A special message from the men and women of IAG

September 19, 2023

Dear Friends,

Today, we are honored to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the Institute for Autonomy and Governance.

Eighteen years ago, when Mindanao was plagued by instability and uncertainty, IAG emerged as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Founded in 2001 and formally established in 2005 under visionary leadership, IAG has tirelessly championed the cause of genuine autonomy, good governance, and lasting peace in southern Philippines.

From its humble beginnings as a program under the College of Law of Notre Dame University, IAG has evolved into a respected and independent institute dedicated to research, training, and technical assistance. It has consistently provided platforms for marginalized communities, including the Muslim and Indigenous Peoples, to pursue meaningful self-determination, sustainable growth, and peace.

IAG's programs have been built upon the understanding that at the heart of the Mindanao conflict lies injustice and underdevelopment. Through its engagement with various stakeholders, including regional and national authorities, revolutionary fronts, and local government units, IAG has tirelessly worked to build consensus on crucial issues.

We celebrate IAG's commitment to capacity-building, its support for principled political parties, and its role in shaping a stable political environment that supports the Mindanao peace process. We applaud its dedication to vulnerable groups, which has resulted in the development of policies that protect the rights and welfare of Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, and children.

Today, as we mark this milestone, we are reminded that the work is far from over. New challenges and opportunities lie ahead, but with unity and determination, we can continue to build a future where autonomy, democracy, justice, and accountability thrive in southern Philippines.

Thank you to all our partners, donors, and community stakeholders for your unwavering support. Together, we will write the next chapter of Mindanao's history—a chapter filled with hope, progress, and lasting peace.