Shariff Kabunsuan Festival sa BARMM!

 sa Shariff Kabunsuan Festival, saya'y paiksiin! Drums at kulintang, sabay-sabay tugtugin!

The famous festival in Bangsamoro is the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival. It combines religious elements with traditions and a rich cultural heritage. 

SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL

Every 15th of December, Cotabato City holds a very significant religious event filled with colorful presentations in honor of the arrival of Arab Missionary, Shariff Kabunsuan. It is a week-long celebration where thousands of local and foreign tourist visit during this holiday celebration. 

Cotabato City has witnessed more history than any other place in Mindanao. To showcase its rich history and well-preserved culture, Sharriff Kabunsuan Festival is celebrating not only to commemorate the heroism of Shariff Kabunsuan but also to display the Muslim religion and culture.

ORIGIN OF SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL

The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is named after Shariff Kabunsuan, a prominent figure in Philippine Islamic history. Shariff Kabunsuan was a Muslim missionary who is believed to have introduced Islam to the region. The festival commemorates his contributions and the arrival of Islam in Mindanao.

WHO IS SHARIFF KABUNSUAN?

According to historical records, during the 16th century, the arrival of Arab Missionary Shariff Kabunsuan marks the history of Maguindanao. From Johore, he is credited to spread the Islam among the natives, which led to the establishment of the Sultanates of Maguinadanao, Kabuntalan, and Rajah Buayan (which now includes GenSan, Sarangani and South Cotabato). He was on a guinakit, an active means of transporatation of the locals, which landed along the banks of the Masla Pulangi, now known as Rio Grande de Mindanao.

THE SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL TYPICALLY INCLUDES VARIOUS ACTIVITIES SUCH AS THE FOLLOWING:

Guinakit Fluvial Parade: The Guinakit Fluvial Parade is the highlight of the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival. During the parade, the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan at Rio Grande de Mindanao aboard a guinakit (big, colorful bancas) is re-enacted.

Kuyog Street Dancing Competition: During the competition, participants from different parts of Cotabato and Maguindanao gather to show their dancing skills. With colorful costumes and uplifting spirits, the participants will make you want to dance with them. 

River Cruise: Last year, the local government unit of Cotabato introduced the river cruise in cooperation with the Department of Tourism of Region 12. You can enjoy a river cruise from Tamontaka River to Rio Grande de Mindanao aboard a colorful guinakit during this activity.  

Agri-Trade Fair: The agri-trade fair features the agricultural products of Maguindanao and Cotabato City. During this activity, regional producers come together, focusing on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Inaul Fashion Show: First done in 2003, the Inaul Fashion Show is one of the events people look forward to the most. During that time, only a few weavers exist. The tradition was dying, so the government decided to bring life to it. The fashion show got its inspiration from inawl, which came from their ancestors. Inaul or inawl is a Maguindanaoan traditional handwoven fabric known for its elegance and colors. It’s also hailed as one of the best fabrics in the Philippines. 

Marking the arrival of the Islamic missionary Shariff Kabunsuan, the festival features colorful parades, traditional dances, delicious food, and elaborate costumes. This event not only honors history but also strengthens the community. 

What are you waiting for? Let's go and experience the joy of Shariff Kabunsuan Festival!