Autonomy's Anatomy: the Relationship between Autonomy and Economic Growth in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

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.