Legarda urges Senate probe into reported violence vs. non-Muslim IPs in BARMM

An investigation into the security of non-Moro Indigenous Peoples (NMIPs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is being sought in the Senate.

Senator Loren Legarda has filed proposed Senate Resolution 1239 which urges the Senate to launch a probe following the killing of Teduray-Lambangian tribal chieftain Fernando Promboy who was reportedly beheaded in Maguindano del Sur in February.

Legarda mentioned the case of Promboy, whose body was found near a water reservoir in Maguindanao del Sur last February 19,2025.

She cited the figures from Timuay Justice and Governance (TJG) and Climate Conflict Action (CCAA) which documented at least 84 NMIP killings from 2014 to 2024, which included 12 leaders, seven youth, and eight women.

Legarda also noted of the 36 NMIP killings recorded by the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) during the same period.

The senator also mentioned data from the Commission on Human Rights in its 2024 Situation report which recorded that 65 males, seven females, and seven youth victims between 2018 to 2024.

“These significant discrepancies among the records highlight the urgent need for independent validation, comprehensive investigation, and reinforced protection measures to hold perpetrators accountable while safeguarding NMIPs from further risks, threats, endangerment, and violence,” Legarda said.

In her resolution, Legarda asked the Senate to assess the full range of challenges faced by NMIPs in BARMM, including barriers to accessing justice, the adequacy of existing protection programs, and the urgent need for strengthened legal and policy interventions that ensure the full inclusion of NMIPs in the peace and development agenda of both the Bangsamoro region and the broader national framework.

“Beyond ensuring accountability for specific incidents of violence, there is a pressing need to reinforce the rule of law and establish clear, enforceable mechanisms that safeguard the rights and security of NMIPs without exacerbating tensions or exposing communities to further vulnerabilities,” Legarda added. — Hana Bordey/RSJ, GMA Integrated News