Member of Parliament, BTA
Abdulbasit "Bobby" R. Benito is a dedicated peace advocate and public servant, currently serving as a Member of Parliament in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). His journey from a grassroots peacebuilder to a lawmaker embodies the transformative spirit of the Bangsamoro peace process. As a key figure in the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), he is a staunch proponent of "Moral Governance," emphasizing integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service. His extensive, decades-long experience in human rights, conflict resolution, and community development has made him a vital voice in advancing just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region.
A passionate and seasoned advocate for peace, Benito is the Founder and former Executive Director of the Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace (BCJP), an organization renowned for promoting justice and reconciliation in conflict-affected communities. Under his leadership, BCJP was instrumental in establishing community-based peace monitoring systems that empowered local citizens to participate actively in the peace process. He also served as the Executive Director of the Mindanao Human Rights Action Center (MinHRAC) and the Regional Reconciliation and Unification Commission, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in human rights advocacy and peace efforts across Mindanao.
In Parliament, MP Benito has channeled his on-the-ground experience into shaping meaningful legislation. He is the principal author of the proposed Bangsamoro Civil Society Engagement Act, a landmark bill designed to institutionalize and strengthen the partnership between the government and civil society organizations. His legislative agenda is centered on transitional justice, youth development, and ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are central to the process of governance. With his vast experience, MP Benito continues to play a crucial role in building a stable, just, and progressive Bangsamoro.
