OFFICE FOR SETTLER COMMUNITIES

NARRATIVE REPORT
4TH Quarter

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Office for Settler Communities (OSC) is entrusted with the paramount responsibility
of safeguarding the rights of settlers in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BARMM)
embedded in the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the Constitution, and pertinent legislative
enactments by the Bangsamoro Parliament. Operating under the Office of the Chief
Minister, the OSC serves as the primary agency devoted to championing the welfare and
addressing the concerns of Settlers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
In the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2023, the OSC not only fulfilled its routine
responsibilities but also successfully executed key Programs, Activities, and Projects
(PAPs). Concurrently, the office provided essential General Administrative Services
(GAS) and Support to Operations. Noteworthy accomplishments during this period
include the presentation of draft guidelines on the certification of settler organizations,
active participation in various BARMM inter-agency activities, regular monitoring of
BARMM programs and projects in municipalities with significant settler populations,
and the implementation of LGU Fora and workshop targeting BLGU Officials and local
settler leaders. Additionally, the OSC played a crucial role in co-facilitating the People’s
Cohesion Convention, a joint effort alongside with NGO and CSO partners.
Beyond its day-to-day functions, the OSC has demonstrated a commitment to fortifying
its constituency-building efforts. This strategic focus aligns with the visionary direction
set by key leaders within Settler Communities, reflecting a dedication to amplifying the
promotion of Settlers' rights and welfare. The OSC remains resolute in its pursuit of
enhancing the lives and rights of Settlers, contributing significantly to the broader
objectives of inclusive governance and community empowerment in the Bangsamoro
Autonomous Region. Through these concerted efforts, the OSC is poised to make a
lasting impact on the well-being of Settlers and the overall development of the region.

II. DETAILS OF THE ACCOMPLISHMENT

Projects, Activities and Programs (PAPS)

1. Regular monitoring of projects and programs of the BARMM Agencies in the

settler communities

From October 23 to 27, 2023, the Economic Development and Coordination Unit Team,
under the guidance of the Community Development Officer of Maguindanao, conducted a
comprehensive monitoring initiative in identified municipalities within the province of
Maguindanao as part of their key activities. The areas visited are as follow:
1. Datu Piang Municipality 5. North Upi Municipality
2. Shariff Aguak Municipality 6. Buldon Municipality
3. Pagalungan Municipality 7. Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality
4. South Upi Municipality 8. Northern Kabuntalan Municipality
The primary objective of this undertaking was twofold: first, to ascertain the accessibility of
BARMM programs and projects for settlers, and second, to evaluate the current status of
BARMM initiatives in order to identify and address the specific needs of settlers. This
proactive approach seeks to empower and elevate the quality of life for settlers residing in
the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. The diligent monitoring conducted by the team
serves as a crucial step toward ensuring the effective implementation of BARMM initiatives
and promoting the well-being of the settler community in the region.
2. Building intra and inter-cultural relations through dialogue and conversations for
social cohesion

On October 3, 2023, Executive Director Edgardo B. Ramirez participated in assessing and

developing the roadmap for the newly organized people's conference focused on promoting
social cohesion in the Bangsamoro region. Through collaborative workshops and
discussions, the office involves itself in the identifying the common goals and strategies to
address cultural diversity, economic disparities, and historical grievances. The outcome was
a comprehensive roadmap that outlined actionable steps for fostering long-term stability
and prosperity in the region.
3. Advocacy on the Bangsamoro Peace Process and Policy Development

On October 5, 2023 the office presented its drafted guidelines for the two (2) reserve
seats to CSOs involved in Voter’s Education Program facilitated by MOSEP.

4. Inter-LGU For a and Workshop

Three Inter-LGU Forums cum Workshops were successfully conducted in strategic

locations: Brgy. Fort Pikit, Pikit, SGA-BARMM on October ; Brgy. Lower Itil, Balabagan,
Lanao Del Sur S; and Brgy. Rosary Heights 2, Cotabato City. The participants
predominantly consisted of barangay officials and leaders from the local settler
community. The primary objective of this initiative was to strengthen grassroots-level
coordination between the OSC, barangay officials, and local settler community leaders.
 5. Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security Workshop
On November 21-24, 2023 in Davao City, the Office facilitated the conduct of regional
Action Plan and Security Workshop in partnership with the United Nations
Development Program and Catholic Relief Services. The activity organized a
conversation among women settlers on the Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace, and
Security (RAPWPS) for the period of 2023-2028 in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region
in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The participants, representing various organizations
and institutions in BARMM, aim to engage in the peace process and localize the RAPWPS
at the community level. The activity is significant in addressing not only post-conflict
reconstruction but also issues related to livelihood and the recognition of identity,
particularly for women. Moreover, the said activity engaged the diverse group of
participants from different organizations and institutions in BARMM in discussions on
the RAPWPS, to localize the RAPWPS at the community level, with a focus on the role of
women settlers in this process, to recognize and addressing the importance of
livelihood and identity in the context of women's participation in peace and security
efforts, and to identify issues and concerns related to Women, Peace, and Security
(WPS) that are relevant to the region.
In summary, the activity fostered dialogue, localization, and understanding of the
RAPWPS among women settlers in BARMM, with a focus on addressing issues related to
livelihood, identity, and the broader context of Women, Peace, and Security.

6. Turn-over of motorized Bangka to victims of typhoon Paeng

The Office for Settler Communities, in collaboration with the Social Action Center for
Justice and Peace (SACJP), conducted a comprehensive damage and needs assessment in
areas impacted by typhoon Paeng, with a specific focus on barangays housing a
significant number of settlers. Subsequently, the office effectively communicated the
assessment findings to the Office of the Knights of Columbus. The assessment results
identified families deserving of livelihood assistance. On December 19, 2023, at Pearl
Beach Resort in Sitio Kaguco, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao, the office, in conjunction
with the Knights of Columbus organization, officially handed over motorized Bangkas to
fourteen (14) families who were severely affected by the devastation caused by typhoon
Paeng on October 29, 2022. These motorized Bangkas are intended to serve as vital
livelihood support for the beneficiaries, considering that the primary source of income
in the area is fishing. The identified beneficiaries include:
1. Fajardo, Jerome B. 9. Ariston, Rogie Q.
2. Desmanos, Dionesio S. 10. Dismanos, Arnold A.
3. Anton, Journel B. 11. Balisco, Henry S.
4. Fuentes, Randy D. 12. Paalisbo, Renante R.
5. Diwan, Jerwin B. 13. Tomado, Cornelio L.
6. Ariston, Jon Fred Q. 14. Fajardo, Romeo D.
7. Martin, Rudy M.
8. Ariston, Alfredo U.
 Annex B

Support to Operations (STO)

Relocation to New OSC Office

By the end of 2023, in a collaborative effort involving the BTA Office of MP Dr. Susana
Salvador Anayatin, along with the Administrative Section and Technical Division of the
Office for Settler Communities, our office successfully relocated its headquarters nearer to
its parent agency, the Office of the Chief Minister (OCM). This relocation aims to expedite
document processing at the OCM and to provide stakeholders with easier access to the
office.

Inter-Agency Activities:

1. On October 2, 2023, ten (10) OSC staff members actively participated in the launch
of National Indigenous Peoples Month at the Bangsamoro Government Center.

2. On October 5, 2023, Mr. Percival Lagman, the appointed ex officio commissioner

representing settlers in BCPCH, attended a three-day Commission En Banc Meeting
with BCHP officials and commissioners.

3. On October 27, 2023, the Information Officer of the office attended the 1st Shariff
Kabungsuan meeting.

4. On November 15, 2023, the office coordinated with CRS to dialogue on matters
regarding youth and women agenda.

5. On November 29, 2023, the Administrative Section head and the Technical Division
chief attended the Orientation on RA 11313, An Act Defining Gender-Based Sexual
Harassment in Streets, Public Spaces, Online, Workplaces, and Educational or
Training Institutions, Providing Protective Measures and Prescribing Penalties
Therefor.

6. On December 12, 2023, eight (8) office staff took part in the culmination of the 18-
day campaign to end Violence Against Women (VAW) in BARMM held at Shariff
Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City.

7. On December 19, 2023, nine (9) office staff attended the celebration of sheriff
kabungsuan anniversary, held at Cotabato port, Cotabato City.
 Annex B

III. ISSUES AND/OR CHALLENGES W/CORRESPONDING RECOMMENDATION

1. On Operational aspect, the office to implement its approved PAPs because of the delay in
procurement process.

Prepared by: Reviewed by:

JOEMARIE G. PALMARES ATTY. EDWIN P. MATURA

M&E Officer/Focal Person Immediate Supervisor

Approved by:

MP DR. SUSANA SALVADOR ANAYATIN

Head of Office