Reimagining Peace YOUTH NARRATIVES ON RIDO AND THE PATH TO PEACE

Reimagining Peace YOUTH NARRATIVES ON RIDO AND THE PATH TO PEACE Rewriting Peace +639453008120 [email protected]

CONTENTS Copyright 2023 ReWriting Peace

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Published by: ReWriting Peace Iranun corridor and SPMS box Maguindanao

Writers: Abdullah Al-Fatah, Samarudin Samsudin and Rasul Mantawil Layout: Samarudin Samsudin Editors: Samarudin Samsudin, Abdul Al-Fatah and Rasul Mantawil

I- Introduction II- Understanding Clan feuds/Rido III- The narratives of youth on Rido IV- Holding the pen rewriting peace V- Case studies of Rido in Iranun and SPMS box Maguindanao VI - Summary of the Project: Rewriting Peace VII- Project Activities, Impact and unique Interventions VIII- Ways forward and recommendations IX- Conclusion X- Contact and Acknowlegements

For decades, clan feuds have plagued the Bangsamoro region of the Philippines, causing untold suffering and instability for countless families and communities. The reasons behind these feuds are complex and multifaceted, rooted in history, culture, and politics. Land disputes, grievances over ancestral territories, and rivalries between powerful clans have all contributed to the cycle of violence that continues to tear communities apart.

I.INTRODUCTIONS

Amidst this ongoing crisis, however, there is a glimmer of hope. Young people in the Bangsamoro have emerged as powerful advocates for peace and reconciliation, sharing their stories and insights on the impact of clan feuds on their lives and communities. These youth narratives offer a unique perspective on the issue, one that is often overlooked by policymakers and other stakeholders. By listening to the voices of these young people, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of clan feuds and work towards sustainable solutions that prioritize the needs and aspirations of the youth. We believe that the narratives of these young people can play a critical role in shaping policies and interventions that address the root causes of clan feuds, promote reconciliation and healing, and support the long-term development of the region. That is why we have created this handbook, which aims to provide a platform for the voices of youth in the Bangsamoro on the issue of clan feuds. Through this e-book, we hope to share their stories and insights with a wider audience, and to inspire meaningful dialogue and action on this important issue. We believe that by working together, we can create a more peaceful, just, and prosperous future for the people of the Bangsamoro.

A. Historical background The Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao regions in the Philippines are home to various indigenous communities who have been living there for centuries. The Iranun people are known for their seafaring skills, while the Maguindanaons are known for their prowess in farming and crafting. Both regions have rich cultural traditions and unique ways of life. However, these regions have also been plagued by clan feuds for generations. Historically, clan feuds in these areas have been rooted in territorial disputes, power struggles, and religious differences. The Iranun Corridor, for instance, was an important trade route in the pre-colonial era, and various clans competed for control over its resources. The Maguindanao, on the other hand, was a Sultanate that maintained power by forming alliances with other clans, but this balance of power was disrupted with the arrival of Spanish colonizers. During the American colonial period, clan feuds persisted, often with the support of American authorities who saw the conflicts as a way to maintain control over the region. Today, the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao remain among the most conflict-affected areas in the Philippines, with clan feuds continuing to cause instability and suffering.

II.UNDERSTANDING CLAN FEUDS IN THE IRANUN CORRIDOR AND MAGUINDANAO

B. Root causes of clan feuds- There are various factors that contribute to clan feuds in the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao. Land disputes, for instance, are a common trigger for conflict. Many clans in these areas rely on farming and fishing for their livelihoods, and disputes over land and water resources can quickly escalate into violent clashes. Additionally, personal grievances and political rivalries often play a role in perpetuating clan feuds. Family members may seek revenge for perceived slights or insults, and political actors may use clan feuds to maintain their power and influence. Another factor that contributes to clan feuds in these areas is social norms. In the Maguindanao, for example, the culture of "rido" or vengeance is deeply ingrained, with clans feeling obligated to seek revenge for perceived wrongs. This culture of revenge can perpetuate cycles of violence that are difficult to break. Poverty and lack of access to justice also exacerbate clan feuds in these areas, with many clans feeling that they have no other options for recourse. C. Consequences of clan feuds- The consequences of clan feuds are devastating for individuals and communities in the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao. For families who have lost loved ones in the conflicts, the emotional toll is immense. Many people have been displaced from their homes or forced to flee to other areas to escape the violence. The impact of clan feuds on communities is also significant, with the breakdown of social trust and economic instability.Clan feuds also have wider implications for peacebuilding, development, and human rights in the region. The ongoing conflict has hindered efforts to build sustainable peace in the region, with clans reluctant to engage in dialogue or compromise. Economic development is also hindered by the conflict, with many areas in the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao remaining impoverished and underdeveloped. Human rights abuses are also a concern, with reports of extrajudicial killings and other abuses perpetrated by both sides in the conflict. I Map image source: http://www.ethnicgroupsphilippines.com/philippines-profile/map/map-ofmindanao/p

III- PEACE CHASERS: NARRATIVES OF YOUTH ON RIDO AND THEIR PERSPECTIVES

A. The Role of Youth in Perpetuating or Resolving Clan Feuds Youth play a significant role in the perpetuation or resolution of clan feuds in the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao. Their experiences and perspectives are shaped by their clan identities and the violence and trauma they witness and experience. Youth are often expected to uphold the honor of their clans, which can lead to perpetuating violence and revenge. However, youth can also play a critical role in promoting peace and reconciliation, especially given their potential for innovation and openness to new ideas. B. Key Themes from Youth Narratives on Clan Feuds Through interviews, focus group discussions and Listening Discussion Acion Group ( LGDAG session) key themes emerged from the narratives of youth on clan feuds in Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao. These themes include experiences of violence and trauma, impacts on education and employment opportunities, challenges of navigating clan loyalties and expectations, and hopes and visions for a peaceful future.Many youth shared stories of witnessing or experiencing violence, including the loss of family members and friends. The trauma of these experiences can have long-lasting impacts on their mental health and wellbeing. In addition, clan feuds often lead to displacement and disruption of schooling and work, which can further limit opportunities for youth.Navigating clan loyalties and expectations can also be challenging for youth. They may feel pressure to take sides in feuds, even if they do not agree with the actions of their clan. This can create internal conflict and make it difficult to voice their opinions or pursue their own aspirations. Despite these challenges, many youth shared hopes for a peaceful future, where they could live without fear of violence and have opportunities to pursue their goals. C. Implications for Conflict Resolution and Sustainable Peace Youth narratives on clan feuds can provide valuable insights for conflict resolution efforts in the Iranun Corridor and Maguindanao. These narratives can help identify the root causes of clan feuds and the needs and aspirations of youth. Engaging youth in peacebuilding efforts can also tap into their potential for creativity and innovation, and help shift the culture of violence towards a culture of peace.To effectively engage youth in peacebuilding, it is important to address the challenges they face, such as limited access to education and employment opportunities, and the influence of clan identities. Creating safe spaces for dialogue and empowering youth to take leadership roles in peacebuilding efforts can also be effective strategies.

III- PEACE CHASERS: NARRATIVES OF YOUTH ON RIDO AND THEIR PERSPECTIVES

Rido is a common conflict that affects the community as a whole. It is commonly cause by misunderstanding and lack of sabr. Wherein it grows to something bigger because of the pride and weak Iman of people. It takes lives and peacefulness in one's life.

In your perception, what is rido?

Rido is one of the problems in our society. Conflict between two families na Hindi magka sundo. One of the reasons is Pride (Maratabat) which is Hindi na co-control yung emotion that's why it becomes Rido.

Taib, Nazila C.

Karim, Raisalam D.

Montaani, Abduladzis

In my own perception in Rido, also known as clan conflict, is a type of conflict that occurs between clans or families. It is typically characterized by a long-standing, often generations-long, dispute between two or more clans that can involve issues such as land, resources, power, and honor.

Sulatan, Amirodin T.

For me, Rido is something war between two family. Sometimes is it because of Maratabat why we have Rido. Rido also is one of the major problem in our municipality.

III- PEACE CHASERS: NARRATIVES OF YOUTH ON RIDO AND THEIR PERSPECTIVES In your perception, what is rido? A rido is defined as extreme types of a conflict such as cases of blood feud , vendetta , faida , clan war , gang war , or private war , is a prolonged dispute or fight, characterized by a frenzy of revenge by violence between families or clans and kinship groups as well as between communities

Dagadas, Mohalidhen U.

Rido is an argument or disagreement. It can be also misunderstanding between two person or parties. Rido is a conflict and can possibly lead to a war if it will not resolve. Rido cause due to the position, power, money, land properties and etc.

Pakakaman, Omar L.

Abaf, Bai Rasama T.

When there is a misunderstanding between clans, conflict happens. This may start with simple exchange of words based on their sides, attacking through expressing one's opinions, but most of the time, it leads to a larger clash that might result to loss of lives. This is basically what rido means. It is a problem between clans.

Lao-un, Daima M.

Rido is a feud between two families where those involved will have no freedom. Rido can kill our dreams as well. When your family got involved in rido, you had no choice but to stop going to school out of fear that your opponent might see you and kill you.

“Holding the Pen: Rewriting Peace”

IV-BANGSAMORO:HOLDING THE PEN, REWRITING PEACE By: Al-Fatah Abdullah

“The pen is mightier than the sword.” My mother would always tell me this, even before I completely understood it. I don’t even have an idea to whom this quotation belongs. What I just remember now is that my mother used to tap my face while telling me this, looking at me attentively as if she was sharing a hidden secret. I came from a very humble family in the far-flung area of Buldon, Maguindanao. In our isolated village, farming is the center of our lives. We do, however, believe that education is our hope. My mother was a Barangay chairwoman for the Social Welfare Committee, a women sector of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. I could well recall her going from house to house collecting donations for MILF fighters. One day, I went with her to assist in carrying rice donations. I’m not sure what the donations of one cup of rice were used for back then. I would merely provide a hand because I am aware of how happy she was. Sometimes, people would just ask, “Dika n’dukawan?” [Aren’t you getting tired?]. Which left me wondering the same thing since I knew my mother would not get anything from the donations. I asked her “Ina, inongka d’n aya dii nggal’bka a adn a margas tano?” [Why are you doing this? we have enough rice to cook.] She glanced up as she said, “You’ll understand soon; for now, all you can do is hold a pen and study so you can help ” to me. Just keep in mind the pen is mightier than the sword, she added. I was puzzled, because I was too young at the time to fully comprehend the meaning of what the Bangsamoro struggle was about.

Growing up, despite living in the far-flung area, I managed to get enrolled. It takes two hours every weekday to go to school, but never in mind to think otherwise because for me, going to school is not just a mere dream, but also for my mother’s unfulfilled dream. When I seem exhausted, she would comfort me. “Education is the only hope we can offer” she would always say. At the beginning, I understood that education is important. The level of education is what determines someone’s success, right? But I fail to realize that what she was saying is beyond the success that one could get. So, I feel guilty of being selfish. As time passed by, I began to understand, and everything became clear. Yes, my mother is right. Education is powerful, the passage of Bangsamoro Organic Law is enough to testify to it. Because it’s no longer the bullets that could decide the future of Bangsamoro but the pen, and those who hold it I should add. With the aid of a little pen tip, it is simple to accomplish what a sharp edge of a sword cannot. I understand why she told me to get the pen and study in order for me to be able to help, because as a victim of more than four decades of war, we have been buried by historical injustices and those who want to erase us. It’s only the pen that could lift us from the seemingly endless tyranny. After the passage of Bangsamoro Organic Law in 2019, people would ask my mother “what is it left for you?” people would assume that all those rendered for the Moro revolution went nothing. Because she was just a nobody who could barely read and write, since she was deprived of formal education. She would just reply, “the future of Bangsamoro is what I care about the most.” her patriotism is immense indeed. Her utmost dedication for the Bangsamoro has inspired me to make sure that her effort, and those of the Mujahideen, would not end there. The Bangsamoro government, through its different instrumentalities, has shown us the glimpse of what the future awaits us. As we transition, we should ask ourselves, are we among those who lift the pen? It is indeed, the pen is mightier than the sword as Author Bulwer Lytton stated. The power of writing is greater than the force. Writing skill is more important than a sword’s edge sharpness. This is due to the fact that while the fame of the sword is painful and fleeting, the influence of writing is unparalleled and will continue to have an impact for years to come. It is now the time to sharpen our pen and speak our mind. The Bangsamoro struggle is not over yet. Let’s hold the pen and rewrite peace!

III- CASE STUDIES OF RIDO ON IRANUN CORRIDOR AND SPMS BOX MAGUINDANAO

1. The Ampatuan and Mangudadatu feud This clan feud is perhaps the most wellknown in Maguindanao, as it resulted in the infamous Maguindanao massacre of 2009, in which 58 people were killed. The Ampatuan and Mangudadatu clans had been vying for control over the provincial governorship, and the election-related violence quickly escalated into a full-blown clan feud. The rido settlement program was used to resolve the conflict, with representatives from both clans engaging in dialogue and coming to a peaceful resolution. 2. The Salibo and Dimaampao feud This feud in the Iranun Corridor was sparked by a land dispute, with both clans claiming ownership over a particular parcel of land. The conflict escalated into a series of violent clashes, with both sides suffering casualties. The rido settlement program was utilized to bring both clans to the negotiating table, and a compromise was reached that allowed both clans to share the land. 3. The Adel and Mamaluba feud This clan feud in Maguindanao was rooted in a personal grievance, with one family seeking revenge for the murder of a family member. The conflict quickly escalated, with both sides engaging in violent clashes that resulted in several deaths. The rido settlement program was used to mediate the conflict, and a peaceful resolution was reached through dialogue and the payment of "blood money" to the aggrieved family. 4. The Buisan and Lidasan feud This clan feud in the Iranun Corridor was caused by a dispute over fishing rights in a particular area. The conflict escalated into a series of violent clashes, with both sides suffering casualties. The rido settlement program was utilized to bring both clans to the negotiating table, and a compromise was reached that allowed both clans to share the fishing grounds. Here are some additional case studies of clan feuds in Maguindanao: 1. The Sinsuat and Dimaampao feud This feud was sparked by a land dispute, with both clans claiming ownership over a particular parcel of land. The conflict escalated into a series of violent clashes, with both sides suffering casualties. The rido settlement program was utilized to bring both clans to the negotiating table, and a compromise was reached that allowed both clans to share the land. 2. The Mangudadatu and Tengkalan feud This clan feud was caused by a dispute over a water source, with both clans claiming ownership over a particular creek. The conflict escalated into a series of violent clashes, with both sides suffering casualties. The rido settlement program was utilized to mediate the conflict, and a peaceful resolution was reached through dialogue and the sharing of the creek. 3. The Sema and Ampatuan feud This feud was rooted in a personal grievance, with one family seeking revenge for the murder of a family member. The conflict quickly escalated, with both sides engaging in violent clashes that resulted in several deaths. The rido settlement program was used to mediate the conflict, and a peaceful resolution was reached through dialogue and the payment of "blood money" to the aggrieved family. 4. The Saliao and Salikala feud This clan feud was sparked by a dispute over a piece of farmland. The conflict escalated into a series of violent clashes, with both sides suffering casualties. The rido settlement program was utilized to bring both clans to the negotiating table, and a compromise was reached that allowed both clans to share the land.

VI- SUMMARY OF THE PROJECT: REWRITING PEACE

Rewriting peace aims to create a network of 20 youth peace advocates from Iranun corridor and SPMS box community focusing on conflict transformation of rido by highlighting the narratives and capacities of resilience. Rewriting Peace is a project under the Equal Access International Philippines' Peace Promotion Fellowship program under the Communities and Schools Fighting Against Terrorism (CS-LIFT) Project Rewriting Peace is a transformative initiative that seeks to empower young peace advocates from the Iranun corridor and Maguindanao community in the Philippines to address the issue of conflict transformation in the region. The initiative aims to create a network of 20 young peace advocates who will work together to highlight the narratives and capacities of resilience in the communities affected by the long-standing conflict over rido. Through capacity-building workshops, mentoring sessions, Listening Discussion Action Group or LDAG Session with storytelling and peacebuilding activities, the Rewriting Peace project will equip the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution in their communities. The program will also provide a platform for the young peace advocates to share their experiences and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for peace in the region. One of the key components of the Rewriting Peace project is the focus on highlighting the narratives of resilience in the communities affected by conflict. The project recognizes that while conflict can have devastating effects on communities, it also has the potential to foster resilience and resourcefulness among the people. By highlighting these narratives of resilience, the initiative aims to inspire hope and promote positive change in the region. The Rewriting Peace project is grounded in the principles of youth empowerment, community engagement, and conflict transformation. It recognizes the important role that young people can play in promoting peace and the need for a community-led approach to conflict transformation. Through its innovative and collaborative approach, Rewriting Peace is poised to make a significant contribution to the ongoing efforts towards lasting peace in the Iranun corridor and Maguindanao community.

ONBOARDING SESSION VII- PROJECT ACTIVITIES, IMPACT AND UNIQUE INTERVENTIONS

PROJECT LAUNCHING The ReWriting Peace has now finally concluded the onboarding session on January 08, 2023, where the participants were welcomed as officially part of the program after thorough deliberations of applications. The Onboarding Session aims to officially welcome the participants to build camaraderie through an interactive session. Twenty (20) youth from Iranun Corridor and SPMX-box with strong commitment to chasing peace for their communities build up a perfect composition as network throughout the month-long peacebuilding journey in Rewriting peace. One of the highlights of the program was the Listening, Discussion and Action Group (LDAG) session that aims to understand the perceptions of participants on the rido through a audio.

PEACE CHASERS CAMP

ReWrting Peace successfully launched its peace project focusing on the narratives of young people in the community about the rido. The project showcased attended by the different BARMM ministries, INGO/NGOs, CSOs, UN offices, youth organizations, media partners, and the academe.

The ReWriting Peace finally concluded the Peace Chasers Camp with the theme "Chasing Peace, Building Network" last March 11-12, 2023.The camp aims to build a strong network of peace advocates and enhance teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills among peace chasers' participants in an outdoor setting, fostering a sense of collaboration, trust, and camaraderie, while also promoting personal growth and stress-relief. The program started with check-in and Wellness session, presentation of group outputs and team building activities filled with different joyful and reflective sessions, such as Scavenger Hunting, Healing and Reconciliation session and others.

Peace Camp story telling through healing and reconciliation session. Participants was able to share their narratives and experiences of rido in Iranun areas and SPMS Box communties

PROJECT IMPACT AND INTRVENTIONS

Impact: Building a Network of Youth Peace Advocates Intervention: The project will identify and recruit 20 young people from the Iranun corridor and SPMS box Maguindanao who have demonstrated an interest in promoting peace and conflict resolution in their communities. These individuals will be trained in conflict resolution skills and leadership development and will form a network of youth peace advocates who can work together to promote peace in their communities. Impact: Highlighting Youth Capacities and Resilience Intervention: Through storytelling and other narrative-based interventions, the project will highlight the capacities and resilience of young people in conflict-affected areas. By showcasing the stories of young people who have overcome adversity and taken action to promote peace, the project will inspire others to follow in their footsteps and contribute to building more peaceful and just communities. Impact: Fostering Dialogue and Understanding Intervention: The youth peace advocates involved in the project will engage in dialogue with members of their communities to promote a message of peace and understanding. By creating opportunities for open and honest communication, the project aims to break down barriers between different groups and foster a sense of mutual respect and cooperation. Impact: Creating Sustainable Change Intervention: The project will work with local partners to ensure that the youth peace advocates have the resources and support they need to continue promoting peace and conflict resolution in their communities after the project has ended. This may involve providing ongoing training and mentorship, facilitating access to funding and other resources, and creating opportunities for the youth advocates to connect with other like-minded individuals and organizations.

VIII- WAYS FORWARD AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Scaling Up: Expand the project to reach more youth in other conflict-affected areas in the region, building on the successful model developed in the Iranun corridor and SPMS box Maguindanao. Collaboration: Work with other organizations and stakeholders in the peacebuilding and conflict resolution field to create a broader network of youth peace advocates, maximizing impact and sustainability. Advocacy: Use the stories and experiences of the youth peace advocates involved in the project to advocate for greater youth participation and inclusion in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts at the local, national, and international levels. Monitoring and Evaluation: Develop robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to measure the impact of the project over time, and to identify areas for improvement and growth. Sustainability: Develop strategies to ensure the longterm sustainability of the project, including identifying potential sources of funding, building partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders, and providing ongoing training and support for youth peace advocates involved in the project.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Stakeholders: Support the project by providing resources, expertise, and guidance to the youth peace advocates involved. Encourage young people in their communities to participate in the project and promote its message of peace and understanding. Provide feedback and input on the project design and implementation to ensure that it aligns with local needs and priorities. 2. BARMM Government: Allocate resources and support for the project through relevant government agencies and programs. Incorporate the experiences and insights of the youth peace advocates involved in the project into policymaking and program design, to ensure that their perspectives are reflected in government initiatives related to peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Collaborate with the project team to promote the project's message of peace and understanding, and to foster greater youth participation and inclusion in government decision-making processes. 3. Other Agencies: Provide financial and technical support for the project and help to mobilize resources and expertise to support its implementation. Promote the project's message of peace and understanding through their own networks and channels, helping to amplify the voices of the youth peace advocates involved. Explore opportunities for collaboration with the project team, to build broader networks of youth peace advocates and promote greater youth participation and inclusion in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts.

CONCLUSION Rewriting peace narratives of the youth by the youth is an essential step in conflict transformation in rido-affected communities. The youth have the potential to make a significant impact on peacebuilding initiatives through their resilience, creativity, and innovative thinking. However, they need support from agencies and organizations to develop their skills, access resources, and create sustainable peace initiatives. Agencies in BARMM can play a crucial role in supporting youth-led peace initiatives in rido-affected communities. By investing in youth empowerment programs and providing resources and technical assistance, agencies can help create a supportive environment for youth-led peacebuilding efforts. Moreover, agencies can facilitate dialogue between youth and community leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders to ensure that youth perspectives are included in the peacebuilding process.

CHASE PEACE

ReWrting Peace: Narratives of the youth by the youth

Peace Fellows: Samarudin Samsudin, Al-Fatah Abdullah, Rasul Mantawill Peace Chasers: . Omar L. Pakamaman,Myra T. Samsudin, Raihana U. Salib Tarisha U. Guiamadil , Mohalidhen Utto Dagadas , Aizha Lyn Joanne M. Macarandas, Aslima R. Lalai, Sittie Aina B. Baltao, Daima M. Lao-un , Norsida T. Mohamad,Abduladzis B. Montani , Amiroden T. Sultan , Norlaila I. Lau-on, Amera P. H.Omar, Nazila C. Taib, Nahara N. Codilla , Bai Rasmia Abag, Merhaima G. Tahir, Raisalam D. Karim



Funder:Equal Access International Philippines

Partners: Iranun Youth Initiatives Inc., United Actve Group of Association Inc., and Child Peace Movement Council

Philippines