The keynote presentation explores the unique challenges involved in establishing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the Philippines. Lingga discusses the multifaceted complexity of creating a new government system in an area marked by diverse cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and a history of violent conflicts. He examines political, socioeconomic, and institutional hurdles, such as the negotiation of power dynamics, managing resource allocation, and the transformation of Moro revolutionary organizations into effective governing bodies. Lingga also delves into the issue of integrating Islamic law within the broader Philippine legal system and the potential implications this has for human rights and gender equality. The presenter argues that overcoming these obstacles is not just crucial for peace and stability in the Bangsamoro region but can also provide insights for conflict resolution and autonomy-building in similar contexts worldwide. Lastly, Lingga proposes several recommendations for enhancing the capacity of the Bangsamoro government and fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Abhoud Syed Lingga, a pivotal figure in contemporary Bangsamoro studies and peace advocacy, has played a defining role in the Bangsamoro people’s pursuit of self-determination and peace. As a distinguished scholar and peace advocate, he has contributed significantly to the Bangsamoro region and the broader Philippines. Born and raised in Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lingga’s journey is reflective of the spirit of the Bangsamoro people. He dedicated his life to understanding the unique challenges faced by his people, earning his Master of Arts in Education at Philippine Harvardian College followed by a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Later in his career, Lingga was recognized with the degree of Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) in Peace and Development from Notre Dame University in 2017, a testament to his tireless pursuit of peace and progress in the region.
Lingga’s career is rich with positions of influence and leadership. He served as the Chairman of the Bangsamoro Consultative Council and Executive Director of the Institute of Bangsamoro Studies, playing an instrumental role in facilitating dialogue and disseminating research on the Bangsamoro struggle for self-determination. From 2010 to 2016, he lent his expertise to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Peace Panel, underscoring his deep commitment to finding peaceful solutions to the conflict in the region. As a scholar, Lingga has made significant contributions to Bangsamoro studies. He has authored numerous research works that delve into various aspects of the Bangsamoro struggle for self-determination. Notable among these are his papers such as ‘Democratic approach to pursue the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination’ (2002), ‘Assertions of Sovereignty and Self-Determination: The Philippine-Bangsamoro Conflict’ (2003), ‘Understanding Bangsamoro Independence as a Mode of Self-Determination’ (2004), and ‘Peace is for Everyone: Bangsamoro stories of hope, survival, pain and resilience’ (2016).
In his most recent works like ‘Building the Bangsamoro government’ (2018), Lingga continues to provide insights into the complexities of establishing a new government in the BARMM. His prolific body of work provides essential insights and rich scholarly context to the ongoing peace process and the dynamics of the Bangsamoro self-determination movement. To summarize, Abhoud Syed Lingga, with his dedication and commitment to the peace process and the betterment of the Bangsamoro people, has left an indelible mark on Bangsamoro studies and peace advocacy. His life and work embody a profound understanding of the complex history, culture, and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. His unwavering dedication to the cause of peace and self-determination continues to inspire and guide the region towards a harmonious future.
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Bangsamoro Research and Legal Network 