The Bangsamoro region in the southern Philippines carries the weight of a complex and often violent history. A central theme in this narrative is the struggle for land – a struggle that has pitted Indigenous Peoples (IPs) like the Teduray-Lambangian communities against the government, Moro communities, and even settlers and migrants. The passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in 2018, establishing a self-governing Muslim region in Mindanao, offered a glimmer of hope for resolving these land disputes. However, recent developments paint a concerning picture, suggesting that the Teduray-Lambangian people face an uncertain future on their ancestral lands.

A Legacy of Overlapping Claims and Unrecognized Rights

One of the most significant challenges in the Bangsamoro is the existence of overlapping land claims. IPs and Moro communities have traditionally held customary land rights, passed down through generations but often lacking formal documentation. These customary rights frequently clash with claims from settlers who may have migrated to the region, powerful individuals, and even the government itself. This lack of clarity fuels tensions and creates fertile ground for conflict.

The Bangsamoro Organic Law aimed to address this issue by establishing the Bangsamoro Land Registration Authority (BLRA). This body was tasked with settling land disputes and recognizing ancestral domain claims, offering a path towards formalized land ownership for IPs. However, concerns linger about the BLRA’s effectiveness in protecting IP rights. A 2019 report by International Alert highlighted the anxieties of Teduray-Lambangian communities regarding the complex registration procedures. The report further raised concerns about the potential for powerful individuals and institutions to manipulate the process, further jeopardizing IP claims.

The Maguindanao Case: A Microcosm of Broader Tensions

The situation in Maguindanao province exemplifies the complex web of challenges in the Bangsamoro. Here, the Teduray-Lambangian IPs live in fear of losing their ancestral lands to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The IPs believe that the normalization process, a key component of the Bangsamoro peace agreement, could ultimately grant the MILF ownership of their land. They feel their voices are unheard in the discussions about land rights, raising questions about genuine inclusivity within the Bangsamoro peace process.

This case underscores the difficulty of balancing the rights of various stakeholders. The MILF has publicly expressed support for the BOL and IP rights. However, the anxieties of the Teduray-Lambangian people highlight the need for concrete actions that translate the BOL’s promises into tangible protections for IP communities. Mere words are insufficient; a robust legal framework and transparent implementation mechanisms are crucial.

The Makakalikasan Perspective: Balancing Rights and Sustainability

The Makakalikasan – Nature Party Philippines (Makakalikasan) brings a critical environmental dimension to the Bangsamoro land issue. This green political party advocates for both the protection of IP rights and ecological sustainability. Orlando Ravanera, the party’s chairman, emphasizes the importance of the BOL in rectifying historical injustices against IPs and securing their ancestral land rights. However, he also stresses the need to strengthen the BOL to ensure genuine self-determination for the Bangsamoro people, including the right to manage their lands and natural resources sustainably. This vision aligns with Makakalikasan’s broader environmental platform, promoting responsible stewardship of the Bangsamoro’s natural resources for future generations.

Moving Forward: A Path Towards a Just and Sustainable Resolution

The land struggles in the Bangsamoro demand a multifaceted approach that prioritizes the rights and needs of all stakeholders. Here are some key considerations:

• Strengthening the BLRA: Ensuring the Bangsamoro Land Registration Authority (BLRA) functions effectively is crucial. This includes providing technical assistance for transparent and inclusive land registration processes, addressing concerns about potential manipulation, and ensuring clear communication with IP communities throughout the process. International observers could play a role in monitoring the BLRA’s activities, promoting public trust.

• Upholding Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 guarantees IP ownership and control over their ancestral domains. The Bangsamoro government must uphold these enshrined rights and ensure that the BOL serves as a tool for empowerment, not dispossession, for IP communities.

• Inclusive Dialogue and Power-Sharing: Genuine dialogue involving all stakeholders, including IP representatives, is essential. The Bangsamoro peace process must be inclusive and ensure that the voices of all communities are heard.