18/07/2024
Last June 2024, the second day of redoing peace was conducted. The participants were further empowered in the peacebuilding efforts in the Bangsamoro Region by the Ministry of Public Order and Safety through Sir Rafsan Johnny "RAFFY" A. Abdul, Community Affairs Officer V of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Division of the said Ministry. Abdul, as the invited speaker, shared valuable insights into how they address rido in the region.
Mr. Abdul explained that rido, or clan feuds, are a significant challenge in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). To address these conflicts, the Ministry employs various Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms such as mediation, conciliation, and arbitration. These methods are crucial in facilitating peaceful settlements and preventing the escalation of violence. The 1987 Philippine Constitution, RA No. 9285 (Alternative Dispute Resolution Act of 2004), and RA No. 11054 (Bangsamoro Organic Law) provide the legal framework for ADR in the region.
The Ministry utilizes various forms of ADR, including early-neutral evaluation, mediation, mini-trials, and arbitration, to address disputes effectively. They also acknowledge traditional conflict resolution methods such as the Council of Elders, Pangkat (Barangay Mediation), and rituals and indigenous practices, which are deeply rooted in the community and play a vital role in maintaining peace and harmony. Capacity development for local mediators is another critical aspect, with the Ministry conducting training and providing logistical support to local mediators, who are crucial in resolving disputes at the community level.
Advocacy campaigns are actively engaged in by the Ministry to build a culture of peace, promote peacebuilding in Islam, and transform values, supporting local mediators in organizing and strategic planning. As of June 15, 2024, the Ministry has successfully settled 48 rido cases for the fiscal year 2024, underscoring the effectiveness of ADR mechanisms in the region. Mr. Abdul emphasized that these efforts are part of the Ministry's broader mandate to ensure public safety, peacebuilding, reconciliation, and unification in BARMM.
The second day of redoing peace highlighted the critical role of ADR in resolving rido and other conflicts in the Bangsamoro Region. The insights shared by Mr. Abdul provided valuable knowledge and strategies that can be applied to further peacebuilding efforts. Participants were able to learn extensively about the ADR processes and were given the chance to ask questions, allowing for a deeper understanding and engagement with the content. The continuous empowerment and capacity development of local mediators are essential in sustaining these initiatives and fostering a peaceful and harmonious Bangsamoro community
