ang kani-kanilang RSD, kapag ang proposed BJE ng Bangsamoro ay maibigay ang Philippine Government sa kanila? (COT) Sa Peace Process sa Gobyerno sa Pilipinas ng sa MILF, nahisgutan ba ang mga tradisyunal conflict sa Moro ug sa Lumad people sa Mindanao? Peace talk vs. Moro and Lumad. Terretorial Boundary sa Moro and Lumad. Resources, Governance, territory (COT) Ngano nga makaingon man ta nga lumad indigenous people puede machristian o ma muslim? (ILI) For MILF, what form of governance are you going to implement within the BJE? How do you treat the RSD of the Lumads especially within the ARMM as the core area? (COT) Ang Subanon dili musagot nga i-apil ang Zamboanga peninsuka ug Misamis Occidental sa Bangs Moro homeland. (ZAM) Lumads/IPs have different religious beliefs to Islam. IPS may not be lumped together as Bangsamoro. Is this a correct view? (MLA) When we say that the IPs have freedom of choice, in relation to the Bangsamoro identity, is this equivalent to the equal recognition of the IPs right to self-determination? If yes, saan po ito makikita/hahanapin sa lenguwahe ng negotiations? E.g. sa discussion ng homeland, nakasaad din ba kung nasaan ang IP territory? (MLA) Sana sa lahat ng usaping pangkapayapaan ng Gobyerno at ng mga armed groups ay kasali ang sector ng tribu/IPs. (KOR) With your report, it was stated that the Indigenous Peoples have their own choices. Are they not offered on their rights to stay and be benefitted where they belong since time immemorial as stated in IPRA or their Ancestral Domain? (BAG) Consider the needs of the IPs in Mindanao not just the muslims (whatever it takes) in the drafting of the peace agreement. (BAG) What is the relationship between the lumads & bangsamoro? If they want to be called Lumads, will Bangsamoro give them their to their Ancestral Lands? (BAG) Ano ang latest agreement on GRP-MILF peace talks, at bakit walang malinaw na participation ang IPs sa usaping kapayapaan? (DVO) Ano ang napagkasunduan sa mga nagdaang usaping pangkapayapaan tungkol sa IPs rights to protect, promote, respect their tribal governance and self determination? (DVO) Kasama po ba ang areas occupied by Lumads especially the Mandaya, Mansaka and other indigenous tribes especially in Compostela Valley Province? Kindly take note that these indigenous people or tribes have already been granted their ancestral domain in the province under the 1997 Indigenous People Rights Act. (DVO) We are talking about ARMM and the Bangsamoro here. As far as the Indigenous Peoples concern, if ever this MOA will be signed, what will be the stand of the Indigenous People? Are we still in the picture? We are still part of the affected and marginalized sector. Mindanao is highly populated, also with indigenous people (IP). (DVO) Is there any peace process that involve merely the IPs? (DVO) IPs kinahanglan usab tagaan og kaayuhan sa atong gobyerno. (BUT)

MAGUINDANAO Hindi na ba matatapos ang gulo sa Maguindanao province? Ano po ba ang solusyon sa mga matitinding issue sa Maguindanao? Sa ating likas yaman. Ano po ba ang sagot para hindi masisira ang ating yaman sa mundo. Maam and sir!Kailangan ng marami ang mapayapang paraan sa Maguindanao kasi marami na ang naghihirap na civilian sa kanilang lugar. (COT)

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MALAYSIA Why is Malaysia included in the GRP-MILF Peace Talks? (KOR) Peace talk negotiation has repeatedly done in KL, Malaysia? Why not in the Philippines? Why not in Mindanao? (ZAM) Why the involvement of foreign/international institution in the peace process? Why the negotiation/ talks done in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia and whats their influence and cost in the Peace negotiation. (CDO) Sir-Mam, tanong lang po namin kung bakit sa labas ng ating bansa ginagawa ang usapang pangkapayapaan? Sa tingin po namin dapat dito sa ating bansa lalong lalo na dito sa atin sa Mindanao dapat gawin ang usapang pangkapayapaan. (DVO)

MIGRATION The growing economic and political exodus from Muslim Mindanao is recorded each year in the increased density of Muslim ghettoes, in Metro Manila Cebu, Davao, Baguio and other places. Is it right to say that this offers a poignant reminder that the change in the leadership has not produced the desired development. How can you say it [is] right or wrong? (MLA) Mindanao ang lupang pangako. Nasaan ang pangako? Habang umiiral ang kontradiksyon sa uri ng lipunan at dominasyon ng mga dayuhan na pinag-aaway ang maralitang Moro laban sa kapatid na Moro at nasa likuran ang reaksyonaryong gobyerno kontrolado ng dayuhang bansang Amerika. (MLA)

MILF (Moro Islamic Liberationn Front) Yun bang 11,000 armed men, do they genuinely represent the sentiments of the majority of the population of Mindanaw? Has this been validated? (MLA) Please shed light on who gave the MILF the mandate to negotiate (aside from it having the largest armed forces)? What right does it have to represent the Bangsamoro as defined earlier? (MLA) I think the negotiations should not be between the GRP and MILF (the MILF does not represent the Bangsamoro in the first place). It should be between the GRP and its people in Mindanao. Let the people decide!!! (MLA) Who gave the authority to MILF wage war? (ILI) Sa MILF ba, ang issue ho ba poverty, ang issue po ba identity? (ILI) Mas malaki ba ang forces ng MILF than that of the AFP? (ILI) Ayon po sa presentation niyo na ang MILF is the largest armed group (in Mindanao/Philippines). So, mas malaki pa ang hanay ng MILF kung ikumpara sa AFP? (ILI) Sir, ngano man ang MILF ang naningkamot sa moa-ad? Sila ba ang legal group/agency na mo-represent sa Bangsamoro people? Are they authorized to fight? (ILI) Papano kung pagbibigyan ang MILF magkakaroon naman ng another group. (ILI) To Adamat. You said, changes in the constitution to accommodate the MILF demand, what would happen, if another group of Liberation Front with another demand? Are we going to accommodate again? (ILI) You mentioned that the main objective of the MILF is the liberation of the Bangsamoro, my question is, liberation from what? (SUL) If the Gov't offered only the existing ARMM which MILF rejectsthis would never solve the problem of the gov't and MILFwhat if the talks ends in dead lock, what will happen to the struggle of MILF? (SUL) Ano ba ang ginagawa ng MILF para maisakatuparan ang kanilang hangarin? At ano ang pangunahing hangarin ng MILF? (SUL)

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Looking at the reformative act of the MILF, we see that it is for good and development of our country, why not the government give it a chance? (SUL) The statement that the MILF is the largest armed group in Mindanao coupled by recent facts of MILF-initiated violence after the failure of the MOA signing seems to indicate that the MILF understands only one language in negotiation, that is, to use the barrel of the gun to get what they want. Similar disagreements may again rise during the peace process. Shall we expect similar incidents to happen as a consequence? What is your wisdom? (BAC) Does MILF represent the whole Bangsamoro people? (BAC) This question is addressed to Atty. Suharto: Its very obious that MILF wants to be an independent govt. In this regard, if you succeed in your goal are you sure there is peace between the Phil. government and the MILF? After what will be the Phil. Government role for you? (BAC) Will the Bangsamoro have their own army? Will it be the MILF? (BAC) May we know if the MILF is the authorized representative of the people of Mindanao? If not why not leave them alone. (BAC) Does the whole Bangsamoro community give its consent to be represented by the MILF? (BAC) Is the MILF emphasizing that they want a separate governmentseparate from the Philippines? (BAC) What are the indicators that show that the MILF are sincere and faithful to the compact in case the same will finally be agreed upon? (BAC) Bakit hindi payagan ng pamahalaan ang MILF na bigyan ng daan upang makita ang kanilang kakayahan dahil ang ARMM kasalukuyang isa sa pinaka malaking gatasan ng mga polotiko corruption walang silbi sa Bangsamoro o sinuman? (COT) Ano ang ugnayan ng Ancestral Domain doon sa Organization ng MILF? Paano ang ibang grupo o organization na di sakop ng MILF? (COT) Bakit hindi po ba ibibigay sa MILF ang kanilang gustong mangyari na alam naman natin lahat na karamihan sa lupa dito ay pag-aari ng ating mga ninuno at inagaw lang sa atin ng dayuhan. (COT) What is the position of the MILF regarding the Christian communities occupying several lands in areas claimed by the Bangsamoro. (BUT) Ngano man nga ang MILF raman ang hatagan og maayong kaayohan sa atong gobyerno? (BUT) Gusto nako mahibaloan ang o maklaro ang buot pasabot sa MILF nga self governance? (BUT) Buot pasabot ba nga sila ang magdumala sa tibuok Mindanao? (BUT) Is it necessary that MILF must have rebellion just to achieve their wants? (BUT) Para sa kalinaw sa Mindanao, akong ikasugyot nga dili unta ipatigbabaw ang garbo sa MILF. (BUT) Simula pa noon hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin talaga magkasundo ang MILF and GRP? Bakit po gusting-gusto sakupin ng GRP ang MILF? Bakit ngayon ay hindi pa rin talaga masolusyunan ang ating gobyerno ang pagkasundo ng MILF at Gobyerno? (COT) Why should the government deal or negotiate with MILF when this group does not represent the Bangsamoro Nation? What particular group of people does the government represent? The IP? The Migrants? The government should represent the total populace of Mindanao? Are not the MILF and ARMM part and partial of the Bangsamoro Nation? In his presentation during the Mindanao Peoples Peace Summit in Southern Christian College. Datu Muslimin Sema defines Bangsamoro as the people who are born and reside in Mindanao embracing the Islam believing people, the IPs and the Mindanao migrants. How do you address this stand? (COT) According to Professor Linga, he is here but does not in anyway represent the view of the MILF. What we need is to know what is the ideal stand of the MILF since they represent one
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side of the peace panel? What is really the stand of the MILF on Bangsamoro identity, homeland, resources and security? How could we reflect on the MILFs stand if they are not properly represented? Since nobody talks for MILF, is there a secret agenda and positions that we are not aware of or is intentionally hidden from us. What assurance will the act of the Nation have that after MILF conflict will be resolved, no other Muslim group will not use up again to demand for further concessions from the GRP until eventually they will totally our Mindanao? (COT) Ano po ang tingin ng Bangsamoro MILF mga mamamayang Kristiyano at Lumad na napaloob Bangsamoro claim? (COT) For MILF, what form of governance are you going to implement within the BJE? How do you treat the RSD of the Lumads especially within the ARMM as the core area? (COT) Sa akin pong pagkakaintindi, yong sinasabi na tungkol sa governance na sinasabi ng MILF ay propaganda lamang na hindi sila, kundi ang Bangsamoro. Papaano niyo po ito mareconcile o ipaliwanag? Dahil ang ibig sabihin ng MILF- ay Moro Islamic Liberation Front, so meaning sa unang letra pa lang ay tumutukoy na sa MILF, di ba? (COT) It is not remote that the demands of MILF is unlimited if you give something they may ask so many things in the future. (ZAM) Are we sure that what over agreement we make with MILF will be acceptable to the MNLF? Is the MILF speaking for the whole Bangs Moro.? Was there a previous consultation /meeting made between the MILF and MNLF to points of agreement for the present Peace Talk? (ZAM) Hope to have copies on the facts information on the different unresolved issues. Especially the presentation. The GRP-MNLF has already signed into peace, but after GRP-MNLF, MILF comes out in the scene. If there will be soon GRP-MILF peace signing meron pa kayang ibang Bangs Moro group na lilitaw? Parang na-observe na never ending dialogue ito between GRP at Bangs Moro. (ZAM) Does it mean that the MILF is recognized by government as the forefront of the Bangsamoro? What happens to the armed group when the agreement will be implemented? (BAG) What assurance is there that the MILF will be satisfied and not demand for more in the future? (BUT) Why MILF members are very much abusing in killing some of the Filipinos? What are their demands? (BUT) Still the MILF is the largest armed group until now? (BUT) Una diay naa og wala sa GRP nganong gusto man sa MILF nga mag Sub-state? (BUT) Sa gi-ingon ni Dr. poingan nga kung mas daghan ang MILF kaysa AFP, then theres non need for peace talk. So it means nga nakipag peace talk lang mo tungod daghan ang pwersa sa GRP? Pila ka percent ang Muslims dinhi sa Mindanao? (BUT) Suppose the government allows all those demands by the Bangsamoro people, is there an assurance of peace and unity in Mindanao? (DVO) Sino po ba ang nagpasimuno ng gulo dito sa Mindanao? MILF o GRP? (DVO)

MILITARY (AFP/POLICE) Ano ang posisyon ng military sa peace talks? (MLA) Kung gusto ng gobyerno ng kapayapaan, bakit kailangan pa magpadami ng mga sundalo and send them everywhere to operate war? (SUL)

MINDANAO FUNDS (See also ARMM) Much of the funds are given to Mindanao but we dont see much improvement. What is the cause of the un-improvement of projects, where did the money go? (BAG)
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What happen to the funds? (BAG) How will you address the fact that ARMM, despite the billion of pesos poured to it remains to be the poorest and most corrupt provinces? (BAG) Where did the money really go? (the money for negotiation). (BAG) It seems to me that the negotiation between the GRP-MILF will still go a long way say, more than ten years from now. Forgive for being pessimistic but I think the government is spending millions yet the negotiation is in circles. (Pumodmod na lang sana sa mahihirap). Is there something better that should be done. (BAG) If the Bangsa Moro territory is so poor economically where does the funding of MILF armed group come from? (BAC) You showed the tables on armed skirmishes and GNPs of Region 9 ARMM and you said there are now more development efforts for Mindanao. Can you show a table reflecting the amount of money for development going to Mindanao in the last 10 years? (BAC) As admitted by the resource speaker, ARMM remains very poor and underdeveloped. What happened to the billions of pesos poured in since its establishment? (BAC)

MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) Ano ang tingin ng MNLF sa posisyon ng MILF? (MLA) Ano ang paninindigan ng MNLF sa posisyon ng MILF tungkol sa MOA AD? (MLA) Kung ganon pala ang history ng MNLF at MILF na pagkakaintindihan na sige kulang ang nakuha namin (referring to MNLF), kaya kayo MILF ituloy ninyo ang laban. Di kaya pag nagtagumpay ang MILF, meron na namang ipanganganak sa Muslim community na magdedemand na naman ng mas pa. Di ba magiging paulit-ulit lang ito? (MLA) How did the GRP treat the MNLF? What is the status with the MNLF? (ILI) How can we be sure that after signing the agreement with the MILF, the MNLF and other groups will not make troubles again? (ILI) Ano ang pagkakaiba ng MILF at MNLF? Bakit hanggang ngayon walang kapayapaan ang MNLF? (SUL) Since there is GRP-MILF dialogue held here, could it also be possible for a GRP-MNLF dialogue to be conducted here? (SUL) Why this Dialogue Mindanaw did not mention about the MNLF? MILF was originally part of the MNLF. (SUL) Ano po ba may kalayaan pa ba sa Mindanao? Kailan po ba maibigay ang gusto ng MILF para matigil na ang giyera sa Mindanao? Sino po ang tunay na may-ari sa ating bayan MILF ba o GRP? (COT) If the MILF and the government signed an agreement with the government, what is the status of the MNLF? (BAG) Ano po ang mangyayari sa MNLF peace negosasyon na hindi pa nga natapos ang kanilang pinaglalaban ay pumunta na tayo sa MILF? (DVO) Ano na ang status updates sa MNLF problem? (DVO If an agreement between the GRP and MILF is signed, will the MNLF accept more so respect? (BAC) What happen to the MNLF struggle to the RSD? Are they out of this picture at present? Why only MILF is the issue for compromise with the GRD? How do we look back on the history of Bangs Moro struggle? (ZAM)

Unsay status sa MNLF og kang Nor Missuari? (BUT)

Unsa may purpose sa MNLF nganong may massive recruitment of 1 MNLF battalion in every province? (BUT)

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Issue on Of Cost and Collaterals towards achieving peace indicating how much, how long, how far, how many, how else, will guarantee Peace in Mindanao. Additional question was will the MILF be the last concern? The cited cost and collaterals indicated gaps and disappointments to MNLF-SPCPD/ARMM efforts clarifying the following: a) what happened, b) how come it did not achieved what it desired to have a lasting peace in Mindanao. (CDO)

MNLF-MILF RELATIONS In terms of Bangsamoro issues and concerns, how do the MILF deal in bringing it up to the GRP? Will MILF and MNLF concerns be harmonized as one Bangsamoro concerns? (KOR) How about kung pag- isahin ang MILF and MNLF? (ILI) Is there no way to have a joint consultation between GRP/MNLF/MILF in order to arrive at a viable solution to the problem? (SUL) Paano magkakaroon ng strong bangsamoro Gov't structure if the MNLF and MILF kailangan din mag negotiation? (SUL) Does MILF and MNLF have different governance to empower the bangsamoro or they have different perception? (SUL) Magkapareho ba ang layunin ng MNLF at MILF? (SUL) Why is it that the MILF are owning the power, yet they are just representative of the Bangsamoro, who will really rule Bangsamoro people? Would it be MILF or MNLF? (SUL) The GRP is negotiating with the MNLF and MILF both representing the same people, basic territory (ARMM) (SUL) Why did the Government leave the MNLF problems without completing the demand of the MNLF and proceed in negotiating with the MILF (SUL) Given a chance, how sure are we that MILF/MNLF can manage well the region where in fact, most present leaders in the region are using the resources for their own personal interests and the much needed services does not trickle down to the barangays? (SUL) Why MILF in Sulu? (SUL) What is the primary function of MILF and MNLF in peace and development in Mindanao especially SULU? (SUL) Ang pangkasalukuyang pag-uusap pangkapayapaan ng MILF at GRP, mukha yata nakaligtaan at masanib sa usapan ang MNLF? (SUL) Bakit noon MNLF claim Bangsamoro Homeland-ngayon MILF na man. Ano ang kaibahan sa MNLF at MILF? (COT) If the GRP considers MNLF and MILF as one Mindanaw, why do the GRP needs to have a separate agreement pushed with the MILF and MNLF? Why not a harmonized one? (ILI) GRP-MILF agreed in 1996 for the creation of ARMM. Now GRP-MILF on the negotiating process. What is the underlying relationship between MNLF-MILF? Will there be conflict between these two groups later on? (ZAM) Ano ang kaibahan claim ng MNLF at MILF tungkol s Bangs Moro identity? (ZAM)

MOA-AD (Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain) Why was the declaration of unconstitutionality on MOA-AD not declared from the beginning or resumption of the peace negotiation? It was just found out during the signing. It means that other party was not sincere. (KOR) Comment on the apprehensions of the Lumad on their Ancestral Domain under IPRA-Law: Its not really a question because the MILF is fighting for justice in this. There should be respect, much more recognize the existence of everyone. (KOR) Some senators said MOA-AD is unconstitutional, is it true? (ILI)
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Ano ba ang ginawa ng OPAPP doon sa naunsyaming MOA-AD sa pagitan ng MILF at GRP? Bakit ito na deklarang unconstitutional? (SUL) Can you enlighten me on the issue of MOA-AD, why it was declared unconstitutional? (SUL) What is the reason why the Philippine government did not sign the MOA between the GRP MILF peace agreement? (SUL) Why did the Supreme Court issued a restraining order on the signing of the MOA-AD? (BAC) In the case of MOA-AD, kapag ang application ay hindi po dumaan sa public consultation ito ba ay consider unconstitutional and violence? (BAC) What is the government doing to protect the right of the Bangsamoro people to their ancestral constitution and other laws are discriminating to the Bangsamoro people who are continuously losing their lands to settlers? We do believe the unsigned MOA-AD could have best addressed their problem. (COT) How do you propose so that the GRP shall not be STOPPED in its position not to revive MOA-AD in any form? (COT) Why did the Supreme Court declared the MOA-AD when in fact the RA 8371 states if he who lives in the territory or area, since time immemorial should be recognized and respected. (BUT) Why the MOA is not implemented? (BUT) The MOA-AD can be reactivated by observing the SC decision as guidelines. (BUT) Aside from MOA-AD, what other steps helped moved to help peace reign in Mindanao? (BUT) MOA-AD is an initiated document under Vienna Convention it define agreement. Further, it said that signed or initialed agreement has the same effect. What is your comment? (COT) Anu po ang hinantungan ng pag-uusap ng GRP at MILF? Ano po ba ang matinding solusyon para matigil ang digmaan? Sana ay ibigay na ng gobyerno ang inihingi ng Bangsamoro para matigil naang matinding digmaan sa Mindanao. Sign the MOA-AD. (COT) Bakit hindi pa ibigay or pirmahan ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas ang MOA-AD? Samantalang alam nating lahat ng ito lang ang tanging solusyon sa problema ng mga Bangsamoro. (COT) Dili naba kaha masab ang kasamok nga nahitabo sa nanganging MOA-AD? (BUT) Time-frame or period of MOA signing and its implementation (CDO) Clarification of the details on the MOA-AD, highlighting the basis and sources of the provisions recommended proposal. Included also in the comment was the responsibility of the MILF in ensuring peace. (CDO) To Atty. Ambolodto: please explain briefly the cancelled MOAwhich the SC declared as unconstitutional. (BAC) About the free association part of the MOA-AD, are there other reasons given by the SC for declining it as unscontitutional? (BAG) As of today, is the unsigned MOA-AD just a piece of paper? (BAG) Bakit walang offer ang Government tungkol sa sharing of Strategic Resources? Di ba nag assert dito ang MILF? (DVO) Ano sa inyong palagay, totoo bang ang Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain ang isa sa mga dahilan ng kaguluhan sa Mindanao? (DVO) Ang diniscuss ni Atty. Ambolodto is basically the essence of MOA-AD. Is his presentation the same as the draft of the comprehensive compact of the MILF exchanged with the GRP last January 27? If yes, maraming issues/content sa dalawang draft na di magkatugma. Ano ang magiging prospect sa peace process, will it conclude before GMAs term ends? (DVO) May posibilidad po ba na maghahayag ang BJE ng kasarinlan pag natupad na ang MOA-AD? (DVO)

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(See also post-MOA-AD violence) MORO FRONTS OPAPP should open the book of CSO Bangsamoro Peace and Developoment Agenda, this will provide reference for gov't in dealing with peace negotiation with Moro fronts. (SUL)

NEGOTIATIONS (GRP-MILF) Sinabi kanina na ang best solution ay continuous negotiation. Ma-consider ba natin na successful ang mga ginawang negotiations considering na may 40 wars na naganap kasabay ng 15 negotiations na ginawa? (DVO) For the numbers of negotiations done by the Government and MILF, may we know the number of violations done by the Government and MILF? (DVO) Do you think that the imposition of the government in the negotiation table is the best way to achieve peace between GRP and Bangsamoro nation? (DVO) After many negotiations, problems remained unresolved. What alternatives were taken? (BAC) Peace process should explore opening independence of the Muslim communities rather than strictly and conservatively limiting peace to purely integration? (BAC) Can we have negotiation to put an end to the conflict and not just an activity in between conflicts? (BAC) Exploratory talks are potent approach in bringing cultures that divides our state of affairs. However, sporadic fighting is still going on. What is your comment? (BUT) Can you clarify at which points of the GRP-MILF terms and conditions do they disagree? (BAC)

NEW ADMINISTRATION To Sec. Abaya. Since the term of PGMA will end in 3 mos. and 3 weeks, is it not appropriate that we will leave to the next President and next congress the wisdom of reaching a just, acceptable agreement to all the stakeholders in Mindanaw? (ILI) By June 2010, new administration again in the national government, will it or not affect the peace process between GRP and MILF, GRP and MNLF? (SUL) The GRP-MILF peace talk was formally resumed last December 2009, is there a guarantee that the new President to be elected this May 2010 election will recognize the output of the present negotiation? What is the unique difference of proposed Autonomous Region to the present ARMM? (COT) By June 2010, new administration again in the national government, will it or not affect the peace process between GRP and MILF, GRP and MNLF? (SUL) It is the desire of the government to sign the peace agreement before the end of the term of the present administration, but there is only barely 4 months left, will these be enough time to give these consultations, dialogue, plebiscite and negotiation for a just and lasting peace agreement? Baka sa pagmamadali, the common good will not be genuinely addressed. (ZAM) Kung magkaroon po tayo ng final peace agreement between GRP-MILF during the last term of president GMA, ano po ang assurance natin na susunod na setts of our national officials especially the president na faithfully na implement the same proposed final agreement? (ZAM)

OIC (Organization of Islamic Conference) Why is the Organization of Islamic Conference not sponsoring the present peace talks? (MLA)
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ORGANIC ACT OF MUSLIM MINDANAO (RA 9054) What does the MILF think of RA 9054? (MLA) What are the gains of the Organic Act to consider expansion of territory of the ARMM? (KOR) Based on my evaluation, do we have a clear indication on the reaction of the GRP to the amended Republic Act that impedes the peace agreement? (ILI)

PALAWAN Why include Palawan in this dialogue? Bakit isinasama ang Palawan? (PAL) Ano ang magiging benepisyo ng taga Palawan kung maisama ito? (PAL) Bakit isasama ang bayan ng Bataraza at Balabac? (PAL) Paano ang mga katutubo kung saklaw ang 2 munisipyo? (Referring to Bataraza and Balabac). (PAL) Hindi ba pwede na ang ARMM ay i-implement na lang sa Mindanaw at wag na sa Palawan? (PAL) Through your guidance, can we form a Palawan Group? Dapat kasama dito ang MILF at MNLF. (PAL)

PEACE What is the best way to have peace in Mindanao particularly in Lanao del Norte and how? (ILI) Do this way effective? Because I have observed this is no improvement about peace and order between MILF and the government. (ILI) How do we maintain the peace in good relation between the Christian, Moro and Lumad that without no war? (COT) Ano ang papel natin sa usapin pangkapayapaan? Sino ang magsisimula nito? (COT) I want to clarify why until now for the past how many years the problem isnt solved. (BAC) There was a mention of a peaceful period after successful negotiations, then a resumption of conflicts happened. What attained peace and how was it broken? (BAC) Kemodo tu expecta tiene buen paz el un kasa c dos el padre de familia. How can you expect peace house has two fathers(head of the family). (ZAM) What are we really fighting for, is it really peace or survival? (BUT) Unsa may atong ihatag nga payo sa tinuod nga kapayapaan? (BUT) Literature on the peace process must have an extensive discussion on the ontological and epistemic logic of the concepts Muslim and that of peace. (BAC) You had mention the conflict between MILF/MNLF and the Philippine government is more than 40 years, ano ngayon ang pwedeng gawin ng mga kapatid nating Muslims, Christians and Lumads para maiwasan o maresolba ang problema o kaguluhan tungo sa kapayapaan ng Mindanao o ng buong bansa? (DVO)

PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT Even if we agree to have peace through granting the demands of MILF or MNLF, will this guarantee improved governance and lives of the Bangsamoro people? Do we have the blueprint of the development plans both in short term and long term for the Bangsamoro people? Take the case of ARMM. This is easier said than done. (MLA)

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PEACE AND ORDER In spite of the fact that peace talk between government and MNLF is ongoing, is there a concrete result that helps the improvement of peace and order situation here in Mindanao? (KOR)

PEACE PANEL COMPOSITION Do we have equal representation in the MILF Panel? Lumad? Christian? (KOR) Is the MILF group choose personally a panel coming from their group to the previous negotiation or the government appoint delegates from their choice? (MLA) One of the possible means where the negotiations of the armed conflict between the Moro rebels including other armed groups and the government forces in Mindanao may have to bring in peace are: Consult the individual zone commanders of the groups before the negotiation starts so that they could be selecting a delegate or panel from among them whom they could trust in representing the rights and sentiments of the groups as well as the rights of the Bangsamoro people in general but not the government to select. . . (MLA) Why are the members of the GRP-MILF panels all male? Why not include female? (ZAM) Collaborative engagement of MILF and IPs in the GRP-MILF panel. Panel composition should consider the sentiments of the IPs and other stakeholders, particularly in the affected areas. (CDO) Representation of the Indigenous Peoples in the peace negotiation. As cited, there was no mechanism of IP integration in the peace process composition and negotiation. (CDO) Two peace panel members have resigned due to lack of transparency and genuine consultation process if the GRP panel members are marginalize What more about US. (ZAM)

PLEBISCITE As a group of Filipino citizen do we need to be asked in a plebiscite if we would like to be incorporated to Phil. State? (BAC) If you are going to subject zamboanga to another plebiscite-why dont you conduct a plebiscite in the ARMM areas if they still want to be part with ARMM. (ZAM) May plebiscite about ARMM ba ngayong may 2010 election? (ZAM) Kung magkakaroon po ng plebiscite, yun po bang mga munisipalidad o barangay na sakop na ng ARMM ay makunsulta po uli kung gusto pa nilang manatili sa ARMM? Bakit po hindi? (ZAM) Zamboanga city has consistently manifested its stand not to be included in the ARMM on the plebiscite conducted, will it again undergo plebiscite? (ZAM) How do the MILF propose to conduct plebiscite/referendum? By city, province of barangay? (ZAM) The fact that other LGUs had already spoken in a plebiscite regarding the matter. Why is it the Government keep on insisting for another plebiscite? (ZAM)

POLITICAL CLANS/DYNASTIES Dapat sa mga autonomous region hindi monopolized ng isang angkan ang pamamahala para hindi maulit ang massacre sa Mindanao para may check and balance. (MLA) Malalim ang usapin sa kapayapaan. Bagu natin pag-usapan ang GRP-MILF peace talks, puwede kaya natin irepaso ang Pax Amerikana? Na ang konsepto sa pagpapasurrender sa survival na pakikibaka sa Bangsamoro. (MLA) Paano ang mga malalaking lupa owned by the Alontos, Tomawis, Dimaporo, etc. in Lanao del Sur? What shall be done by the MILF on those vast tract of land? (ILI)
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Dr. Guimba Poingan said that the lands of the natives(Moro) were given by the government to the migrants. Shall we consider the big families in Marawi, Lanao del Sur/Norte such as the Dimaporo, Alonto, Pangarungan, Tomawis, Pacasum etc as migrants? They own the wide tract of lands. What shall the MILF or the government do to exercise justice or fairness in distributing the lands of the country? (ILI) Why do the Ampatuans owned vast tract of lands? (ILI) The Ampatuans in Cotabato own the wide tract of land but they are not migrants. Is it alright if their lands will be divided by the natives who consider themselves as Moro? (ILI) Pwede bang pag-usapan sa panel na bawal ang political dynasty sa Muslim Mindanao? (BAC) How government seriously act/do in peace process? Why private armies exist? (BAC)

POLITICAL INTERESTS Marami nang proseso ng paghahanap ng totoong solusyon nang kapayapaan ngunit itoy nababalot lamang ng intriga lalo nat sinasakyan ng pangsariling interest ng political personalities. Ito bay pag-uusap lamang ng gobyerno at ng MILF lalot patungkol sa self determination o territorial expansion makamit na ang minimithing peace? (COT)

POLITICAL WILL Is the government serious in dealing with the problem in Mindanao? Is the government ready to include the peace process in the constitution or they just want ceasefire? Or they are just fooling around and playing around without having political will to address or solve the Moro political problem in Mindanao? (COT)

POST-MOA-AD VIOLENCE The August 2008 war in Lanao was rumored to be orchestrated by the government (as they term it as games of the general) but the blame was on the MILF for they were the ones seen in the battle field. Please comment on this. (ILI) May mga kasalukuyang lider na nagpapalakad ng maling information ukol po sa Ancestral Domain na syang maguudyok ng gulo sa probinsya lalo nasa North Cotabato. (COT)

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE PEACE PROCESS Peace negotiation must be anchored on the involvement and participation of all sectors of society. It is not defined by government alone, nor contending armed group but by all Mindanaoans/Filipinos. (KOR) Peace negotiations should be community-based, reflecting the sentiments, values, and principles important to all Filipinos as one community. (KOR)

RA 9054 (See Organic Act of Muslim Mindnao) RELIGION I think one of the most important reasons why Muslims in Mindanao fight for political independence is the religious aspect, where Muslims can implement fully the Shariah law. Can you please elaborate on this further? (MLA) You enumerated/suggested different kinds of governance do you think that one of these would address the religious aspect given that Islam has its own elaborate political laws that contradict Philippine laws? (MLA)

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RESOURCES One of the main causes of war in Iraq is how to allocate oil revenues among Shia, Sunni and Kurdish Iraqis. In the Philippine context, what would be the mutually acceptable sharing of revenues? (Question from Lahore Anjuman Islamic Society) (MLA) Why is it necessary to divide the mineral sources to the national government and the ARMM? (MLA) Bakit hindi kasama ang pamamahala ng likas na yaman sa negosasyon ng kapayapaan sa Mindanao? Hindi ba ito karapatan ng mga tao o ng mga Muslim na naninirahan sa lugar na ito? (MLA) Paano mabubuhay ang mga mamamayan sa ARMM kung ang kanilang ikinabubuhay na karagatan ay hindi ipagkakaloob? Hahayaan ba natin na ang ibang tao ang makikinabang dito, kesa sa mismong kapwa Pilipino natin? (MLA) Bakit 50-50 ang hatian sa likas yaman? (SUL) Bakit ang hatian ng mga resources ay hindi 50-50%? At bakit dito lang sa ARMM ang may hatian? (ZAM)

REVENUES Question for Prof. Lingga: is the 75-25 sharing inclusive of all revenues (individual income tax collection, national wealth, excise taxes, etc.? (MLA) Why is it that a proposed sharing of revenues if the Bangs Moro territory implemented is goes like this: Bangsamoro 75%, Central Government 25%. (ZAM)

RIDO I do not see the connection of RIDO to the peace process. Did you mention this to inform the audience of the cultural and religious nature of our Muslim Brothers? (BAC)

RIGHT TO SELF-DETERMINATION Question for Prof. Lingga: Ang pagkilala ba sa inyong right to self-determination nangangahulugan ng secession? (MLA) Bakit hindi secession ang panawagan ng Bangsamoro people? (MLA) Question for MSN (Mindanao Solidarity Network): Given the fact that the Bangsamoro people are claiming for a separate independent state of their own, what is the stand of MSN regarding this matter, being in an organization that promotes solidarity and peace among the Mindanao people? (MLA) Bakit mahirap ibigay ng gov't and kahilingan ng Bangsamoro, where in fact, clear ang definition ng self-determination sa UN? (SUL) Bakit po naibigay sa East Timor ng Indonesia ang independence in a short span of time, at hindi maibigay sa Bangsamoro with 150,000 plus death? Dahil po ba ito sa religion? (SUL) Majority of people in Mindanaw are 'non Moros". Do you think dialogue, consultations, and negotiations like this can win the Bangsamoro Right to self determination when even the entity called "Bangsamoro" remained a question on the part of "non-Moros" inhabitants? (SUL) For the sake of peace and the young Muslim generation, will MILF consider restudying its stand on self-determination? (BAC) Is self-determination a result of the Bangsamoros (majority) , not just the few wanting a separate independent state and solution to achieve peace in the country? (BAC) Ang MILF ay gusto ng independence for the Philippine government at gustong mapa Bangsamoro ang mga lupaing napapaloob o nasasakupan ng Bangsamoro as ancestral
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domain. Anong mangyari sa amin nasa simula ay pag-aari na namin ang mga lupaing yan? Hindi namin gustong mawala ang pinaghirapan at pinuhunan ng buhay at pagsisikap. Magkaroon po ng confusion kung magkaroon ng Bangsamoro dahil dalawa ang lilitaw na gobyerno at ang mga tao ay biktima uli ng lahat ng kaguluhan na mangyari. (COT) What are the various international covenants/instrumentalities signed by the Philippines on the context of the right to self determination? (ZAM) What had your Congressmen been doing to address issues like: (1) right to selfdetermination; (2) issues related to sharing of resources. (If these problems had been there for years, were bills related to the above ever passed?) (BAC)

ROOTS OF CONFLICT Ano-ano pa ba ang ugat at punot dulo ng pinag-aawayan ng gobyerno at Bangsamoro? Bakit di masolusyonan ng ating gobyerno? (MLA) Did we really address the real cause of conflict? Because up to now the conflict still exists. (MLA) You said that the GRP-MILF conflict is basically a conflict for self-determination. This may have been the historical beginnings of the conflict but I think if we look closer now into the conflict between the MILF and other conflicts it now boils down to an economic conflict/war. Its conflict for resources, who controls politically the area controls the resources, while justice, rights of indigenous people, ancestral domain, self-determination and other issues are truly covering up the main conflict an economic conflict for limited resources. Please clarify. Do the leaders truly have the peoples welfare in mind? (MLA) Can we not live in peaceful co-existence? When I was there from 1958 to 1973, it was only after the Jabidah massacre, that the real conflict arose. The conflict is not about domain nor religion. I feel it is because of politics and politics! (MLA) Isnt the conflict in Mindanao also a cultural-based conflict, i.e. ethnic prejudice and bias? Discrimination against Muslims is deep-seated in NCR and large part of populace support the war in Mindanao. (MLA) Purely politics po ang ating discussion at patungkol pa sa self-determination. We are not supposed to push our intellectual emotions to be victims of colonial mentality divide and rule in this modern age. We are supposed to create on how to form a perfect harmony, civilization, prosperity, but not a divisive political sentiment. There are countries which are not Muslim or Christian but are very developed and peaceful. Philippines should identify their true spirit of unity by transcending beyond politics, religions and vested interests, and petty selfish interests. Look at ourselves it seems we are very backward and selfish. Tingnan natin ang mga Aboriginals and lumads all over the country nasaan na sila? What to talk of petty self-determination of a small group mahiya tayo at mag-ingat. (MLA) The resource speaker said that religion and belief are not the bases of GRP-MILF conflict but self-determination. What other factors could have sparked the conflict other than selfdetermination? (KOR) To Dr. Poingan. Clarification, you said hungry man is an angry man? Do you mean poverty is the cause of war/conflict? If yes, then what can you say about the conflict now? (ILI) Why is the difference in religious world not clearly articulated as a source of conflict? Islam wholistic Christian decolonized? (BAG) You have mentioned the ill-effects of the Mindanao problem. In your analysis what do you think the root cause/s of the still unresolved conflict in Mindanao? (BAC) The idea of peacethis struggle for peace, did this exist before people from the north migrated to Mindanao? (BAC)

SENTIMENTS OF THE PEOPLE What are the mechanics to ensure that the sentiments of the people through the various consultations be ultimately made integral part of the terms in the agreement? (ILI)
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SECRECY Unsay kahulugan/meaning sa confidential? Ngano dili ipadayag sa katawhan? (ILI)

SECTORAL CONCERNS Urban poor: Bakit naka-focus lang ang peace negotiations sa mga armed groups tulad ng MILF? Ang urban poor sector sa Mindanao ay nagnanais din magkaroon ng peace o kapayapaan. Habang kami sa urban poor sector ay walang katiyakan sa paninirahan wala kaming peace of mind. Sapagkat sa bawat sandali ng bawat minuto o oras ay magulo ang aming kaisipan dahil iniisip namin lagi na kami ay paaalisin o palalayasin sa lupa na aming kasalukuyang tinitirhan. Kapag kami ay dinedemolish sa aming paninirahan at nawalan kami paninirahan, kami ay inalisan na rin ng buhay. (MLA) Political detainees: Ano po kaya ang magiging concern ng MILF sa usapin ng mga political detainees? At ano din po kaya ang maitutulong ng mga ibat ibang NGOs at lalo na ang gobyerno (OPAPP) sa usaping ito? (MLA) Farmers: From Janurary 2001 to 2009, under the Arroyo administration, sa buong bansa 1,188 ang pinatay (568 sektor magsasaka, 110 Moro people, 89 indigenous people) ayon sa data ng Karapatan. Paano tinitingnan ang usapin sa kapayapaan na hindi seryoso ang GRP at ipinatupad ang OBL 1-2 laban sa insurhensiya na ang usaping pangkapayapaan ang malaking ugnayan sa aspeto ng ekonomiya, pulitika at kultura, na sa usaping lupa sa magsasaka ay huwad na batas sa CARP at ginawang CRPER, anong kapayapaan ang ating pinag-uusapan? (MLA)

SECURITY ASPECT Even if there is already an agreement signing on the security aspect and rehabilitation and development in Mindanao, I would like to clarify how far has these agreements truly implemented? (BAC) SHARIAH Can the present Sharia court not meet the judicial system that you require? (BAC)

SINCERITY Is the government really sincere in this dialogue? (KOR) Is the government sincere? (ILI) Sincere po ba ang gobyerno sa peace talk? Bakit urong sulong po ang hakbang ng gobyerno? Kami po sa kauswagan ay masyado na bugbog sa gyera. Ginagawa kaming battle field sana po matapos na ang kagulohan dahil pagod na kami mag-evacuate. (ILI) Question addressed to Dr. Adamat GRP panel. Is the government sincere in negotiating lasting place with the MILF? Why is it that the concluded peace agreement with the MILF is not fully implemented by the Philippine government? I am afraid that what happened to MNLF will happen to MILF, hence, we just want our time, effort and resources. (ILI) What is the present status of the GRP-MNLF negotiation as of this moment? The government is not sincere with their commitment with the MNLF; delaying tactics, Why? (SUL) If the gov't is really sincere to solve the problem of peace in Mindanao, is constitutional amendments possible if its the only way to solve this problem? (SUL) The gov't is not sincere with their commitment with the MNLF; delaying tactics, your comment please? (SUL) Regardless of who we are, we are Filipino Christians or Muslims, its the sincerity of the government for the peace talk for the good of the Filipinos and the Philippines. Your comment please? (SUL)
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After 20 years and 15 negotiations without successful closure, there must be a question with ones sincerity? Whose sincerity is in question? (BAC) In terms of sincerity, how sincere is the Bangsamoro to resolve the problem on land reform issues? (BAC) In several peace talks, how do MILF assess the extent of the sincerity of the GRP? (SUL) Do you think that the GRP-MILF peace panel can ink/sign a comprehensive peace pact before the term of President Arroyo? If yes why? If no why? (SUL)

SPOILERS What assurance that the SPOILERS of peace will not file petition to the supreme court against any agreement reached by the GRP-MILF panel in the future? Bakit sila ngayon ang humihingi ng consultation? (COT)

STATE-SUB-STATE RELATIONSHIP Bakit po ayaw pumayag ng gobyerno sa gusto ng MILF na state-sub state relationship. Ano po ba ang meron sa state-sub state na iyan? (ILI) What are the objectives, mission and vision, target/ goal, why they want such request- substate? (BUT) I would like to clarify if the MILF would be a one state, what will happen to the Philippines if we hold that we are all Filipinos. (BUT) Isnt it possible to create another autonomous region, say, in the Sulu/ Tawi-tawi area which is the center of the Muslim faith and culture? (BUT) If the government possibly grants soon the wish of the MILF to become a sub-state, what are the ideas of the government so that the unity of our country will remain? Is it the granting of their wishes only gives fragmentation or separation? (BUT) At the end of your talk Prof. about you mention that you are not updated if the sub-state relationship-shared authority and responsibility of GRP & MILF or Bangsamoro agreement still hold in the proposed governance. Based from your study & research, do you think the National government will be open and accept this kind of sub-state relationship? If no? Why do you think it is negotiate? (COT) What will happen to the Christian community (including the Lumad) if ever the sub-state the MILF is demanding will be granted? Will there be displacement? ARMM is said to be a failure in terms of governance and economy, what else can the people of Mindanao expect from new or to be installed leaders? Why is it that the MILF is demanding 75% share? What about the share of LGU? (COT) Difference between sub state and ARMM state structures. (ZAM) Difference of sub state and ARMM state structure (ZAM) Apparently that state-sub state is corollary to the Associative state? How can you talk of this state- sub state when the sc has already declared the associative chancier of the MOAAD as unconstitutional? (ZAM) Why does the Bangsamoro have to be a sub-state of the Philippines? Considering that our country is not a state, why not stack that Bangsamoro be part of the Philippine Nation? (BAG) Why do they still want to have or be in a sub-state of the Philippines which is in fact they already have an adequate exemption in the Philippine constitution considering their religion and culture? (BUT) What are the pros and cons of a sub-state demanded by the MILF which is a compromise of their independence? (BUT) Kon ang sub-state mao gyud ang gipangayo sa bangsamoro, dili gyud kaha kini ihatag sa GRP panel? (BUT)
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Why is the sub-state the best solution to the problem? Is this process may create an underlying factor to trouble? (BUT) What are the issues MILF wants the government to have a sub-state? Is it advantageous to the Mindanao people? Or disadvantageous? (BUT) Kon ang sub-state ma approve ngadto sa Bangsamoro, dili ba kaha mag hari-hari ang Bangsamoro? (BUT) In a sub-state condition, will our Muslim brothers be relegated to one specific place or boundary to live their lives? Will passports or VISAs be required? (BUT) Do the terms of the agreement not mean to create a sovereign entity? Doesnt it have the full status of a sovereign state? Will it have the power to choose any form of govt.? (BAC) Shall it have the power to conduct foreign relations? (BAC) Ano ang ibig sabihin ng State-sub-State? (PAL) Is their a present conflict as to the relationship of ARMM & the Government? Is it not the claim of MILF of a state-sub-state system happening right now? (BAG)

STATUS OF THE GRP-MILF TALKS Address to Ms. Abaya. At this moment, 11:40 am, 9 March 2010, may we know the real score of what is going on between the MILF and GRP panel right now in K.L.? (ILI) Since the peace talk between the GRP-MILF has been going on, may we know the the updated result of the peace talk or its present status? (SUL) Since 1997 of GRP MILF peace talks, what issues have they really come to agreement and resolved considering that the basic issue of Bangsamoro identity has not yet been resolved? (SUL)

SULTANATE Considering that the Sultanate is the original and oldest traditional political system of the Bangsamoro people, then, why is it that in the peace talks between the GRP and MILF Panels, the Sultans are not represented. (ILI) Because, I believe that the role of the Sultans in the Peace process as of this time is very important as the Sultans are tested leaders even before the coming of the Spaniards. (ILI) Peace talk has begun among the people; peace has been a long life of quest. For the country peace has been an enigma seeking a closure. Originally, the MILF is demanding INDEPENDENCE but now MILF is demanding highest form of Autonomy. How this can be possible if R.A 9054 creating ARMM is not yet amended? The sultanate of Maguindanao is appealing to the government for the amendment of the said RA-9054 so that the expansion of the areas of the ARMM can be possibly done especially to areas dominated by Bangsamoro/Muslim people in Mindanao. Areas dominated by bangsamoro shall be exluded to plebiscite/referendum. (COT) Speaking of legitimacy, the sultanate of Maguindanao-Mindanaue Darus-Salam is the legitimate claimant to the areas covered by the peace talks, now what would be our role in the peace talks? (COT) The Sulu sultanate adherents are still up to this time claiming their ancestral domain under the government of Sulu sultanate that was illegally incorporated to the Philippines territory per history and legal documents. (ZAM) Ano ang status ng sultanate? (PAL)

SUPREME COURT What is the use of negotiation if everything is decided upon by the Supreme Court and the people of the Philippines? (KOR)
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Ang pinakamabigat na batayan ng Korte Suprema upang ibasura ang signing ng MOA-AD ay dahil sa Lack of Information and Consultation na inihain ng mga LGU officials ng North Cotabato at iba pa. Hindi ba itong mga LGU officials ay mandated by the constitution at ng iba pang batas upang magsagawa ng Consultations and Information on matters of public concern? (COT)

TERRORISM The actions of the JI and Ampatuan clan appear to be the same terror. How is the GRP and MILF panel addressing this? (MLA) Gaano katapat ang mga kasama/kapatid na Muslim tulad ng MILF, MNLF, JI, Abu, at iba pa, sa usaping Bangsamoro? (MLA) Who currently holds the decisive position in ARMM? Does the person still have a political control to the Bangsamoro? Does the 15,000 MILF still belong to MILF, or are they part of the Abu Sayyaf already? (MLA) You said that terrorism should not be applied to Abu Sayaff but they should be called fundamentalist not terrorists but these people are committing kidnapping for ransom, raping, beheading. Is this just fundamentalism or really terrorism? (ILI) To Prof. Poingan. You said that the word terrorism should be fundamentalism, therefore, if thats your view, the abu sayaffs activities of kidnapping for ransom, raping, beheading of their victims are acts of Muslim fundamentalist? (ILI) Why do we call the Muslim engaged in arms as terrorist? What then do we call the government that reduced them to terrorism? (BAC) Liberating Bangsamoro as an independent state is a precedence for a more killings of civilians (e.g. Ampatuan case). You have mentioned Mindanao is perceived to be an enabling environment for terrorism. How would you address that? (BAC)

TIMEFRAME OF THE PEACE TALKS Ano ang ikinatatagal ng usaping ito at may time frame ba ito? (MLA) Hanggang kalian matatapos ang negotiation sa MILF? Mula elementary hanggang sa pagtapos natin ng college, negotiation pa rin ang naririnig natin sa gobyerno. Papaano na ang ibang conflict, hindi na natin bibigyan ng negotiation? (MLA) We have been talking of peace negotiations for the last ten years and a lot of resources have been spent. This, despite, the more facilitators, more speakers, more representation, etc. (MLA) Do we have a timeline? (MLA) We cant talk forever. We need decisive leaders as we cant please everybody. [The] peace process, sorry to say, has been politicized. Bangsamoro people deserve more than promises. (MLA) Sa tinagal-tagal ng panahon na ne-negotiate itong peace agreement, at ito ay dumaan pa sa process of law, hindi po ba ito sa tinatawag natin sa batas na justice delay justice denied? (KOR) Is there a time frame for MILF/MNLF negotiations? Otherwise we will be negotiating forever? (SUL) Ilang negotiations na ba ang nangyari, the government spent millions of pesos na, pero hanggang ngayon wala pa ring final result. What went wrong? (SUL)

TRANSPARENCY How can the people know the content of the draft of the MILF and the GRP Panel in order that there will be transparency in the negotiation? (KOR)
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Unsaon ning resulta sa peace talk na magamit sa peace panel sa peace talk? Maminaw ba ang peace panel? There was lack of transparency by the GRP in the course of negotiations with the MILF. Nganong ginsekreto man tong talk sa Kuala Lumpur? (ILI)

TRIPOLI AGREEMENT Natupad ba ang the Tripoli Agreement? (ILI) Is the Tripoli agreement fully implemented? If not when will it be implemented? (ILI) On the Tripoli Agreement: can you expound this a little bit. Why was there difficulty in implementation of this Agreement? (BAC)

UNITED NATIONS Walang solusyon kung ang mag-usap lang ay GRP at MILF. Hingi tayo ng tulong sa United Nations at kung ano ang resolution. Baguhin ang constitution at gawin ang Federal Government. (COT)

US ROLE/INTERESTS Ano kaya ang purpose ng Amerika na hindi nakonsulta ang mga Bangsamoro sa pagsama sa kanila sa pagbuo ng republika? (MLA) What can you say of the analysis that the US is giving the government so much pressure to have a signed agreement with the MILF before PGMAs term ends because the US is competing with Chinas hold in Mindanao market. Ano pakialam ng mga Amerikano sa nangyayaring gulo? (ILI) What can you say of the analysis that the US is giving the government so much pressure to have a signed agreement with the MILF before PGMAs term ends. (because the US is competing with Chinas hold in Mindanao market). (ILI)

WAR (Causes; Vested Interests) Maraming beses nagkaroon ng ceasefire, halos umabot ng 10 taon na walang nararating na agreement. Kaya hindi makakaila na ginagamit ng mga tao na may vested interest ang yumayaman dahil sa usaping ito. Ayaw nilang matapos ang gulo. Bakit? Theres money in Mindanao Conflict? War is Business. (COT) Bakit ang pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa Mindanao ay hindi niya magawang isa katuparan ang kanyang layunin upang matigil na ang kaguluhan ng sagon ay makapamuhay na tayong lahat ng mapayapa at masagana. Bakit hindi matigil-tigil ang mga kaguluhan sa ating bansa? (COT) Kung mahirap sa Mindanao, saan nanggaling ang pera na pambili ng armas ng MILF? Para sa akin, hindi mahirap ang Mindanao dahil may perang pambili ng armas (BAC) If the Bangsa Moro territory is so poor economically where does the funding of MILF armed group come from? (BAC) You showed the tables on armed skirmishes and GNPs of Region 9 ARMM and you said there are now more development efforts for Mindanao. Can you show a table reflecting the amount of money for development going to Mindanao in the last 10 years? (BAC) As admitted by the resource speaker, ARMM remains very poor and underdeveloped. What happened to the billions of pesos poured in since its establishment? (BAC)

WOMENS PARTICIPATION Two of the panel members resigned, we hope to have women to be appointed. (ILI) For Secretary Abaya. There were two GRP Peace Panel members who resigned. May replacement na ba? We hope that they are women members. (ILI)
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How are women involved in the Bangsamoro quest for self-determination? (BAC) What role do the Bangsamoro women play in the peace process? (BAC)

APPENDIX D: BRIEF BACKGROUND AND HISTORY OF THE GRP-MILF PEACE TALKS

The current GRP-MILF Peace Talks started on January 7, 1997 when the two parties first met to set and define the agenda for the formal peace talks. The MILF proposed a single agenda, which is to solve the Bangsamoro problem. A. THE MINDANAO CONFLICT AND THE BANGSAMORO ASPIRATIONS The Mindanao conflict reflects the ongoing struggle of the Philippines Bangsamoro people to assert their distinct identity, history, land and culture, against what they consider as discrimination by the national government and the majority population. Before the Philippines was colonized by the Spaniards and later by the Americans, they already had their own political institutions and economic structures. They considered themselves a free nation assimilated to the Philippines against their consent. The Bangsamoro people assert their right to self-determination, a right that is recognized by the United Nations. The right to self-determination involves the right of peoples to determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. Self-determination has two essential aspects. Internal aspects involve self-governance, social and economic development, culture, internal security/police, judicial matters and social services. External aspects involve national defense, foreign affairs, currency, immigration and postal services. B. THE BANGSAMORO PROBLEM The Bangsamoro problem, according to the MILF, involves wide-ranging issues that include the following nine (9) key items: 1. Ancestral domain; 2. Displaced and landless Bangsamoro; 3. Destruction of properties and war victims; 4. Human rights issues; 5. Social and cultural discrimination; 6. Corruption of the mind and the moral fiber; 7. Economic inequities and widespread poverty; 8. Exploitation of natural resources; and 9. Agrarian-related issues. The persistence of this Bangsamoro problem is among the underlying reasons that triggered the armed rebellion of the MILF, which it has been waging since the late 1970s. The MILF was founded by Salamat Hashim after he left the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leadership in 1977. The search for the resolution to this Bangsamoro problem is at the heart of the current negotiation.

C. PEACE EFFORTS AND THEIR OUTCOMES War is a messy encounter. Despite all the frictions, however, there have been at least some hints at common willingness to move peace forward. Date July 18, 1997 Event Parties signed Agreement for the General Cessation Outcomes This agreement was significant for it directed both the GRP and the MILF to each create its
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Nov. 14, 1997

of Hostilities Parties signed implementing guidelines for the Agreement for the General Cessation of Hostilities Peace talks collapsed when the Estrada administration declared an All-out War policy Talks resumed when Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was installed as President Parties signed the Agreement on the General Framework for the Resumption of Peace Talks) First formal peace talks held in Libya. Tripoli Agreement on Peace focused on 3 major aspects: a. Security b. Rehabilitation and Development c. Ancestral Domain

own Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH). They, in turn, jointly created the GRP-MILF Coordinating Committee on Cessation of Hostilities. The CCCHs are tasked to conduct investigation on alleged violations of the agreement. The war that ensued incurred very heavy damage in terms of lives and properties lost. The financial cost to Government alone was in several billions of pesos.

March 2000

January 2001

March 24, 2001

Malaysia assisted in the peace talks by brokering between the two parties.

June 22, 2001

The number of armed skirmishes between the government and the MILF dropped over the years from 698 documented incidents in 2002 and 559 in 2003 to less than 20 between the years 2004 to 2007.

Under the Security aspect, the following subsequent outcomes followed: 1. A Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT) was created to observe the implementation of all GRP-MILF agreements; 2. Mechanisms to reduce the incidence of violence in the conflict-affected areas were set in place, including the Joint Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG); 3. Bantay Ceasefire (Ceasefire Watch) was initiated and created by civil society groups; 4. The number of armed skirmishes between the government and the MILF dropped over the years from 698 documented incidents in 2002 and 559 in 2003 to less than 20 between the years 2004 to 2007. 5. It dramatically increased to 218 in 2008, though, when the peace talks collapsed after violence erupted following the aborted signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) in August 2008.

Under the Rehabilitation and Development aspect: 1. Both the GRP and MILF panels agreed to extend capacity building support for the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), the MILFs development arm, tasked to conduct rehabilitation and development programs in conflict-affected communities. 2. Various donor countries have also committed support for the Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF) which will be implemented in full once a peace agreement is signed. 3. In 2006, a joint statement of the two panels announced the establishment of the Bangsamoro Leadership Institute. The institute was envisioned as a social and political change agent for Bangsamoro communities. Since the two parties have already agreed on the Security and Rehabilitation and Development and their implementing guidelines, the only remaining aspect that needed resolution was that on Ancestral Domain.

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Once this item was resolved, the agreements on the three aspects would be consolidated into a comprehensive peace compact. But negotiations hit an impasse in September 2006 over issues on territorial scope that included areas outside the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Exploratory talks resumed in late 2007, but once again the talks hit a snag. D. THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEEMENT ON ANCESTRAL DOMAIN (MOA-AD) The result of the long-drawn negotiation was the draft Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD). It was supposed to be signed on August 5, 2008 in Kuala Lumpur. On the eve of the well-publicized event, however, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order enjoining the Philippine government not to sign the MOA-AD. The TRO was in response to a petition filed by the local governments of North Cotabato, Zamboanga and Iligan who invoked their rights to consultation and be informed on matters of public concern. After a series of hearings, on October 14, 2008, the Supreme Court finally declared the MOA-AD unconstitional. This series of events was followed by violence. Irate MILF commanders, expecting the MOA-AD to be signed, assaulted civilian communities. Government military also launched an offensive, also hitting several communities. By the end of the year, the fighting resulted to the displacement of more than half a million civilians. Not everything is lost, however. On December 2, 2008, the government named Foreign Affairs Under-Secretary Rafael Seguis as the new chair. Other members of the peace panel were later named: Adelbert Antonino, former mayor of General Santos City; lawyer-businessman Tomas Cabili, Jr. of Iligan City; educator Ronald Adamat, a Teduray representing the Lumads; and Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, a Muslim. The MILF also reconstituted its panel, under the leadership of Mr. Mohagher Iqbal. With him were Atty. Lanang Ali, Mr. Maulana Alonto, Atty. Michael Mastura, and Atty Musib Buat. On December 26, 2008, the MILF issued a five-point statement, signed by its chair, Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, stating that before talks resumed, it wanted: 1. International guarantors to ensure that both sides would implement any agreement reached; 2. Resolution of the MOAs status; 3. Return of the IMT in a way that would enable it to discharge its functions, including investigations of all violations since July 2008; 4. Cessation of all operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the MILF; and 5. Continuation of Malaysia as facilitator. On January 7, 2009, the Arroyo government announced a new paradigm for peace. The President issued the New Guidelines on the Conduct of Peace Talks with the MILF which provided Governments new policy on the Peace Process, focusing not only on negotiating with the MILF but also on authentic dialogues with people in the communities. A number of civil society groups responded through information campaigns and by conducting consultations to generate greater participation of the people in the peace process. Among such initiatives was Konsult Mindanaw, a project commissioned by the Bishops-Ulama Conference. Foremost of its findings is the serious need for a comprehensive communication program to inform the public of the critical issues around the peace talks as well as to consult them about their views and sentiments. This reinforced the injunction of the Supreme Court for OPAPP to conduct sincere dialogues not only in Mindanao but also in the rest of the country. II. WHERE ARE WE NOW IN THE CURRENT PEACE TALKS?

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A. MORE EFFORTS TOWARD PEACE A review of the peace panels overall track record shows a long-standing commitment to pursue the peace process. Date March 9, 2000 Event Parties signed Agreement on Safety and Security Guarantees GRP Response Granted MILF ceasefire committees request for safe conduct passes and exemption from election gun ban MILF Response Requested for safe conduct passes and exemption from the election gun ban;

Both sides continued to respect the safety and security guarantees for MILF members who were directly and principally involved in the Peace Talks. Under the said agreement, MILF members shall not be restrained or arrested, searched, seized and harassed on their persons and property in connection with their participation or involvement in the peace talks, except in cases of commission on common crimes such as crimes against persons, chastity, property and other similar offenses. Since 2001 The President directed the AFP to uphold the primacy of the peace process. The President directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines to review its guidelines and issuances concerning strategic and tactical operations. The review covers the existing AFP Guidelines on the Primacy of the GRP-MILF Peace Process issued on 12 November 2003 and the Reminders and Additional Guidelines on the Primacy of the GRP-MILF Peace Process drafted by the AFP on 31 March 2007. In compliance with this mandate, The MILF leadership, in turn, acknowledged the governments decision to pursue the peace process and not resort to a military solution. MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, in response, declared to keep combatants in place.

November 8, 2002

February 20, 2004

May 4, 2006

GRP Inter-Agency Technical Working Group and the Bangsamoro Development Agency Conference Workshop Joint Statement signed on providing capacity support to the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) Signed Joint Statement establishing the Bangsamoro Leadership Institute

The BDA, being the development arm of the MILF, was tasked to conduct rehabilitation and development programs in conflict-affected communities. Both the GRP and MILF panels agreed to extend capacity-building programs through the BDA. Currently, BDA personnel are undergoing training sessions under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program to strengthen the institutions capability to plan and manage sustainable development projects.

The institute is envisioned as a social and political change agent for Bangsamoro communities. Currently, capacity training is being conducted through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP). The Development Academy of the Philippines also provides
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leadership and organizational development workshops March 27, 2007 The President issued Administrative Order No. 174, Creating An Inter-agency Task Force to Assess and Resolve Land Disputes in North Cotabato and Address Similar Issues in ConflictProne Areas Administrative Order 267 created the Health, Education, Livelihood, Progress Task Force-Central Mindanao (HELPCM) Various conflicts over land ownership are sometimes the trigger to full-blown armed conflicts, particularly North Cotabato and similar areas. An inter-agency task force was formed to look into the roots of these disputes, recommend policy decisions and coordinate with agencies on making interventions. The Task Force is initially composed of the following: Department of Agriculture; Department of Agrarian Reform; Department of Environment and Natural Resources; Joint Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (GRP and MILF CCCH); International Monitoring Team; and Local Government Unit of Kidapawan. Chaired by the GRP peace panel head, the task force seeks to address the concerns arising from continued armed hostilities, the protection of civilians and non-combatants, especially from lawless MILF renegades. It will also help reduce the impact of the conflict on the communities in the conflict-affected areas, especially the internally displaced persons (IDPs) and pursue humanitarian offensives to address the root causes of conflict. The Government directed the AFP to suspend all offensive operations in conflict-affected areas and revert to Active Defense mode as provided for under the AFP Guidelines on the Primacy of the GRP-MILF Peace Process. This was a major initiative done by the government to provide a stable environment for the resumption of the peace talks. The PNP however is directed to continue undertaking its law enforcement activities to bring the three renegade MILF commanders and other lawless elements to the bar of justice with the AFP playing a support role. July 29, 2009 Re-establishment of Communication Lines and Formal Resumption of the Peace Talks. After a year of impasse in the peace talks, the two parties finally re-established their formal communication lines. This was a crucial step that eventually paved the way for the formal resumption of the GRP-MILF Peace Talks on 9 December 2009. The ICG will be ad hoc in nature and issue-specific in its engagement with the GRP and MILF panels. It shall primarily be mandated to exert the necessary leverage and assistance towards sustaining the trust and
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June 29, 2009

July 23, 2009

Issuance of the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO)

Two days later, the MILF responded positively to the GRPs gesture by declaring its own Suspension of Military Action (SOMA).

September 15, 2009

Signing of the Framework Agreement on the Formation of the International

October 27, 2009

Contact Group for the GRP-MILF Peace Process Signing of the Agreement on the Civilian Protection Component of the International Monitoring Team (IMT)

confidence of both sides at the negotiating table.

The Agreement outlines the commitments of both peace panels to protect civilians and civilian communities by expanding the IMTs mandate. The IMT is now tasked to monitor, verify and report noncompliance by either the government or the MILF to their basic undertaking to protect civilians. This civilian protection component shall also remain in place should the IMT cease to operate. The two panels shall designate humanitarian organizations and NGOs, both international and national, with proven track record for impartiality, neutrality and independence, to carry out the civilian protection functions. TOR for the IMT was signed to renew the mandate of the IMT, which was expanded to include the component on civilian protection (see Oct. 27, 2009) The Interim Implementing Guidelines was signed to renew the mandate of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG). Both parties agreed to the isolation and interdiction of all criminal syndicates and kidnap-for-ransom groups, including so-called lost commands operating in or near MILF communities. The AHJAG is tasked to pursue and apprehend these criminal elements and will operate in tandem with their respective Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities.

December 9, 2009

Formal resumption of the GRP-MILF Peace Talks and Signing of the Terms of Reference of the IMT Signing of the Interim Implementing Guidelines on the Joint Communiqu of May 6, 2002

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