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Kalilintad. (2009 Oct). Vol. II, Issue 1.
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Volume II Issue I
KALILINTAD
October 2009 The Official Publication of the Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) Inc.
Former Gov. Saidamen B. Pangarungan
enthroned as the new Sultan of Madaya (See full story on page 10)
Actual “rido” settlement, May 27, 2009 at Picong,
Lanao del Sur
Strategic Planning of Tara Clan, August 15-16,
2009 Initao, Misamis Occidental
Consultative Meeting, September 16, 2009, at
Madalum, Lanao del Sur
1st Grand Gathering of Dayanglabi Clan (1st Bae sa Radapan)
October 15, 2007, Poona Piagapo, Lanao del Norte
Information, Education & Communication:
Assessment and Planning Workshop,
June 7-8, 2009, Marawi Resort Hotel,
The keys to lasting peace in the
Marawi City Lanao Provinces
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EDITORIAL TABLE OF CONTENTS
Information, Education and
Communication: The keys to lasting peace in Editorial
the Lanao provinces
mEssagE
Who does not want peace? Nobody wants to
live in chaos. Nevertheless, life in the Lanao provinces
rido updatEs
is as shaky as fault lines hidden in the Pacific ring.
From time to time, we hear unfortunate news about
the instability of peace in the area. Worse, this hinders thE rolE of thE sultanatE
development again and again. Do we have the power to in community and nation
put an end to this?
A revival by the band Session Road blurted the building: a prEliminary study
famous phrase, “suntok sa buwan…” when referring to
something which is impossible to attain. Many people thE prophEt mohammad's
living in Lanao claim that achieving peace here is (p.b.u.h.) last sErmon
“suntok sa buwan.” This cynicism is the main reason
why our peace efforts are negligible and superficial up
photo gallEry
to this time.
Being hope-less is a sign of hopelessness.
First and foremost we must place hope in our quo vadis moa-ad?
hearts. A simple sign of optimism is the initial step
towards any undertaking. By simply believing, we can thE rp-us vfa trEaty: its
make miracles. We believe that there is still a chance
implications in mindanao and
to change the scene and image of Lanao by becoming
well-informed about the situation. This will open our thE philippinEs as a wholE
minds as to the true and lasting solution to the volatility
of peace in the area.
The people of Lanao need education and re-
education about the essence of peace. Regardless of
culture like “rido,” this should be avoided as much as
possible as it does not bring any good to the Maranao Editorial Board
community. Basically it hampers socio-economic
development as it causes conflict among families. If it Chairman: Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar, MPA
remains unabated, it may result to “ubusan ng lahi” or
persistent retaliation (killings and other crimes) from
both parties. Another is the wrong use of “maratabat” or Editor-in-Chief: Sherifa Rohannie O. Kadil-Adiong
pride. It must be exercised to uplift one’s esteem, not to
put down others because one is too proud to admit his
mistakes and weaknesses. Lay-out & Design: Luis Siddick F. Adiong
Through civilized communication, people can
avoid inconsistencies. Even amidst misunderstanding,
conflicting parties can settle the gap by talking. Taking Contributors:
law into one’s own hands will not give permanent inner
peace. Rather, it will trigger anger and revenge. We Prof. Dato Hj. Mohd. Hassan Conding Cana
have to accept the harsh realities of life and learn to Skip Garibaldi Islam
forgive.
Datu Meno D. Manabilang
Thus, information, education and
communication are the keys to lasting peace in the Lanao Datu Nasroddin B. Badio
provinces. This may entail a lifetime commitment but
for whatever it’s worth, we will all be saved.
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Message
Assalamu alaykom warahmatullahi wabarakatuho…
It is my honor to publish Volume II, Issue I of our
official publication, Kalilintad. This material presents the
accomplishments of the Reconciliatory Initiatives for
Development Opportunities (RIDO) Inc. over the past
year. It showcases the role of the Sultanate in feud settlements, clan gatherings,
salsilah making, seminar-workshops on peace as well as the various activities
conducted towards this end. Such was highlighted by the enthronement of the
new Sultan of Madaya, former Governor Saidamen B. Pangarungan.
The struggle for mitigating “rido” and act on its prevention was not an
easy task. For years, I took this challenge because I have always believed in
peace. There is need for continuous information, education and communication
among concerned parties. Without these keys to lasting peace in the Lanao
provinces, no “rido” case could have been resolved.
Along this line, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our noble
partners in peace --- The Good People of America (USAID) and The Asia
Foundation (TAF). To the United Nations Development Program—Act for Peace
Programme (UNDP), German Development Service (ded), MIVA-Netherlands,
Caritas Australia, Books for Asia and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on
Peace Process (OPAPP), without you, all our goals will not be translated into
actions. We would be forever grateful for your support and trust in us. May
your tribe increase.
Finally, let me share with all of you this prefecture of a long-time dream
for the Maranao community. I fervently hope that one day, others will duplicate
our undertakings.
I ask you to join me in keeping our Lanao a healthy place to live in and
in realizing our goal of achieving permanent peace.
Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar, MPA
Executive Director
RIDO Inc.
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RIDO UPDATES FROM mechanism for dispute settlement. Thus, as catalyst
for change, it is indeed important to reevaluate the
2008-2009 various peace and development interventions in our
areas of responsibility so that our resources and
Spectacular achievements have been done efforts can directly address the problems of our
so far starting from the formal formation of the constituents.
organization up to the present. The Reconciliatory The intervention for local conflict resolution
Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) has complex approaches. There are short and long
Incorporated was established four (4) years ago term solutions. Since local conflict resolution is a
by certain individual advocates working for peace deep responsibility, conflict or locally translated as
and development endeavors in both Lanao areas. “rido” is considered as the most chaotic and tragic
It adhered specific programs and components as its social phenomenon in the Maranao society. When
priority agenda towards the attainment of its vision a family is involved in rido, most of their socio-
and goals. cultural, economic and spiritual activities are limited
Over the past two (2) years, RIDO Incorporated if not totally stagnated. More often than not the
indulged in several peace building efforts as part of concentration in both conflicting parties is merely
its mandates including the following to wit: focused on how to retaliate and defend their families
• Actual local conflict resolution during the occurrence of clashes. Diversion of family
• Clan based peace organizing activities is quite serious that even the education of
• Capacity building and skills enhancement children belonging to families involved in the conflict
• Cultivating good governance is set aside for fear of retaliatory attacks by opposing
• Strengthening partnership building with Local parties concerned.
Government Units (LGUs) Rido has caused so much suffering both
• Basic social services physically and psychologically. This includes trauma
• Literacy program and fear while rido related to armed confrontations
• Emergency Relief Assistance resulted to several casualties, displacement of
communities, and destruction of properties which
Actual conflict resolution: crippled the local economy. At the peak of a rido
All societies have traditional ways of incident, no family member is spared from the
managing and resolving conflict either by indigenous impact, regardless of social position, age, and
mechanisms or by legal frameworks. These may distance. Each one has to contribute both material
be informal or formal. Respected elders within a and moral support. A certain Mr. Ibrahim, one of the
family, clan, religious group, or community may survivors of rido, says that in his experience some
help in solving internal problems or may formulate of the devastating effects of these feuds included
a solution, which is deemed legitimate because of his relocation from home leaving it at the care of
the elder's wisdom and/or position. The revival of his in-laws. He even sold his house and returned to
the traditional method in conflict resolution through his place of origin while all his other socio-economic
clan organizing is the most appropriate mechanism and spiritual activities were temporarily abandoned.
in Maranao areas. The Maranao Customary Justice The extent of rido impacts is indeed far more
system through clan-based organizing must be overwhelming than beneficial.
strengthened and institutionalized in order to provide The use of fire arms as means of conflict
the Maranao community a reliable alternative settlement in Maranao society is common. Rido
is considered an integral part of everyday life.
Retaliation is generally accepted and expected and
no one questions it. An organization like RIDO Inc.
is established to further strengthen the potential
of clans and traditional leaders as well as local
leaders in ending rido. However, the intervention
should be recognized and supported by the state
in order to sustain its campaigns and advocacies.
From 2007-2009, the interventions of RIDO Inc. in
rido resolution through traditional mechanism in the
Lanao provinces were summarized as follows: (See
Table on Page 5)
Clan-based peace organizing
Maranao people have a collective culture by
Final settlement of land dispute resulting to multiple murder nature. Family elders are highly respected and they
on April 5, 2009 at Marogong, Lanao del Sur possess authority bonded with responsibilities to
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Summary of RIDO Inc. Interventions from 2007-2009
No. of No. of No. of
Kinds of rido and its
rido people people
causes resolved killed injured
1. Political rivalry related to
15 32 29
barangay and local election
2. Land and boundary disputes 9 7 14
3. Thief, robbery and kidnapping 6 2 8
4. Slandering, false accusation,
gossip, swindling, use
6 1 5 Local & brgy. officials, traditional, clan & religious leaders during
of sarcastic words, and
COMMUNITY BASED PLANNING
degradation of honor
May 17, 2009, MSU, Marawi City
5. Reckless imprudence, car
accident, and unintentional 11 5 15 conflicts or rido in general. Part of the process and
harassment impact of clan organizing includes documentation
6. Domestic cases including of clan genealogies; identification of potential
marriage conflict (“shot gun” family and clan leaders; skills enhancement and
and forced marriage) and 9 2 11 capability building; undertaking monitoring work;
elopement resulting to serious strengthening rapport; link aging and networking;
grave threat and confrontation recognition of the sentiments among the people at
the grassroots level; and systematizing traditional
7. Abuse of authority 3 1 6
leadership.
8. Misunderstanding and
miscommunication resulting to 4 1 5 Salsilah Making
damage of properties Determination of clan genealogies is the main
9. Debt 3 1 3 output of clan based organizing. For more than four
10. Competition for traditional (4) years of its existence, there were four (4) major
9 1 6 clans organized while tracing their genealogies.
positions
The first clan organized was the Sultanate
11. Others: Pornography video
of Marawi with its three (3) sub-clans namely
resulting to serious injuries 1 X 1
Sidikadatu, Maruhom Sidik and Balindong Jaman
and grave threat
with more than thirty (30) thousand members
Total 76 53 103 situated in twelve (12) municipalities in the Lanao
provinces and the City of Marawi. Next was the
make sure family members do what is best for the
Sultanate of Radapan with its membership
majority rather than what is best for themselves.
reaching approximately twelve thousand (12,000)
In dealing with rido, the elders are expected to
and another was the Tara clan with more than thirty
show strong appeal and influence among the family
thousand (30,000) membership situated in nine (9)
members while considering their welfare in general.
municipalities in the Lanao Provinces while the last
Clan organizing is one way of reviving the cultural
one was the Sultanate of Madaya with two (2)
values and relationships among Maranao people to
sub-clans namely Datu A Petheelan and Sarip Batua
somehow address the proliferation of rido in Lanao.
with approximately twenty nine thousand (29,000)
The awareness and belief among Maranao
members situated in eight (8) municipalities in
people nowadays is still strong although some
Lanao provinces and twenty-two (22) barangays in
aspects are gradually diminishing. The core binding
Marawi City. Data gathering was conducted through
values taught by their forefathers have been slowly
interviews, fora and deployment of researchers.
neglected by the new generation. This is the reason
Making salsilah was initiated by the
why the significance and the actual application of
identification of potential leaders influential in conflict
friendship and mutual respect among Maranaos are
weakening as well. In effect, killings, robbery and
hurting someone can be easily done by some people
because of lesser understanding and awareness
about the noble values and ethics taught by the
taritib and ijma.
Indeed, the significant values of Maranao
people should reckon and serve as peace strategies
Consolidated clan genealogies of the Sultanate of Marawi,
so that they could not easily involve themselves in
Madaya, Radapan and Tara Clan in the provinces of Lanao
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resolution processes and other peace interventions
in Lanao. To date, ninety five percent (95%) of clan
profiles have been collected from the four (4) major
clans mentioned. Collated data were validated up
to twelve (12) times with representatives from the
elders of each clan to ensure genuine membership
of the clan. This will avoid conflict as soon as the
selection process for traditional positions within
the clan is called for. Clan genealogy profiling was
launched by the clan itself and attended by the
elders as manifestation of the partial completion of Seminar Workshop on Conflict Management Training, June 27-28, 2009
data gathering. Crystal Inn, Iligan City
As of now, there are more than three
hundred (300) elders identified in the four (4) clans
organized who help facilitate and mediate conflict in
the provinces of Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte
as well as the City of Marawi. Salsilah making is
a dignified work. It helps ascertain the genealogy
of a clan. No rido in the Lanao province has been
formally resolved without tracing and mentioning the
genealogies or relationship of the conflicting parties.
Another importance of salsilah is the systematization
of the traditional leadership among Maranaos.
Through salsilah, it will neutralize other candidates
for traditional positions who are not next in rank. Voter’s Education for the Youth, August 3, 2008, Academic
It helps facilitate interested candidates to concede Complex, MSU, Marawi City
if they are not qualified for the position. As such,
Salsilah making is one of the most challenging works
among researchers and development workers. Cultivating Good Governance:
In development endeavors, salsilah could One of the hurdles of peace and development
help identify the right beneficiaries in communities in Lanao areas was poor governance. This includes
to facilitate proper distribution of goods or items the low level of the leaders’ of “technical know how”
intended for them. Development workers should also which always serves as basis for the poor delivery
familiarize the local structure in the communities of basic services and poor enforcement of laws.
using the salsilah to identify the right hierarchy of However, RIDO Inc. believed that the issue on poor
local authorities because most of the sensitive local governance starts during election period. When
decisions are made by the traditional leaders. people and leaders continue the practice of election
Salsilah making is one way to link one person fraud including vote buying among others, in effect,
to another especially when there is an existing people could never expect the provision of basic social
rido. Salsilah always serves as tools for conflict services and good governance in their communities
prevention and resolution among Maranao people. in general. Through this observation, RIDO Inc.
Finally, salsilah should also be part of the cultural conducts trainings and workshops related to the
education among Maranaos particularly the young promotion of good governance and accountability
generation to emphasize the importance of kinship in partnership with several peace stakeholders in
and blood relations. the communities with the hope to reduce election
violence and other electoral discrepancies. RIDO
Capacity building and skills enhancement: Inc. also conducts barangay planning and project
In clan based organizing, proper consultations development in selected vulnerable areas to enhance
and meetings have been undertaken to properly skills and shape values towards peace building.
channel the problems within the clan and the
communities as a whole. Through the process, all Strengthening Partnership Building with LGU’s
identified elders craft appropriate intervention for Partnership building with local officials is
capability building and trainings in order to enhance deemed significant because they have resources and
their skills, values and potentials in peace building and at the same time, the capacity to know the facts of
advocacy. Along this line RIDO Inc. conducts several rido cases identified in their areas of responsibilities
trainings on peace education, conflict management, aside from having legal authority as public servants.
leadership, good governance and others that help The role of RIDO Inc. in collaborating with local
the elders realize their peace advocacy as well as officials is to exert motivation and encouragement in
share their knowledge among themselves. the performance of their duties and responsibilities in
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RIDO Inc. helped selected conflicting areas in
the Lanao provinces particularly from five (5) selected
barangays in Poona Piagapo, LDN through its project
entitled “Mitigating the Effects of Armed Conflict
and Institutionalizing Peace and Development.”
The project was implemented by ECOWEB Inc. and
subcontracted by RIDO Inc. The main donor of this
project was Caritas Australia. From 2006 to 2008,
RIDO Inc. assisted in the social preparation, several
capacity building interventions including peace
education, disaster risk management, leadership
trainings and formation of barangay peace and
development plan. The successful components of
MOU signing between RIDO Inc. and LGU of Balabagan the project which RIDO Inc. helped in implementing
June 11, 2008, Balabagan, LDS were its water system, livelihood and agriculture as
well as in health.
community peace building. Thus, local officials from Nevertheless, RIDO Inc. also continues
the municipal and barangay levels increase their working on the Stride Mindanao Project for
commitment and desire to facilitate rido resolution, Integrated Rehabilitation Program of Tanglaw and
and implement other basic social services in their Piangamangaan of Poona Piagapo, LDN. The project
area of jurisdiction. Based on experience, peace is funded by the Act for Peace-UNDP for their
work should not be isolated to one entity or group. It development intervention among conflicting areas
needs collective and shared efforts from all sectors in Mindanao brought by the August 2008 War. It
of society. In the four (4) years of the existence is hoped that through the RIDO Inc. intervention
of RIDO Inc., eighteen (18) local government units in the communities, people can recover from the
are working with us to counter rido in the Lanao impacts of war, emotionally and psychologically. In
provinces. Working with committed LGU officials this manner, they can resume with their livelihood
with traditional leaders in rido settlement and activities.
other peace works has always been meaningful and
significant. Literacy Program and Other Community
Works:
Basic Social Services: Education is the foundation of peace which
Accordingly, violence escalates because of RIDO Inc. believes in. Thus, the organization also
absence of governance and the issue of poverty in engaged in the distribution of reading materials from
many areas in the Lanao Provinces. Poor delivery of Books for Asia. Among its beneficiaries were four (4)
basic services especially in areas prone to conflict is elementary schools with more than one thousand
considered as triggering factor for people to become (1,000) elementary pupils in the Municipalities of
more violent and extremist. Peace will never happen Pantao Ragat, Saguiaran, Marogong, and Poona
without justice and part of the injustice experienced Piagapo. It is intended that the reading materials
by many people in the Lanao areas is the poor will increase and enhance the knowledge among
delivery of basic services. community teachers and the pupils in particular.
Oath Taking Ceremony, Barangay Disaster Coordinating
Council of Poona Piagapo, LDN, October 21, 2009, Barangay Book Distribution, June 17, 2008, Poblacion, Poona Piagapo, LDN
Tangclao, Poona Piagapo, LDN
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THE ROLE OF THE SULTANATE
IN COMMUNITY AND NATION BUILDING:
A PRELIMINARY STUDY
By: Prof. Dato Hj. Mohd. Hassan Conding Cana,
former Dean of MSU-King Faisal Center for Islamic & Asian
Studies and served as part of the ARMM Cabinet under
Maas Nur Misuari, and was recently enthroned by the
revitalized Royal Sultanate of Madaya, Marawi City, as
Sultan A Gaus of Malaa Bayabao
INTRODUCTION facing this challenge, the enhancement of After five decades, circa 1500-1550 the
A great deal has been said and the Bangsamoro Sultanates under a new, other Sultanates emerged in mainland
written about the various aspects of the dynamic leadership is what is needed now. Mindanao. Famous among them was the
Bangsamoro communities, and subsequent It is deemed necessary to understand fully Sultanate of Mindanao or Maguindanao
developments, but not much attention has the traditional leadership and organizational whose global recognition came during
been paid as far as their traditional political development of the Bangsamoro the time of Almarhum Sultan Mohammad
and religious dimensions are concerned. Sultanates, by considering the core and the Nasiruddin Dipatuan Qudarat, dubbed as
It is also a fact that some writers have history that caused its emergence as an the unconquerable Sultan in Southeast Asia
based their interpretations of the cultural empowered identity to reckon with. In so (1590-1671). In 1645, he was internationally
and political transformation on their doing, national leadership would be best acknowledged as the sovereign ruler and
own conjectures and preferences. This strengthened if the Bangsamoro Sultanates master of all Mindanao, Sulu, Palawan and
preliminary presentation owes its formation would be developed and enhanced as some Visayan Islands. The King of Spain
to the writer’s exposure to the institutional part of the political development of the recognized him as “Lord of Mindanao”
development of the Bangsamoro Sultanates country. after the Spaniards feared and admired
since the formation of the Nineteen Royal his superiority and enormous influence
Houses of Muslim Mindanao in 1973, THE ORIGIN OF THE BANGSAMORO over Southern Philippines that they never
with religious and political factors exerting SULTANATES conquered. He reigned over his vast
influence crucial in the Bangsamoro In the Southern Philippines, after Sultanate for half a century and a few years
communities. The political system and the defeats of the early Muslim Kingdoms before his death in 1671, he became a very
the sphere of influence was considerable, or Sultanates in now the greater Manila pious man anointed as a religious preacher
particularly before the intervention of the areas led by Raja Sulayman or Soliman, of Islam and was given the regal name –
colonial powers. the acknowledged ancestor of the natives NASIR-UD-DIN meaning “Helper of Faith”
The religious-cultural forces of Manila, the other Datus and Rajahs of which was added to his name Qudarat
underwent a process of decay during the the Visayan region, following the spheres meaning “power” in Arabic and “master”
imperialist-colonial era. The magnitude of influence of the two pioneering Malay of Melayu. The Sultan’s heroic military
of the Bangsamoro commerce conducted famous empires (the Majapahit and the Sri- feats, masterful diplomatic leadership and
by indigenous people have gradually Vijaya), Mindanao since time immemorial brilliant economic efficiency coupled with
dwindleD. The colonial masters and local became the homeland of the various his bravery as a Muslim Leader, extremely
converts directly and indirectly formalized Bangsamoro Sultanates. pious and sophisticated in Islamic learning,
the policy of the country and subsequently In the Sulu archipelago comprising patient in defeat, magnanimous in victory,
almost all aspects of social and political Sabah of North Borneo, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan steadfast in faith and utterly selfless as
life in this part of the world solely for their and parts of the Zamboanga Peninsula there a ruler who even gained the grudging of
benefit. sprang the Sultanate of Sulu, circa 1400- many foes. Among other qualities should
The erosion of the legitimacy of 1450 led by Sultan Abu Bakar As-Shariful inspire other Sultans, datus, baes as well
the established institutions among native Hashim who as political leaders to emulate his brand of
Filipinos, particularly the Bangsamoro descended from heroism and leadership. For every Filipino,
communities were replaced by new the famous Royal either a Muslim or Christian, must fight to
institutions and styles of leadership. Inspite House of Johore defend his rights and protect his family,
of all these, the fundamental aspects of the and became a fellowmen and homeland so he, too, by
legitimacy of the Bangsamoro Sultanates son-in-law of the right and justice can be a true Filipino
are preserved. Sulu ruling family hero like Sultan Qudarat who has been
The abolition of the Sultanate of Raja Baguinda recognized and acknowledged as one of
as part of the political system marked the and Princess our national heroes.
beginning of the independence period. In Paramisuli. Other Maguindanaon Sultanates
Raja Sulayman
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or Kingdoms likewise had emerged like observe series of Sultanate enthronements ALLAH Subhanahu-wa-taala.
that of Rajah Buayan and Kabuntalan that in areas not classified as part of the classical It was during the period of the
up to now have respective sets of Sultans, Ranao Sultanates. To mention, there is Osmanli Caliphate that the word Sultan as
Rajahs and Baes. The famous Raja Buayan one in Cavite and in Vamenta, Cagayan head of the state or group of states came
Sultanate presently has a new Istana right de Oro. This is one way of reminding the about. In the Malay World comprising
at the heart of the Province of Sultan young generation that once upon a time the present ASEAN region, almost all
Kudarat. Its present ruler – HRH RAJA- we were ruled by Rajahs and Sultans, thus, countries within including Patani of
BUAYAN SA BUAYAN IV CONGRESSMAN reviving the solidarity and harmony of the Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia,
DATU PAX MANGUDADATU whose famous early inhabitants of the country under the Philippines, Brunei, and Malaysia have
Enthronement Ceremonies last December Sultanate regime. been ruled by either Raja or Sultan which
10, 2007 was attended by the royalties at present is regarded with high esteem in
from Brunei and Malaysia and Muslim ITS REVOLUTION Brunei and Malaysia due to their respective
ambassadors stationed in Metro Manila. The word “Sultan” refers to one foreign colonizers, i.e. the Great Britain
The famous people of the four that governs and rules. The “sultanate” is being the oldest Monarchy in the modern
principalities of the Lanao region, the a defined area where the Sultan reigns and world.
Maranaos or Mranaws being the youngest exercises his power. It is of Arabic origin that The growth and development of
in terms of the Bangsamoro Sultanates’ means power, authority or government. It the Bangsamoro sultanates is just a part of
growth and development in Southern was mentioned 37 times in the Holy Qur’an, the Malay World’s constellation of sultanates
Philippines have adopted the plurality sometimes it carries the meaning of power that constitute an important component of
concept of Sultanates as illustrated by the or authority from Allah Almighty as, “al- the successes of Brunei Darussalam and
Sultanates, dubbed as the Panoroganans sultan zill ALLAH fi al-ard”, this power or the Federation of Malaysia.
composed of the so-called Sixteen Royal authority reflects ALLAH’s power on earth. In Malaysia, the so-called Malacca
Houses/Sultanates distributed as follows: Hence, the Qur’an provides further in An- period is considered the golden age of Malay
Masiu has 2, Sultanate of Masiu and the Nisa: 59, “O ye who believe! Obey ALLAH history. In about 1400 AD, a Malay state led
Almighty, and obey the Apostle or the by a Sumatran Prince made its influence
Prophet of Islam, and those charged with widely felt in the region. Thus, after the fall
Authority among you.” Some interpreted it of the Malacca sultanate, a number of small
as the sitting and recognition of Sultan in independent sultanates were established
a legitimate Sultanate. Thus, in Malaysia, elsewhere in the various areas in Southeast
the Malays believe that the Sultans are Asia, including the Philippines particularly
still the only hope that kept, including the in Mindanao. Before its fall, the Malacca
Bruneian Malays, the Malay identity, the sultanate earned a reputation as the pre-
Malay Islamic religion and Malay political eminent trading port and emporium of
power alive. commercial activities in SEA and later
After the prophetic era, the became a center for the diffusion of ISLAM
Sultan Pax S. Mangudadatu, Al Hadj Muslims in the Ummah Islamiyah, inspired throughout the Malay World.
Sultan Sa Rajahbuayan by the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and Malaysia’s nine sultans – who
Royal House of Datu a Cabugatan of Masiu; the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, PBUH, routinely choose one among them to serve
Bayabao Pangampong has three sub-groups, devised a sort of historical and social a five-year term as Yang di-Pertuan Agung
namely: Mala-a-Bayabao with the Sultanate mechanism that aimed at preserving that or King – are alive and well in the modern
of Ramain and the Sultanate of Ditsaan; power or authority to sustain, develop, world, ministering to the various needs
Lumbaa Bayabao with the Sultanates of preserve and enhance ISLAM. Thus, history of their subjects. In Brunei Darusssalam,
Bacolod, Borokot, Maribo and Minitepad; tells us of the emergence of Caliphate or HM Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the number
Poona Bayabao with the Sultanates Khalifah as Caliph Abu Bakr, Caliph Omar, 29th Bolkiah. Aside from being a Sultan/
of Taporog, Bansayan and Rogan; the Caliph Usman and Caliph Ali (May ALLAH swt King, he also acts as the President, Prime
Unayan Pangampong with the Sultanates be pleased with all of them). After several Minister, and Military Commander in-Chief.
of Bayang, Butig and Pagayawan; and the decades and centuries was the emergence Unlike in Malaysia, the governance or the
Balo-i Pangampong with the Sultanate of of Empires as elegantly demonstrated affairs of the government are in the hands
Balo-i. Under the Panoroganans are the alternately by the Muwawiyah and of the Prime Minister and other ministries
28 legislative Sultanates that serve as the Abbasiysah (combination of caliphate although the Sultan has influence on their
legislative body of the Ranao Sultanates empire), then the rise of family dynasties appointments.
while that of the Panoroganans serve as the in Egypt, the sub-continent of India and
executive body. Thus the four (4) boundary Pakistan as well as other Arab countries CONTRIBUTIONS OF BANGSAMORO
Sulatanates (Kiasosolbian o Bangsa sa with King and Sultan as head of states or SULTANATES TOWARDS PEACE AND
Ranao) serve as the judiciary body of the federated states under Islamic influence as PROGRESS
Ranao Sultanates. This came circa the start the Mughal Islamic empire and the case of In 1973, a grand assembly of the
of the 18th century. What is surprising, Othoman or Osmanli where heads of states Royal House of Sulu, and the Sultanates
maybe due to eagerness and love for the are known as emir, sultans or functioning of Mindanao / Maguindanao, Buayan,
Sultanates, until now one can find and as khalifah or representing authority from Kabuntalan and the Ranao Pangampong-
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Sultanates with the Sultanates of Madaya, feud and as a reward, North Borneo, known
Marawi, Guimba, Bacolod and Toros as as Sabah was given as gift to the Sulu Sultan
host with the support of MSU, selected by the Sultan of Brunei Kingdom which is
the Late Almarhum Sultan of Bayang the main reason behind the Philippine claim
Congressman Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman as over Sabah. Sabah has always been part of
the 1st Chairman or Overall Grand Sultan of the Sulu Sultanate over the past centuries
the so-called 19 Ruling Houses/Sultanates which until this date remains unsettled.
of Mindanao, dubbed as the Paramount
Sultan to represent the Muslims in the CONCLUSION
country vis-à-vis their rights and plight as It has been a clamour, including the
the poorest and most neglected sectors writer, among the well-meaning sector of
of the country. However, the great Sultan the Muslim communities or the Bangsamoro
felt he was betrayed by the late strongman people to consider the historical role of
Marcos, so he decided to join the Jihad Fi- the Mndanao legitimate sultanates in the
Sabilillah versus the Marcos Regime until affairs of the government regardless of its
his demise in the Royal Kingdom of Saudi structure either parliamentary, federalism
Arabia. or its present set-up. The added 9th ray
Over the past few months, of the sun on our flag manifests the urgent
the Sulu Sultanate, the Maguindanao need to give recognition to the role Filipino
Sultanates, so with Kabuntalan and the Muslims played in the defense and struggle Sultan Kudarat monument fronting the Capitol
Raja Buayan Sultanate led by Raja Cong. Pax of our people for independence, liberty, Building of the Province of Sultan Kudarat
Mangudadatu and the Panoroganans of the freedom and justice.
Ranao region and its 28 grand legislative Thus, Muslim leaders including try to emulate the qualities and brand
Sultanates led by the Sultan of Marawi are the various royal-title holders in the of leadership and heroism of Almarhum
all cooperating in the GRP Peace talks with different sultanates of Mindanao should Sultan Dipatuan Qudarat.
the MILF and other programs of HE-PGMA
who herself is a part of the Ranao royalties Former Gov. Saidamen B. Pangarungan
as Princess of Masiu (Honoris Causa) for enthroned as the new Sultan of Madaya
the general welfare of the Mindanaoans
The leadership of the Sultanate of Marawi Sultanate League), Sultan Haron Pango
particularly the Bangsamoro communities.
Madaya was vacant for over 10 years because Tomawis, Sultan Haji Mohammad Ali Asgar Bin
Thus, in defense of the Malay
of conflict between the heirs of Radiamoda sa Sani (Royal Sultanate of Marawi City), and many
maratabat, Ferdinand Magellan who
Punod in the person of Sarip Batua and Datu a others. At the event, the Sultan of Marawi City,
served as the 2nd in command to Alfonso Pitiilan. Both brothers begot 7 heirs each, totaling Sultan Asgar Sani, thanked The Asia Foundation
Albuquerque, leader of the Portuguese to 14 clans with a population of more than 29,000 and his guest, Dr. Steven Rood, for helping him
attack/war against the Great Malaccan clan members. Through the efforts of a local and the other Sultanates in Lanao in resolving
Islamic Malay Empire that caused its total NGO, Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development their clan conflict, or rido.
destruction, in 1511, a group of Cebu Datus Opportunities (RIDO Inc.), the council of elders of The enthronement rites of the Sultanate
and Iranon fighters led by Datu Lapu-Lapu, each sub-clan was reconciled after the decade- of Madaya were a colorful showcase of Meranao
on March 21, 1521, after ten years of said long dispute, and reunited the entire clan. This culture. Its traditional governance structure of
attack, in a deadliest battle, crushed him and astonishing reconciliation culminated in the Meranao society focused on a Sultan. Charged
mutilated his body including approximately ceremony witnessed in Marawi City on July 5, with the obligation to implement traditional laws,
200 of his military contingents. 2009. the Sultan is both a secular and religious leader
The Sultan of Sulu accompanied The new Sultan of Madaya, Saidamen who meets specific criteria including lineal origin
by other Sultans and Datus from mainland B. Pangarungan, also a former governor of Lanao and faith, and whose authority is sanctioned by
Mindanao, in the 17th century, out of del Sur, was one of the few family members of the Quran and the Sunnah. The selection of the
solidarity with the royalties of the Brunei the Sarip Batua and Datu a Pitiilan clans who Sultan of Madaya was a long and complicated
Sultanate that encompassed the whole had a legitimate claim over the Sultanate of process that included determining the legitimate
of Borneo and Manila thru the effort of Madaya. Aside from his lineage and former heirs to the throne, developing of selection
political position he is also a practicing corporate criteria, determining the roles and responsibilities
its Prince, Raja
and litigation lawyer representing various Filipino of each royal title, and completing the settlement
Sulayman, rushed to
and multi-national corporations. He is married of previous feuds and negotiations among the
the shores of Sabah
to Princess Johayra Diamond Ali Pacasum royal families.
to help the feuding Pangarungan, Baialabi a Gaus sa Ranao and RIDO, Inc. spearheaded the
royal families of former assemblywoman of the Autonomous organization of the clan, profiling of the clan
Brunei. As a result, Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). genealogy, resolving the clan disputes and
the Sulu Sultan The datus, baes, and other royal facilitating the rebuilding of the traditional system
succeeded in the dignitaries paraded in their traditional attires of the structure of the Sultanate. It went through
settlement of the and ornaments with prominent personalities a variety of difficult steps such as hosting a
Sultan Haroun Al-rashid Lucman and special guests in attendance included series of dialogues, documenting genealogies,
the Sultan Monsing Macabando (Chairman, and the like.
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THE PROPHET MOHAMMAD’s
(p.b.u.h.) Last Sermon
(This sermon was delivered on the ninth day Dhul Hijjah
In The Name Of ALLAH, The man who had spoken
10 A.H. in the ‘Uranah Valley of Mount Arafat)
The Most Beneficent, took off his hood, looked at
The Most Gracious, the Imaam and said, “Okay
“O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not The Most Merciful ! Maulana ! I have got rid of all
whether, after a year, I shall be amongst you again. the hypocrites. Now you may
Therefore, listen to what I am saying to you very begin your sermon.”
carefully and TAKE THESE WORDS TO THOSE WHO Rasulullah S.A.W. said, “Jannat
lies under the feet of your The two men then turned and
COULD NOT BE PRESENT HERE TODAY. walked out. Too deep not to
mother.” Rasulullah S.A.W. said,
“If you read the Kalima with pass on? “Funny how simple it is
O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this conviction just once, Jannah for people to trash Allah ... and
city as SACRED, so regard the life and property of every becomes upon you.” then wonder why the world's
MUSLIM as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted going to hell.”
to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no Rasulullah S.A.W. said, “A
woman who reveals her body or “Funny how we believe what the
one may hurt you. Remember that you will meet your even wears tight fitting clothes newspapers say ... but question
LORD, and that HE will indeed reckon your deeds. ALLAH wont come within 500 years of what the Qu'ran says.” “Funny
has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all the smell of Jannah.” how everyone wants to go to
heaven ... provided they do not
interest obligation shall henceforth be waived.
Rasulullah S.A.W. said, “The have to believe, think, say, or
dust which settles on a man do anything the Quran says.”
Beware of Satan for the safety of your religion. He
while he is out in the path of “Funny how someone can say
has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you Allah; not only the fire, but the 'I believe in Allah' ... but still
astray in big things, so beware of following him in small smoke of Jahannam is haraam follow Shaitaan (who, by the
things. for those parts of the body.” way, also 'believes' in Allah).”
O People, it is true that you have certain rights with Rasulullah S.A.W. said, “Funny how you can send
“I only curse 3 types of people: a thousand ‘jokes’ through
regard to your women but they also have rights over
1. Those people who do not look e-mail and they spread like
you. If they abide by your right then to them belongs after their parents when they wildfire ... but when you start
the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat are in old age. sending messages regarding
your women well and be kind to them for they are your 2. Those people who do not take Allah, people think twice about
partners and committed helpers. And it is your right full advantage of the blessed sharing.”
that they do not make friends with anyone with whom month of Ramadan.
3. Those people who do not “Funny how the lewd, crude,
you do not approve, as well as never commit adultery. say, ‘Salallahu-Alayhay- vulgar and obscene pass freely
Wa -A a l a h ay-Wa s a l l a m ’ through cyberspace ... but the
O People, listen to me in earnest, worship ALLAH, say when my name is public discussion of Allah is
your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month mentioned.” suppressed in the school and
workplace.”
of Ramadhan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform
Hajj if you can afford. You know that every Muslim Rasulullah S.A.W. said, “It is Funny, isn't it? “Funny, how
better for a man that a steel nail someone can be so fired up for
is the brother of another Muslim. You are all equal. be driven through the centre
Nobody has superiority over the other except by piety Allah on Friday ... but be an
of his head rather than if he invisible Muslim the rest of the
and good action. touches the palm of a strange week.”
woman.”
Remember, one day you will appear before ALLAH and Are you laughing or crying?
PLEASE TAKE 2 MINUTES OF “Funny how when you go to
answer for your deeds. So beware, do not stray from
YOUR TIME TO READ THIS. forward this message ... you
the path of righteousness after I am gone. will not send it to many on your
Imagine this happening to you... address list because you're not
O People, NO PROPHET OR APOSTLE WILL COME One day during Jummah Salah, sure what they believe, or what
AFTER ME AND NO NEW FAITH WILL BE BORN. a 1,000 member congregation they will think of you for sending
Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand my was surprised to see two men it to them.”
enter, both covered from head
words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two to toe in black and carrying sub- “Funny, how I can be more
things, the QUR’AN and my example the SUNNAH and machine guns. worried about what other people
if you follow these you will never go astray. think of me ... than what Allah
One of the men proclaimed, thinks of me.”
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to “Anyone willing to take a bullet
Are you thinking? Will you
others and those to others again; and may the last for Allah remain where you are.”
share this with people you care
Immediately, the congregation
ones understand my words better than those who listen fled, and out of the 1,000 there
about?
to me directly. Be my witness O ALLAH, that I have only remained around 20. Or not?
conveyed your message to your people.
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RIDO, Inc.
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Photo Gallery
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RIDO, Inc.
Photo Gallery
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RIDO, Inc.
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Photo Gallery
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RIDO, Inc.
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Photo Gallery
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QUO VADIS MOA-AD?
By Skip Garlbaldi Islam
MOA-AD: A Backdrop in question suffer a snag. The
The Memorandum of Kuala Lumpur debacle led to the
Agreement on Ancestral Domain pull out of the International Mon-
(MOA-AD) is a result of several itoring Team (IMT) contingents
years of peace negotiations staying in Mindanao to oversee
between the National Government the implementation of the cease-
of the Republic of the Philippines fire agreement.
(NGRP) and the Moro Islamic It is ineluctable that due
Liberation Front (MILF) with the to the frustration of the ground
facilitation of the Government of commanders of the MILF for the
Malaysia. It is an initiated yet aborted signing of the MOA-AD
unsigned document. It is the in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and
political package crafted by the compounded by tirades of the
parties to the peace talks that Filipino national and local leaders
defines the relationship of the who vociferously opposed the
Bangsamoro and the Filipino as agreement in question and their
nations within a state. inflammatory statements and
The MOA-AD is primarily paroxysm which prodded their
designed to redress the grievance people to commit bloodshed if the responded positively by declaring
of the Bangsamoro which is government pursues the signing the Suspension Of Military Action
affirmed by the U.S. government of the controversial document, a (SOMA) against government
as legitimate. It provides an violent conflict erupted anew on forces and ordered its freedom
entrenchment of the political the ground. fighters to be in the defensive
rights of the Bangsamoro. It Like in the past conflict, mode. It is worth noting the
gives a win-win formula in houses and properties were observation of Maulana M.
resolving the Mindanao problem burned, crops were destroyed Alonto, a senior member of the
which is by nature a sovereignty- and civilians were caught in the MILF panel that there is infirmity
based conflict. It is supposed firefights. More than 600,000 on the government’s SOMO and
to silence the gun barrels of the thousand civilians, mostly inconsistency of the government’s
Bangsamoro freedom fighters so Muslims, were displaced in this policy with respect to the war in
that peace will take its course renewed armed conflict and Mindanao. The government’s
and finally rule in Mindanao. But they were forced to stay in the propaganda mantra at the
the Philippine Supreme Court makeshift refugees centers. The height of the conflict last year
issued a Temporary Restraining Internally Displaced Persons is that they are not waging war
Order (TRO) to refrain the (IDPs) are living in the evacuation against MILF. Its operation is
government from signing the centers in sub-human conditions. only confined to those so-called
MOA-AD on August 05, 2008 and The Army’s 6th Infantry Division “rogue commanders” of the MILF-
later declared it unconstitutional. spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan BIAF who initiated the attacks
This event has foreclosed the Ponce said to media groups that in Mindanao. They are Bravo
aspiration of the Bangsamoro the displaced Muslim civilians Macapaar, Ameril Ombra Kato and
people for self-rule as it is are “enemy reserve force”. This Ali Solaiman. It is paradoxical
enshrined in the agreement in poses a serious problem to the that when it announced the
question. IDPs to return to their place of SOMO, it excluded those “rogue
origin for they would become commanders”. It evinced
Resumption of Hostilities targets of the military. so to speak that the military
The international com- operation to capture these MILF
munities as well as the local sup- SOMO-SOMA commanders has no let-up.
porters of peace in Mindanao Few days before President With that pronouncement of the
have expressed their concerns Arroyo delivered her State of government, the MILF is finally
for the non signing of the MOA- Nation Address (SONA) on convinced that the government
AD and urged the protagonists to July 23, 2009, the government military offense is not specifically
the peace parley to exert sincere announced its Suspension Of directed against those three
effort to solve the contentious is- Military Operation (SOMO) and “rogue” commanders but to the
sues which made the agreement later on july 25, 2009, the MILF entire MILF organization.
20
20 20
a boxing bout. This day-long deal is a devise to ensure that
Basilan Encounter fighting must not endanger the the consensus points agreed in
The peace panels of both momentum of the MILF-NGRP the table will not be in vain.
the NGRP and the MILF recently peace negotiation. Civil Society The Bangsamoro youth
met in Malaysia to re-open Organizations (CSOs) are calling leaders have opined that the
the stalled peace talks. Both for the impartial, credible, and renegotiation on some of the
sides claimed that there were independent investigation on the provisions of the MOA-AD is not
significant breakthroughs in the incident. an assurance that formal signing
meeting. The peace workers and The Basilan incident led will take place under the Arroyo
the civilians who are victims of Senator Rodolfo Biazon, a former regime for only a few months are
the armed conflict were delighted Marine General and now the left of her presidency. In addition,
with the new development on Chairman on the Committee on the anti-peace in Mindanao like
National Defense in the Senate, Pinol, Lobregat and Cruz as usual
in filing Senate Resolution 1281 have vented their ire against the
“Expressing the Sense of the government when it resumes the
Senate for the Suspension for the peace negotiation with the MILF.
Resumption of the Peace Talks In their anti-Moro invectives,
with the Moro Islamic Liberation they vowed to block the peace
Front.” He conducted a series process. In 2010, the country
of consultation in Mindanao for will elect a new president. The
rallying support on his plan to next president will definitely have
impede the on going negotiation his own peace program which is
between the NGRP and MILF. The not necessarily similar to that of
Senator doggedly argued that to Arroyo’s peace policy. Thus, our
the peace process after a year of jumpstart a peace negotiation people will say where the peace
hiatus. They want that situation with the MILF is a non-starter,
on the ground will return to while violent skirmishes are
normalcy. raging in the battlefields. Some
But an intervening event NGOs based in Mindanao are
occurred last August 12, 2009, calling not to adopt the Senate
when the MILF forces under Resolution. They demand for
the 114th Base Command of the immediate resumption of the
the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed peace talks.
Forces (BIAF) and contingent
of the Philippine Marines Corps Peace Policy as Counter
clashed at Barangay Baguindan, Insurgency Program Thousands of young moros, from different
Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. Ten (10) Some quarters believe groups and organizations of various schools
MILF fighters martyred, 6 that the peace policy of the and colleges in the City of Marawi and Lanao del
wounded and 1 missing in the national government does not Sur, gathered and Marshed in Quezon Avenue
heavy gun fighting, while 23 delve in the root cause of the of the city for the MARSH PEACE RALLY urging
marines were killed in action Mindanao conflict. Its objective the National Government to continue Peace
and 30 were wounded. Major is undoubtedly to cripple the Negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation
Front by respecting and honoring the initialed
General Benjamin Dolorfino told insurgency problem and not to
MOAD-AD. January 6, 2009
the press that they coordinated address the Bangsamoro question.
with the MILF in their operation It is a counter insurgency
agenda for Mindanao are heading
against the Abu Sayyaf Group. mechanism to suppress the
to? Will the consensus points on
But the MILF Chief Peace Panel Bangsamoro struggle and
Ancestral Domain agreed upon
Mohagher Iqbal said that there the physical extermination of
by the peace brokers during
was no coordination that took Muslim freedom fighters. The
the Arroyo administration be
place when the military entered government has a “no coherent
honored and respected by the
the MILF influenced area. The policy” for peace in Mindanao.
next Malacañang leadership? Will
Marines’ mission was to launch This is the reason why the MILF
the next President be amendable
an attack against the MILF has lost its trust to talk peace
to the international guarantors?
stronghold. Both groups were fully with the government. They
Further a succinct query from
blaming each other of breaching want a guarantee if peace talk
an inquisitive mind is Quo Vadis
the ceasefire declaration. The will be revived. The creation of
MOA-AD?
General described the encounter the International Contact Group
as “slugfest”, as if he is watching (ICG) in the latest low profile
21
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The Youth Speaks My Personal Bookmark:
By: Aisah B. Musa
An Elder’s Experience
As a student, I personally involve
myself in a lot of issues and problems. This
By: Sangcopan Nasroddin Badio
may include family, friends and academic
life. Although sometimes these weaken We, the elders, take pride
me, I always find ways on how to deal with of becoming part of history of
them effectively. I thought that knowing Ranao through the successful
how to face these problems is enough to be enthronement of the new Sultan
considered a better person. And as a person who has been raised in a sa Madaya, the former Governor of Lanao del Sur,
place where peace seems so vague, I always seek for peace. I always
demand for vivid development in our society. But in asking these, I
Atty. Saidamen B. Pangarungan on July 5, 2009. This
never questioned myself as to what can I contribute to my community was significant not only for the Maranao clan but for
and society. What can I do to promote the peace and development I the future of Muslims. The creation of the Sultanate of
am always seeking for? These questions have raised as I become a Madaya must be known not only in our jurisdiction but
member of the Sultanate of Madaya Youth Organization (SOMY). It the entire nation. The big number of attendance simply
is an organization of youth who are willing to accept the challenge of showed that every member of the sultanate found it a
improving themselves. SOMY org. has objectives that are relevant to good and important event for our people. Hence, we
our society. Such objectives are to promote the youth’s knowledge
should be proliferating with a unique tradition like this
about the key elements of peace building; to encourage the youth to
develop creative thinking skills and show their talents; to encourage the to raise the dignity and nobility of our tribe.
youth to take responsibility in making our society more peaceful and to
strengthen solidarity among the youth. The sultanate system brings about positive
Being an SOM youth has taught me that being young is not an effects for the Maranao society signifying that we are
excuse from not doing anything to help improve our society. It made one “bangsa” or nation strengthened by one “agama”
me realize that problems in family, friends and academics are not only or religion, that is, Islam. With one nation and one
the things we should be concerned about. We all have responsibility religion, we will be unified and adhered as one. All
towards our society. We, young people, are full of vibrant ideas. We
sorts of conflicts, rido in particular, which tempt to
have the energy to try out new things and the patience to learn from
our mistakes. It is but fortunate that the SOMY org. has given us break us apart, are resolved by this tradition because
these opportunities to plan, to decide and to work, in preparation for we respected and believed in it. It is the sole thing
the more harsh realities of life. In the SOMY org., we are taught that that demands our unification as a robust community.
participation of the youth is important because we are the country’s
power. We have the ability to recognize problems and solve them. We We have witnessed during the enthronement
are the strong forces in social movements. We can educate children of the Sultan of Madaya that all consecrated members
about their rights. We can also help other young people to attain a were marked with excellence, leadership and
higher level of intellect and become qualified adults. SOM youth are
eminence. For this, I am truly proud to be enthroned
also encouraged to stand against the wrongdoings in our society that
instead of blaming the “faulty” system, we should initiate something myself during the ceremony. The others were grateful
to improve it. We, the youth, should also use our brains, strength, as well.
creativity and imagination to serve our community. In lieu of asking,
“who is going to fight corruption?”, we should start the fight. Rather I also express my appreciation to Atty.
than arguing over these issues and ruining our country, we should learn Pangarungan and his wife as well as the seventeen
to act on them. Council of Elders especially Mr. Pogie Atar for all his
As an SOM youth, we have also experienced communicating with efforts to make this milestone possible. Further, I
different types of people. In the process, we learned and understood
the different nature of individuals which enable us to interact with
extend my gratitude to the Executive Committee
others harmoniously and effectively. I believe that one of the roles of and The Asia Foundation for their all-out support and
youth in peace building is to live together without racism and without cooperation towards this end.
cultural or religious discrimination. We have to strengthen solidarity.
In peace building, we can contribute much by not causing troubles or The enthronement was a monumental
problems in our community such as using drugs and resorting to bad experience. I will treasure the moment for the rest of
habits. We need to learn from yesterday and live with the hopes for a my days.
better tomorrow. We should also start by pursuing the change we have
always dreamt of. And there’s no other time but now, not later.
I would also like to share a thought from one of my readings. It
says, “Hesitating to act because the while vision might not be achieved,
or because others do not share it yet, is an attitude that hinders
progress.”
Moriatao Sultan sa Madaya Strategic Planning Workshop,
April 11-12, 2009, Cagayan de Oro City
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THE US-RP VFA TREATY: ITS IMPLICATIONS IN MINDANAO
AND THE PHILIPPINES AS A WHOLE
By: DATU MENO D. MANABILANG
Sharief Batua of Madaya, Marawi City
Email Add: manabilangm@yahoo.com
The author belongs to the Marawi City. The Peace Caravan order
5th generation of the original Sharief was as follows: Pagadian City, Iligan City,
Batua of Madaya, Marawi City and 3rd Marawi City, Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro
generation of the great Amai Manabilang City, Balingasag, Gingoog City, Butuan
who was the brain and organizer who City, Bayugan, Moncayo, Nabunturan, • 7 nuclear frigates
convened the 1935 Dansalan Declaration Tagum City, Panabo-Davao City, Toril, • 7 nuclear battleship
held at Limbuan a Barat Palace at Sta. Cruz, Digos, Padala, Dadiangas • 4 nuclear submarines
Madaya, Marawi City dated March 18, (Gen. San.), Polomolok, Marbel, Cotabato • 2 nuclear airforce carriers
1935, submitted to Washington DC, City, Malabang, Marawi City then back to a. USS Kennedy
USA, by 121 representatives-signatories. Iligan. b. USS Nemesis
The Dansalan Declaration sought to
exclude Mindanao from the Philippine The present Sharief Batua of We are told that each carrier carries 500
Independence under the then President Madaya Datu Meno D. Manabilang was jet fighters bomber planes or equivalent
Manuel L. Quezon of the Commonwealth the 3rd speaker of the TRI-PEOPLE to 1000 jet fighter bomber planes which
Government of the Philippines. PEACE CARAVAN Culmination Program can outcast any force in Asia, and at
held at Gen. Santos City along with other the same time, the thousands military
The author wishes to remind speakers like Father Consenju and Father personnel and combatants are also with
the good people of Mindanao and the Pueblo of Butuan City, among others. this fleet.
Filipino people that we are seeking the The grand culmination program was held
permanent cancellation of the US-RP VFA at GENSAN on May 03, 1998 followed Furthermore, we would like to ask some
believing it is a treaty dangerous to our by a series of meetings and Press important questions:
people and our future generations. Conference. The Indignation Rally was
held at Sumbang Point, General Santos Q.1. What is the extent of authority the
Thanks to Philippine Daily City on May 04, 1998. Thereafter, the American Forces possesses?
Inquirer which published on front page groups proceeded home via Cotabato Q.2. Are they granted automatic waiver
last September 19, 2009 an article, City, Malabang then to Marawi City led of jurisdiction?
“Palace, Open to Senate Resolution to by Sharief Batua. Q.3. Are they granted free tax?
renegotiate VFA”, and on second front Q.4. Are they granted immunity from
page another article, “Palace backs VFA The Caravan-Rally led a common environmental destructions in the
renegotiation”. Also, thanks so much to consensus on the following declarations: Philippines?
the seven magnificent senators headed 1. We maintain the firm resolution of Q.5. NO VISA?
by Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago who our heroes for a true freedom and Q.6. NO PASSPORT?
signed Senate Resolution No. 1356 national independence without foreign Q.7. No drivers license? They can drive
asking the Department of Foreign Affairs intervention; anywhere in our country?
to renegotiate the Treaty with the US. 2. We uphold the full sovereignty over
The VFA governs the conduct of military every inch of our Philippine soil to If the answer to the above queries are
exercises between the Filipino and give full meaning to the Philippine on the affirmative, this means they will
American Troops in Philippine soil. Centennial on June 12, 1998; enjoy more rights and privileges than
3. We oppose vehemently the US-RP VFA any ordinary citizen of this country.
The stay of American Forces in and sincerely support all sectors for Furthermore, they possess more rights
the Philippines for more than a decade can the opposition of such agreement; and privileges in the Philippines than in
no longer be considered a “visitor status.” 4. We appeal to the national leadership their country of origin. Moreover, their
As observed, they exercise privileges in the name of our national heroes and exercise of military power in our country
more than that of an ordinary citizen in martyrs and of the sacrifices of the seems to be totally out of control.
this country. The Mindanao people must mass Filipino people of the centuries
be respected and heard because they are struggle opposing any treaty against After the two US bases in Luzon have
the direct victims of this poisonous treaty the wisdom and well-being of the been driven out by the Will of God why
inspite of objections in Mindanao. Filipino people; relocate it in Mindanao.
5. We sincerely appeal to the Manila-
Mindanao as a matter of fact, Luzon people to respect the rights of Herewith is the copy of the Manifesto
had staged a TRI-PEOPLE PEACE Mindanao people; published at the Mindanao Gold Star
CARAVAN in 1998 which opposed the 6. Take note that the visit of US 7th fleet Daily dated October 29, 1998. The FIRST
signing of US-RP VFA. It was held on to the Philippine soil is not just an MINDANAO DECLARATION (A Manifesto)
April 24 to May 04, 1998 or a ten-day ordinary visit status; of Mindanao Muslim NGO’s Coalition
caravan participated by more than 200 7. We learned from unofficial source that Against the proposed US-RP VFA headed
organizations all over Mindanao. the Seventh Fleet of the US will lead by 9 leaders from Lanao with more than
the VFA with the following armaments 100 organizations.
The TRI-PEOPLE PEACE and facilities capable of waging a world
CARAVAN started at the Zamboanga- war: Signed this 30th day of September
Pagadian route with a kick off activity in • 7 nuclear destroyer 2009 at Marawi City, Lanao del Sur,
Philippines.
23
23 23
BOARD MEMBERS
Regina S. Antequisa Luis Siddick F. Adiong
Norlayne Atar Masbud A. Gaima II
Halil L. Amerol Altifany Faridah Laguindab
STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar Fahad Salic—Community Organizer
Executive Director
Hayadullah T. Atar—Clan Organizer
Omaima Marabur Sahraman Disomimba—Volunteer
Administrative Officer
Mohammad Ali Gabriel—Volunteer
Sahira Tominaman Olomodin Batugan—Volunteer
Finance Officer
Rohairah Sumndad—Volunteer
ADDRESS
Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) Inc.
SEC. REG. NO.: CN200630844
D1 Hidaya Apartment
Ceanuri Subdivision, Camague
Iligan City, 9200 Philippines
Email: pogie_atar@hotmail.com
rido2007@gmail.com
Telefax: 063-2254219
or 09186236493
thru
Abdul Hamidullah “Pogie” T. Atar
Executive Director
www.ridoph.org
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