Bangsamoro Women Commission - BARMM

23 August 2024 | 19 Safar 1446 AH

ORIENTATION ON THE EFFECTS OF CHILD EARLY AND FORCE MARRIAGE IN BARMM

Cotabato City - The Commission, in collaboration with SK Tamontaka III Chairperson Princess Ferdaushia T. Abdullah and the Barangay Officials, held an orientation on the effects of Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) at the Madrasah Sheikh Dilumuyod Al-Islamie, in front of the SK Youth Hub. BWC Religious Guidance Adviser on Gender and Family Development Ustadza Anisa Taha led the discussion, highlighting the critical role of leaders and the community in addressing this prevalent issue.

CEFM is a global concern with significant impacts on the rights and well-being of children, particularly young girls. This was also emphasized during the activity, where Ustadza Taha shed light on the constraints and prospects associated with CEFM. She also underscored the awareness of RA 11596 or the “ACT PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF CHILD MARRIAGE AND IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF”, which aims to protect children from this harmful practice.

12-16 August 2024 | 8-12 Safar 1446 AH

Supervisory Development Course Track I

Cotabato City - 41 employees from the Bangsamoro Women Commission and the Ministry of Public Order and Safety have completed the Supervisory Development Course Track 1 facilitated by the Civil Service Commission for BARMM on August 12-16, 2024. The course aimed to strengthen the competencies of supervisors and leadership skills to better equip them for their roles in managing and leading their respective government agencies.

The training utilized a mix of interactive lectures, group discussions, case studies, and practical exercises to ensure an engaging and enriching learning experience for the participants. Experienced trainers from the Civil Service Commission facilitated the sessions, drawing from their expertise in public sector management and leadership development.

The course covered a range of topics critical for effective supervision, including coping with stress, 7 modules which include Managing oneself, Becoming a supervisor, Leadership Paradigm, Communication, Employee Development, Making Powerful Presentations, and Meetings.

The participants expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive and practical nature of the training, noting that it has equipped them with invaluable skills and knowledge to enhance their supervisory capabilities.

9 August 2024 | 5 Safar 1446 AH

2023 Special Development Fund - Kabuhayan ni Kaka Bai project

The Kabuhayan ni Kaka Bai project, implemented by the Bangsamoro Women Commission under the 2023 Special Development Fund, has reached a remarkable milestone by providing assistance to a total of 250 beneficiaries across the BARMM region.

Read Full Story: https://bwc.bangsamoro.gov.ph/2023-special-development-fund-kabuhayan-ni-kaka-bai-project/

8 August 2024 | 4 Safar 1446 AH

Courtesy visit of the BYC’s Bangsamoro Youth Parliamentarians

Cotabato City - In a significant gesture of mutual understanding and collaboration among the staff of the Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC) and Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC), the 18 Bangsamoro Youth Parliamentarians facilitated by BYC paid a courtesy visit to the BWC office on August 8, 2024.

Led by the facilitators of the BYPs, the delegation was warmly received by the Executive Director of BWC, Faujiah K. Abdullah, LPT, and her team of GAD experts and admin staff.

The visit aimed to foster stronger ties between the two commissions and explore potential areas of research, advocacy, and empowerment for the youth and women of BARMM. This was also an opportunity for the young leaders to gain firsthand insights into the work and mandate of the BWC, which serves as a vital institution in championing the rights, welfare, and socioeconomic advancement of Bangsamoro women.

During the visit, the BYPs were given a comprehensive overview of the BWC's core functions, including policy development, gender-responsive programming, capacity-building initiatives, and collaborative efforts with civil society and local government units. Discussions were centered on the issues affecting Bangsamoro youths and women, such as health and education which become more crucial when youths are involved in early marriages and teen pregnancies. The BYPs raised their concerns and shared their perspectives on the inquiry provided, showcasing their keen understanding of the complex realities faced by their peers and communities.

One of the youth parliamentarians expressed his appreciation for the BWC’s work and requested to have another round of dialogue to further explore avenues for youth engagement and participation within the BWC's initiatives.

6 August 2024 | 2 Safar 1446 AH

BWC joins BYC in their opening program for the 3rd BYP session

SKCC, Cotabato City - The Bangsamoro Women Commission joins other key stakeholders in the Bangsamoro region in the opening ceremony of the BYC’s 3rd Bangsamoro Youth Parliament to show support for the critical role they play in advancing the Bangsamoro’s moral governance agenda and commitment to the Bangsamoro youth’s aspirations.

The event, with the theme: "Advancing Bangsamoro Youth Causes: Propelling Moral Governance through Shaping Policy for 2025 and Beyond", has brought together Bangsamoro youth leaders from across the region to discuss the pressing issues and challenges facing their communities, and to strategize on how to advocate for their rights and interests effectively.

READ 📄 | STATEMENT OF BARMM CHIEF MINISTER AHOD BALAWAG EBRAHIM ON THE DEATH OF SOUTH UPI VICE MAYOR ROLDAN BENITO.

DWPS is a two-semester program that aims to produce catalysts, empowered professionals and experts, critical decision makers, and policy influencers on WPS in the Bangsamoro region and beyond.

READ FULL STORY: https://wp.me/pdqug7-hOQ

30 July 2023 | 23 Muharram 1446 AH

2nd Regular BGADC Meeting for FY 2024

Cotabato City - Members of the Bangsamoro Gender and Development Committee (BGADC) convened for the 2nd Regular Meeting of the Fiscal Year 2024 at the Pagana Kutawato Native Restaurant in Cotabato City. The meeting, chaired by the BWC Chairperson Bainon G. Karon, was attended by representatives/GAD Coordinators from various BARMM line agencies and local government units including the security sector.

As the meeting met its quorum, the Chair proceeded with the agenda which included the presentation of the Guidelines of the Advisory Council, the 2023 GAD Budget Report of BARMM submitted to PCW, an update on the status of submission of 2025 GAD PB and 2023 GAD AR, quarterly submission of 2024 GAD AR, and discussion on the preparation for the 18-day Campaign to end VAW and Data collection for the State of the Bangsamoro Women Address (SOBWA).

All members actively participated in the meeting, providing inputs and updates on the progress of the plans and activities. Questions and clarifications were raised and satisfactorily addressed by the Chairperson’s team and the Secretariat. The meeting concluded with the BGADC Co-chair and MILG GAD Coordinator LGOO VI Merlene Pasil providing the closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of the committee’s role in mainstreaming gender and development in the Bangsamoro region.

24-26 July 2024 | 18-20 Muharram 1446 AH

BARMM EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION BASIC ORGANIZING TRAINING

General Santos City - The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Employees Association (BARMMEA), in collaboration with Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO), conducted a two-and-a-half-day Basic Organizing Training to provide the BARMM Ministries, Agencies, and Offices (MAOs) focal persons and other participants with the knowledge and skills they need to establish a solid foundation for a successful employee association endeavor. from July 24 to 26, 2024.

The Bangsamoro Women Commission was represented by Human Resource Management Officer II Mohammad Balimbingan alongside other key personnel from different MAOs in BARMM. The training aimed to deepen the participants' understanding of unionism, clarify BARMMEA's organizational structure, and develop an organizing and campaign program to establish a framework agreement and collective negotiation agreement.

Josua Mata of SENTRO discussed trade unions' purpose, principles, and structure, emphasizing their role in promoting worker’s welfare and social transformation. He further elaborated that trade unions are essential institutions that empower workers to collectively negotiate for better terms and working conditions, highlighting their ability to influence policy decisions and contribute to the overall development of society.

Grounded in the principles of solidarity, democracy, liberty, equality, and militance, the BARMMEA is envisioned to be a potent force for the Bangsamoro workforce in advocating for their interests and advancing the region’s socio-economic development. As the participants gained a deeper appreciation of unionism, they were better equipped to recognize the value of establishing BARMMEA as a national union to advance the interests of BARMM employees.

Moral Governance, as the BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim’s marching order, was a key aspect emphasized during the training by MOST Executive Assistant III Prof. Hashim Manticayan.

*other photos are courtesy of MHSD and other MAOs.

18-19 July 2024 | 12-13 Muharram 1446 AH

She Wins Peace: Programme for Women, Peace, and Security Accompaniment for Women Local Government Officials and Community Leaders Co-Design Workshop
Cotabato City -The She Wins Peace initiative, in collaboration with the Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC), Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Mindanao State University Maguindanao (MSU), and Development Academy of Bangsamoro (DAB), convened a pivotal Co-Design Workshop at Emerald Hall in Em Manor Hotel, Cotabato City.
The workshop aims to empower and equip women local government officials and community leaders in Bangsamoro with essential skills and knowledge to actively contribute to peace and security initiatives. This co-design workshop recognizes the critical role of women in governance and community leadership, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Over two days, participants engaged in interactive sessions and collaborative activities facilitated by experts from various sectors. The workshop enhanced participants' understanding of peacebuilding strategies, conflict resolution mechanisms, and effective governance practices. Special emphasis was placed on integrating gender perspectives into local governance and fostering inclusive decision-making processes.
A cornerstone of the workshop was the integration of the Bangsamoro Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security developed by the Bangsamoro Women Commission. This action plan outlines specific strategies to enhance the participation of women in peacebuilding efforts, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions valued in conflict prevention and resolution.

17-19 July 2024 | 11-13 Muharram 1446 AH

Training of Trainers on Gender-Responsive Policy Formulation

Quezon City - The Commission can now fluidly integrate gender-responsive considerations into the policy formulation process of the BARMM government following a comprehensive training on “Gender-Responsive Policy Formulation” conducted for the BWC Technical Working Group members.

The training aimed to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental gender concepts, emphasize the critical role of gender equality in development perspectives, conduct thorough assessments to identify practical and strategic gender needs and issues within the BARMM context, and collaboratively formulate an inclusive Bangsamoro Women’s agenda.

Read full story: https://bwc.bangsamoro.gov.ph/training-of-trainers-on-gender-responsive-policy-formulation/

🎉🌟 Celebrating the Remarkable Bangsamoro Women in the 2024 Shari’ah BAR Examinations! 🌟🎉

What a remarkable feat it is! Nine out of the top ten passers—strong, trailblazing women—have etched their names into the annals of legal history. You’ve shattered glass ceilings, defied expectations, and shown the world that excellence knows no gender boundaries.

To the entire cohort of Shari’ah Bar passers, congratulations! May your legal journey be filled with purpose, integrity, and unwavering commitment. The Bangsamoro region—and indeed the world—awaits your contributions.

15-16 July 2024 | 9-10 Muharram 1446 AH

Validation Workshop of the BWC GAD Agenda

Quezon City - The Commission, in collaboration with Miriam College - Women and Gender Institute (MC-WAGI), conducted a GAD (Gender and Development) Validation Workshop for its Technical staff and members on July 15-16, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, EDSA, Quezon City.

Read full story: https://bwc.bangsamoro.gov.ph/validation-workshop-of-the-bwc-gad-agenda/

The Bangsamoro Women Commission supports the launch of Mindanao State University-Maguindanao's Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security program. MSU’s innovative post-graduate offering adds to the growing momentum in the BARMM region to institutionalize principles of women, peace, and security (WPS) through culturally and gender-sensitive programs, policies, and grassroots initiatives.

𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬!

Mindanao State University-Maguindanao is now accepting letters of intent for enrollment in our Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security program. This 24-unit post-graduate program spans 2 academic semesters and offers a unique opportunity to equip both women and men in BARMM, and beyond, with a deep understanding of the complex issues affecting women. It focuses on institutionalizing WPS principles through culturally and gender-sensitive programs, policies, and grassroots initiatives within their communities, agencies, or organizations.

To apply, please address your letter of intent to Dr. Princess Sheryn Mamucao and send it to [email protected]. For any concerns or further information, please contact Ms. Maida Guiamel at 0935-191-3228. The deadline of the application will be on 𝗝𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝟮𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰.

📣 ‼ WE ARE HIRING ‼📣

Project Development Officer I - SG 11
Permanent position
Place of Assignment: BWC Provincial office, Sulu

Bangsamoro Women Commission - Office of the Sulu Commissioner

9 July 2024 | 3 Muharram 1446 AH

1st Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting on the PNP Regional Guidance Note on GBV Prevention and Response for F.Y. 2024

Read Full Story: https://bwc.bangsamoro.gov.ph/1st-technical-working-group-twg-meeting-on-the-pnp-regional-guidance-note-on-gbv-prevention-and-response-for-f-y-2024/

The Bangsamoro Women Commission would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Atty. Aelan Biruar Arumpac for being selected as the Philippine National Leader of the 48th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) 2024. This is a remarkable achievement that not only highlights Atty. Arumpac’s exceptional leadership qualities but also testify to the growing prominence and recognition of Bangsamoro women within the Philippines. Alhamdulillah and Mubarak!

📷ctto: Jamel Tabao Mamutuk

5 July 2024 | 29 Dhuʻl-Hijjah 1445 AH

Technical Budget Hearing for FY 2025

Cotabato City - Cotabato City - The Bangsamoro Women Commission is committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for women in BARMM. To continue to make significant strides in promoting gender equality and empowering women in the BARMM region, the Commission’s Admin. & Finance and Technical Teams had to defend its proposed 2025 budget before MFBM, highlighting the crucial role they play in addressing the unique challenges faced by women in BARMM. The comprehensive plans outlined by the Commission demonstrate a steadfast commitment to empowering Bangsamoro women, promoting gender equality, and fostering sustainable development within the region.

Chairperson Bainon G. Karon, a long-standing champion for women’s rights, emphasized the importance of continuous investment in gender-responsive programs and initiatives. Further, she highlighted in her statement that the proposals are a testament to the unwavering commitment to women's empowerment, protection, and advancement across BARMM”.

While MFBM Director III Atty. Rahma D. Sanglitan, CPA, who chaired the panel for the budget deliberations, commended the Commission’s efforts in efficiently utilizing the previous budget allocations, she also reiterated the need to align the proposals with the BARMM government’s overarching development plans.

Following the deliberations, the Commission's 2025 budget proposal will undergo modest adjustments. Still, the Commission is confident in its ability to effectively conduct programs and activities that will have a long-term influence on the lives of Bangsamoro women.