February saw the Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG) dedicating diverse initiatives to promoting peace, good governance, and community empowerment.

Building Relationships and Collaboration

IAG fostered collaboration and understanding of critical Bangsamoro issues through a meeting with Manila-based journalists and media representatives. The institute also welcomed leaders from the Bangsamoro People's Party (BPP) to discuss their party-building initiatives and hosted a visit from DFAT Australia's team in Cotabato City to discuss peacebuilding and human rights. Additionally, IAG met with representatives from the National Democratic Institute (NDI) to explore potential avenues for collaboration in the Bangsamoro region.

Promoting Knowledge Sharing and Learning

To promote knowledge sharing and learning, IAG initiated an inception meeting for the "Enhancing Political Dialogue towards Inclusive Political Institutions, Rule of Law, and Strengthened Security in the Bangsamoro" (EnPolD-INSPIRES) project. This meeting brought together partners and stakeholders to discuss the project's vision and goals, fostering collaboration and ensuring its success. The project is supported by the Australian Government.

IAG further emphasized knowledge sharing and learning by hosting an international conference in Manila on "Post-Conflict Governance Institutions in Selected Asian Cases," together with the Southeast Asian Women Peace Mediators (SEAWPM). This event gathered participants from various Asian countries to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face in their respective governance systems.

Empowering Youth and Local Communities

IAG, with support from Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines Office, launched a youth camp series in South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, for aspiring Indigenous community leaders. This program aimed to empower young individuals by connecting them with their cultural heritage and fostering leadership skills through activities focused on traditional dishes, teambuilding games, and storytelling.

Looking Ahead

These activities highlight IAG's unwavering commitment to its mission of engaging institutions, leaders, and communities in capacity building, dialogue, and knowledge production for the advancement of evidence-based public policies and practices in the Bangsamoro and beyond. IAG looks forward to building upon these efforts and continuing to contribute to a peaceful, prosperous, and empowered future for the region.