One of the Ancient Lakes in the World
The Longest Surviving Epic Poetry in the Philippines
National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines
An Ubiquitous Symbol of Meranaw Art
Meranaws are known artisans whose centuries-old crafts and artifacts can be found in different museums around the globe. Their artistic quality is evident in their okir designs carved into diverse products only found in the province. It survived the pressure of modern fashion demand by integrating meticulously handwoven langkit into contemporary fashion trends by younger generations of Meranaws.
Meranaws live surrounding Lake Lanao, the lone ancient lake in Southeast Asia, where historic battles with foreign invaders in different kotas took place, demonstrating their love for the homeland, their royalties, and torogans. They proudly danced singkil and sagayan with the beat of an agong, sounded their kulintang ensemble, played with kasipa, chanted their darangen and narrated their well-loved epic of Bantogen.
The Meranaw Sultanate holds a significant place in the cultural and historical heritage of the Philippines. Its impact on the political and social structures remains influential, while its vibrant cultural traditions and arts are cherished and transmitted across generations. Even in modern times, the Meranaw society continues to hold the Meranaw Sultanate in high esteem. This is evident in the colorful tarpaulins and streamers displayed throughout their community, showcasing their pride and recognition of their tribe’s heritage.
The province celebrates various festivals that bring Meranaw people together to celebrate culture, peace, and unity. The Pakaradyaan o Sarimanok, an annual celebration of the founding anniversary of Lanao del Sur every July, celebrates Meranaw culture and their resilience. The month-long celebration showcases various traditions and practices of the Meranaw community such as Kulintang, Singkil, Pagana Meranaw, Kasipa, and other related activities.
The Kariyala Festival of Wao, celebrated every February, is showcasing the colorful and diverse culture of ethnic groups living in harmony and peace.
Marawi Charter Day, an annual celebration in the City of Marawi, commemorates its establishment as a chartered city on March 1, 1940. This special day holds significance for the local community as it marks the city’s progress, achievements, and growth throughout the years.
The Marawi Week of Peace is also an annual week-long event every 3rd week of May which celebrates the sacrifice of the Meranaws and the heroism of Filipino soldiers during the war on terror. They broke the backbone of the terrorism-linked Maute group that seized the economic center of the City, now known as Ground Zero, on May 23, 2017.
