MANILA, Philippines - Anak-Mindanao partylist Rep. Sitti Djaliah Turabin Hataman partners with the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) for some historical projects. Incidentally, ARMM is celebrating its 25th founding anniversary this month.
Composed of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, the ARMM has been the traditional homeland of Muslims. For centuries, the sultanates in this part of Mindanao have established their own culture and government. The ARMM was created by law as an independent region in Muslim Mindanao and held its first elections in 1990. As part of President Noynoy Aquino’s reform agenda in establishing peace in the region, the ARMM will be known as Bangsamoro by 2016.
The festivity kicked off with a local pilgrimage to the country’s oldest mosque, the Sheik Makdum, in Timunul, Tawi-Tawi, last Nov. 7. Built in the 14th Century by an Arab trader, the historic site was named a National Treasure by former President Ferdinand Marcos.
Meanwhile, the Morolympics sports festival is being held until Nov. 18 at the Office of the Regional Council (ORC) Compound in Cotabato City. The teams come from the ARMM local government units and the executive branch.
ARMM will pay tribute to the people who served the region — former ARMM secretaries, legislators and governors — at the Mini Theater. The ARMM will also award pioneering employees and retirees.
The climax of the two-week event is a cultural program titled Gabi ng Kultura at Kasaysayan, showcasing Muslim history and culture. Prince of Beads and Tausog designer Amir Sali will present his fashion collection inspired by the Maranao, Maguindanao, Yakan and Tausug clothing. Maranaos, Yakans, Tausugs and Maguindanaos will also present the best of their music, drama and dance in cultural numbers.
Delicacies, crafts and products from the ARMM region will be featured in booths at the ORC compound.
ARMM Gov. Mujiv Sabbihi Hataman said that these events serve as a good promotion. “These will take us out from obscurity as the public sees our cultural treasures.”
Fortunately, Hataman’s idealism and vision are matched by his politician-wife Princess Sitti, who succeeded her husband as representative of Anak Mindanao Party List.