ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the position of Mindanao in the security framework and discusses challenges and opportunities in this geographically strategic and complicated area in terms of U. S. military, diplomacy, and development interests. Security dimensions in Mindanao, the second-largest and most southern island group in the Philippines, are multifaceted. While Mindanao's conflict dynamics are largely defined by struggles at the local level for political self-determination, natural resources and water dynamics are important dimensions of the grievances. Increasing levels of trust among the various interest groups in Mindanao is paramount to building peace. Mindanao is home to 10 of the 16 poorest provinces in the Philippines. Since 2006, the Philippines has recorded five of the 10 strongest storms in its history. The Global Climate Risk Index 2015 listed the Philippines as the country most affected by climate change according to recent data.
