The CIPYML Alumni is a discussion group of alumni of the Congressional Internship Program for Young Muslim Leaders (CIPYML) in the Philippines.

The CIPYML is envisioned as a “high-prestige” program, supported by the USAID and House of Representatives (HOR). The program has involved young, competent and dedicated Muslim leaders to participate in a challenging endeavor that combines experiential learning, academic study, and professional and leadership development. They were selected based on their academic performance, community involvement and leadership abilities, knowledge of policy and other development issues, reputation in their respective communities, and potential contribution to the development of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and other conflict affected areas of Mindanao (CAAM).

From September 2003 to December 2006, the CIPYML aimed:

a. To contribute to the development of a culture of peace in Mindanao and respect for the country’s democratic processes, by immersing selected young leaders in the process of legislatively-based policy formulation and implementation; and
b. To help enable the ARMM and CAAM build a pool of young professionals and leaders with broad understanding of national issues and the governance processes.

Specifically, the CIPYML provided the interns with:
•the opportunity to acquire hands-on experience in national policy formulation and governance.
•practical knowledge, skills and perspectives in policy development, analysis and advocacy; program and project planning and management; and national and local governance, and
•encouraged interns to work with local institutions in the ARMM or other Mindanao provinces upon completion of the internship program.