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Political Awareness of Student Leaders’ Among Selected Tertiary Schools in Pagadian

City on Bangsamoro Basic Law

A Research

Presented to the Faculty of

College of Teachers Education, Arts and Sciences

Saint Columban College

Pagadian City

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the Course

Political Science 220

(Research Methods in Philippine Political Issues)

By
Manz Edam C. Jover
Hanna Grace S. Lodovice
Ada Barbette D. Mongaya
Eduardo P. Rodriguez Jr
Chapter 1 The Problem

Introduction

The administration of President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III is gradually closing

its doors after the six-year term granted by the Filipino populace yet the clamor of the passage

of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is still clinging in the gates of both houses of the Bicameral

Philippine Legislature. With almost a half year to work on, the judgment of the public is still

undoubtedly half, whether to give a ‘yeas’ or the slashing ‘nay’.

With indirect pressures from partisan Islamic neighbors like Brunei, Malaysia and

Indonesia, the Philippines is trying to awe the South East Asia with an effective recognition of its

Islamic and indigenous communities in the Southern Philippines through BBL.

The foundation of the BBL in the southern Philippines is rooted primarily to redress and

correct the ineffective Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). However, its efficacy

is still debated prior to the reading of its ultimate destiny or its final verdict. The Islamic

community with its clamor to concretize their semi-independent status argues the necessity of

the policy. On the other hand, aura of skeptics that pessimistically declare (if ever) the same sad

fate of ARMM will happen to the Bangsamoro entity. Nevertheless, the Palace is still expecting

the success of the passage of BBL. However, opposition is invoking evidences through the

Mamasapano clash to discredit the integrity of the contracting party.

In the locale of the study, the two district representatives of Zamboanga Del Sur

expressed their direct opposition to the spirit of BBL. The ZDS populace has evidently divided

perception to the boons and banes of BBL together with other 15 lower house representatives

as made mentioned by GMA news article on May 20 online publication. The voice of the young

populace is still silent but not necessarily tantamount that they are unaware to it.

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While no firm voice is expressed by youth sector, several Mindanao young people

groups like Oro Youth Development Council solidified their stand as to the power of the BBL to

assert peace in the southern Philippines as stated in their official website. In the other hand,

Kabataan Party list representative, Terry Ridon voted against the bill after marathon hearings in

the lower house of the Philippine Legislature. The facts confirmed the absence of uniform voice

as to the perspective of the youth.

The success and failure of BBL depends greatly on how the people are socialized

politically. Hence, the level of political awareness that is basically influenced by indicators of

political socialization plays a key role in the policy. Political socialization and communication and

higher degree of political awareness provide feedbacks to the state’s engineer, the government.

After all, the societal factors and its government have the last say to the fate of the erring bill up

to the moment.

Perspective of the Researchers

The research is conducted by Bachelor of Arts major in Political Science students of

Saint Columban College. As vigilant observers of society, the researchers have noticed

prejudice in the part of non-moros to any actions that are defined by the government to stabilize

the part of Muslim Mindanao. The basic premise to be addressed in the research is the

awareness about the statute promoting autonomy in an area or whether their perspective is

influenced by Halo effect and fallacious generalizations. Thus, as researchers, the need to

assess the condition is vital for the welfare of the entirety of Mindanao Island. Hence, the

findings, conclusion and recommendation of the research will be echoed back to the

respondents for evaluation and if necessary implementation thereof.

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Conceptual Framework

This research analyzes the policy formulation and implementation of the government

and its impact to the general public. It also includes how people rationalize political issues and

formulate their own stand upon each issue. The researches’ political framework is established in

reference to David Easton’s Black Box. According to the book of Blindenbacher and Nashat

(2010), the theory of Easton is all about an Input-Output processes. The environment which

consists of the society and factors that affects it begins the process. Inputs, demands and

supports emanates from them. These Inputs are then processed by the political system through

weighing of its benefits, its costs and effectiveness. After which, the political system expresses

the processed inputs as decisions, programs and policies. These outputs are then reprocessed

by the environment and serves as feedback thereof that will reignite inputs from it. This just

basically means that the theory of Easton is a continuous and unending process. The Black Box

Diagram of David Easton is shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: The Black Box Diagram

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In the case of the research, the Inputs are the political awareness of Student Leaders

and the factors that affects it. Examination of this inputs are done through conducting surveys

regarding their awareness to some of the debated provisions of the BBL. A separate

questionnaire for the factors that affects political awareness is conducted too so to assess the

most influencing societal factor. This leads to the research’s findings, conclusions and

recommendations that is evaluated to furnish an action plan that will be supplied by the

researchers to the respondent respective institution for reference or at most, application. Figure

2 shows the Conceptual Framework of the Study.

Factors affecting Level of Level of Political Awareness:


Political Awareness:

 Family  Illiterate
 Mass Media  Misinformed
 Peer and Education  General
 Religion  Activist
 Internet and Social  Expert
Networking Sites
 Social Status

Bangsamoro Basic Law Bangsamoro Basic L


Awareness Action Plan
Figure 2: Conceptual Framework

Statement of the Problem

This research will evaluate the political awareness of student leaders among the leading

tertiary schools in Pagadian City regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). The outcome of this

study will provide insights on the awareness of the student leaders.

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Specifically, this study will answer the following queries:

 Which of the provisions of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) are student leaders most

aware of and least aware of?

 Which of the following indicators influence the student leaders’ level of political

awareness the most and the least?

 What may be done as to the findings of the research as to ways of assisting the political

awareness of students with regards to the issue of Bangsamoro Basic Law?

Scope and Limitation

The research will only focus on the following parameters that define the scope and

limitations of the study.

Subject Matter: The research considers only the political awareness of student

leaders among selected tertiary schools in Pagadian City regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law

namely: Saint Columban College (SCC), Pagadian Capitol College (PCC), Southern Mindanao

Colleges (SMC), Western Mindanao State University- External Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU), JH

Cerilles State College Pagadian Campus (JHCSC), and Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Institute

of Technology (ZSMIT).

Research Environment and Timeline: The study will be conducted on present time

on the political awareness of student leaders among selected tertiary schools in Pagadian City

regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law namely: SCC, PCC, SMC, WMSU-ESU, JHCSC, and ZSMIT.

Research Subjects: The research subject of this study are the student leaders of

the following tertiary schools in Pagadian City: Saint Columban College (SCC), Pagadian

Capitol College(PCC), Southern Mindanao Colleges (SMC), Western Mindanao State

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University- External Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU), JH Cerilles State College (JHCSC), and

Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Institute of Technology ( ZSMIT).

Research Design: The research uses survey method to understand and determine

the political awareness of student leaders among leading tertiary schools in Pagadian City

regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Research Methods: The study will use questionnaires in gathering data and will

utilize evaluative method. Statistical procedure will be through the software Statistical Package

for Social Sciences (SPSS) to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Significance of the Study

The study of Political Awareness of Student Leaders among selected tertiary schools in

Pagadian City regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is significant for the following:

Student Leaders: As a student representation of their respective schools, and as a

resident of Mindanao, their political awareness is very significant for critical legislations like that

of Bangsamoro Basic Law in which as a student and resident, they are affected.

Government Leaders: As engineers of the state, the opinion of its citizenry is significant.

In the study, public opinion of the youth is the primary subject. Thus, the findings thereof suffice

the fact that it is significant and noteworthy for the government.

Instructors/ Teachers: This group will be benefited through the findings of this study,

which will be furnished to them later and in effect will allow them to know what level of

awareness they share to their students or learners.

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Students: The finding of this research will be of great help to the students as they are the

future leaders of their respective schools, an organization, and to the country. This will also

make them evaluate to level of awareness they have reach.

Citizenry: The general populace will have reflection to the study. Citizens, through the

objects of this study, will be aware of their role in the Political Socialization and Consciousness

especially to policies that may directly and indirectly affect them.

Others Researchers: Findings of this study may be utilized and employed for future

studies as a reference or review.

Definition of Terms

City is defined by Merriam Webster Dictionary as a large town; a place or situation

characterized by a specified attribute. In the operation of the study, the city is referred to

Pagadian City as the locale of the study.

Law is defined by Merriam Webster Dictionary as the whole system or set of rules made

by the government of town, state, country and others. In the study, the law specifically refers to

the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Bangsamoro Basic Law is defined by the Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro as

the legal basis for the establishment of Bangsamoro entity.  It will lay down the structure of

government of the Bangsamoro, the relationship of the Bangsamoro with the Central

Government, the rights of the residents, and other important matters in the governance of the

Bangsamoro. 

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Political Awareness is defined by the overall consciousness about politics and its issues.

In the operation of the study, it only refers to the political awareness of the respondents or

student leaders of the selected tertiary schools in Pagadian City.

Student Leaders as defined by the New English Dictionary as students who serve in a

leadership position. In the study, the student leaders referred to is limited to those identified

schools of Pagadian City.

Tertiary schools as defined by the Webster Dictionary as the third stage, third level or post

secondary education. This Tertiary Schools in the research pertains to those that are selected

tertiary school in Pagadian City.

Structure of the Thesis

This study is composed of five chapters. These are the following: Chapter 1: The Problem,

Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature, Chapter 3: Methodology, Chapter 4: Presentation,

Interpretation and Analysis of Data and Chapter 5: Summary of Findings, Conclusion and

Recommendation. The study includes Bibliography and Appendices that contains respondents

profile, questionnaires and other similar files.

Chapter 1 (The Problem): This chapter primarily reveals what the study is all about. It

contains all necessary spheres in which the research revolves on. All vital and definite

information are compiled herewith.

Chapter 2 (Review of Related Literature): This chapter contains review of related

materials that has something to do with the research one way or another. Attach here are

perspective and thoughts of other experts to the objects and subjects of the study.

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Chapter 3 (Methodology): This chapter defines the way of how the study is conducted. It

contains vital information regarding the respondents, the setting of the study, research

instruments and research methods employed by the researchers.

Chapter 4 (Presentation, Interpretation and Analysis of Data): This chapter presents,

interprets and analyzes the data and relates it to the hypotheses for rebuttal or approval thereof.

Analysis of data is referred to a specific theory to explain the ‘why’ or the ‘how’ of the study.

Chapter 5 (Summary of Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation): This chapter

includes findings, conclusion and recommendations. Findings and conclusion simply referred to

the previous chapters for its formulation. Recommendation is included to bring about further

study or so.

Bibliography: This section contains all bibliographical entries of material that are included

as a source for the study.

Appendices: This section contains all files that are necessary for the conduct of the study.

Communication letters, questionnaires and respondent profile are found here.

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Chapter 2 Review of Related Literature

This Chapter deals with related studies of past researches of other sources. This deals

with issues regarding the nature of political socialization and its relation to political awareness. It

also grasps different perspective of persons with authorities with regards to the issue of BBL.

The primary hardship to this study is relating a unique legislation like that of Philippines’

BBL to another state’s statutes that will co-equal the importance thereof. The only valid way to

relate the issues of BBL and the political awareness of its respondents is through comparison of

the same case scenario in other states regarding similar policies that are much debated and the

political awareness of the populace of that state. On the other hand, the concept of public

opinion as may be taken whether in the local scenario or in the international arena, is uniform by

nature. (This provided convenience in the part of the researchers.) Uniformity of the Public

Opinion’s concept is due to universal theories set by theorist like John Locke, Gabriel Almond

and David Easton. Below, different lineage of how public opinion is perceived is injected to

completely present the context and importance of this concept regardless of the timeframe it is

set. This theory supported by political science authorities (regardless of the lineage) are referred

for general reference. Before directly relating foreign scenarios, scrutiny of technical terms and

their indicators are discussed below.

Public Opinion, Political Awareness and Political Socialization

Public opinion is defined by John Locke, a contemporary political thinker, in his work

Treatise of Government, as a significant force in the political realm. It is because of the

consideration that humans are subjected to three general laws as the divine, civil and law of

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opinion and reputation. Here, he strongly made his point that law of opinion and reputation plays

great role in the political aspect.

In the modern political arena, David Easton suggested that politicization is all about an

Input-Output processes. Inputs emanate from the populaces’ demands and needs that are

reinforced by the clamor of social factors. These demands are then processed by the Black Box

or the engineer of the political system, the government. This gives rise to the outputs of the

system through programs and policies implemented. Note that the outputs are not the endpoint

of the process because it brings about feedbacks that are primarily classified as general public

opinion. This concept is best described by the theorist in his infamous Black Box diagram.

The above mentioned concept of Easton regarding politicization is duly supported by the

thought of Almond’s political function. Accordingly, inputs commence when political recruitment

occurs. This is the so called direct selection or stratification of individuals to different levels

depending on independent factors. Recruitment is supported by articulation and aggregation of

interest per every distinct individual. The process of Input is reinforced by political

communication or as referred to as political socialization.

The three political thinkers have commonalities and the most noticeable among them is

the commonality regarding the importance of political awareness or consciousness to the

prevailing issue. John Locke’s, law of opinion and reputation, Easton’s concept of Black Box

feedback and Almond’s concept of interest articulation and aggregation points out the

importance of awareness to political Issues.

Political awareness as made mentioned by authorities of political science as an

important concept worthy of analysis. This technical term is defined by Zaller (1990) as a force

that affects virtually every aspect of citizens' political attitudes and voting behavior. Among its

effects are greater attitude stability and greater support for a nation's mainstream values.

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Baddeley (2011), a professor from Denmark provided similar definitions of political

awareness in his Article in the website of WordPress. He stated that it is the extent to which the

public is aware of the politics prevalent in the society.  He further stated classification of a

politically aware society. Accordingly, this society has foundation and contemporary knowledge

of politics, access to elite opinion, forum to discuss individual opinion. He also motioned that

there are two essential elements are needed for a society to become politically conscious.

These two elements are public integrity and public attitude.

Ahmed (2014) supported the notion of his predecessors and stated that political

awareness is the overall vision or individual’s cognitions and ideas that include political interest

and knowledge which facilitate the individual’s ability and understanding of society's problem.

This process stimulates the individual's responsibility towards participating to change the

society’s future and political process through participating in social and political aspects.

According to the definition of Ahmed, he provided three elements to political awareness. These

are 1) political knowledge and cognitions, 2) individual’s political interest and 3) the capacity of

political participation and the ability to change the political system.

Political awareness’ third element as made mentioned by Ahmed supports the general

notion of Democracy as stated by Abraham Lincoln (BrainyQuote) that democracy is a

government of the people, by the people and for the people or in a shorter sense, democracy is

a type of governance with which the superiority of the populace is championed. Hence, it is

honorable to say that political awareness is a key indicator of Democracy. The issue now is

‘what are the factors that may contribute to the consciousness of the people to political issues?’

and ‘how such political awareness be measured?’

These issues are addressed by the book Introduction to Political Science (Michael

Roskin et al, page 124). They stated that the primary indicators of political awareness are the

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family factor, mass media information, peer and education influence, religious factor, internet

and social networking site’s information amplification, governmental factors and social status

and stratification influences and sometimes even sex and gender. As further stated, political

awareness is a factor for the formation of not only public opinion but in the greater sense,

political culture.

Factors of Political Awareness

The first factor as stated above is the family factor. This factor majorly considered as one

of the heaviest socialization factors. This is due to the psychological behaviorist principle that

stated the importance of conditioning and training in the early ages of life. This principle does

not excuse the political aspect. Thus, the political awareness and the conditioning and training

of individual persons during their early years are factors thereof.

The second factor is mass media information. This factor is a major factor in considering

the level of political awareness of individuals. Simple newspapers up to the complex television

shows are all part of mass media. The political knowledge of individuals are greatly affected with

how the mass media affected it one way or another. However, the political cognition of individual

is still dependent especially when the media itself is biased. Nevertheless, the impact of mass

media to the general public is undeniably broad.

The third factor for the determination of one’s political awareness is peer and education.

This basically pertains to the indicator that the level of one’s political awareness is dependent on

the Educational attainment of the person. Furthermore, the peer of every individual is also a

dependent factor as to the determination of political consciousness. Accordingly, the higher the

educational attainment of individual or individual’s peer is equaled to higher political awareness.

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The fourth factor as made mentioned earlier is the religious factor. This factor talks about

the grasp of religion or sects that may influence their members or followers especially as to their

stands and perception to a certain political issue. Not to forget, religions’ sense of assertiveness

to its followers and members.

The fifth factor talks about the Internet and SNS’s. This modern-bred facto is, according

to Baddeley, is one of the many information amplifier. It amplifies the distribution and impact of

information leading to better political cognition disregarding whether such is biased or unbiased.

Further, social media information affects the formation of political cognition of the people.

Therefore, political cognition reflects the consciousness of the general public to political issues.

The government imposes as well factors that may influence the levels of political

awareness of its populace. As mentioned by the same reference, actions and policies that may

promote loyalty to the state or the otherwise, setbacks may stimulate or lessen political

consciousness of people.

Social stratification and status is included as an indicator as well. This is in line with the

notion set by Karl Marx in his work; Communist Manifesto that states that classes influences the

interest of individuals. As mentioned by Easton, the interest of individuals is an indicator of

political awareness. Thus, infusing the thoughts of both thinkers, classes in the society with

different political interest may indicate different levels of political consciousness.

Sex and gender is also an indicator to determine the level of awareness of the people.

The political interest of some sects depends sometimes with the gender or sex of individuals

especially when it talks about sensitive issues or policies where some gender or sex

preferences are privileged or undermined. Examples of these issues are same-sex marriage

and violence against women’s acts. This study, however, does not include these two factors.

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The book of Birkland revealed the policy processes of United States of America.

Accordingly, in the US setting, public policy is played more by bureaucratic functions than

individual participation or activism towards the policy. In analyzing policy in such context, it’s

more accurate to assess the legislature and other bureaucracies especially their operation in

formulating public policies and programs. This is according to Bronislaw Malinowski’s theory of

structural functionalism. In line with this premise are his claims that the official actors in public

policy are the three branches of the government and other bureaucracies that support the

operation thereof. Furthermore, the role of external factors outside the government fence is

considered unofficial by nature. Thus, in the context of US, individuals and the general public

are not accounted so much in the operations of the government in policy making,

implementation and evaluation. Accordingly, the voter turnout of US in the past elections has

significantly declined. This is a manifestation of low political interest of the populace. This

manifestation undermines the importance of individuals’ interest especially its aggregation and

socialization for the formation of political consciousness.

Level of Political Awareness

Barnett and Sobel (2007) formulated a political awareness measurement that depends

solely from the quality of individual and the society. As being published by the authors in the

Article of BlogCritics, they have provided five levels of Political consciousness. To reiterate,

these are the following:

Illiterate - the level of political awareness characterized by the knowledge of some of the who’s

and what’s of the political issue or systems. This group tends to think that knowing these things

is enough and participation on political affairs is limited only to the government. This level has

the percentile of 0-20% awareness to an issue.

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Misinformed - this is the level of political awareness in which an individual prefers to take a

stand notwithstanding the boons and banes of the issues. This group is dominated with

emotions thus the truthfulness of their stand is sometimes easily defeated by objective debates

and inquiries. This level may have the percentile of 21-40% awareness.

General- this level is characterized by moderate awareness to political issues by the populace.

This level is categorized by healthy political socialization and communication. However, the

political activism of this stratum is only minimal. This level may have the percentile level of 41-

60% awareness.

Activist - this is the level by which individuals involve themselves in the political affairs of the

government. This is best described as a level of political awareness by which political

knowledge and involvement is clearly manifested. Thus, the society is active in addressing

issues of politics that may be brought about by the government. This level may have 61-80%

awareness percentile.

Expert - this is the level by which individuals has the personal knowledge of the principles of

politics. This is also categorized by well-versed individuals as to the current state and the reality

of impending issues in their society. Nonetheless, this is a level by which real power holders of

the society may have. This may have 81-100% awareness percentile.

Issues on Bangsamoro

The dilemma of the Philippine Legislature between the passage or blockade of

Bangsamoro Basic Law is at hand. The thoughts of great minds are subdivided to the same

issue. Nevertheless, the Palace is still putting its best foot forward regarding such policy as a

milestone in their administration.

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Bangsamoro Basic Law is defined in its third article as a draft law intended to establish

the Bangsamoro political entity in the Philippines and provide for its basic structure of

government, which will replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. According

to the Law, the subjects of this law are the people who at the time of conquest and colonization

were considered natives or original inhabitants of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago and its

adjacent islands including Palawan, and their spouses, and descendants. As defined by the

same, territories of the Bangsamoro is primarily composed of the land mass, maritime,

terrestrial, alluvial and aerial domain. Section 1 expressly states that the Bangsamoro territory

remains part of the Philippines Likewise, the draft Basic Law provides that the Bangsamoro

shall respect and adhere to the Philippines’ international treaties and agreements. Thus,

whatever power that the Bangsamoro may exercise over its territory must be consistent with

and not contravene the country’s international obligations and commitments.

The idea of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao is rooted in the administration of

President Marcos when tension escalated between Moro National Liberation Front and the

government forces. Thus, a plebiscite is launched to assess the perception of the populace to

the formation of an autonomic region. However, the general public voted against the formation

of such delaying the foundation but laying down basic possibilities of such entity, here, it is

observable that political participation through a plebiscite is manifested. In the term of Cory

Aquino, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is inaugurated by virtue of The Organic

Act for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RA 6734). In a plebiscite, only four

provinces out of the several areas proposed to be included in ARMM opted to join the area of

autonomy: Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. However, assessment of the

region reveals inefficiency and ineffectiveness of the system. This assessment resulted to the

consideration of regrooming of the system of the autonomous region.

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The need of reformations in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao should be

address immediately. The product of 1989-1990 peace talks seemed so inefficient provided that

according to a survey collected by National Statistical Coordination Board – 2005, ARMM is the

lowest grossing region in the Philippines despite the fact of Autonomy.

The structure of the Bangsamoro is questioned by Aquilino Pimentel, a Philippine

senator, due to its non-congruence to the constitutional formation and definition of the Philippine

government. According to the law’s first article on its second paragraph, it is clearly defined that

the entity will have a ministerial form of government that is an evidence of a direct diversion of

the structure of the political region from the format provided by the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

Specifically, the Bangsamoro entity promotes a ministerial and parliamentary form of

government while the constitution states so that the Philippine government is a representative

democracy and presidential government. The senator added that defects in electoral processes

and power sharing between the Bangsamoro and national government are present and should

be addressed.

The Manila Times author, Ricardo Saludo also questioned the contracting credibility of

the Muslim Party provided that the impending Mamasapano Clash Case is an evidence of non-

compliance in good faith to the peace processes. An article from RealPhilippines written by Ilda

supported the stand of Ricardo Saludo. Accordingly, the contracting muslim party is not credible

due to non-consensus with other Islamic Party in the Southern Philippines. Thus, contracting a

peace talks to a specific Islamic part only does not answer the question of separationist ideals of

the whole party. She added that a peace talks should be organized not only to address a

specific party’s voice but the totality of such. Henceforth, the Bangsamoro Basic Law is not a

feasible peace talks, she concluded.

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Relating the same issue to the factors of Political Awareness as presented by Michael

Roskin to the issue of Bangsamoro Basic Law, the same factors may apply added by the

Sgeographical factor that may apply in the Philippine Setting.

The first factor as stated by Roskin is the family factor. This factor majorly

considered as one of the heaviest socialization factors. The way families have conditioned its

member defines the political knowledge to Bangsamoro Basic Law. Thus, the bias is set

primarily in every household. This triggers in a way or another political perspective of

individuals.

The second factor is mass media information in the Philippines. This factor is a major

factor in considering the level of political awareness of individuals. Newspapers publications

from local to national levels present readily available Information regarding the agreement.

Television shows open and sometimes debate this issue influencing the political awareness of

viewers that readily accepts the information notwithstanding the bias of such. The political

knowledge of individuals is greatly affected with how the mass media affected it one way or

another especially in the context of the Philippines. Nevertheless, the impact of mass media to

the general public is undeniably broad because of its convenience, comprehensiveness and

simplicity.

The third factor for the determination of one’s political awareness is peer and education.

This basically pertains to the indicator that the level of one’s political awareness is dependent on

the educational attainment of the person considering the fact that Philippines are a third-world

state. Furthermore, the peer of every individual is also a dependent factor as to the

determination of political consciousness. Accordingly, the higher the educational attainment of

individual or individual’s peer is equaled to higher political awareness. Thus, the barkadas of

each individual connote significance to their political awareness.

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The fourth factor as made mentioned earlier is the religious factor. This factor talks about

the grasp of religion or sects that may influence their members or followers especially as to their

stands and perception to a certain political issue. Not to forget, religions’ sense of assertiveness

to its followers and members. In the case of the Philippines, it’s more likely that an Islamic

individual will favor the Bangsamoro Basic Law while the non-Muslims will not. In this case,

judgment depending to religious belief is true.

The fifth factor talks about the Internet and SNS’s (Social Networking Site/s). SNS is one

of the many information amplifiers. The Social Media especially the widely used Facebook,

Twitter, Instagram and among other sites that allows information to be served and shared is an

indicator to the political awareness of Filipinos especially the youths. It amplifies the distribution

and impact of information leading to better political cognition disregarding whether such is

biased or unbiased. Further, social media information affects the formation of political cognition

of the people. Therefore, political cognition reflects the consciousness of the general public to

political issues.

The Philippine government imposes as well factors that may influence the levels of

political awareness of its Filipino populace. In the case of BBL, the executive branch expressed

perspective towards the policy. Thus, the stand taken over by the government urges and affects

the political cognition of Filipinos.

Social stratification and status is included as an indicator as well. Classes in the

Philippine society tend to react in a policy like the BBL differently. Upper class may not be

affected so especially that accordingly, majority of this class stratum is not in the Southern

Philippines but in the National Capital Region (NCR). Mostly, the middle class and lower class

Filipinos from the southern Philippines that are most likely affected by the policy will have higher

level of awareness to the political issue.

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The positioning or Geographical location of individual will also influence the political

consciousness. It is implied that the political awareness of individuals that are direct subjects or

affected by the policy will have higher political awareness level in comparison to those that are

not. Thus, it suggests that Filipino southerners being a direct subject of the policy may be of

higher political awareness than those that are in the northern Philippines.

Outline of the Bangsamoro Basic Law

As defined by the law itself, BBL is a draft law which is intended to create and define a

special administrative region. The BBL is composed of twelve (12) substantive provisions. This

twelve provisions are as follows: General Provisions, Bangsamoro Identity, Bangsamoro

territory, Political Autonomy and Bangsamoro Government, Inter-Governmental Relation,

Bangsamoro Justice System, Public Order and Safety, Fiscal Autonomy, Economy and

Patrimony, Natural Resources, details of the plebiscite that would lead to ratification of the BBL

and the details of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority that would be set up in the meantime.

The GMA news TV online article dated September 10, 2014 selected some of the

provisions which is intriguing the majority of the reviewers of the legislation. As per mentioned

by such, they hand-picked the following provisions as the most debated and controversial parts

of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

(1) Establishment of the Bangsamoro- This provision is specifically belonging to the

general provision and Bangsamoro identity wherewith the basic reasons of the creation of the

special region is enumerated.

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(2) Territorial domains- This provision is well defined in the second article of the

Bangsamoro Basic Law. This provision inscribes and limits the territory of the proposed

Bangsamoro administrative region.

(3) Structure of Government- This provision sets up the structural definition of the

government of the Bangsamoro. This defines the three branches of government that is

functioning in the Bangsamoro administrative region.

(4) Principles and system of Governance- This provision functions together with the

structural definition of the Bangsamoro government. This serves as the theory by which the

structure and much of the operations of the functioning government is anchored upon.

(5) Power distribution and Sharing- This provision defines and limits the extent of the

power sharing and distribution between the inter-governmental conducts of the central

government and the Bangsamoro government. This is specifically defined under the Inter-

governmental relation provision.

(6) Taxation- This defines special powers delegated to the Bangsamoro government.

This provision lets the government to levy tax to its jurisdiction. This is where the division of the

proceeds of taxes are defined as well. This is specifically found in the provision of Fiscal

autonomy.

This selected provisions provided are made in reference for the formulation of the

questionnaire checklist that is utilize in the conduct of survey for gathering, testing and

analyzing the data.

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Chapter 3 Research Methodology

This chapter deals with the essential elements of the research process. It covers the

different areas concerning the study, namely: Research Design, Research Environment,

Research Subjects, Sampling techniques, Instrumentation, Data-gathering Techniques, and

Statistical Treatment. With this, the researchers will be able to describe the methods and

procedures done to obtain the data. It will help the researchers to meet the conclusion of the

study.

Research Design

This study will use two types of data. Firstly, the primary data which are the answers of

the respondents who are the student leaders provided from the survey questionnaires given and

prepared by the researchers. Lastly, the secondary data which are the published literatures and

books of different authors related to the research problem. These data are of great help for the

success of the researchers’ study.

Research Environment

This study will be conducted in different leading tertiary schools in Pagadian City in the

province of Zamboanga del Sur, namely: Saint Columban College, the only diocesan tertiary

school in the city located at Alano-Sagun St., San Francisco District, Pagadian City; Southern

Mindanao Colleges, a private non-sectarian type of tertiary school located at Jamisola St., Sta

Lucia District, Pagadian City; Pagadian Capitol College, another private non-sectarian type of

tertiary school at Rizal Avenue, Tubaran District, Pagadian City; Western Mindanao State

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University-External Studies Unit, a public non-sectarian university located at Roxas Avenue,

Sta. Maria District, Pagadian City; Josefina Herrera Cerilles State College, a public non-

sectarian type of tertiary school located at Pagadian West Capitol Road, Balangasan District,

Pagadian City; Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Institute of Technology, another private non-

sectarian type of tertiary school located at Balangasan District, Pagadian City. These mentioned

schools possess numerous student enrollees from the different disciplines that the mentioned

tertiary schools offered.

Research Subjects

The research subjects of this study are the student leaders of selected tertiary schools in

Pagadian City. These schools are (1) Saint Columban College, (2) Southern Mindanao

Colleges, (3) Pagadian Capitol College, (4) Western Mindanao State University-External

Studies Unit, (5) Josefina Herrera Cerilles State College, and (6) Zamboanga del Sur Maritime

Institute of Technology.

Sampling Techniques

The study will use Purposive Sampling in its conduct. Fifteen percent (15%) from the

population of student leaders per school will be identified as a stratum. The actual respondents

will then be identified through lottery technique.

Instrumentation

The researchers will devise a questionnaire that will particularly treat the factors and

indicators of political awareness of student leaders. Prior to the testing of instrument, it is to be

submitted first to the thesis adviser for scrutiny and approval.

Data Gathering Procedures

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In gathering data, the researchers will secure a written approval noted by the thesis

adviser and to be sent personally to the president of each tertiary school (SCC, SMC, PCC,

WMSU-ESU, JHCSC, and ZSMIT) in Pagadian City provided the permission to conduct a

survey for the student leaders regarding their awareness on Bangsamoro Basic Law. After

securing the approval, the researchers will immediately conduct and distribute the

questionnaires to the respondents (student leaders).

The researchers will distribute the questionnaires individually and will explain the

reasons for conducting the survey. The distribution as well as the retrieval of the answered

questionnaires will took the researchers with an estimated time of two (2) weeks to complete.

The gathered data will be tabulated, interpreted, and will be analyzed.

Statistical Treatment of Data

This study will utilize frequency count and distribution and percentage analysis. The

processing of the statistical data will be done on the computer using software, the Special

Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for more accurate and reliable results. Tabulated data may

be manually derived from the answers of the respondents as presented in a descriptive manner

as:

%=F/Nx100

Where:

F= Frequency of response per item

N= Total number of response

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Chapter 4 Research Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation

This chapter presents the interpretation of the data generated in this study. Furthermore,

each table and figure presented below has the corresponding brief interpretation and general

analysis based on the survey of frequencies. Graphic organizers are formulated and analyzed

through the help of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).

The survey questionnaire is subdivided into two parts. The first parts is pertaining to the

subjective political awareness of each respondents to the provisions of Bangsamoro Basic Law

while the second part is measuring the extent of the factors that may affect the political

awareness of the respondents to the Law.

PART ONE (SELECTED PROVISIONS OF BBL)

Establishment of Bangsamoro Entity

1. Bangsamoro Identity is not only covering Muslim natives of Mindanao but also includes

natives or original inhabitants of Palawan and other Adjacent Islands that determined

themselves through ascription or self-ascription. (FAB: Provision I, par. 5)

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent
Aware 21 58.3 58.3 58.3
Unaware 8 22.2 22.2 80.6
Partly
7 19.4 19.4 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 1 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

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Figu
re 3: The Graphic Representation of the Table 1

The first item revealed that majority of the student leaders are aware of the Bangsamoro

identity encompassing the Muslim Natives and others as stated above. In reference to the table

above, 21 respondents are aware of this part.

In fact, according to a student leader from WMSU, he stated that,

“Isip usa ka estudyante sa Political Science, kinahanglan gyud naku magtuun aning mga

butanga kay mao mani among ginatun-an sa eskwelahan. Mao naa ko gamay’ng

kahibalo ani.”

As a student of Political Science, I ought to study about this thing (BBL) since this is one

of my concerns in the School. That’s why I know a bit about this topic

This statement verifies the factor of education affecting the political awareness of this

respondent. This means that, according to his statement, his field of discipline made him more

aware of Bangsamoro Basic Law and its provisions particularly with regards to the first item’s

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discussion of the Bangsamoro identity. The inputs of the black box may be implied in this case

that it is founded in the base of education as an indicator that greatly affect once political

cognition on the issue.

On the other hand, 8 respondents claimed that they are not aware of the provision. As

said by a respondent,

“Wala man tawun koy alamag ani. Kabalo ra ko nga naa ning BBL kay mapaminawan

man naku sa tv usahay pero wala gyud ko kasabot kung unsa gyud na siya.

(I don’t know a thing about this. I only know that BBL exist because I can

sometimes watch it on TV but rather than that, I know nothing.

In fact, I don’t really understand BBL.)

This means that this particular student leader is not aware of this provision of BBL aside

from its existence. In fact, as implied, the input from this respondent is lower in comparison to

others though provided that he sometimes watch BBL in the TV. So, the political cognition of

this respondent is lower influencing too the political awareness of the student leader to BBL.

Thus, the input that may emanate from him is lower in comparison to those respondents who

have pre-existing knowledge about the law.

Whilst, seven of the respondents stated that they are just partially aware of the

provision’s spirit. In a casual interview of one of the respondents from PCC, she stated that she

is not really aware of the whole provision.

“Kabalo ra ko nga apil gyud ang mga muslim ana pero wala ko kabalo nga apil sad diay

ang ubang natives sa Mindanao ug bisan pa gani sa Palawan nga Visayas na man unta

na. Maistoryahan mani namu usahay sa amo family kay muslim man gud ako mama.”

(I know that the Muslim Natives are included in the law but I’m not really aware that even

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other natives of Mindanao are included even those that are in Palawan even considering

that it’s no longer part of Mindanao. We sometimes discuss these things because my

mother is a Muslim native)

This statement refers to the incomplete knowledge of the respondent to this provision of

BBL. However, this statement highlights that political cognition regarding Bangsamoro identity is

present. It is evident that political knowledge about the provision existed to this student leader

as she admits that she knows that the Bangsamoro identity covers Muslim natives in the

southern Philippines but she is not aware of the inclusion of other natives. In this case, the

political cognition towards this provision is affected by the factor of the family. This means that

the awareness of this respondent is affected by this indicator.

2. BBL is created to redress the unacceptable status quo of the Autonomous Region of Muslim

Mindanao. (FAB: Provision I, par. 1)

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent
Aware 23 63.9 63.9 63.9
Unaware 8 22.2 22.2 86.1
Partly
5 13.9 13.9 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 2 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

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Figure 4: The Graphic Representation of the Table 2

In item number two, the respondents are tested as to their awareness as to the purpose

of BBL, that is, to redress the status quo of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

More than 60% of the respondents claimed that they are aware of the purpose of BBL. IN fact,

the percentile of those that belong to the strata of Unaware and Partly Aware/Unaware is just

the half of the percentile of the respondents that are aware. Only 8 respondents (22.2%) stated

that they are not aware of it while only 5 (13.9%) are just aware of some of the parts of the

provision. A respondent claimed that the BBL is so timely because the Autonomous Region in

Muslim Mindanao is not really developing that much. “Sakto ra sad nga naa ning BBL para

muilis anang ARMM kay dili man sad kaayo klaru ang development sa ARMM karun .”

3. The Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro is contracted by the Government of the

Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). (FAB: Introduction)

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Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Aware 26 72.2 72.2 72.2
Unaware 7 19.4 19.4 91.7
Partly
3 8.3 8.3 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 3 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

Figure 5: The Graphic Representation of the Table 3

The third item talks about the parties that are involve in the Framing of the Bangsamoro

Basic Law. These are the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

According to the survey, more than 70% of the student leaders know about the contracting

parties while 19.4% or 7 respondents stated that they are not aware of it. The other 3 (8.3%)

student leaders claimed that their awareness is only a part of the total provision. The awareness

may be influenced by the event, Zamboanga Siege last 2013 by which neighboring city of

Zamboanga is challenged by the Moro National Liberation Front (an opposite faction of MILF).

One of the reasons of the siege is because of a lopsided contract between GPH and MILF that

undermines MNLF. This notion is supported by some of the respondents since some of them

(particularly in JH, SCC and WMSU student leaders) have visited or even have resided in the

place. Thus, it related to their awareness to this provision.

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Why BBL is to be established
Aware
21.30% Unaware
Partly Aware/ Unaware

13.88%
64.81%

Figure 5 The summary of the provision by which the establishment of BBL is rooted upon

In the first provision (Establishment of Bangsamoro), the result shows that 70 (65%)

respondents are aware while 15 (13.88%) respondents are partially aware/unaware to the

provision while 23 (21.3%) are unaware of the said provision. This means that the awareness

level of the student leaders is fairly high with regards to the reasons why Bangsamoro Basic

Law is established. Thus, the level of political awareness of student leaders with regards to the

provision of the establishment of Bangsamoro entity is high as shown by the survey result in

item number one, two and three.

In fact, considering the gap percentile between the highest strata with the other two, the

result is 21-35% difference. Comparing this to later provisions, this section may be implied to be

mostly available to the political cognition of the respondent-leaders. Injecting the theory of level

33 | P a g e
of political awareness by Barnett and Sobel, the respondents have a General level of political

awareness having

Territory

4. The territory of Bangsamoro entity includes the present geographical area of the

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao that extends to those that has voted for inclusion

in 2001. (Article 3: Section 2, par. a, b and c of Bangsamoro Basic Law)

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent
Aware 23 63.9 63.9 63.9
Unaware 6 16.7 16.7 80.6
Partly
7 19.4 19.4 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 4 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

34 | P a g e
Figure 6: The Graphic Representation of the Table 4

The fourth item talks about the geographical scope of the Bangsamoro entity. The

territories under Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are retained by the

Bangsamoro entity. This means that if BBL will be passed through, the selected territoties will

be automatically infused to the Bangsamoro territory. The survey revealed that 23 respondents

are aware of this provision while 6 respondents are not familiar with the same and the other 7

may be familiar with some parts of the provision but not the whole provision.

The majority of respondents may be affected by the factor of proximity. Some respondents

to some extent live in the territories of ARMM with which affects their awareness or their quick

grasp of the political cognition of the provision.

5. Other contiguous areas may be included to the territory of Bangsamoro provided that there

is a resolution of the Local Government Unit or petition of 10% of the total registered voters

35 | P a g e
asking for the inclusion thereof two months prior to the conduct of ratification of BBL and

delimitation of Bangsamoro. (Article 3: Section 2, par. d of BBL)

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent
Aware 16 44.4 44.4 44.4
Unaware 11 30.6 30.6 75.0
Partly
9 25.0 25.0 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total
36 100.0 100.0

Table 5 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

Figure 7: The Graphic Representation of the Table 5

The fifth item talks about other contiguous areas that are still under the territorial

jurisdiction of the Bangsamoro entity. The provision still talks about the territories of the

36 | P a g e
Bangsamoro entity. 16 respondents (44.4%) positively affirmed about their awareness to the

existence of this provision while 11 respondents (30.6%) negatively responded while 9 (25%) of

the respondents stated that they are partially aware of it. In comparison to the previous item,

similar result has been formulated. The only inconstant feature is the differing gap from the

strata of Aware group and Unaware group.

6. The territory of Bangsamoro entity also includes Inland waters such as lakes, rivers, river

systems and streams within the bangsamoro entity as well as the Bangsamoro waters or the

12 nautical miles from the low water marks of its shore.

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent
Aware 16 44.4 44.4 44.4
Unaware 10 27.8 27.8 72.2
Partly
10 27.8 27.8 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 6 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

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Figure 8: The Graphic Representation of the Table 6

The sixth item talks about the maritime domains of the Bangsamoro entity. According to

the survey, 16 of the respondents (44.4%) are aware of the provision while another 10 said that

they are unaware of it. In fact, in a follow up interview of one of the respondents he said that,

“unsa diay ning maritime domain?” (What is this maritime domain?) Further, another 10

respondents claimed that they are just aware of the part of the whole provision. As stated by a

respondent, “kamao ko kung unsay maritime pero wala jud ko kabalo unsa na nang nautical

zone nga naa diri.” (I know what maritime is but I don’t know what is that nautical zone is all

about.)

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Territorial Provision

24%

Aware
Unaware
Partly Aware/ Unaware
51%

25%

Figure 9 The summary of the provision by which the establishment of BBL is rooted upon

The survey on territorial provision shows that 50.92% (55) of the total respondent

manifested positive awareness to it while 25% (27) respondents said that they are unaware of it.

The 24.07% said that they are not completely aware of the total provision of the territory of the

Bangsamoro entity. This means that more than half of the respondents are aware of the

possible scopes and domains of the BBL. This awareness is very important so to assess the

overall geographical or regional warp it may bring about to the peninsula of Mindanao. This

means that the level of political awareness of the respondents in this provision is in the general

stage.

System and Principles of Bangsamoro Governance

7. The government structure of Bangsamoro entity will be democratic by its dealing and
conduct. (Article IV: section 2)

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Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Aware 20 55.6 55.6 55.6
Unaware 8 22.2 22.2 77.8
Partly
8 22.2 22.2 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 7 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

Figure 8: The Graphic Representation of the Table 7

The seventh item talks about the structural identity of the Bangsamoro government. This

pertains to the democratic functions and dealings of the entity. The responses are as follows: 20

respondents (55.5%) are aware to this governmental principle that is principally questioned by

the other side especially that manifestation of corruption, rampant political dynasties and vote

buying is observed in the current ARMM setting. Eight respondents (22.2%) are unaware to this

provision. “Wala gyud ko kibaw if Democratic ba gud ang Bangsamoro Government or di pero

dili gyud siguro kay parehas karun o, dli man siya democratic.”(I don’t really know whether

40 | P a g e
Bangsamoro government is really democratic or not but I guess it isn’t just like what is

happening today.) Further, another eight respondents (22.2%) claimed that they are partially

aware of this provision.

8. The Bangsamoro entity adheres to the principles of the central government like civilian

supremacy, social justice, unity and other rightful principles. (Article IV: Section 1, 4, 5, 6

and 7)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 15 41.7 41.7 41.7
Unaware 13 36.1 36.1 77.8
Partly
8 22.2 22.2 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 8 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

Figure 9:The Graphic Representation of the Table 8

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The eighth item talks about principles that are to be adhered by the Bangsamoro entity

in its conduct. Some of these are civilian supremacy, social justice and other rightful principles.

The current setting reveals that the development is deprived in the status quo of ARMM. Fifteen

(41.6%) respondent stated that they are aware of it and in the other side thirteen respondents

(36.1%) are partially aware while going further, eight respondents (22.2%) claimed that they are

not aware of it. While surveying, some respondents claimed that they are not even aware of the

technicalities of civilian supremacy, social justice and other principles of the Bangsamoro entity.

As quoted, “Wala gyud tawun mi kasabut unsa ni nga mga words.” (We can’t even understand

what this words mean.)

9. Freedom to pursue its economic, social and cultural development is granted to the

Bangsamoro entity as to their exercise of the right of self-governance and self

determination. (Article IV: Section 1)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 21 58.3 58.3 58.3
Unaware 7 19.4 19.4 77.8
Partly
Aware/Unawar 8 22.2 22.2 100.0
e
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 9 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

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Figure 10 The Graphic Representation of the Table 9
Efforts that may sustain economic, social and cultural development in the Bangsamoro

entity are expressed in the ninth item. This is a vital principle that should bring forth revival to

the erring Muslim Mindanao Region. The result shows that 21 (58.3) respondents stated that

they are aware of it while another 8 respondents (22.2%) are just partially aware of it. As said by

a SMC respondent, “mao ni usa sa mga dapat maaksyonan kung mugaling mapadayun gyud

ang BBL at least di na maglisud ang mga tawo anang mga dapita.” (This is one of the many

things that should be acted upon if ever BBL will prosper and at least those persons that are

living in this places should not suffer that much anymore.)

In another casual interview with a JHCSC respondent, she said that she is not aware

that the BBL touches economic, social and cultural development. She thought that BBL is

related to disarmament of the MILF and other aspects that regard military matters. This

respondent belongs to the 19.4% which is unaware to this provision.

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Principles of the Bangsamoro Government

22.20%

Aware
Unaware
Partly Aware/ Unaware
51.85%

25.90%

Figure 11 The summary of the provision by which the principles of the Bangsamoro government is defined

The provision regarding the system and principles of Bangsamoro entity shows that

51.85% (56 respondents) are aware of the provision. while in contrary, 28 respondents (25.9%)

stated that they are not aware of the provision and 24 (22.2%) respondents claimed that they

are just partly aware of it. This means that in this provision, the political awareness of

respondents is in the General level.

Government Structure

10. The Bangsamoro entity will have a political system that is parliamentary by structure or by

which the executive and legislative branch is duly fused. (Article IV: section 2)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 17 47.2 47.2 47.2
Unaware 9 25.0 25.0 72.2
Partly
10 27.8 27.8 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

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Table 10 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

Figure 12 The Graphic Representation of the Table 10

“Bangsamoro will have parliamentary government.” This is the spirit of the tenth item

wherewith 47.2% (17 respondents) responded that they are aware of it while 9 respondents

(25%) of the respondents are unaware of it while the remaining 27.8% (10 respondents) are just

partially aware of the provision.

As stated, the more than 40% of the total respondents are aware of this provision. This

is primarily affected by the rampant debates and news about the structural definition of the

Bangsamoro Legislative Department in both social media, internet and mass media. This claim

is supported by a respondent that said,

“Kabalo ko ani nga part kay sige man naku ug kalantawan sa TV gud.”

(I know this provision because I usually watch this in the TV news.)

This item reveals to us the importance of mass media in the political awareness of the

respondents. In this scenario, it is concluded that his political cognition is greatly affected by the

45 | P a g e
political instrument of mass media. This means that the inputs that may emanate from this

respondent is higher provided that he is more knowledgeable of this provision through the

television information that he derived. Thus, the political cognition of the respondents is

proportional to the level of political awareness of the respondent.

Some of the respondents are not really aware of the structural definition of the

Bangsamoro legislative department. As mentioned by one of the respondents, he is aware of

the existence of a legislative organ in the Bangsamoro but not the structure.

“Kabalo ko nga naa pud legislative department ang Bangsamoro government but dili ko

aware if unsa pud kaha ang structure. Basin paryas ra sad na sa government natu.

Makadalikyat man ko ug basag mga title sa article sa internet gud usahay about ani”

(“I know that Bangsamoro Government has a legislative department but I’m not really

aware of its structure. I think the structure is just the same with ours. I can sometimes read

some article headlines in the internet.”)

This situation shows the interplay of the internet to the political awareness of this

particular student leader to the BBL. Accordingly, the respondent had a pre-existing knowledge

about the presence of a legislative organ in the Bangsamoro but not he particular structure

thereof. This pre-existing political cognition is brought about by internet article headlines that he

sometimes scan. This means that more or less, the internet may affect the input that may

derived from the respondent that may be so become a demand or sentiment toward BBL and its

provision.

On the other hand, almost 28% are not aware of the provision. As said by a respondent,

“Unsa diay ning Legislative department?”

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(“What is this legislative department?”)

This means that the respondent is not even aware of the definition of the legislative

department. This basic question may imply that unawareness thereof means lower political

cognition or perhaps no pre-existing political consciousness at all. This may be perceived that

the particular respondent is having lower level of political awareness because of lower political

cognition. This may result to an ineffective political socialization provided so that this particular

respondent has a lower political cognition.

11. Bangsamoro Parliament will exercise the powers and functions as mentioned by the basic

law. Legislation and election of the Chief Minister is to be done by the body. (Article VII:

Section1)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 12 33.3 33.3 33.3
Unaware 13 36.1 36.1 69.4
Partly
11 30.6 30.6 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 11 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific

provision.

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Figure 13 The Graphic Representation of the Table 11

In item 11, the legislative function is defined whereby the power is vested in the

Bangsamoro parliament. According to the survey, 36.1% (13 respondents) are not aware of the

provision. This conforms to the statement of the 27.5% of the respondents from the previous

item. Accordingly, they are aware of the existence of a legislative organ but not the structure. In

this provision, the structure of the legislative organ is clearly defined (parliamentary). Further,

the function of the specified organ is also specified in this provision where as stated, the

respondents are not aware of. As simply stated by a respondent,

“Was knowing gyud ko ani nga provision oy”

This particularly states that almost 40% of the total respondents do not have existing

knowledge about this provision. This means that they are not aware of the structure and

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function of the Bangsamoro parliament and chief minister. Suffice it to say, the feedback they

may solicit in the long run is of lesser validity rate considering the real level of political cognition

or political awareness to this provision.

The other 30.5% (11 respondents) are just partially aware of it. Simply speaking, the

respondents are aware of the existence or by the function of a legislative organ but not

necessarily the whole provision stated. According to a respondent,

“Kabalo ko sa structure kay mao baya na halos ang gilalisan sa mga dagkong tawo sa

politics sa social media or bisan pag sa tv but dili ko aware sa function gyud nila mismo kay lahi

man gyud siya kaysa sa atuang gobyerno”

(“I know the structure of the Bangsamoro parliament because that’s one of the debated

provision in the BBL by statesmen in the social media and even in the TV but I’m not really

aware as to the function thereof provided that it is a completely different government to ours.)

The above statement states the existing knowledge of the respondent to the structure of

Bangsamoro parliament but no absolute knowledge with regards to the functions thereof. Even

so, as provided by the statement, the pre-existing knowledge is brought about by the factors of

the social media and the internet. This supports the claim of the previous items that both social

and mass media greatly affect the political cognition and awareness of the respondents.

The remaining 12 respondents (33.3%) stated that they are completely aware of the

existence thereof. Moreover, one of the WMSU respondent stated that,

“I know this provision kay we are doing debates in our school. Dayun once, we have

made this provision as our motion. Mao nga we had discussed this within my peers and

mga friends para prepare mi sa debate.”

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(I know this provision because we are doing debates in our school. Dayun once, we

have made this provision as our motion. So, we discussed this within my peers and friends for

our preparation.”)

This means that they are aware of the structure and functions of the Bangsamoro

Legislative organ. In accord to the statement, the political cognition is primarily influenced by the

means of peer and education indicators. This caters to a higher political cognition of the

respondents that made them more aware of the provision. And so, the inputs of this respondent

is clearly viable and firm in the total process of political socialization with regards to

Bangsamoro Basic Law and its provsions.

12. The Chief Minister together with its cabinet form part as the executive authority of the

Bangsamoro entity. Further, the Chief Minister serves as the head of the Bangsamoro

government. (Article VII: Section 3 and Section 30)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Valid Aware 13 36.1 36.1 36.1
Unaware 14 38.9 38.9 75.0
Partly
Aware/Unawar 9 25.0 25.0 100.0
e
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 12 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific

provision.

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Figure 14 The Graphic Representation of the Table 12

In item 12, the structure of the executive body of the Bangsamoro entity is defined.

According to the survey, 38.9% of the respondents (14 respondents) are unaware of this

provision. This supported the premise of the previous item with which respondents are not

aware of the structure and function of the legislative organ. This is evident that the respondents

are not that particular to the structural definition of the Bangsamoro government. In fact, a

respondent said that,

“Wala man siguro relevance ang structure sa Bangsamoro government na diri sa atua.

wala gyud ko kabalo ana kay wala pa man naimplement dayun dili sad kayo ko updated ana

nga issue kay dili ko interested kayo man gud.”)

(“I don’t see relevance with the structure of Bangsamoro government to us. I don’t know

this provision because the BBL is not yet implemented and I’m not really updated to BBL

because I’m not interested wit this issue.”)

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The respondent justified that he is unaware of this provision because of irrelevance of it

to his part. According to the respondent, the unawareness in his part is duly because of the

reason of irrelevance and self-factor. The respondent stated that the delay in the

implementation of BBL also influenced him not to be aware of the law. Hence, the inputs of this

respondents that may be processed by the black box by David Easton may be prone to pre-

existing bias with regards not only to the political cognition and political awareness but perhaps

also to political perception with regards to the issue of BBL. Further, 36.1% and 38.9% are the

percentile of the respective legislative and executive organ. This may prematurely imply that the

respondents are less aware of this provision.

Further, 36.1% (13 respondents) are aware thereof. This almost conformed to the result

of the previous items. As said by a respondent in the JHCSC,

”About man diay ni sa branches of government no. Timing kayo kay naa man mi

fundamentals to political science mao makarelate ko ani nga provision.

(I guess this is about the branches of government. It’s so timely provided that I’m having

my fundamentals to political science that’s why I can easily relate to it.”

This statement came from a respondent from JHCSC whereby he stated that his political

awareness to this provision is brought about by the education he is having. The subject he is

currently taking influenced his overall political cognition and political awareness. This means

that he is duly influenced by the factor of education rather than other indicators of political

awareness.

Finally, 9 respondents (25%) said that they are not really aware of the totality of the

provision. This may imply that the respondents may be aware of the administrative function of

52 | P a g e
an executive organ but not tantamount the operation and conduct thereof. In fact, a respondent

stated that,

“Among nahibal-an ra tawun ani kay ang structure sa ilang gobyerno ra but dili ang

function ug operation nila ”

(“I only know about the structure of the government but not the operations and functions

thereof.”)

This provision reveals that the awareness level of this respondent is only limited with the

basic structure of government in the Bangsamoro. However, the political cognition with regards

to the functions and operations of the government of the Bangsamoro are held limited for the

student leaders. Hence, evaluating this with the theory of Easton, the inputs if processed will

result to higher political cognition which in some instances result also to higher political

awareness.

13. A titular head of the Bangsamoro entity, Wali, will be chosen to serve for ceremonial

functions. (Article VIII: Section 1)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 9 25.0 25.0 25.0
Unaware 16 44.4 44.4 69.4
Partly
11 30.6 30.6 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total
36 100.0 100.0

Table 13 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision.

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Figure 15 The Graphic Representation of the Table 13

In item 13, the existence of a wali is defined as a titular head of the Bangsamoro entity.

According to the survey, 16 respondents (44.4%) are unaware of the existence thereof. This

provision is actually a unique feature that made Bangsamoro government distinct from the

central government of the Philippines. Frequently, titular head is only present on government

that manifest monarchy and parliamentary rule. Not surprising, more than 40% is unaware of

such.

As mentioned by a respondent:

“unsa ng titular head diay?”

(what is titular head actually?)

This means that even the technical term “titular head” is unfamiliar to some of the

respondents. Provided so, the respondents responses are expected to be unaware provided

that the student leaders has lesser to no pre-existing political cognition with regards to the

technical term of the provision. Reflecting this point to the theory, we may imply that for provided

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reasons, the respondents in this item will incur lower political cognition that ill further result to

lower political awareness.

11 respondents (30.6%), in the other hand, are just partially aware of it with which, major

reasons are the technicalities of the term and complexities of the administrative concepts being

utilized. The remaining 9 respondents (25%) are aware of its existence.

As stated by a respondent,

“Kabalo ko ani nga section sa BBL kay nabasahan man naku ni sa us aka newspaper

atung miagi.”

(I’m aware of this provision because I have read it in a newspaper last time.)

However, this case is only, in comparison to the two previous strata, a minority group.

This means that the political cognition of the respondents regarding this provision is lesser in

comparison to other previous provisions. The student leader expressed that the newspaper

affected the political cognition of this respondent. In fact, applying this case

14. The Justice system to be adopted in the bangsamoro entity are the Shariah Law for

exclusive muslim application, traditional and tribal justice system for the Indigenous people,

local courts and alternative dispute resolution.

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 20 55.6 55.6 55.6
Unaware 9 25.0 25.0 80.6
Partly
7 19.4 19.4 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 14 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

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Figure 16 The Graphic Representation of the Table 14

In item 14, the application of Shariah and traditional justice system or local court system

for Muslim natives, other natives and non-moro citizens is defined respectively. As stated 55.6%

(20) of the respondents are aware of the application thereof. The respondents are aware of this

provision since as emphasized by news in TVs, Radio, Newspaper or Internet, the rule of

Philippine law or of the tribal law, shall not be suspended by the framing of the BBL. Further, it is

highlighted by a respondent’s statement that,

“Sa akuang part mas makabalo ko ani nga issue kay tungud sa mga newspaper nga

akung mabasahan or sa tv nga ako malantawan, radio nga madunggan daun usahay sad sa

internet.

“In my part, I find the newspaper, TV and sometimes the Internet that infuences me to be

aware of this BBL.”

A respondent claimed that he is affected by the social media and mass media factor. As

stated by the statement, the political cognition of the respondent is influenced by the information

he derived from the newspaper, television, radio and internet. This highlights the contributory

factor of this indicator to the overall political awareness of the respondents.

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Whilst,9 respondents (25%) is not aware. This is frequent misconceived provision

provided that some of the respondents thought that Shariah Law shall rule all citizens within the

Bangsamoro entity.

As said, “Abi gyud naku ug Shariah Law ra ang mu-iral anang sa BBL. Mao man

ginaingun gud sa kadaghanan sa akung palibut”

(I thought Shariah Law is the only law that may be effective in the Bangsamoro entity.

It’s because it is what I mostly hear from other people around me.)

The remaining 7 respondents (19.4%) is just partially aware of it. Simply speaking,

respondents think that Shariah Law shall supersede the rule of traditional Philippine law once

Bangsamoro entity is constructed and ratified.

As said by a respondent:

“I thought nga sa BBL ang Shariah law gyud ang magprevail kaysa sa law sa

Philippines. Karun ra ko kabalo nga effective diay gihapon ang laws sa Philippines.”

(“I thought that Shariah Law will prevail than other law in the Philippines. It is just now that I

have learned that Philippine law is still effective in the Bangsamoro entity.)

This means that the respondent in this particular provision has a misconception with

regards to existing awareness to the provision. Though the political cognition of the student

leader is present, the factual value of the political knowledge is untrue. This leads to the same

case as unawareness to the part of the respondent. This misconception may be precipitated by

many factors such as the social media, the mass media and even by the influence of peers that

express untrue claims and statements.

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Provision regarding Bangsamoro Government
Structure

48

71

Aware
Unaware
61 Partly Aware/ Unaware

Figure 17 The summary of the provision by which the principles of the Bangsamoro government is defined

Analyzing the summary of the responses of the student leaders regarding the Structure

of the Bangsamoro Government, these are the overview: 39.4% (71 respondents) are aware of

this provision. This means that respondents are having fair political cognition with regards to the

defined government structure of the Bangsamoro government. Further, 33.9% (61) of the

respondents are unaware of the provision. Comparing this survey result to previous provision,

the margin of gap between the two responses is lesser (only 10 respondents). The remaining

26.7% (48) of the respondents are just partially aware of the existing provision. With this result,

the political awareness of the respondents is in the misinformed level.

Powers of Government

15. Reserved powers are granted to bangsamoro entity as to aspects of defense and external

security, foreign policy, coinage and monetary policy, postal services, citizenship and

naturalization, immigration, custom and tariff, common market and global trade and

intellectual property rights. (Article V: Section 1)

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Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Aware 13 36.1 36.1 36.1
Unaware 11 30.6 30.6 66.7
Partly
12 33.3 33.3 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 15 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

Figure 17 The Graphic Representation of the Table 15

In item 15, the reserved powers of the Bangsamoro government is defined. Some of this

reserved powers as mentioned by the Article V: Section 1 are the defense and external security,

foreign policy, immigration and among others. This means that the following powers are held

exercised by the central government except for special circumstances. Result shows that 30.6%

(11) of the respondents are unaware of it.

As quoted in a follow-up interview,

“Wala na gyud ko kasabot unsa ning akung ginabasa karun”

(I don’t really understand what I’m reading now.)

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On the other hand, 33.3% (12) of the respondents are just partially aware of it. As

emphasized by a respondent, he stated that he is aware of the powers of the government but

not the specific powers especially reserve powers of the Bangsamoro government. This means

that the knowledge of the respondent is present but limited to general concept of governmental

powers. As stated by the respondent, he is not aware of specific power distribution especially

with regards to Bangsamoro and central government power partition.

38.9% (14) respondents are aware of the existence thereof. In comparison to other

stratum of responses, this had the highest percentile. In comparison to the two previous strata, it

is greater in almost 5-8%.

As made mentioned by a respondent from WMSU,

“Naintriga man gud ko aning BBL dayun na-impluwensyahan pa sad ko sa akung mga

amigo nga apil sad sa mga NGO.”

(… It’s because I’m intrigue of this BBL then I’m further influenced by my friends and

peers that belong to NGOs.)

As stated by the respondent that made an aware response, he said that his existing

political cognition is influenced by his curiosity to the issue. This means that the political

cognition is precipitated by the self-factor. Moreover, he added that his grasp to political

knowledge is further influenced by his peers that are members to a Non-government

organization. This means that his inputs are precipitated by self and further enhanced by his

peers.

16. Concurrent powers are granted to the central and Bangsamoro entity as to cases involving

social securities and pensions, quarantine, land registration, pollution control, human rights

and humanitarian protection and promotion and others. (Article V: Section 2.)

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Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Aware 13 36.1 36.1 36.1
Unaware 6 16.7 16.7 52.8
Partly
17 47.2 47.2 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 16 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

Figure 18 The Graphic Representation of the Table 16

Concurrent powers of Bangsamoro entity is defined in this item. Concurrent powers

refer to the shared powers and responsibilities to the Bangsamoro government and the central

government. Example of the aspect with which the two entities have a concurrent power are

social security, pensions, quarantine, land registration, pollution control and among others as

stated by Article V, Section II of the BBL. According to the item number 16, 36.1% of the

respondents are aware of the provision. This is composed by thirteen respondents with which

claimed that they have grasp political knowledge about this provision.

As made mentioned by one of the thirteen, he said that,

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“Natun-an man namu na sa among usa aka subject o, mao mani ang sharing of powers

sa gobyerno, di ba?”

(We have studied this topic in one of our subjects, I think this is about the sharing of

powers of government, right?)

On the other hand, 16.7% (6) are unaware of this item. Six respondents expressed

negative response as to their awareness to this item. In comparison to those who stated that

they are aware of this item, the gap between the two strata is almost 50%.

In the follow –up interview, a respondent stated that she is not really fun of reading or

watching news and she don’t really care much about laws because she can’t understand them.

(wala gyud ko alamag anang mga balaud uy. Di man gud ko ganahan magbasa or

magtan-aw ug balita kay di man ko makasabut.)

This statement highlights the unawareness of the respondent caused by self-factor. In

addition, another reason why the respondent has low political cognition is the inexistence of

interest in the part of the respondent. Furthermore, the lack of interest of the respondent hinders

him to attain political knowledge. As said, he is not fun of watching or reading news. Thus, as a

result, the respondent made a unaware response which tantamount that he has lower political

cognition and lower political awareness with regards to this provision of BBL.

Lastly, 17 respondents (47.2%) are just partly aware of the existence of this provision. In

comparison to other responses of the student leaders in this item, it is almost 10% to 30%

higher. This means that a significant number of respondents are not really that aware of this fact

of BBL. A respondent, during the follow up interview, said that she is aware of the partition of

powers between the two parties. But, she added that she is unaware of the fact that there are

certain scenarios wherewith the two parties may share jurisdictions and responsibilities.

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“Naa diay ing-ani na section ang BBL? Ang akung nahibaw-an kay nagtunga sila ug

power murag paryas sa local government sad natu.”

(Is there really such section in the BBL? What I only know is that they have divided

powers like what had happened with our local government.)

This statement reveals the incomplete awareness of the respondent to this specific

provision. As said by the student leader, he is aware that there is partition of powers and

responsibilities between the central and Bangsamoro government. This is evident that political

cognition in the part of the respondent is present though it’s limited as stated

17. Exclusive powers are granted to the bangsamoro entity as to aspects relating to agriculture,

livestock and food security, economic and cultural exchange, loans and credits, economic

zones and industrial centers, free ports and others. (Article V: Section 3)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 12 33.3 33.3 33.3
Unaware 15 41.7 41.7 75.0
Partly
9 25.0 25.0 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 17 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

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Figure 19 The Graphic Representation of the Table 17

Item 17 is with regards to the provision about exclusive powers of the Bangsamoro

entity. Exclusive powers refer to the power with which the Bangsamoro entity solely enjoy. This

includes agriculture, economic and cultural exchange, labor, equipment and more than 50

others enumerated by section III, Article V of BBL. The survey revealed that 15 (41.6%) of the

respondents stated that they are unaware of it.

One of the fifteen said that,

“Abi ko ug nang Bangsamoro parehas ran a sa ubang region sa pilipinas. Wala ko

kabalo nga naa diay na siya kaugalingun nga power.”

(I thought Bangsamoro (region) is the same with other regions of the Philippines. I’m not

aware that it has specific powers that are enjoyed.)

This statement claims the unaware response of one of the respondents. This also caters

to the misconception of the respondent with regards to his presumption that power sharing

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between central and local government are the same with power sharing between central

government and Bangsamoro government.

In contrary, 33.3% (12) respondent claimed that they are aware of the existence of a

provision by which Bangsamoro government is granted exclusive powers to specific situations

or aspect.

In fact, a respondent said that this is one of the provisions that made this law

controversial.

“Isa mani sa mga nagpakuyaw ani nga region kay naa siya exclusive power, kung

lantawun nimu, mura na gyud siya ug nasud. Mao baya ni usa sa mgakalalisan sa mga tawo sa

TV o bisan pa man sa internet”

(This is one of the provisions that made it interesting because it has exclusive powers. If

you observe, it’s almost like an independent nation. This is one of the many provisions by which

people debate about in TV or internet.)

This statement refers to the awareness of the respondent to this provision. According to

the statement, the political cognition of the respondent emanates from the factor of mass media

and social media specifically, television and internet. This supports other items with which the

role of the internet and mass media is emphasized as well.

Further, nine respondents (25%) said that they are partially aware of the provision. This

response is almost 8-20% lesser compare to the previous groups of responses. Some of the

respondents claimed that they are only aware of the existence of the partition of powers of the

Bangsamoro government and central government but not the thorough and conceptual

knowledge about it.

According to a respondent from WMSU,

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“We know nga gidelegate ang powers and responsibilities sa central government

paingun sa central government pero dili gyud ko kayo well-versed with regards sa

18. Other exclusive powers are granted to Bangsamoro such as to regulate and exercise

authority over foreign investments, to proclaim state of calamity over its territory and among

others as referred to (Article V: Section 4)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 9 25.0 25.0 25.0
Unaware 14 38.9 38.9 63.9
Partly
13 36.1 36.1 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 18 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

Figure 20 The Graphic Representation of the Table 18

Other exclusive powers of the Bangsamoro entity are enumerated also. Examples of this as

stipulated by section 4 are proclamation of state of calamity, creation of urban land reforms and

others. According to the survey, roughly 14 (38.9%) of the total 36 respondents stated that they are

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unaware of it. This section specified nominate exclusive powers with which falls to the jurisdiction

and responsibility of the Bangsamoro government.

On the other hand, 25% (9) respondents claimed that they are aware of the existence of the

other exclusive powers granted to the Bangsamoro government. Further, 13 respondents (36.1%)

said that they are partially aware of this provision. As stated by the one of the thirteen respondents,

“kabalo man ko nga naa’y powers ang government pero wala ko gaexpect nga naa sad diay in-ani

nga powers bisag local government ra unta ang Bangsamoro.” (I am aware that governments have

powers but I don’t expect that Bangsamoro would possess that much considering that it’s only a

local government.)

Comparing the results of this item to the previous one, the “aware” response came down

from 12 to 9 respondents then in the “unaware” response, the extent of gap is only 7% (1

respondent). The previous item has 15 respondents while this item have 14. Finally, the stratum of

those that answered “partly aware” came up from the previous item’s 9 respondents to 13 item to the

current. The result of both items is quite consistent with the “unaware” stratum having the highest

number of responses.

35.40%
33.30% Aware
Unaware
Partly Aware/ Unaware

31.90%

Figure 21: The summary regarding the provisions about the powers of the Bangsamoro Government

The provision regarding the distribution of powers between the central government and

the Bangsamoro government is outlined in the Article V of the BBL. This should be defined so to

ensure harmony between the two governments’ operations and to define scope and limitation of

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one’s powers. The result of the survey shows that 33.3% (48 respondents) of the total

responses are aware of the provision. The respondents are more aware starting from the first

three sections of the power division between central government and bangsamoro government.

In fact, the first three have tallied 12, 13 and 13 “aware” responses.

On the other hand, 31.9% (46 responses) raised unaware response to this provision. In

fact, the result tallied 11, 6, 15 and 14 “unaware” responses respectively while the remaining

35.4% (51 responses) claimed that they are just partly aware of the provision. This is an

evidence that the student leaders are not really aware of the provision regarding power and

responsibility division between the central government and the Bangsamoro government. This

total may result to the political awareness level of Misinformed.

Taxation

19. Power is granted to the Bangsamoro entity as to the creation of sources of revenue and to

levy taxes, fees and charges. Wherewith, the same taxes, fees and changes shall accrue

exclusively to the Bangsamoro Government. (Article XII: Section 6).

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 14 38.9 38.9 38.9
Unaware 11 30.6 30.6 69.4
Partly
11 30.6 30.6 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 19 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific
provision

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Figure 22 The Graphic Representation of the Table 19

Taxation is one of the powers of the state. This is the power by which a state may be

able to fund various public expenditures. As said by Hector De Leon, tax is the lifeblood of the

state. Article XII, section 7 of the BBL grants this special power to the Bangsamoro entity. This

special region has the powers and right to create its own source of revenue. This rights is

accordingly given to ensure self-governance and more independent to the region.

The survey tallied that 30.5% (11 respondents) are unaware of this section. In fact,

respondents expressed surprised reaction to the said section of BB, as quoted, “kuyawa diay

aning Bangsamoro uy. Makademand diay sila ug tax aside sa central government.” (I found

Bangsamoro so peculiar. They (Bangsamoro government) may demand tax to their jurisdiction

aside from the central government.)

Further, 30.7% (11) respondents claimed that they are partially aware of this section. As

noted during the follow up interview, some of the respondents are aware that taxes are collected

by the state even in the Bangsamoro entity but they are not aware that the Bangsamoro

government has a special power to do so. “Kamao ko nga magcollect gyud ug tax pero wala ko

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kabalo nga diay ani nga powers ang Bangsamoro.” (I know that taxes may be levied but I’m not

aware that Bangsamoro (government) has this special power.)

Finally, 38.9% (14 respondents) are aware of this section. This stratum has the highest

number of responses. However, the gap between this stratum and the other two is only 21.4%

(3 responses). As said by a WMSU respondent, “Isa mani sa mga ginademand sa MILF nga

side. Kana bitaw’ng mafeel gyud nila ang independence like sa tax.” (This is one of the

demands of the MILF side. A moment with which they may feel independent from the central

government like In the aspect of taxation.)

20. All fees and charges collected in the Bangsamoro shall be shared generally as follows, 25%

to the Central Government and 75% to the Bangsamoro, including the shares of the local

government unit. However, for a 10-year period, 25% is to be retained by the Bangsamoro

entity. (Article XII: Section 10)

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Aware 14 38.9 38.9 38.9
Unaware 12 33.3 33.3 72.2
Partly
10 27.8 27.8 100.0
Aware/Unaware
Total 36 100.0 100.0

Table 20 shows the distribution of the responses of the student leaders as to their political awareness to this specific

provision

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Figure 23 The Graphic Representation of the Table 20

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Sharing of taxation between the central government and the Bangsamoro government is

pointed out by item 20. The two parties will have 25-75 partition. The Bangsamoro will have the

lion’s share while the 25% is to be remitted to the central government. However, in ten year time, the

25% tax that is supposed part of the government will be allocated to sustain rehabilitation and

development of the region.

According to the tallied result, 33.3% (12) of the respondents are unaware of this tax sharing

principle. As what a respondent stated, “privileged diay kayo ning Bangsamoro no. Wala gyud ko

kabalo aning mag butanga uy.” (I have realized how privileged Bangsamoro is. I’m not really aware

of this things.)

Further, other 10 respondents (27.8%) claimed that they are partly aware of this tax sharing

principle. In fact, some of the respondents claimed that they are only aware that taxes will proceed

wholly to the central government.”Wala ko ga-expect nga tungaan pa diay sa duha ka part,.” as said

by a respondent. On the other hand, 38.9% (14) of the total percentile of respondents claimed

awareness to the existence of the tax sharing principle between the central government and

Bangsamoro government. As further mentioned by a respondent, “part mani sa powers sa

Bangsamoro government. Ang rason man gyud ana siguro kay for sustainance and development.”

(This is a part of the powers of the Bangsamoro government. The reason perhaps may be for

sustainance and development (of the region).

29.20% Taxation
38.90%
Aware
Unaware
Partly Aware/ Unaware
31.90%

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Figure 24: The summary of survey results regarding the provisions about taxations of the Bangsamoro Government

The provision tells us about the taxation of Bangsamoro entity as defined by the Article

XII of BBL. The According to the overall tally of this provsion, 38.9% or (28 responses) are

aware of this provision. On the other 23 responses (31.9%) claimed that they are unaware of it

while the remaining 21 responses (29.2%) are not completely aware of the existence thereof.

The gap between the three are not generally significant, only 8-18% (3-7 responses) is the

average gap between respective percentiles. It is observable that “agree” response supersedes

the two strata while the “partly aware” and “unaware” group is in close gap between each other.

The responses are as follow; 14-11 and 14-12. This means that the level of political awareness

of respondents in this provision is under the misinformed group.

PART TWO (FACTORS THAT AFFECTS POLITICAL AWARENESS)

This part pertains to the factors that may affect the political awareness of the

respondents. As predetermined by the researchers, these are the following indicators that are

considered: family factor, mass media factor, peer and education, religion, internet and social

networking sites and social status factor. The respondents are given questionnaire checklist

with five items per factor. The responses are then tallied and converted into percentiles. In this

analysis, the summary of answers per factors is considered not individual item analysis.

Family factor

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 124 69% 69%

No 56 31% 100%

Table 21 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under family factor

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FAMILY FACTOR 31%

Yes No
69%

Figure 25 shows the graphic representation of Table 21

In this factor the respondents are asked how their families encourage them to read about

political and social issues. It includes the family’s awareness on different issues and how

families affect their perception on political and social issues. The table above shows the

percentage of the respondents’ response on the said factor.

In item number one, 70% (25) of the respondents’ family encourage them to read about

current issues while the other 30% (11) is not.

In item number two, 77.8% of respondents’ families are aware of the current social

issues while the remaining 22.8% is not.

In item number three, more than 65% of the families where respondents belong are

familiar with the operations of the government while less than 35% of them are unaware of it.

In item number four, almost 67% of the respondents are discussing Bangsamoro Basic

Law within their family while the remaining 33% do not.

In item number five, more than 65% of the respondents are influenced by their families

with regards to their political perception while the remaining 35% is not.

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Here are some of the statements of the respondents regarding the family factor. “Si

Mama kay mahilig man makigtabi nako labaw na sa issues diri sa Pilipinas.” (My mother loves

to talk with me especially on issues in the Philippines).“Wala juy alamag akong ginikanan ani.

Mutuo pako’g kwarta ang ilang istoryahan.” (My parents are really in to political issues. I

believe they are more interested to money and business.)

Mass media factor

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 130 72% 72%

No 50 28% 100%

Table 22 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under mass media factor

MASS MEDIA FACTOR 28%

Yes No
72%

Figure 26 shows the graphic representation of Table 22

In the second factor, mass media is one of the instruments that influence the political

awareness of the student leaders. This part assesses their access to mass media at their schools

and homes. And further, it evaluates their attitude towards mass media news. The above table

shows the frequency response of the total number of the respondents.

75 | P a g e
In item number one, more than 65% of the respondents have access to mass media while

less than 35%don’t have.

In item number two, ¾ of the respondents have access to mass media at home while the

remaining ¼ don’t have.

In item number three, more than 70% have access to mass media in school while less

than 30% don’t have.

In item number four, more than 55% read about editorials and opinion in mass media

while less than 45% do not.

In item number five, almost 70% read updates about BBL in mass media while 30% do

not.

This graph shows the percentage of how the respondents were greatly influence by

mass media. With 150 responses (78%) answered that they were influenced by mass media

such as newspaper, television and others. While the other 50 responses (28%) answered that

mass media does not affect their political awareness.

As one of the WMSU student leader said, “ Naa man mi access sa mass media sa

balay ug sa eskwelahan dayun dako pud siya nga tabang sa akoa isip isa ka future

teacher.’’(We have access to mass media at our home and in our school and I find it a big help

to me since I am a future teacher.) This is also supported by the statement of one of the

respondent of PCC, “Ang mass media kay importante ug kinahanglan gyud nako labi na kay

criminology student ko. Magamit nako siya sa akong research ug madungagan ang akong

mga kahibalo sa mga current issue sa atong nasud.’’ (Mass media is very important for me and

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I also need it especially, I am a criminology student. It can also help in my researches and it

helps me to be aware of the different issues in our country.)

This is a contradiction of one of the JH student leader who said that, “Wala man mi

access sa among balay pero naa me sa eskwelan. Dili man pod ko hilig magbasa ug mga

newspaper or mutan-aw ug balita sa TV.’’ (We don’t have access in our home but we have in

our school. I’m not a fan of reading or watching news in television.

Peer and Education

Peer and education is one of the factors that helps in developing one’s perception about

to a certain issue whether political or a social. According to the survey, 122 responses (68%)

out of 180 (100%) the answered was ‘yes’ and 58 (32%) ‘No’ responses.

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 122 68% 68%

No 58 32% 100%

Table 23 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under peer and education factor

PEER AND EDUCATION


32%

Yes NO

68%

Figure 27 shows the graphic representation of Table 23

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In item number one, 80% of the respondents share their perception regarding political

and social issues with their peers while almost 20% do not.

In item number two, almost 70% of the respondents said that their school propagates

awareness to social and political issues while 30% do not.

In item number three, more than 60% said that they have access to instruments that

may boost their political cognition at school while almost 40% do not.

In item number four, almost 65% evaluate the perception of other people than the more

than 35% who don’t.

In the last item, more than 60%of the respondents said that their school entertain

liberated thoughts and perception to current issues while almost 40% do not.

As to the result of the survey, 122 (68%) of the respondents’ response that they agree

that peer and education affect their political consciousness, with the remaining of 58 (32%)

student leaders who response that this factor does not constitutes to their political perceptions

regarding on current issues. A political science student of SMC said that, “Tabian man kaayo

ko, labi na sa akong mga barkada. Magtabi dayun me about sa mga issuea labi nang mga

current issue.’’ (I’m a talkative person especially when I’m with my friends. We talk about issues

especially with the current ones.)

One of the student leaders of ZSMIT stated that, “Na! dili jud me magdiscuss sa akong

mga barkada about political issues pero magtabi me about social issues.” (In the circle of my

friends, we don’t really discuss about political issues but rather we talk about social issues.)

Furthermore, a respondent from SCC affirms that their school has an access to social

and political issues and it helps them in formulating their opinions. “Naa man access ang

eskwelahan para maimprove ang amuung panghunahuna matud sa mga panghitabo karun sa

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atung lugar ug sa atong nasud.” (Our school has an access (to political instruments) to improve

our knowledge as to the happenings of our city and to our nation.”

Religious factors

Religion is an aspect of the society that is defined with the belief and faith to a supreme

being. In the political arena, the awareness or consciousness of individuals (as mentioned in the

RRL) are correlated with one’s religious identity. The result of the survey proves that such claim

is true to the respondents notwithstanding the fact that the difference between the two strata is

only 4-5%.

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 92 51% 51%

No 88 49% 100%

Table 24 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under peer and education factor

Figure 28
RELIGIOUS FACTOR shows

the graphic
Yes No

49% 51%

representation of Table 24

79 | P a g e
in item number one, 58% of them said that their religious leaders influence them to be

concerned about political issues while the 42% do not.

In item number two, half of the total number of the student leaders (50%) said that they

consider religious benefits as to policies and programs implemented by the government the

other half (50%) did not consider it.

In item number three, 47% of the respondents answered that they consider religion as a

consideration in policy reference and the remaining 33% said that they don’t consider religion.

In item number four, almost 42% of the respondent response was acceptance of the

religion of the legislator that made the law as to their political perception and 48% who do not.

For the last item, 58% of them said that they believe that BBL is non-sectarian by nature

and almost 43% do not.

As to the result of the survey, 92 responses (51%) out of 180 answered ‘Yes’, that

religious factor affects their political cognition towards the existing issues. The remaining 88

responses (49%) who answered ‘No’, they don’t consider religious factor as to their political

perceptions. One of the student leaders of WMSU stated that, “Sa amoa pung religion,

mahisgutan pud usahay ang BBL kay kana laging epekto ana sa mga Kristiyano kung maaprub

sa goberyno. Everytime nga itopic kay mura pud ug nag-andam na kung unsay mahitabo.” ( In

our religion, we would also talk about BBL sometimes for its effect to the Christians is very

alarming. That’s why whenever we talk about it, we are also preparing for possible happenings.

A respondent in PCC also said that, “Basta para sa akoa, kung unsa man ang mahitabo

naa juy purpose si Lord ana. That’s why, we don’t give too much attention to that issue. If it

80 | P a g e
happens, it will.” (As for me, whatever happens, I know it is His will. That’s why; we don’t give

too much attention to that issue. If it happens, it will.)

In addition, a JHCSC student leader said that, “Well, dili man jud malikayan nga itopic

ang BBL, daghan man gud ang pwede maapektuhan. Not just Moslem’s like but also the people

living in Mindanao.” (Well, we can’t deny the fact that most of the other religions disussed BBL.

It is because, many people would be affected not just Moslems but also people living in

Mindanao.)

Internet and Social networking sites

Internet and Social Networking Sites factor questions is merely about how the

respondents has been aware of the issues concerning political and social through internet. It

also includes posts and opinions in the internet that has given ideas to the respondents.

Furthermore, it gives awareness to the respondents about the current issues through the

articles being posted by the users. The table below shows the percentage of the internet and

social networking factor.

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 139 77% 77%

No 41 23% 100%

Table 25 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under Internet and social networking sites

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SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES
Yes No

23%

77%

Figure 29 shows the graphic representation of Table 25

In the item number one, 75% of them have an easy access to internet and SNS while

the other 25% do not have.

In item number two, ¾ (75%) of the respondents evaluate opinions posted in social

networks regarding social and political issues and the 25% respondents do not evaluate.

In item number three, more that 77% who agree that internet and social networking sites

help them in formulating their political perception while the 23% does not agree with this.

In item number four, 69% read BBL related issues in the Internet and SNS and the 31%

did not.

The last item, 61% of the total respondents believe that social media affect their political

cognition and almost 38% who claimed it does not.

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In this graph it shows 23% answers NO and 77% answered YES. This means that

Social Networking Sites gives much awareness to the respondents. One of the JHCSC

respondents said:

“Sa internet rajud ko maka-update sa mga panghitabo sa kalibutan. Wala najuy lain.” ( I can

only be updated through internet. Nothing else.)

Also, it has been supported by one of the SMC respondents, he said:

“Kung dili tungods internet, mura ko’g sinaunang tao jud.” (If not for the internet, I would still be

like a primitive person.)

But, unlike the above respondents, one of the SMC respondents said:

“Dili man ko karelate ana nila oyy. Wala man guy internet sa amoang dapit.” ( I can’t relate

about the issue, since there is no internet in our vicinity.)

Social Status and Stratification

Social stratum of an individual may help to formulate their political perceptions as to their

knowledge of the different issues. Social status also the indicator of one’s level of political

awareness and in identifying the information they get from others. The tallied result emphasis

that social status and stratification has still a big impact to everyone’s life.

Responses Frequency Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 89 62% 62%

NO 55 38% 100%

Table 26 shows the responses of respondents as to the item checklist under Social status and Stratification

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SOCIAL STATUS AND STRATIFICATION
Yes No

38%

62%

Figure 30 shows the graphic representation of Table 26

In item number two, half (50%) of the total number agreed that their social status and

stratification influence their political perception to certain political issues and the other half (50%)

did not.

In item number three, almost 56% of them answered that they considered social status

as a factor for their political awareness while the remaining 44% who don’t.

In item number four, more than 63% who think that social status is considered by the

government as a factor for policy making and implementation and with respect to the 36% who

didn’t.

And the last item, almost 78% who said that they consider social status of individuals

affected by a certain law especially to their own political perception on it, the 22% of them who

do not consider.

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The graphic above represents the 62% of the respondents who consider this as a tool in

their own political consciousness. While the remaining 38% who do not consider as an

instrument in having gaining information and having their individuals’ awareness. One of the

respondent in SMC who commented that, “ Sa akong estatdo sa kinabuhi makaingon pud ko

nga nakahatag jud pud ug impact sa akoa kay sa among kapobrehon mas eager ko makabalo

kung nganung kinahanglan ni siya especially sa dako nga budget nga ilang gipangayo sa

gobyerno.” (In my status now I an say that it gives great impact to me. Or it pushes me to know

why do we have this (BBL) and I ‘m concern to the big budget allotted for the bill. )

A student leader of ZSMIT also concluded that, “ Sus! Ako? Di najud ko muhatag ug

atensyon ani oy. Basta makakaon lang ming mga pamilya! Payts na! Mas hatagan nako’g

atensyon ang pagpanginabuhi kaysa ani kay wala man gihapon koy mahimo kung problemahun

pa nako ni.” (As for me, I just want to make a living for my family’s sake. I don’t want to waste

my time thinking about this issue because nothing would change exactly.)

5 Social Status
1
Middle Class
Lower Class
Upper Class

30

Figure 31 shows the graphic representation of the social status

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In item number one, the respondents were given the opportunity to classify their social

status, with thirty (30) respondents who answered that they belong in the middle class, one (1)

in the upper class and five (5) in the lower class. This classification of the classes in the society

has a different field of interest and views en route for political and social issues. This is show in

the graph above.

One of the JHCSC respondent said, “Social status? Hmm.Makatabang biya jud ni sa

pag classify sa imung mga matagbuan nga tsismis or mga news ai.” (Social Status? This is

helpful in classifying rumors and news you may encounter.)

Also, one of the WMSU student stated that, “Pobre man me pero dili pod siguro ko lower class

ui coz as far as I know ang lower class kay kato nang below poverty line, katung walay puluy-

an, halos di makakaun sa unsa ka adlaw.” (We are poor but I think we are not belong in the

lower class. As far as I know, lower classes are those below poverty line, those who don’t have

a house and those who almost can’t eat once a day.)

Chapter 5 Summary of Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation

This chapter presents the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study

according to the result of analysis and interpretation of data in the previous chapter.

Summary of Findings

The findings of this study is primarily rooted to the identified problems in Chapter 1. The

researchers have identified three general inquiries to the survey. Two of the three general

inquiries of this research is enumerated and supplied with findings below while the action plan is

supplied in the recommendation.

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 Which of the provisions of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) are student leaders

most aware of and least aware of?

The first provision regarding the establishment of BBL garnered 70 “aware” responses

which is equivalent to 65% of the total responses. On the other hand, the provision also

garnered 23 (21.3%) “unaware” responses while the “partly aware/unaware” response garnered

15 (almost 14%) remarks.

The second provision is pertaining to the territorial domain and jurisdiction of BBL. There

are 55 positive responses or almost 51% that stated they are aware of the second provision.

Further, 27 (25%) responses claimed that they are unaware to the provision while only 24% said

that they are not really that much aware to the territorial provision of BBL.

The third provision states the system and basic principles being adopted by the

Bangsamoro government. It tallied 56 “aware” responses or equivalent to almost 52% of the

total responses. Whilst, the “unaware” response totaled to almost 26% or 28 responses in

figure. The partly aware/unaware response produced 22% or exactly 24 responses.

The fourth provision tackles about the structural identity of the Bangsamoro government.

The result recorded that almost 40% (71) of the total responses are “aware” of this provision.

Further, 34% (61) said that they are not aware of this provision while the remaining 26% (48

responses) claimed that they are not really aware of the total defined structure of the

Bangasamoro Government.

The fifth provision explains the power sharing and distribution between the central

government and the Bangsamoro government. It tallied 34% negative responses or equivalent

to 48 unaware responses while 31% said that they are aware of the provision or exactly equal to

46 responses. On the other hand, 35% from the total responses are not really aware of the

provision or roughly 51 responses.

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The last provision talks about the special power of taxation by the Bangsamoro

government. The survey result tallied 38% (28) of the total responses aware to the said

provision while 31% (23) followed that they are unaware thereof while the remaining 29% are

not completely aware of the total provision.

Provision Aware Unaware Partly Aware/Unaware

Figure Percentile Figure Percentile Figure Percentile

Establishment of BBL 70 65% 15 14% 23 21%

Territorial Domain 55 51% 25 24% 26 25%

System and Principle. 56 52% 28 26% 24 22%

Structure 71 39% 61 34% 48 27%

Power distribution 48 33% 46 32% 51 35%

Taxation 28 39% 23 32% 21 29%

Table 27 The summary of responses of Student leaders to the selected provisions of BBL

The responses of the student leaders clearly manifest that the average awareness level

is 45-47%. Moreover, the unawareness level average is 27-28% while the response that states

“partly aware/unaware” tallied 29-30%. Thus, analyzing the average of both unaware and partly

aware responses, it may be generally concluded that more than 55% of the total respondents

for the selected BBL’s provision are not really understood, unknown) or not completely

understood, known by the respondents.

Further, the summary of findings shows that most of the student leaders are aware of

why the BBL is established. This provision may be found in the Framework Agreement of

Bangsamoro. This claimed, as reiterated, 65% from the total responses of the student leaders. It

is followed by the system and principle of Bangsamoro government (52%), territorial domain of

Bangsamoro entity (51%), Structure of the Bangsamoro Government and Taxation both having

39% and power distribution (33%).

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Meanwhile, the provision by which student leaders are least aware of is the power

distribution and sharing of the government garnering 67%. This finding is derived through the

addition of the “unaware” group and “partly aware/unaware” group. It is followed by the taxation

and structure of Bangsamoro government both tallying 61%, system and principle of

Bangsamoro government (48%), territorial domain (49%) and lastly the establishment of BBL

with 35% unaware and partly aware/unaware rate.

The findings imply that the student leaders are more aware why BBL is established.

However, the survey also shows that further concept of BBL is not really known or understood

by the respondents. In fact, the average awareness rate of other provision is only 42.8%

compared to the first provision’s 65% and the average unaware rate of other provision is 46.2%

while the first provision is only 21%. This means that further and in-depth understanding and

study of the complex concepts of the BBL such as the structure, systems and concepts, taxation

and others is necessary so to insure improvement as to the level of awareness to this political

issue.

Provision Aware Level of Political

Figure Percentile Awareness

Establishment of BBL 70 65% General

Territorial Domain 55 51% General

System and Principle. 56 52% General

Structure 71 39% Misinformed

Power distribution 48 33% Misinformed

Taxation 28 39% Misinformed

Table 28 shows the level of political awareness of the respondents per selected provision of the BBL

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The results of the survey presents the corresponding level of political awareness of

student leaders in the selected provisions of the BBL. This data may be concluded that the

average awareness percentile of the respondents is 46.5% or equivalent to the general level of

political awareness. This is according to the theory established by Barnett and Sobell as

mentioned in the Chapter II of this research.

 Which of the following indicators influence the student leaders’ level of political

awareness the most and the least?

Factor/ indicator Yes No

Figure Percentile Figure Percentile

Family 124 69% 56 31%

Mass media 130 72% 50 28%

Peer and Education 122 68% 58 32%

Religious factor 92 51% 88 49%

Internet and SNS 139 77% 41 23%

Social status 89 62% 55 38%

Table 28 The summary of responses of Student leaders to the indicators/factors of Political Awareness

The table above shows the summary of responses as to the indicators of political

awareness of student leaders. This shows that the most influential indicator for the student

90 | P a g e
leaders is the Internet and Social Networking Sites (77% positive response). This is followed by

mass media factor (72%), family factor (69%), peer and education (68%), Social status (62%)

and religious factor (51%). This solidifies the claim that current trends in the Internet and Social

Networking Sites are more effective and influential in the side of student leader respondents or

in general, the current generation of youth in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the least influential factor, as mentioned by the survey result is the religious

factor garnering almost 50% negative responses from the student leaders. Followed by the

social status and stratification (38%), peer and education (32%), family factor (31%), Mass

media (28%) and Internet and SNS factor (23%). This implies that almost 50% of the

respondents don’t discriminate the identity of the legislator as to the religious preference he

possess to the boons the law may derive.

The survey also reveals that majority of the respondents are middle-classers. In fact, out

of 36 respondents, 30 (83%) are middle-classers while the lower-classers comprises 14% (5

respondents) and the least is the upper class which is composed of only 3% or a lone

respondent.

Conclusions

This research is primarily aimed to address the three basic questions regarding BBL and

political awareness. The first premise of this study has the objective to determine the provisions

by which the respondents are least and mostly aware of. Second premise is to assess the least

and most influential factor to the political awareness of the student leaders that represents the

whole studentry of their specific institutions. After which the first two premises are then

combined to formulate a general action plan so to boost the political awareness of the

respondents using the factors that are found to be so influencing.

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This study established the following statements as a fact in the scope of Political

Awareness and its interplay with the issues of Bangsamoro Basic Law:

1. Student leaders are mostly aware of the provisions why BBL is established.

However, this awareness is limited only to that basic provision provided that other provisions

tallied only 30-50% awareness percentile. In fact, the provision by which the student leaders

have responses the least is the power distribution and sharing which tallied 33% awareness

percentile only.

2. Student leaders are mostly influenced by the Internet and Social Networking

sites. This claims that this new trend of technology may be utilized to upgrade the political

awareness of the youth so to the issue of Bangsamoro basic Law. It is followed within a close

gap by the mass media. This means that the overall awareness of the student leaders is muchly

affected by available political instruments than other social personalities.

3. Student leaders have the “general level of political awareness”. This level is

characterized by a moderate level of political awareness and healthy political socialization and

communication within its social arena. However, as stated by Barnett and Sobell, the political

activism is only minimal in this stratum.

Recommendation

Based on the findings and limitations of this study, the researchers endorse the following

recommendations:

1. Having been able to determine Internet and Social networking sites as a role

player in political awareness, a separate study may be conducted to measure the extent of

influence it may do so to other political issues.

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2. Similar studies may be conducted replacing the stratum of the youth with

another stratum of the society as the respondents. In doing so, interesting and interactive follow

up interview should also be done. Consideration of the time, resources and manner of

occurrence should also be taken into consideration so to insure reliability of the survey results.

3. Pertaining to the manner of distributing survey, documentation, such as picture or

video taking, is also recommended. The giving of tokens or something that the respondent

would remember on the interview is suggested as well to sustain the new found relationship and

researchers.

4. The result of this research should be echoed back to the institution of the

respondents together with an action plan which is attached in the appendix of this study. If ever

needed, full copies of this research may be furnished upon request by respective institution of

the respondents to the researchers.

Bibliography

Merriam Webster Dictionary, 11th edition ,2003

The New Webster Dictionary of the English Language edited by Virginia S. Thatcher, 1969

New English Dictionary,2004

Lualhati et al, Bangsamoro (Pagpupunyagi sa sariling-Pagpapasya), 2011

Roskin, Michael G. et al, Introduction to Political Science 7th Edition, 2000

Cunningham, Frank, Theories of Democracy (A Critical Introdution), 2002

Birkland et al, Policy Process of USA, A foreign Policy Analysis, 2007

93 | P a g e
Karl Marx (Communist Manifesto)

Blindenbacher and Nashat, Introduction to Political theories (2010)

Ham, Christopher, The policy process in the modern capitalist state (2nd edition), 2002

Hill, Michael, The policy Process: A reader, 1993

Online thesis

Ahmed, Political Awareness of Youth in (2014)

Zaller, John, The Nature and Origins of Mass Opinions, 1992

Baddeley, Alan, Working Memory: Theories Models and Controversies. September 27, 2011

Online articles

FAQ regarding BBL, GMA News TV online article dated September 10, 2014

Barnett and Sobel , The Five Levels of Political Awarenes, (2007) (Article from BlogCritics)

Bronislaw Malinowski’s theory of structural functionalism, 1998

Ricardo Saludo, why not for MILF?, Manila times

Websites

sccpag.edu.com

zsmit.net84.net

jhcscmain.edu.ph

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wmsu.edu.ph

eskwelahan.com/pcc

eskwelahan.com/smc

Appendix A- Action Plan

This section establishes possible methods to boost the Political Awareness of Students

especially regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law and its provisions. This action plan is duly referred

to the conducted study by Political Science student researchers of Saint Columban College in

the First semester of the school year 2015-2016 entitled “POLITICAL AWARENESS OF

STUDENT LEADERS’ AMONG SELECTED TERTIARY SCHOOLS IN PAGADIAN CITY ON

BANGSAMORO BASIC LAW”. Copies of this action plan is furnished to selected tertiary

schools only wherewith its student leaders have participated as respondents of the said

research. This tertiary schools are identified as Saint Columban College, Southern Mindanao

College, JH Cerilles State College, Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Institute of Technology,

Western Mindanao State University- External Studies unit and Pagadian Capitol College.

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Provided below are some of the alternatives provided by the researches to boost political

awareness of students to the Bangsamoro Basic Law. This is in accordance to one of the

recommendations derived by the researchers in the study. If needed, copy of the research may

be furnished by the researchers upon request of the institution of the respondents.

Action Plan for Political Awareness to Bangsamoro Basic Law and its provisions

Purpose: To boost political consciousness of students to Bangsamoro Basic Law and its

provision.

General expected outcome: Politically conscious students with regards to Bangsamoro Basic

Law and its provision.

Agency or
Expected Resources Target time for
Activities person in
outcome needed accomplishment
charge
Resource School
  Improved speakers administrators
Before the full
political   BBL
1. BBL awareness adaption and
awareness of Function hall awarenesss
seminar implementation of
participants to council
BBL
BBL Other seminar Student
materials councils
Brochure/
information School
sheets about 50 pieces of administrator
BBL brochure or Before the full
2. Spreading of BBL
information adaption and
information
Improved sheet per implementation of School
sheets/brochures
political institution- BBL publication
cognition about respondents
BBL Student
councils

96 | P a g e
Improved
political and
Library
social cognition
of students

3. Availing of updated
Social and
and comprehensive Availability of As soon as
political
social and political updated and possible
instruments
instruments in schools comprehensive
School
social and
administrators
political
instruments in
school.

Faculty and
4. Cultivation of staff
Interactive and
interactive and society Competent As soon as Students
socially aware
related classroom teachers possible
students Office of
atmosphere
academic affairs
Computer
5. Creation of an Internet-based Internet access studies
internet based political political and As soon as department
and social update social update possible
Page Web page
center center
administrator developers
Web page
Administrators
developers

Appendix B-Survey Questionnaire

Saint Columban College


College of Teachers, Arts and Sciences
Pagadian City

QUESTIONNAIRE REGARDING THE LEVEL OF POLITICAL AWARENESS OF


STUDENT LEADERS AS TO BANGSAMORO BASIC LAW

Respondent’s Profile

Name (Optional):________________________ Course and Year:

Gender: ______ Age: ___________ Civil Status: ______________

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Ethnic Affiliation: ___________________ Religion: __________________________

Name of School: _____________________________________________


Position in the School: ____________________________

I-Direction:Put a check on the box provided after each question. Please answer honestly.

Establishment of BBL

1. Bangsamoro Identity is not only covering muslim natives of Mindanao but also includes
natives or original inhabitants of Palawan and other Adjacent Islands that determined
themselves through ascription or self-ascription. (FAB: Provision I, par. 5)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

2. BBL is created to redress the unacceptable status quo of the Autonomous Region of
Muslim Mindanao.(FAB:ProvisionI,par.1)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/Partly Not Aware

3. The Framework Agreement of the Bangsamoro is contracted by the Government of the


Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). (FAB: Introduction)

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Territory

4. The territory of Bangsamoro entity includes the present geographical area of the
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao that extends to those that has voted for
inclusion in 2001. (Article 3: Section 2, par. a, b and c of Bangsamoro Basic Law)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware


5. Other contiguous areas may be included to the territory of Bangsamoro provided that
there is a resolution of the Local Government Unit or petition of 10% of the total
registered voters asking for the inclusion thereof two months prior to the conduct of
ratification of BBL and delimitation of Bangsamoro. (Article 3: Section 2, par. d of BBL)

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Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

6. The territory of Bangsamoro entity also includes Inland waters such as lakes, rivers, river
systems and streams within the bangsamoro entity as well as the Bangsamoro waters or
the 12 nautical miles from the low water marks of its shore.

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

System and Principles of Bangsamoro Governance

7. The government structure of Bangsamoro entity will be democratic by its dealing and
conduct.(ArticleIV:section2)

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8. The Bangsamoro entity adheres to the principles of the central government like civilian
supremacy, social justice, unity and other rightful principles. (Article IV: Section 1, 4, 5,
6and7)

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9. Freedom to pursue its economic, social and cultural development is granted to the
Bangsamoro entity as to their exercise of the right of self-governance and self
determination.(ArticleIV:Section1)

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Government Structure

10. The Bangsamoro entity will have a political system that is parliamentary by structure or
by which the executive and legislative branch is duly fused. (Article IV: section 2)

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11. Bangsamoro Parliament will exercise the powers and functions as mentioned by the basic
law. Legislation and election of the Chief Minister is to be done by the body. (Article
VII:Section1)

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12. The Chief Minister together with its cabinet form part as the executive authority of the
Bangsamoro entity. Further, the Chief Minister serves as the head of the Bangsamoro
government. (Article VII: Section 3 and Section 30)

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13. A titular head of the Bangsamoro entity, Wali, will be chosen to serve for ceremonial
functions. (Article VIII: Section 1)

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14. The Justice system to be adopted in the bangsamoro entity are the Shariah Law for
exclusive muslim application, traditional and tribal justice system for the Indigenous
people, local courts and alternative dispute resolution.

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

Powers of Government

15. Reserved powers are granted to bangsamoro entity as to aspects of defense and external
security, foreign policy, coinage and monetary policy, postal services, citizenship and
naturalization, immigration, custom and tariff, common market and global trade and
intellectual property rights. (Article V: Section 1)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

16. Concurrent powers are granted to the central and bangsamoro entity as to cases involving
social securities and pensions, quarantine, land registration, pollution control, human
rights and humanitarian protection and promotion, penology and penitentiary, auditing,
civil service, coastguard, custom and tariff, administration of justice, funding for the
maintenance of national roads, bridges and irrigation system, disaster risk reduction and
management and maintenance of public order and public safety. (Article V: Section 2)

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17. Exclusive powers are granted to the bangsamoro entity as to aspects relating to
agriculture, livestock and food security, economic and cultural exchange, loans and
credits, economic zones and industrial centers, free ports and others. (Article V: Section

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3)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

18. Other exclusive powers are granted to Bangsamoro such as to regulate and exercise
authority over foreign investments, to proclaim state of calamity over its territory and
among others as referred to (Article V: Section 4)

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Taxation

19. Power is granted to the Bangsamoro entity as to the creation of sources of revenue and to
levy taxes, fees and charges. Wherewith, the same taxes, fees and changes shall accrue
exclusively to the Bangsamoro Government. (Article XII: Section 6)

Aware Not Aware Partly Aware/ Partly Not Aware

20. All fees and charges collected in the Bangsamoro shall be shared generally as follows:
25% to the Central Government and 75% to the Bangsamoro, including the shares of the local
government unit. However, for a 10-year period, 25% is to be retained by the Bangsamoro entity.
(Article XII: Section 10)

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Saint Columban College


College of Teachers, Arts and Sciences

Pagadian City

QUESTIONNAIRE ON FACTORS THAT AFFECTS STUDENT LEADERS’ POLITICAL


AWARENESS

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I- Directions: Put a check on the space that correspond to your answer. Please answer honestly.

A.1 Family

1. Does your family encourage you to read about current social issues?
___ YES ___ NO
2. Are your family members aware of different social issues?
___ YES ___ NO
3. Are your family members aware of the operation of the government?
___ YES ___ NO
4. Do you discuss Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) within your family?
___ YES ___ NO
5. Does your family influence your political perceptions?
___ YES ___ NO

A.2 Mass Media

1. Do you rely on television, radio or newspaper information to social issues?


___ YES ___ NO
2. Do you have access to mass media at home?
___ YES ___ NO
3. Do you have access to mass media at school?
___ YES ___ NO
4. Do you read editorials and opinions in mass media regarding BBL?
___ YES ___ NO
5. Do you read about BBL updates in mass media?
___ YES ___ NO

A.3 Peer and Education

1. Do your peers share their perception to certain social and political issues?
___ YES ___ NO

2. Does your school propagate awareness to social and political issues?


___ YES ___ NO
3. Do you have access to social and political instruments that may boost your political
cognition within your institution?
__ YES ___ NO
4. Do you evaluate political perceptions of your peer and of other persons like your
instructors?
__ YES ___ NO
5. Does your school entertain liberated thoughts and perception to issues?
___ YES ___ NO

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A.4 Religious factors

1. Do your religious leaders influence you to be concerned about political issues?


___ YES ___ NO
2. Do you consider religious benefits as to policies and programs implemented by the
government?
___ YES ___ NO
3. Do you consider religion as a consideration in policy reference?
___ YES ___ NO
4. Do you consider the religion of the legislator that made the law as to your political
perception to it?
___ YES ___ NO
5. Do you believe that BBL is non-sectarian by nature?
___ YES ___ NO

A.5 Internet and Social Networking Sites

1. Do you have easy access to internet and SNS?


___ YES ___ NO
2. Do you evaluate opinions posted in social networks regarding social and political issues?
___ YES ___ NO
3. Do the internet and social networking sites help you in formulating your political
perception?
___ YES ___ NO
4. Do you read BBL related issues in the Internet and SNS?
___ YES ___ NO
5. Do social media affect your political cognition?
___ YES ___ NO

A.6 Social Status and Stratification

1. Do you belong in:

Upper class ___


Middle class ___
Lower class ___

2. Do your social status and stratification influence your political perception to certain
political issues?
___ YES ___ NO
3. Do you consider your social status as a factor for your political awareness?

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___ YES ___ NO
4. Do you think social status is considered by the government as a factor for policy making
and implementation?
___ YES ___ NO
5. Do you consider the social status of individuals affected by a certain law especially to
your own political perception to it?
___ YES ___ NO

II-Directions: Arrange the following indicators from one (1) to six (6) based on how it influences
you.

Factors:

___ Family

___ Mass Media

___ Peer and Education

___ Religion

___ Internet and Social Networking Sites

___ Social Status and Stratification

Appendix C- Communication Letters

Attached in the following pages are the approved communication letters of the

researchers to the institution of the respondents. The communication letters are duly signed by

the researchers and noted by the adviser, dean and subject teacher. The communication letter

is also noted and approved by the receiving school’s Dean of Student’s Affairs and School

President/ Administrator.

 Saint Columban College Letter

 Southern Mindanao College Letter

 Pagadian Capitol College Letter

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 JH Cerillers State College Letter

 Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Institute of Technology Letter

 Western Mindanao State University-External Studies Unit Letter

Appendix D- Documentation

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