Antonio D. Fontanilla, Jr. 4-AB Political scienceThe unequal distribution of resources and power of the state: the context of poverty of the lumad in MindanaoThe situation in Mindanao in recent decades it has moved from issues of conflict to achieving apparent peace in the eyes of many Filipinos. We can always hear news of wars, bombings, kidnappings and the most affected by these are the displaced people living in the affected areas. This reality that still persists and hinders the development of a more progressive Mindanao has a greater impact on the lives of indigenous people. The Asian Development Bank has defined indigenous peoples as “should be regarded as those people with a social or cultural identity distinct from the dominant or traditional society, which makes them vulnerable and disadvantaged in the development process” (ADB, 2002). According to research conducted by the Asian Development Bank, the result shows that those indigenous communities who have been displaced from their original communities where their properties, their source of livelihood and their land have been lost are also at risk of experiencing the burden of material poverty . as sociocultural deprivation. Today, poverty is recognized throughout the world as an "unacceptable human condition". This means that it is every individual's right to be able to provide and take care of their primary needs and provide sufficient support for their family. In fact, poverty is believed to be one of the major causes that hinder peace not only here in Mindanao but throughout the world. As a result of this structures of inequality and social injustice have been created because resources in society are not adequately distributed between... middle of paper... indigenous peoples wanted to govern their domain in such a way that should be in line with their own belief system and norms. They have the right to rid themselves of the influences of others that they deem harmful to their culture, traditions and values. With this they wanted to relaunch their culture so that it can raise awareness among others and respect their rights. Our State's recognition of the role of indigenous peoples and their due is essential to genuine development here in Mindanao. References: Asian Development Bank. (2002). Indigenous Peoples/Ethnic Minorities and Poverty Reduction: Philippines. Manila, Philippines.Mercado, June (2008). Reality in Mindanao. Retrieved from GMA News Online on November 21, 2013 at: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/92908/opinion/blogs/realities-in-mindanao