Examining Current Trends of Violent Extremism in Southeast Asia

Dr. Sukarno Tanggol is the lead proponent of the extension project "Federalism and Gender: Facets and Issues" funded by the Gender and Development Resource Center of MSU-IIT. He is also the main speaker of the series of lectures which will be held in different universities and colleges in Mindanao.

As a firm believer and supporter of federalism as an alternative form of government for the the Philippines, I will be going on a caravan to share about "Federalism and Gender: Issues and Facets."

Dr. Sukarno Tanggol is the lead proponent of the extension project "Federalism and Gender: Facets and Issues" funded by the Gender and Development Resource Center of MSU-IIT. He is also the main speaker of the series of lectures which will be held in different universities and colleges in Mindanao.

The joint culmination programs entitled: 1) Examining Current Trends of Violent Extremism in South East Asia; and 2)Empowering Women Leaders and Scholars for Peace and Security in Mindanao projects was held last April 25-26,2022. It was participated by 60 aleems, aleemas and different organization leaders.

The program commenced on the afternoon of the 25th, where the participants were welcomed with an Inspiring talk on Ramadan by Aleem Mohammad Rajjal Manumbilao then followed by a fun games facilitated by the organizer. After the breaking of the fast and the iftar dinner, all Muslim participants and organizers participated to the congressional Taraweh and Tajajjud prayers.

On the 26th, the program started with an invocation prayer by Aleem Ibn Ali, followed by the Message from the US Embassy Philippines, Cultural Affairs Officer, Ms. Nina Lewis. Then a welcome message from Asst. Dean Sittie Noffaisah Pasandalan, project manager to the Examining Current Trends of Violent Extremism in South East Asia.

Dr. Cayamuddin, Professor VI, Shari’ah Center, MSU, then expounded on his talk - “The Role of Islamic Leaders and Scholars in Countering Violent Extremism and the Gender Issues and Conflict Prevention Approaches in Local Communities”.

We were also joined by the following panelists: 1) Mr. Jamaloddin Pandao Muti - Chief, Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Division NCMF - CDO; 2) Ms. Jana Jean G. Dacobor - President, Mindanaw Tripartite Youth Core; and 3) Rajah-Ali Pumbaya, Division Chief Peace Building and Conflict Resolution (PBCR) National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, Quezon City, who each gave their inspiring talks and insights on the said topic.

The program was then followed by a workshop on countering violent extremism facilitated by the FL Inspire Change Inc. wherein participants were grouped to present their respective outputs.

In the afternoon of the program, Prof. Rommel Banlaoi, Chairman of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research delivered an online presentation on the topic “Countering Violent Extremism”

Then the nine project implementers to the Mini Grant project proposal presented their successful projects and were evaluated each by the. panelists who then awarded the best three project implementors.

The MSU IIT won first place with their project entitled “Virtual Cyber Security: Awareness Campaign”. The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), Sawir Masiu Lanao del sur won second place with their project “ The Philippine In Focus: Co-creating Communities Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism”.
And the SIRAJ org won third place with their project “Promotion of Dialogue to Social Media”.

After the awarding of the Outstanding Community Project Award, the event ended with a closing remarks by Sh. L. Fatimah Bint Ahmad of the Association of Lady Association of Lady Shari'ah Counselors-at-Law of the Philippines, Inc.

The program formally concluded the 14- month projects sponsored and supported by the U.S. Embassy Manila.

In the Mindanao context, “Rido” or clan feud occurs for multiple causes, including political rivalry. As the country embarks on the 2022 national elections, Mindanaons must discuss Rido and address its impact on local communities.

Kapihan sa Mindanao, is a monthly webinar hosted by U.S. Embassy Philippines in collaboration with the American Corners in Mindanao, ALShariahCALPInc, and MSU -IIT, served as a platform to exchange ideas, raise awareness and create a shared vision for Mindanao peace.

To join, you may register at bit.ly/mindanaokapihan.

Tomorrow, we think and plan towards Co-creating Communities Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism. With us are educators, influencers, and thought leaders.
You may register at: https://tinyurl.com/PhilsInFocus2

Join us again on September 20-21, 2021. This time, we think and plan towards Co-creating Communities Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism. You may register at: https://tinyurl.com/PhilsInFocus2

USec. Lorraine Badoy will join us on on July 15 to share and shed light on why Filipino youth are tempted and/or join extremist groups and how we can encourage the youth to contribute to nation building and supporting the government.
Register at: https://tinyurl.com/PhilsInFocus