Bangsamoro Women Exhibit as a Tribute to Strength and Legacy

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Bangsamoro Women Exhibit was held on March 7, 2025, through the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) and the University Peace Club (U-PeaC) providing a platform to honor the contributions of Bangsamoro women. The event, organized by FPE101 students, aimed to highlight the vital roles of women in various sectors while promoting a deeper appreciation of their influence across generations.

This year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” served as a guiding principle for the exhibit, reinforcing the indispensable role of women in national progress. Through engaging artistic expressions and historical narratives, the activity highlighted how Bangsamoro women continue to shape a more inclusive and empowered society.

One of the takeaways from the exhibit was the increased awareness and recognition of the role Bangsamoro women have played—and continue to play—in shaping the region. The event not only honored past and present contributions but also served as a call to action for young individuals to champion gender equity, peace, and cultural heritage by documenting and featuring these narratives.

Here are the notable women selected by the U-PeaC:

  1. Atty. Raissa Jajurie – Member of the BTA advocating for human rights and women’s empowerment in governance.
  2. Atty. Sha Elijah B. Dumama-Alba – Bangsamoro Attorney-General, instrumental in legal structures and governance of the BARMM.
  3. Bai Sandra Sema – “Mother of Bangsamoro” and a key figure in peace negotiations with the MNLF.
  4. Dr. Susana Anayatin – A Member of Parliament in BARMM, promoting education, environmental conservation, and women’s empowerment through policy-making.
  5. Engr. Aida Silongan – Chairperson of the BTA, ensuring the effective implementation of governance and infrastructure development in BARMM.
  6. Jamila-Aisha P. Sanguila – Founder of Women Empowered to Act for Dialogue and Peace (WE Act for Peace), a grassroots organization promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue in Mindanao.
  7. MP Hadja Bainon G. Karon – Chairperson of the Bangsamoro Women Commission, a key advocate for gender rights and the inclusion of women in governance and decision-making.
  8. Samira Ali Gutoc – A journalist and former ARMM Regional Legislative Assembly member, advocating for human rights, youth empowerment, and disaster response.
  9. Sara Duterte – Vice President of the Philippines advocating national policies, including educational reforms that support peace and stability in Mindanao.

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