Building Peace in the Philippines: Lessons and Hopes from the BARMM

A Call to Unity, Understanding, and Lasting Reconciliation: UN Resident Coordinator's Remarks at the International and Private Partners’ Forum (IPPF) 2025

Dear Secretary Lagdameo, Dear Secretary Galvez,

Dear Senior Undersecretary Purisima,

Dear colleagues from the Diplomatic corps,

Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and fellow advocates for peace,

Good Afternoon.

In a world where conflicts are escalating and peace is fragile, the Bangsamoro peace process stands out as a powerful example of what is possible through dialogue, perseverance, and unity. The 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the creation of the BARMM mark a historic achievement for the Philippines—a transformation of armed struggle into political participation, and of exclusion into inclusive governance.

Today, I want to begin by recognizing the immense efforts of the Government of the Philippines, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and all stakeholders—civil society, community leaders, and international partners. Your leadership, trust-building, and courage have laid the foundation for a more peaceful and inclusive future in Mindanao. This peace is already showing tangible dividends—in stronger institutions, empowered communities, and renewed hope.

The BARMM is more than a new administrative region. It is a living model of inclusive peacebuilding. It demonstrates that when all voices are heard— especially women, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and other marginalized groups—peace becomes not only sustainable but transformative.

The transition from ARMM to BARMM introduced a new parliamentary system, increased transparency, and a structure that encourages shared leadership. The upcoming regional elections in October will mark a vital step in the transition, giving the Bangsamoro people the opportunity to elect  their  leaders  and shape their future. We welcome President Marcos’ commitment to this timeline and commend COMELEC’s efforts to ensure credible and inclusive elections.

We must also highlight the essential work being done to support the transition of former combatants to civilian life and to help conflict-affected communities rebuild. Livelihood programs, education, psychosocial support, and job creation efforts have reduced the risk of relapse into violence and supported economic growth.

The United Nations, together with BARMM and national partners, is proud to support this journey. Our contributions include:

• Enhancing governance through training and legislative support.
• Supporting over 10,000 households—ex-combatants, IDPs, and informal workers—with livelihoods.
• Strengthening early warning systems and community security with over 3,000 IDPs in conflict hotspots.
• Investing in health, education, and social protection with BARMM Ministries.
• Promoting women’s leadership and mediation across six provinces.
• Supporting the recognition and rights of Indigenous Peoples through the Bangsamoro Indigenous Peoples Act.

Transitional justice remains a critical pillar. We urge the Government, the MILF, and the BARMM leadership to jointly implement the recommendations of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission. Addressing historical injustices through truth-telling, reparations, and reforms is key to lasting reconciliation. Of course, challenges remain. Differences in interpretation of the agreement, localized violence, clan feuds, and the slow pace of service delivery can undermine public trust. But these are not insurmountable.

With continued dialogue, transparency, and mutual commitment, the gains of peace can be protected and expanded.

The BARMM offers lessons not only for the Philippines but for other nations:

• That peace is possible when dialogue is genuine and inclusive.
• That it takes time, courage, and persistent effort.
• And that peace must be matched with development and justice.

Let us continue to invest in this peace—not just in infrastructure and programs, but in people, in trust, and in institutions. The BARMM has already shown us the path forward. Now we must ensure that this model continues to grow, inspire, and deliver.

On behalf of the United Nations, I reaffirm our commitment to walk with you in this journey. Together, let us build a future where peace is not just a goal but a way of life.

Maraming Salamat Po. Thank you.