12 years after peace deal, violence still stalks Bangsamoro

Twelve years after a peace agreement, the Bangsamoro region in the Philippines continues to struggle with persistent violence, clan feuds, and weak institutional governance. A report by the International Crisis Group warns that the region's security remains overly dependent on the military as it prepares for upcoming parliamentary elections.
Why it matters
The ongoing instability in Bangsamoro highlights the challenges of post-conflict transition and the difficulty of dismantling long-standing local power structures.
Already have Rappler+? Sign in to listen to groundbreaking journalism.
COMMAND CONFERENCE. Commission on Elections Chairman George Erwin Garcia, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. conduct a final command conference for the 2026 BARMM parliamentary elections at the PROBAR Multi-purpose Center in Camp BGen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, on August 26, 2026.
The Bangsamoro region in the Philippines continues to face persistent violence despite a peace agreement, with clan feuds and criminal networks thriving due to weak institutions. The International Crisis Group highlights that the region's security remains heavily reliant on the military, with policing and justice systems struggling to establish credibility and effectiveness. As the region approaches its first parliamentary elections, concerns arise over potential voter intimidation and the need for reforms to strengthen policing, control firearms, and address the roots of local conflicts. This is AI-generated.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in