MP MAISARA FILED A RESOLUTION TO CONDUCT A DETAILED CENSUS AND ASSESSMENT REPORT ON THE SITUATION OF RETURNEES’ WIDOWS OR WIVES IN ORDER TO CREATE A SUSTAINABLE PROGRAM FOR THEM
During the PEACETahanan: A Ramadhan Outreach and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) that was conducted by the Office of MP Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph for the Vulnerable Individuals in Butig, Lanao del Sur that was attended by some widows or wives of returnees, they expressed their agonies and narrated that most of the time they feel that they are not part of society anymore as they always feel discriminated against and unwelcome; while others shared that they are going through loss of social status and marginalization.
They further narrated that the government is always promising them to give aid such as Pabahay, livelihood, and other support. However, until now, they have not received any of that promised support. They said that the government need not provide for everything. However, the government can provide support that will give them an opportunity to start a normal and peaceful life.
There is growing evidence of vulnerability, both socio-economic and psychological, among the families of the returnees, especially those widows or wives of returnees, thus, it is highly recommended for the Bangsamoro Government in collaboration with appropriate ministries and offices to begin gathering the data and to conduct investigation on the status or situation of the family of the returnees in Butig, Lanao del Sur. The data that will be gathered will be the basis in the selection of beneficiaries who are among the widows or wives of returnees eligible for special livelihood intervention.
