The Institute of Bangsamoro Studies (IBS) held a consultation forum on land, housing, and property policy in the BARMM last July 28, 2021 at Em Manor Hotel, Cotabato City.
Ms. Ica Fernandez, IBS consultant, presented the summary of her initial findings on the said topic as a result of her region-wide public consultations. Major issues and challenges were identified as well as possible solutions from the legislative and executive branch of the government. The consensus are in agreement that land is one of the most complex and complicated challenge and opportunity for the Bangsamoro.
After the presentation, the participants were given the chance to share their ideas, experiences and knowledge in relation to the findings. There was also a productive exchange of ideas on land governance from representatives coming from the key regional government offices, CSOs, and private sectors.
According to Atty. Anwar Malang, the establishment of Bangsamoro Land Commission could settle things on land issues properly. He added that the Commission could adjudicate matters on land policies on agrarian reform based on Amanah (trust).
Meanwhile, Eshan Karl Mabang, Division Chief of Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy, mentioned that the existing system is already quite good and would only need a proper implementation of the 2015 cadastral survey of the LGUs.
Fernandez remarked that all suggestions and recommendations were all insightful and have been duly noted. The same would be part of the final output of the IBS for submission to the legislative body.
MP Rasol Mitmug is one of the key informants in the findings of Fernandez, together with other Members of the Parliament. This consultation is part of the Citizen’s Engagement for Inclusive Policy and Programs in the Bangsamoro of the IBS, in partnership with The Asia Foundation and USAID – US Agency for International Development.