114.8
Bangsamoro Challenge in the Philippines
In terms of ethnic relations, the Philippines - as other states in Asia-Pacific region - are characterized by extreme diversity. As many as over 168 ethno-linguistic groups are recognized there. To make situation even more complex, linguistic and religious divisions overlap each other.
Bangsamoro or Moro people are members of minority Muslim ethnic groups which constitute 5% of population in this predominantly Christian country. The most important ethnolingusitic groups of Bangsamoro are: Tausugs, Maguindanaos, and Maranaos.
Despite enduring activities to establish one independent Bangsamoro state, new patterns of Muslim inter-ethnic relations have emerged recently. This year Moro National Liberation Front (where Tausugs dominates) was involved in several incidents (Sabah Ride in February of 2013 and Zamboanga atrocities in September 2013) aiming to postpone peace negotiations between the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (organization dominated by Maguindanaos). Even though both leading separatist organizations speak for Moro people, the tensions among Muslim ethnic groups seem to be more visible.
Professor Hannbal Bara at the official website of National Commission for Culture and the Arts claims that “The cohesiveness of the 11 Muslim groups under the spirit of Islamic brotherhood is a living reality of Bangsamoro nationalism”[1]. Nevertheless, the question of the future of Bangsamoro identity can be asked.
At my presentation I intend to discuss the ethno-religious nature of Bangsamoro identity in order to point out the emerging patterns of the complex ethnic relations in the South of the Philippines.
[1] Hannbal Bara, The History of the Muslim in the Philippines, http://www.ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/articles-on-c-n-a/article.php?igm=4&i=232 (29.09.2013)