Navigating Child Protection: The Implementation of the National Child Protection Policy in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)

This qualitative multiple-case study elucidated the challenges in the implementation of National Child Protection Policy (NCPP) in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Philippines. Challenges Despite the enactment of enacting laws such as Republic Act 7610 and Executive Order No. 275 to protect children in BARMM, there are still cultural, structural, and governance barriers for child protection Based on data collected during focus group discussions involving social workers, law enforcers, medical practitioners, and local leaders, seven key themes emerged from the study: Policy Implementation Gap, Cultural Conflict, Lack of Facilities, Low Awareness Among Community Facilitators, Recommendations for Localization, Role of External Support, and Weak Coordination and Structure.  The results demonstrate that the popular customs (Ijmah and Taritib) usually override the formal legal and responsible institutions and lead to underreporting and informal means of solving disputes. A lack of appropriate shelters and services for victims compounds the obstacles to adequate responsiveness. Drawing on Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, Trauma Theory, and Policy Implementation Theory, this study provided an in-depth understanding of the complex ways in which system and contextual factors dynamically shape child protection consequences. However, the study recommends a bottom-up, culturally sensitive approach to policy formulation, by engaging the leaders of the tribes and religious groupings, boosting the capacity of the grass roots workers, and promoting better cross-sectoral cooperation. Finally, the study provides concrete recommendations to bridge the divide between policy and practice and to improve on child protection systems in conflict-affected and culturally diverse settings so that every BARMM child receives due care, protection, and support.