As the new government raises the so-called “BARMM”, every sector should have the opportunity to be heard in order for their concerns to be known and addressed. Participative and informative consultation is necessary for the crafting of responsive legislation.

The Office of MP Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph conducted series of Care for Orphans Public Consultation in Aid of Legislation to get a better picture of the status of orphans and children all over the BARMM region. We believe that through participative and informative consultations like these, we can improve our services, and address the concerns of orphans so that we can give them equitable solutions, programs, and opportunities.

One of the key concerns identified by our office is how there are no accredited orphanages in the BARMM. In order to address this, our office filed BTA-Bill No. 71, the “Bangsamoro Orphanage Act 2020” which would establish and regulate orphanages within the region. This is the time for the Bangsamoro Government to step in. Under the principle of Parens Patriae, the Bangsamoro Government should stand in as the parents and caregivers of these vulnerable children.

By building orphanages and supporting institutions housing orphans so that they can provide quality care, the Bangsamoro Government will have more impact on the lives of orphaned children.