Abstract:
The basic question in the discourse on ARMM is how genuine is its
autonomy and its effects on the socio-economic conditions of the region.
The evolution of autonomy can be summarized as follows: institutional
approaches and legal reforms. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is a
product of several Agreements between the national government and Moro
National Liberation Front and two legislative enactments of the Philippine
Congress. A basic understanding on the legal aspects of how ARMM came into
being cannot lead to a complete and thorough understanding on its functions and
responsibilities.
As a qualitative research, this research tackles the nature of autonomy in
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The features of autonomy in ARMM
can be best appreciated by a clear understanding on how it works through its
various agencies and structures. The fiscal situation in ARMM, how public funds
are allocated, disbursed and utilized in ARMM, is one of the components of this
research.
As a result of autonomy, the regional government is empowered to effect
changes in the social and economic conditions of the region. Included in this
research is an assessment of the existing conditions in ARMM.
Autonomy in ARMM has not been effective in promoting self-
determination. To make it perform better, institutional and legal improvements
should take place.
