Paths to Filipino Youth Involvement in Violent Conflict

Abstract

Abstract The involvement of Filipino youth in violent situations is primarily found in their participation in the armed conflict between rebel movements — primarily the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and New People's Army (NPA) — and the government. Their involvement is likewise evident in the commission of crimes against property (e.g. theft and robbery) and against the person (e.g. homicide and rape), and in their participation in gang and fraternity wars. This chapter describes the situation of young people who are involved in conflict (specifically, armed conflict) through a review of selected literature and data collected from published and unpublished documents, and from initial interviews and correspondence with various representatives from relevant government and non-government agencies. These sources were used to identify the reasons and conditions that shape the participation of young people in violent activities. Likewise, an attempt is made to explore the possible implications for developmental theory.