Conflict and Peacebuilding in War-Torn Communities: A Case in Muslim Mindanao

Decades of conflict in Muslim Mindanao has led to severe humanitarian consequences, including significant IDP numbers and casualties and hindered peace and development in Muslim Mindanao. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, engaging participants from various sectors. Findings reveal that the conflict's nature spans four centuries, driven by: sovereignty; rido or clan feud and political power struggles. However, challenges persist, including bureaucratic obstacles, insufficient resources, corruption, and reluctance to forgive. Key Informants highlight the devastating impact of armed conflict on civilians in Muslim Mindanao to include: Trauma and fear among children, hindering education; Loss of livelihoods, property, and sense of security; Displacement and struggle for justice and ancestral land rights and Difficulty in accessing basic services due to conflict and security concerns. Finally, the pathways to a lasting peace in Muslim Mindanao, include: Promoting intermarriage, land restitution, and education; advocating for recognition of Muslim Mindanao as a distinct Bangsamoro state; Fostering interfaith dialogue to build bridges between communities; Seeking justice for civilians killed in violence to promote accountability and healing while faced with delayed delivery of essential services, inadequate financial resources, corruption, mismanagement of funds and projects, and resistance to forgiveness and reconciliation, which hinder effective peacebuilding efforts.