This talk will unpack the interplay between formal political transitions, clan politics, and local conflict dynamics in the Bangsamoro Region where a peace process is underway since 2012 using the recalibrated paradigm of “armed politics” introduced by Paul Staniland in his work on armed movements in South Asia. Drawing from nearly fifteen years of direct participation and field observation in the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the presentation will discuss, Why localized violence in the Region persists despite peace accords and Regional Autonomy. It will also examine why some communities have managed to sustain relative peace without significant conflict relapse. The talk will also address the evolving dynamics between state, local and (ex-) insurgent actors, offering pathways for the peace process following the historic Bangsamoro parliamentary elections of 14 September 2026, and contextualize the Philippine experience within broader Southeast Asia and beyond.