A significant milestone in Indigenous Peoples self-determination has been achieved. Following customary-based tribal assemblies, the Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples (NMIP) Regional Inter-Tribal Convention successfully selected its two representatives to the Bangsamoro Parliament.
This achievement is far more than a routine leadership selection. It serves as living proof that democratic governance can flourish without vote-buying or intimidation, relying instead on consensus-building deeply rooted in community values. It marks a historic feature of self-determination—an expression of genuine autonomy within an autonomous regional setup—at least in claiming this modest, marginal share of parliamentary representation.
This milestone is the culmination of decades of persistent struggle. From the intense debates surrounding the framework of peace negotiations to the fine print of final agreements, from crafting the legal-political instruments that institutionalized the new Bangsamoro political entity to negotiating enabling policies for NMIP rights and welfare—no road was ever easy. Yet, through unwavering persistence and collective campaign assertions, these difficult roads were taken and crossed.
These reflections echo what has long been in the minds, conversations, and ongoing actions of noble and committed NMIP leaders. As many often say: it is relatively easy to win power, but to sustain and substantiate that power toward serving the people is far more difficult. Entering the chamber of power exposes representatives to intense elitist dynamics and heavy institutional pressures that demand immediate, strategic vigilance:
>, Navigating Systemic Pressures: Once inside the government, representatives face corporate threats, political co-optation, and the harsh arithmetic of the parliamentary numbers game.
> Bridging Legal & Customary Systems: Reconciling traditional, consensus-based tribal governance with state-mandated legislative, political, and bureaucratic procedures remains a complex hurdle.
> Sustaining Institutional Accountability: Representatives must avoid becoming isolated within state structures, ensuring two-way participation between parliamentary offices and broader tribal assemblies.
Meeting this moment calls for heightened enthusiasm, deeper consolidation, and unyielding solidarity across all ancestral domains. Crucially, this momentum must not remain confined to the two legislative seats; it must radiate across all communities and customary lands. The urgency to unify is paramount, as elite, internal, and external vested interests remain dominant forces threatening this hard-won victory.
To confront these challenges, Indigenous Peoples' Organizations (IPOs) and civil society groups must actively strengthen their capacities. By reinforcing Indigenous Political Structures (IPS), these organizations can keep parliamentary leaders accountable, shield them from political pressures, and continuously enrich the collective NMIP Agenda.
All programs, services, policy proposals, and advocacy initiatives originating from the two parliamentary offices must be strictly anchored to this collective agenda. Furthermore, establishing a rotation system for parliamentary seats offers a fair, unified approach to shared representation.
Ultimately, by fortifying consensus mechanisms and maintaining tribal solidarity, the NMIPs can ensure that their parliamentary presence reflects their shared identity and collective aspirations while safeguarding the distinct needs of every tribe.
The long fight is far from over. We have only won seats, and we are not there yet. As several groups and entrenched interests continue to contest the processes undertaken—backed by immense power, connections, resources, and intent—the call of the time remains clear: hold the line.
My high respect to those who offered their sweats, time, solidarity, and lives.
Hold On! Persist!
___ August 26, 2026
Beyond the Two Seats: NMIPs to Confront the Challenges Together
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