Cotabato City, February 04, 2025—The Power of Collective Wisdom: Stakeholder consultations leverage collective wisdom and experience, ensuring perspectives. By bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, expertise, and experiences, these consultations create a rich tapestry of knowledge and insights that can inform decision-making.

A two-day Stakeholders Consultation on the Formulation of Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Bangsamoro Autonomous Act No. 62 (BAA No. 62) the landmark law on the protection of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), concluded on January 31, 2025, at Pagana Grand Hall, Cotabato City. The event was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the different Ministries, Bureaus, and other Agencies of the Bangsamoro Government, Provincial, City, and Municipal Local Government Units, other Line Agencies, United Nations Agencies, iNGOs, Civil Society Organizations, IDP Representatives, and Program Partners, to ensure that the Implementing Rules and Regulations effectively address the needs and challenges faced by IDPs in the region.

Stakeholder consultations aim to build consensus and foster a sense of shared ownership over solutions through an open forum, facilitated discussions, and workshops. By engaging all stakeholders in the process, these consultations ensure that solutions are effective and sustainable, as they are supported by those who will be directly impacted.

“This consultation is crucial in ensuring that the IRR for BAA No. 62 or the “Law on Internally Displaced Persons in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region” is truly responsive to the needs of IDPs in the BARMM, being the first of its kind legislation that recognizes the rights of IDPSs in Southeast Asia,” said Atty. Raissa  H. Jajurie, MSSD Minister and Member of the Parliament. At the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), we were tasked to lead and mandated to promulgate the implementing rules. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive and implementable IRR that will provide a strong framework for safeguarding the rights and well-being of IDPs not just at the start or after the displacement happens but towards the durable solutions.”

“This achievement is perennially gratifying and a testament to the unwavering commitment of the BARMM Government. This commitment has not gone unnoticed on the global stage, I am pleased to share that UNHCR including its headquarters level recognizes the exceptional leadership of the BARMM Government on IDP Protection and Solutions. Our support focuses on several key areas, aligning the principles of durable solutions with protection and localization. We will continue to assist in the concrete mechanisms for achieving durable solutions. We are committed to championing solutions that promote self-reliance and empower IDPs to rebuild their lives sustainably. We are committed to working alongside all stakeholders to ensure that the IRR is not just a document, but a living instrument that brings natural change to the lives of IDPs. I am confident that through open and constructive dialogue, we can develop an IRR that effectively translates the spirit and intent of the Bangsamoro IDP Law into funding action,” said, Atty. Ms. Maria Ermina “Iya” Valdeavilla-Gallardo

The successful completion of the stakeholders’ consultation signifies a significant step towards strengthening IDP protection in the BARMM. By working together, the MSSD, BMOAs, Local Government Units, United Nations Agencies, iNGOs, Civil Society Organizations, IDP Communities, and international partners ensure that the BAA No. 62 translates into concrete actions that will benefit IDPs and contribute to a more peaceful and just future for the region.

The consultation concluded with a renewed commitment to working collaboratively to finalize the IRR. The MSSD will now incorporate the feedback during the consultation into the draft IRR, ensuring it reflects stakeholders’ collective wisdom and expertise.

By: JAMAHERIA G. COMPANIA
Communications and Advocacy Officer
IDP Project