Young Moros make their voices heard through Bangsamoro Youth Parliament

The Bangsamoro Youth Parliament, running on its third year, has served as a platform for young people in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to speak up, raise their concerns, and advocate for continued peace and their inclusion in the policy-making process.

“The establishment of a youth parliament is an initial step in educating children and young people about the legislative process,” said Settie Ivy Ampatuan, youth development officer of the Bangsamoro Youth Commission. “It also allows them to engage with the workings of the government and ensures their voices are part of the conversation.”

Since it was established in 2021, the youth parliament has advocated for numerous bills to be passed, including the establishment of a Climate Change Commission in the region. This initiative seeks to craft a comprehensive action plan that prioritizes the welfare of children and vulnerable communities amid the devastating effects of climate change.

Photo: UNICEF Philippines

As the May 2025 elections approach, the young parliamentarians remain committed to ensuring the bills and resolutions they have fought for will be passed and become landmark actionable programs and services that benefit not only children and youth, but the entire region as well.

With the support of the Government of the Republic of Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency and UNICEF, the youth parliament gathered 80 young parliamentarians from across the region to raise young people’s concerns and bring them to the attention of leaders.

“The Bangsamoro youth comprises a large population in the region. However, we are often on the receiving end of government decisions, and the lack of representation of our voices sometimes leads to the incorrect implementation of these laws and policies,” said 19-year-old Maya Padilla, a young parliamentarian.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Jamil Luminda is pushing for a resolution to establish mechanisms that will protect children and youth from election-related violence.

“Our youth must be safeguarded from any form of violence or manipulation during elections. We are appealing to our leaders to help stop all election-related violence affecting us,” said Luminda.

Aside from legislative drafting, the young parliamentarians spoke with ministers and key government leaders about different issues.

“True progress is only achievable when young voices are heard and valued. Bangsamoro children and youth deserve safe spaces where they can freely express their opinions and engage in dialogue. They need strong advocates who support their journey in shaping policies and holding leaders accountable,” said Andreas Wuestenberg, Chief of UNICEF Mindanao Field Office. RDH

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Chris Layugan