A book project collaborated by the Mindanao State University’s Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao (MSU Marawi’s IPDM), Bangsamoro Research Network (BRLN), University of the Philippines Bangsamoro Studies Group (UP BSG), and the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).

The Book Editors are Nassef Manabilang Adiong, Acram A. Latiph, Almahdi “Aldean” Alonto, Bonjovi H. Hajan, Mubarak M. Tahir, and Shariful Hashim S. Mansul.

The project collaborators open the submission of book chapter proposals for the upcoming anthology “The Contemporary Bangsamoro,” a compendium of both academic and policy papers that engage the different aspects and angles of the Bangsamoro and the changing character of its society and politics, religio-cultural practices, history, economy, security, and environment. As a rapidly evolving autonomous region as well as a fluid sociopolitical identity, this monograph aims to shed light on historical issues alongside its current status, concerns, and future prospects. It offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary examination of the Bangsamoro as it continues to navigate post-conflict governance, economic development, political transformations, and social change. The Contemporary Bangsamoro moves beyond a generalized view of the autonomous region by emphasizing provincial heterogeneity—how different provinces within the region experience governance, economic development, security, and social dynamics differently. It also includes perspectives and views of Moro societies outside the region both in the country and overseas. By integrating case studies from Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Special Geographic Area (SGA) in North Cotabato, and Moro communities outside the region, the book provides a granular understanding of how local, national, and international variations affect policy implementation and development outcomes.

Objectives

With the monograph’s emphasis on the contemporary condition of the Bangsamoro, its society and politics, history, culture, economy, religious practice, environment, and security, the book aims to achieve the following:

  • To introduce up-to-date conceptual and empirical insights and findings of the Bangsamoro as both an autonomous region and an identity beyond geographical limitation;
  • To provide clarity to the current understanding of the Bangsamoro and dispel recurring misconceptions given its dynamic and multifaceted characteristics;
  • To explore and discuss potential futures that address present concerns, ranging from issues of inclusivity and governance to transition and justice, among many others;
  • To serve as a key reference for understanding BARMM’s governance, economy, and social landscape at a provincial level; and,
  • To inform discussions on policy, peacebuilding, and development while offering a research-driven perspective.

Themes

Bringing together leading Bangsamoro scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, this book addresses the following key themes:

Part I: Political Transformations and Governance: Examines governance challenges, the persistence of political dynasties, and institutional reforms across different provinces.

Part II: Economic Development and Informal Sectors: Analyzes economic diversification, informal economies, and the role of private sector growth across the Bangsamoro.

Part III: Peace, Security, and Justice: Investigates security threats, transitional justice, and law enforcement mechanisms in the provinces.

Part IV: Social Change, Identity, and Education: Explores socio-cultural diversity, educational reforms, and the role of women and youth in the provinces.

Part V: Provincial Perspectives and Comparative Analyses: Highlights the political, economic, and social heterogeneity of BARMM’s provinces, focusing on disparities, opportunities, and local governance models.