Davao City – The Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxiliary Brigade (BIWAB) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) took a significant step towards their transition to civilian leadership roles during a recent capacity-building workshop held in this city on February 23-26, 2025.

The workshop was organized by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), through the Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC), and supported by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the British Embassy.  It gathered 84 BIWAB members, including battalion commanders, decommissioned members, and representatives from the MILF Social Welfare Committee.

 

The workshop focused on key areas of Gender and Development (GAD), Women, Peace, and Security (WPS), and socioeconomic programs designed to empower BIWAB members as they transition into civilian leadership roles.

 

“Mahalaga po ang papel na ginagampanan ng mga kababaihan lalo na sa mga komunidad na dumaan sa mga pagsubok at hamon ng digmaan,” emphasized TFDCC Co-Chair Laisa Masuhud Alamia, highlighting the critical role of BIWAB in peacebuilding and rebuilding communities affected by conflict.  She stressed that economic stability, leadership opportunities, and policy engagement are crucial for long-term peace in the region.

 

Hashim Manticayan, representing MILF TFDCC Co-Chair Aida Silongan, expressed deep respect and admiration for the courageous women of the BIWAB, stating, “their sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Bangsamoro aspiration have been vital to the long journey toward peace, justice and self-determination.”

 

The workshop included discussions on livelihood opportunities, leadership training, conflict resolution, and social services such as education, healthcare, and welfare support for widows and vulnerable groups. Participants also had the opportunity to recommend strategies for capacity-building, advocacy, and monitoring frameworks.

 

With support from the UNDP and the British Embassy Manila, the weeklong event reinforced the Philippine government’s commitment to strengthening the role of women in governance and socioeconomic development.

 

“The future of Bangsamoro will be built by women who step forward and lead,” stated Alamia, emphasizing the crucial role women play in building a brighter future for the region.