For a time, many have frowned upon Maguindanao, both the name and the place. The mere mention gave a number of negative preconceived notions specially from those who have not (even) visited the place. Not that we blame them, in truth, we don’t. We can’t.
Despite such, we fought to correct the negativity and welcomed everyone to experience Maguindanao. And as with change and the inevitable rotation of time, Maguindanao has since been painstakingly uplifting itself — not for others — but for the Maguindanaons.
Born and raised Maguindanaon, I am a proud descendant of the Sinsuat and Ambolodto clans. Despite the seemingly known kinship to Maguindanao, I am still yet to explore the province. A shame, yes, but one that I am looking forward to correct. And the recently concluded Inaul Festival held at Buluan, Maguindanao last February 8-14, 2018 gave me more reasons to be extra excited, extra accepting and extra proud to be a Maguindanaon.
This year’s Inaul Festival marks its 2nd and the most collective to date. The weeklong celebration had activities that highlighted the province and the Maguindanaons. And with all the 36 municipalities in full support, it paved a way for the world to learn more about Inaul, the province of Maguindanao and us, Maguindanaons.
Inaul is not just a fabric; Inaul is a culture, tradition and a lifestyle.
This year’s festival theme was more than simple. A Fabric of Peace: Weaving Diversity, Connecting Boundaries — summarized the struggle and the want to untangle from the past. A battlecry that has been a mantra — slowly, the realization can be seen. And this is Inaul.
Inaul immortalises a time-honored weaving tradition of the Maguindanao people. Usually made into malong, the Inaul is considered a most beautiful weaved cloth reflective of one’s Bala-Bangsa or nobility, dignity and royalty. What was once a cloth for special occasions is now taking the world by storm.
The beautiful patterns tells of a story. The color combination reflects of emotions. It may be just a piece of cloth for some but for us, Maguindanaons, an Inaul speaks for us. It is us.
Maguindanaons are rich — in culture, tradition, natural resources and yes, food.
Indeed, we are rich. Blessed with a vast agricultural land, every municipality is able to find its identity through the bountiful natural resources around. Products and specialties are reflective of a culture and tradition that is unique from others. The food alone depicts the depth and flavour that is solely of a tribe. And this is what gives one the identity.
We are one, yes, and it is through our diversity that we become one. This is what a Maguindanaon is.
The festival opened a new spectrum. It allowed not merely a peep but a further look into the affairs behind the names of each municipalities. From home decors to agricultural bi-products and of course, food, it was truly a best way to immerse and learn.
Maguindanaons exude happiness inside and out.
DOT – ARMM Regional Secretary Ayesha Mangudadatu-Dilangalen expressed, “The festival is also a way to revive traditional art and cultural performances.” And they did.
The Inaul Festival reintroduced age old traditions to the modern world. Personally, like the rest, it was an eye-opening experience.
From Socio-Ethnic activities such as Sagayan (dance), Dayunday (lullaby), Kulintang to Kambayuka, it was a moment unlike any other. It also highlighted the beauties from the different municipalities with the Palamata nu Maguindanao. True to that Board Member Datu King Mangudadatu, “We are MagandaNow! We are Maguindanao”.
Entrepreneurs even without formal business training.
The festival saw the many wonderful products of the province displayed and sold at the Agro Trade Fair. It showcased the very culture of a particular municipality. Also, gave us a tour of what needs to be seen of this ARMMazing province.
Yes, entrepreneurial skills were displayed. Despite the lack of knowledge, Maguindanaons are going beyond norms and are as persuasive as ever. So, what’s the best thing to do? Through the government’s initiative, a Negosyo Center will further help these entrepreneurs take another step forward. And yes, bring their products to the rest of the world. It truly is about time!
“Let unity, peace and prosperity continue to reign in this area as we move forward in the years to come,” Provincial Governor Datu Esmael Mangudadatu said.
The thrive is not of an individual goal but a collective. That whatever happened, made us more than what we were. Today, Maguindanao reflects of a province that is slowly turning with time. Assemblyman Datu Khadafeh Mangudadatu confidently said, “We have so much to offer. This festival is just the beginning”.
