Ms Yasmira Moner1, Dr Sittie Akima Ali1, Dr Safa Manala-o1
1Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City, Philippines
Biography:
Ms. Yasmira Moner is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science and currently the GAD Focal Person of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology and previously served as the Acting Director of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao of the University. She earned her master’s degree in Governmental Studies at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) in Yogyakarta. She wears many hats in her community as a peace educator, researcher, and bearer of Bangsamoro development aspirations. She worked as consultant to international development organizations such as UNDP as a gender and social inclusion adviser.
Sittie Akima A. Ali
Ms. Sittie Akima A. Ali, DPA is Professor of the Department of Political Science, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology. Her research interests include violent extremism, peace education, public policy, and public administration.
Safa D. Manala-O
Asso Prof Safa D. Manala-O, PhD is a faculty of the Department of Business and Innovation, MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology. Her research interests include conflict and post-conflict entrepreneurship, and consumer behaviour.
Abstract:
This study explores stakeholders’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the gender provisions outlined in the Organic Law of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Implementing gender-sensitive policies is essential for fostering inclusive governance and ensuring the representation of women in peacebuilding processes. Stakeholders’ understanding of these provisions significantly influences their attitudes and perceptions, which in turn affects the overall success of gender equality initiatives in the region. Employing in-depth interviews and focus group discussion, the findings of the study reveal that broad support from stakeholders, including local communities and political leaders, and culturally appropriate mechanisms are needed to prevent a potential backlash against gender quotas undermining women’s political status and participation in the Bangsamoro.
Moreover, the study highlights the importance of critical consciousness among stakeholders, which can moderate negative attitudes toward gender equality initiatives. By fostering awareness and understanding of gender issues, stakeholders can contribute to a more supportive environment for implementing gender-sensitive policies. Additionally, the perceptions of gender roles and the societal expectations surrounding them play a significant role in shaping attitudes toward gender provisions, with evidence suggesting that entrenched beliefs can hinder progress toward gender equality. The findings contribute to addressing the knowledge gaps and misconceptions surrounding gender provisions in BARMM which are essential for improving stakeholder engagement and promoting culturally nuanced policymaking. Significantly, this research underscores the need for a locally rooted women, peace, and security agenda to shift attitudes and perceptions, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of gender-sensitive policies across the region.