The Bangsamoro region is advocating for increased women’s participation in governance and decision-making in a bid to create more inclusive policies.
During a side event at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security, stakeholders emphasized the importance of women’s roles across various sectors.
British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau, Laure Beaufils, noted the need for stronger women’s participation in all aspects of governance within the region.
“We see now there are so many more role models among women, as parliamentarians, indeed as ministers, as chair of the Bangsamoro Women’s Commission, as activists, and as political players, even at a very grassroots level,” Beaufils stated.
She added, “We have legislation that is gender-sensitive, including an electoral code that guarantees that 30% of elected officials in the BARMM will be women.”
Beaufils also highlighted stakeholders’ efforts to educate people “across the board about the fundamental importance of women’s rights and women’s economic and political participation.”
Recent initiatives include the establishment of the Bangsamoro Women’s Commission, which has received significant funding to amplify women’s voices. Additionally, programs have been created to ensure women’s involvement in community policing.
The conference celebrated the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, emphasizing the importance of women’s participation in peace and security efforts. Various discussions focused on enhancing partnerships for gender-responsive frameworks.
The Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) mandates that at least one woman must be appointed to the Bangsamoro cabinet. Currently, there are three women cabinet members: Minister of Social Services Atty. Raissa Jajurie, Minister of Science and Technology Engr. Aida Silongan, and Atty. Alamia.
