A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF LITERATURE ON THE ENABLERS AND CHALLENGES OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT IN BARMM (KEY IJP************520)

• Hazel Jane Ardepolla

Abstract

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is historically and culturally relevant to the Philippines, created by centuries of warfare and socio-political marginalization. This paper explores the facilitators and barriers to human development in BARMM that include governance, socioeconomic empowerment, education, health, and infrastructure. The review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA frame) to define, screen and evaluate appropriate studies. Enablers are participatory governance as enshrined in the BOL, fiscal reforms fostering economic growth and reforms in health and education improving regional inequities. Yet, there are still ongoing issues of poor institutional capacity, socio-economic disparities, poor infrastructure, and political instability preventing long-term development. Although there have been developments in terms of governance, economic opportunities and social services, the region is still confronted by major developmentalblockers. It all calls for a holistic solution and this encompasses the enhancement of governance structures, the upgrading of infrastructure and most importantly equitable access to education, to health services and economic prospects (in particular for the most vulnerable people in society)