Understanding the Marawi situation
H(Conclusion) istorically, there is also the story of the Battle of Bayang or the Karbala in Bayang, Lanao where hundreds of noble Maranao datus were martyred in defense of their homeland and Islam against the American colonizers on May 2 to 3, 1902, and which started the Moro-American War.
During those times, there was no Lanao del Sur or Lanao province but only the Pat a Pangampong sa Ranao.
The battle was described as Padang Karbala, or Karbala Plains, in memory of Karbala in Iraq where the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and about a hundred of his relatives, followers and supporters were killed as they fought against the tyrant rulers in the Hijaz.
Most Maranaos believed that the Battle of Bayang in Padang Karbala originated a patriotic monument in the heart and soul of every Maranao of any generation. It remains a guiding spirit in the defense of the homeland and in the fight for self-determination and freedom.
The occurrence of rido shows the human insecurity in the area, where people take matters in to their own hands. This shows a lack of trust in the present government systems ingrained within the Maranao culture. In fact, clans and family relations are more important to them than the Filipino nation. The Moro identity, on the other hand, shows the struggle for identity of these people, a clear distinction from the Filipino setup, making them feel like they don’t belong to the Filipino nation.
Lastly, the historical injustices like that of the Battle of Bayang is a legitimate grievance that still needs to be addressed. All of these -- human security, problem with identity, and delay of correction of historical injustice, is the perfect formula for people to lean towards violent extremism, and view extremists as heroes that are fighting for what is rightfully theirs.
For a comprehensive and effective approach to the Marawi situation, our government needs to understand the terrain within the Moro communities. They need to decipher and understand tribal structures, formal and non formal structures, and explain cultural differences from Islamic views (religious/theology), in order to relate and therefore create a far more effective solution to present problems.
Lastly, I would also recommend that government see the situation from a millenial Maranao perspective and gradually, cut down on combat operations. The aim here is to empower their local leaders and to improve the performance of local government officials, persuade local datus to work for common good, ease poverty and protect not only their families but also their communities.--
For an effective approach to the Marawi situation, government needs to understand the terrain within the Moro communities