Issues and Public concern in Basilan Province

Sheilla Ysug

Basilan Province, located in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Philippines, has been grappling with various issues and concerns that affect the lives of its inhabitants. Some of the most pressing issues and public concerns in Basilan Province include:

1. Islamist Insurgency and Terrorism: Basilan has been a stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a designated terrorist organization, and other extremist groups, which has led to a state of fear and instability in the province.
2. Poverty: Basilan is one of the poorest provinces in the Philippines, with a poverty incidence rate of 45.6% as of 2015. Many residents struggle to make ends meet, with limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water.
3. Limited Economic Opportunities: The province’s economy is largely based on small-scale farming and fishing, which are vulnerable to climate change and market fluctuations. This limits the opportunities for employment and economic growth.
4. Environmental Degradation: Basilan is home to lush forests and pristine waters, but deforestation and overfishing have led to environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity.
5. Human Rights Concerns: There have been reports of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and intimidation by both government forces and rebel groups.
6. Displacement and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Basilan has been affected by conflicts, which has led to the displacement of thousands of people, including women, children, and the elderly.
7. Limited Access to Healthcare: Basilan has a shortage of healthcare facilities and healthcare professionals, making it difficult for residents to access basic healthcare services.
8. Limited Access to Education: Many schools in Basilan lack adequate facilities, teachers, and resources, which has resulted in a high dropout rate and limited access to quality education.
9. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Basilan’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and ports, is in need of repair and upgrading to support economic development and improve the quality of life for residents.
10. Limited Access to Clean Water: Many communities in Basilan lack access to clean and safe drinking water, which has led to the spread of water-borne diseases.
11. Food Insecurity: Basilan is prone to natural disasters, including floods and droughts, which can affect food production and availability.
12. Limited Government Presence: Basilan has been affected by the lack of government presence, including the absence of government apparatus and personnel, which has limited the effectiveness of government programs and services.
13. Land Disputes: Basilan has been plagued by land disputes, including conflicts over land ownership and use, which has led to tension and violence between communities.
14. Limited Social Services: Basilan has limited social services, including mental health services, support for victims of violence, and other essential social services.
15. Limited Community Participation: Basilan has limited community participation in decision-making processes, which has led to a lack of ownership and commitment to development initiatives.

These are some of the pressing issues and public concerns in Basilan Province. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that involves the government, civil society, and the community working together to promote peace, economic development, and social welfare.