The Role of Religion-based Civil Society Organizations as Peacebuilding Stakeholders in Mindanao

In the case of Mindanao, religion has been a cause for conflict and a path for reconciliation. Currently, it seems to be moving in a direction that promotes peace in the region, hence the growing presence of religious peacebuilders. This study then aimed to identify the contribution of religion-based civil society organizations (CSOs) in Mindanao. In the process, it also shed light on the current nature of religious peacebuilding in the region. The researchers used digital ethnography, and textual and discourse analysis in order to uncover and evaluate the peacebuilding efforts done by religious stakeholders. This study confirmed that religion-based CSOs aided in the mitigation of conflict in Mindanao and did not fuel further conflict, despite the common misconception that they did. They were also found to have evolved to include people of other faiths and other disciplines, which becomes more inclusive, sustainable, and holistic in the long run. Religion-based CSOs face challenges including the mistrust of Christians towards Muslims, injustices towards minorities, stereotypes found against different faith groups, unresolved historical conflicts, issues on land ownership, violent extremism, and political and economic underdevelopment in the region.