Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission-Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office

19/04/2026

Tudtulan!!!

BHRC Conducts Documentation of Past Human Rights Violations in Maguindanao del Sur

Pursuant to the Bangsamoro Human Rights Act of 2019, the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) is mandated to document and investigate past human rights violations until a specific law on transitional justice is enacted.

In compliance with this mandate, the Commission conducted documentation activities in the municipalities of Ampatuan and South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, from April 6–8, 2026. The activity aims to record events that transpired before, during, and after the Martial Law period in the said areas.

Headed by Atty. Asnaima Abo, the research team—including research writer engaged by the office to draft the study’s output—conducted a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Consultations were held with victims of past human rights violations, community leaders, elderly witnesses of abuses, combatants, local government officials, and traditional leaders.

The results of this documentation will be submitted to the BHRC Regional Office for consolidation of all gathered data and records. These documents shall be formally turned over to the Bangsamoro Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission once the said body is established.

17/04/2026

Tudtulan!!!

BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office Conducted Legal Assistance and Facility Monitoring at Maguindanao Provincial Jail

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office, headed by Atty. Asnaima S. Abo, CPA, successfully conducted legal assistance and facility monitoring activities at the Maguindanao Provincial Jail on April 14, 2026. This initiative is pursuant to the Commission’s mandate to protect and promote the human rights of all Bangsamoro constituents, including Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).

In coordination with the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Maguindanao and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cotabato Chapter, the Office provided legal consultation and advice to a total of 291 PDLs. Hygiene kits were likewise distributed to maintain proper sanitation and prevent skin diseases among detainees.

Guided by the shared goal of improving the welfare of PDLs from Maguindanao del Sur and upgrading the conditions of the jail facility established in 1901, the BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office and the Maguindanao Provincial Jail conducted an in-depth assessment of the facility. Assisted by civil engineering consultants engaged by the Commission, the evaluation covered cells, comfort rooms, ventilation systems, kitchen areas, prayer spaces, and most importantly, the existing capacity of the provincial jail to accommodate detainees from Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte.

The BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office extends its sincere gratitude to Retired Police Major Kauting Sebpao, Provincial Warden of Maguindanao Provincial Jail, and Atty. Yusoph Binsuan of PAO Maguindanao, for their full support, cooperation, and active participation in the success of this activity.

14/04/2026

09/04/2026

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF CONDEMNATION

We, the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office, hereby issue this formal statement to strongly condemn the heinous act that resulted in the death of a young boy, who was reportedly killed merely for taking mangoes without the owner’s permission. This act constitutes a gross violation of human dignity, legal provisions, and moral and religious principles, and we express our deepest sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the family of the victim, who has suffered an irreparable loss.

Every child possesses inalienable rights that must be respected, honored, protected, and supported throughout their development. These rights include the fundamental entitlements to food, security, safety, and most importantly, the inherent right to life. No child should ever be deprived of these rights, nor should they face harm or death for any reason, and certainly not for an act as minor as taking fruit.

Under the Bangsamoro Human Rights Act of 2019, also known as Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 4, specifically Sections 29 and 30, the BHRC is officially designated as the Children Ombud for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. This mandate empowers our commission to ensure that the status, rights, and interests of all children are upheld in accordance with local statutes, the Philippine Constitution, and applicable international human rights instruments. We are tasked to monitor the situation of children across the region and assess compliance with laws and policies established for their protection, to investigate alleged human rights violations committed against children including cases of abuse, exploitation, and deprivation of life, and to coordinate with relevant government agencies, law enforcement bodies, and community stakeholders to address threats to children’s well-being and secure accountability for any violations. As the Children Ombud, it is our solemn duty to stand as the guardian of children’s rights and to take all necessary and lawful action to prevent harm and seek justice for those who have been wronged.

This incident also flagrantly violates binding international human rights frameworks, most notably the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Article 3 of the CRC stipulates that the best interests of the child must be the primary consideration in all actions concerning children, while Article 6 explicitly recognizes every child’s inherent right to life and requires State parties to ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child. These principles reflect a universal commitment to protecting children from harm and upholding their right to live with dignity, and their violation is a matter of international concern.

Under Philippine and Bangsamoro domestic laws, the killing of a child is a serious crime and a clear violation of multiple legal provisions. The 1987 Philippine Constitution recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and mandates the State to promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, establishes strict measures to prevent and punish acts that harm children, including the unlawful deprivation of life. Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, further emphasizes that children in conflict with the law must be treated with dignity and provided with opportunities for rehabilitation rather than subjected to punishment that endangers their life or well-being. Additionally, the Bangsamoro Organic Law, or Republic Act No. 11054, directs the Bangsamoro Government to respect, protect, and promote the rights of children, especially those who are vulnerable, and to take all necessary measures to ensure their survival and comprehensive development. The act committed against this child runs counter to all these legal provisions, and those responsible must be held fully accountable.

This act also stands in direct contradiction to the core teachings of Islam, which places the highest value on the sanctity of life and the protection of children. As stated in the Holy Quran, Surah Al-Isra (17:31) declares, “And do not kill your children for fear of poverty. We provide for them and for you. Indeed, killing them is ever a great sin.” Similarly, Surah Al-An’am (6:151) instructs, “Say, ‘Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited to you. [He commands] that you not associate anything with Him, and to parents, good treatment, and do not kill your children out of poverty; We will provide for you and them. And do not approach immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.’” The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also explicitly prohibited the killing of women and children even in times of conflict, emphasizing their innocence and the obligation to spare them from harm. These teachings make it clear that taking the life of a child, regardless of the circumstances, is a grave sin and a violation of the principles of justice, compassion, and mercy that are central to the Islamic faith.

Recently, our office received and viewed a video documenting this tragic incident, and we are deeply pained by the suffering endured by the unidentified child. We call upon members of the public who possess any information related to this case to come forward and share details with our office, including specifics of the incident, the identity of the child, the names and contact information of his parents or guardians, and his place of residence. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality. Our office will thoroughly review the allegations of violation of the child’s right to life, conduct a full investigation as mandated by law, and coordinate closely with the victim’s family and law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is served. We will not remain silent in the face of such injustice, and we will fulfill our mandate as Children Ombud to protect the rights of every child in Bangsamoro and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

BANGSAMORO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office

01/04/2026

TUDTULAN!!!!

Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission Conducts Human Rights Education for Duty Bearers in Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office held a crucial Human Rights Education on Election Law for Duty Bearers on March 24, 2026, aimed at empowering local officials with knowledge about the upcoming first-ever Bangsamoro Parliament Election scheduled this September 2026.
Attended by officials from various barangay and municipal governments of Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur, and led by BHRC MDSPO Provincial Director Atty. Asnaima S. Abo, CPA, the program began with assessing participants’ understanding of the election’s structure and process.
The seminar featured an in-depth lecture on regional and national election laws, political events and dynamics in the Bangsamoro, and the significance of democratic participation by the Bangsamoro people. It also highlighted the connection between this election and the Bangsamoro’s journey toward democratic governance, self-determination rights, and the peace agreements between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Resource speaker Atty. Badrodin Mangindra explained the unique process of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary election, differentiating it from previous local and national elections. Accordingly, Bangsamoro voters will elect political party lists, district representatives, and sectoral representatives for Ulama, settlers, women, and youth. Indigenous peoples will have their own method for selecting their representatives.
The session sparked lively discussions among participants, especially on the selection of sectoral representatives. Some expressed concerns about external influence in choosing Ulama representatives, emphasizing the importance of autonomy in their selection process.
Participants expressed their gratitude, noting that the seminar clarified many aspects of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election, election protocols, and answered their pressing questions about the historic event.

30/03/2026

TUDTULAN!!!!

March 30, 2026

Assalamu alaykum.
The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission has a mandate to promote human rights. One of these is the right to suffrage for the Bangsamoro people during elections. For this reason, the BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office conducted a Human Rights Education on Election Law for Rights Holders in Barangay Liong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur on March 26, 2026, which was attended by over 80 individuals. The discussion was led by Atty. Badrodin Mangindra, who is not only an expert on election matters in Bangsamoro but also on the peace agreement and peace process in the region.
Many of the attendees gained clarity regarding the first-ever Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election, including how it differs from the usual local and national elections. Participants were also explained the differences in selecting political party list, sectoral, and parliamentary district representatives.
The participants expressed their gratitude for this program and requested that such programs be conducted again.
The Provincial Director of the BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office also expressed great appreciation for the warm welcome extended to the BHRC MAGDSPO by the residents of Barangay Liong, Datu Piang, led by Commander Adzmi Kasim and his wife, Barangay Chairwoman Belinda Bansil Kasim.

Translation!!

Assalamo alaykom Babo Bapa. Su Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission na inenggan sa kasuguan endo galbekan no Bangsamoro Government sa makapayapat endo makapamando nin su mga kawagib nu Bangsamoro. Isa sa masla i alaga endo balaguna nin a kawagib na kawagib anya sa kapamili sa leader. Sabap sa niya na kano March 26, 2026 na su Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office na nangaden sa kinapamando ataw kina payapat kano kawagib sa katendo nu Bangsamoro sa mamakatundog a leader a masla I mangguna nin sabap sa pakatalingguma anya a September 2026 Bangsamoro Parliament Election.
Su nalabit banto a Human Rights Education on Election Law for Rights Holders na pinangaden sa Barangay Liong Datu Piang Maguindanao del Sur a yakadakel a nakauma ataw ka timalabok na nakasawt sa labi walo pulo. Su Right to Suffrage endo Election Laws ba anya na nakapamando nu isa sa batitikan a abogado na Bangsamoro mana si Atty. Badrodin Mangindra. Nadsalisay nin kano mga nakatalabok i napadalem sa Bangsamoro Electoral Code endo su mga kawagib nu Bangsamoro sa timpo na election.
Madakel kano mga timalabok I nasabutan nilan sa mapya ngi kambidayan na pagampaganay anya Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election endo su nalayaman a kapag election sa local endo national. Nadiscuss sa kanilan sa mapya I kambidayan a tlo timan anya pedsapadan nu political party, sectoral, endo district.
Madakel bun kano participants I nakadsukor kano niyaba programa sa taman sa napanguni nilan kabpalumanan pamun I kapamando kanilan nu Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission.

Nakadsukol bun mambo su provincial director nu Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office a mana si Atty. Asnaima S. Abo kano kinadsakaw sakaw endo mapya kinatalima nu maginged a Bangsamoro sa Barangay Liong pinanguluwan ni Commander Adzmi Kasim endo kanu tanggepeda nin a si Bai Belinda Bansil Kasim kano BHRC MAGDSPO.

30/03/2026

Shawwal 11, 1447 AH
March 30, 2026

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF CONDEMNATION

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission, Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office, hereby issues a formal statement of condemnation regarding the egregious incident that transpired on the night of March 28, 2026, in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur. This violent attack resulted in the untimely demise of five (5) police officers and inflicted injuries upon three (3) others. This reprehensible act constitutes a grave violation of fundamental human rights and an affront to the sanctity of life, principles that are inviolable under both domestic and international human rights jurisprudence, as well as within the profound teachings of the Islamic religion.
The right to life, recognized as a sacrosanct human right under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other pertinent international human rights instruments to which the Republic of the Philippines is a signatory, has been brutally disregarded. The deliberate targeting and elimination of law enforcement personnel in the ex*****on of their lawful duties represent a flagrant breach of these established protections and a direct assault on the rule of law and the pursuit of peace within our communities.
Furthermore, in strict adherence to the tenets of Islamic jurisprudence which guide the Bangsamoro populace, the sanctity of life is held as a sacred and inviolable principle. The Holy Quran unequivocally states: "Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely" (Quran 5:32). This act of violence stands in direct contravention of these divine injunctions and the ethical framework that underpins our society.
We extend our profound condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased officers and our sincere solidarity with those injured. We reaffirm our unwavering support for the Philippine National Police in their indispensable mission to uphold peace and order.
The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office hereby calls for an immediate, impartial, and exhaustive investigation to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
We implore all segments of society to collectively reject all forms of violence and to steadfastly uphold respect for human rights and the rule of law. It is through the pursuit of justice, the establishment of peace, and the cultivation of mutual respect that we shall forge a secure and equitable Bangsamoro.

Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission,
Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office

27/03/2026

Assalamo Alaykom Babo Bapa. Siyakaden "Adtudtula ta."

Mga tudtulan saguna!!!!

1. BHRC MAGDSPO conducted Human Rights Education on Women's Rights for Rights Holder in Talayan Maguindanao del Sur

2. Human Rights Education on Election Laws for Duty Bearers in Talayan MDS

3. Information Drive on Election Law for Rights Holders in Datu Piang MDS. Abangan!!

4. BHRC MAGDSPO conducts jail visit and monitoring in Shariff Aguak District Jail. Collaboration to strengthen human rights protection, pimbityalan!! Abangan!!

27/03/2026

TUDTULAN!!!

BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Conducts Human Rights Education on Women’s Rights

Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur – March 23, 2026

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office held a Human Rights Education session focused on Women’s Rights on March 23, 2026, in Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur. The program aimed to raise awareness and deepen the community’s understanding of women’s rights, relevant laws, and government programs designed to protect women and empower them.
Atty. Asnaima S. Abo, CPA, Provincial Director of BHRC Maguindanao del Sur, led the discussion, highlighting important legislation such as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9262). The Act is a Philippine law intended to shield women and their children from violence and abuse. The session also emphasized women’s vital roles in community development and nation-building, as well as the various protection measures available to abuse victims.
The program began with an assessment of participants’ knowledge about women’s empowerment and violence against women and children. Following this, an in-depth discussion and open forum allowed participants to clarify questions and engage with the topics more thoroughly. The exchange also provided facilitators with deeper insights into the challenges faced by women in the region and the community-based solutions currently in place.
Attendees expressed their appreciation for the session, noting that it increased their awareness of their rights and the available protections, including the Barangay Protection Order, which Barangay officials can issue to victims of abuse under Republic Act No. 9262.
The BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office reiterated its commitment to continuing efforts that promote, protect, and fulfill women’s rights, contributing to the welfare and empowerment of women in the Bangsamoro region.

05/02/2026

BHRC MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR PROVINCIAL OFFICE CONDUCTS JAIL FACILITY MONITORING IN MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR MUNICIPALITIES

As part of its ongoing jail and other facility visit and monitoring program, the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office continues to ensure that Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) are treated with dignity, prevent torture and ill-treatment, and hold duty-bearers accountable for adhering to national and international standards. The BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office (MAGDSPO) team, led by Atty. Asnaima S. Abo, CPA, conducted visits to the lock-up cells of the Talayan and Pagalungan Municipal Police Stations on February 4 and 5, 2026.

These visits are essential for identifying structural deficiencies, such as overcrowding or inadequate medical care, and for providing evidence-based recommendations to improve jail conditions. The primary purposes of the activity are to deter and prevent human rights violations, including torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment; ensure that the basic rights of detainees such as access to food, water, sanitation, and medical care are respected; identify and address structural problems like congestion; advocate for reforms in the criminal justice system; and extend legal counseling, assistance, and advice to PDLs, particularly regarding their cases and grievances.

During the visits, the team discussed with the Chiefs of Police and focal persons of the said police stations the current situation, issues, problems, and challenges affecting their lock-up cells and inmates, especially in relation to their cases, rights, and privileges. Topics included the reasons for delays in the release of commitment orders or dismissals for cases filed by the police with the prosecutors' office, as well as steps to expedite the release of findings and recommendations from the prosecutors' office.

The physical condition of the lock-up cells and the financial subsidy allocated for the food of each individual in custody were also discussed during these visits.

The team observed and inspected the interior of the lock-up cells. After the inspection, a brief discussion was held to review the observation results and outline the necessary steps to address the problems and issues documented by the monitoring team.

Finally, partnership and collaboration between the said police stations and the Commission emerged as a central topic of discussion, particularly regarding strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights—a mandate shared by both institutions.

Basta usaping Human Rights, BHRC MAGDSPO ang KAsnaima mo!!

03/02/2026

BHRC MAGDELSUR PO Conducts Jail and Other Facility Visits and Monitoring

The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) is mandated to assess the conditions of jails, lock-up cells, and related facilities, as well as the status of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. This mandate ensures that PDLs receive appropriate welfare support, have their dignity protected, and are treated in a legally and morally proper manner.

On February 02, 2026, the BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office team conducted its first monitoring visit at the Datu Unsay Municipal Police Station lock-up cell. The team was led by Atty. Asnaima Abo, Provincial Director of BHRC Maguindanao del Sur, and held a meeting with the Municipal Police Station Chief. The discussion covered proposed improvements to the station’s lock-up cell facility, current issues and challenges faced by the PDLs, and recommendations for enhancing services to individuals under custodial care.

On February 03, 2026, the team proceeded to the South Upi Municipal Police Station to conduct a similar assessment of PDL conditions and facility standards. The station features a newly constructed building that is accessible and designed to accommodate clients effectively. The lock-up cell was found to be clean, odor-free, and well-ventilated, with the cool climate of the area contributing to a comfortable environment for inmates.

All initial activities were personally led by Atty. Asnaima Abo, the newly appointed Provincial Director of BHRC Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office, who oversaw the visit and monitoring processes. Subsequent monitoring visits are scheduled for other Municipal Police Stations across Maguindanao del Sur, including Pagalungan, Paglas, Mangudadatu, General Salipada Pendatun, and Talayan, among others.