Stakeholders’ Contribution to the Cotabato Historical Conflict: Experiences and Perspectives on Conflict

Abstract

Understanding stakeholders' contributions to the Cotabato historical conflict has agreeable benefits for the community, especially for human security. Stakeholders were the primary actors in times of conflict. This study employed phenomenological research design to capture stakeholders' experiences about their contributions in pre- and post-conflict scenarios. Results show promising initiatives on how the inter-agency collaborative efforts stabilize and maintain the safety among the people. The historical conflicts in Cotabato come in series, massive displacement and attacks. Cultural stereotyping and misunderstanding became the dividing factors that caused the conflict to last so long. The late 1960s to 2000s were the years when the province suffered from economic losses and failure, unstable living conditions, starvation, and discrimination brought by different parties involved between GRP vs. Blackshirt; this war was between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro people who inhabited the Province of Cotabato that called themselves as Blackshirt, GRP vs. NPA; this war was between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the New Peoples' Army who fought for reform the government; GRP and a group of Umbrakato and ILAGA vs. Moro; the Ilonggo Land Grabbers Association was headed by Umbrakato who fought against the Moro and maintained alliance with the Philippine government. However, LGU, military, and barangay officials' commitment to normalizing the situation was the highest support. As a result, people return home confident in a peaceful situation and hoping for peace. Another striking initiative was headed by LGUs, NGOs, and religious groups to health care facilities and food. A community-based program like Duyog Ramadhan helped increase community awareness and encourage cooperation. On the other hand, establishing military camps and observatory units to identify conflicted areas improves human security. This study, therefore, provides a meaningful reference to how, in conflict situations, stakeholders can improve areas where human security is challenged.