I always loved travelling and it always gladdens my heart when I find myself back packing to some far away land, away from the maddening crowd. You see, as a person, having an introverted personality, a trip to discover and explore new places is a most welcome respite.
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Although, I had been to Mindanao many times, the excitement never leave. It is like Christmas and New Year rolled into one bundle. Especially I know that we will be going to Marawi, Lanao Del Sur. The adrenalin rush just surge through my veins like a flood! I am so excited that I count each day with great excitement and anticipation!
Marawi City
Why? What is so special about Marawi anyway?
Well, whenever Marawi was mentioned, most people will recall the six (6) months war between the Mauti-ISIS rebel groups and the government troops which devastated and destroy a fourth of the bustling city and render thousands of Muslims (Moro) homeless. But I don’t want to dwell on that facts, but rather allow me to present the city’s unique culture and beautiful people.
In the past Marawi was called Dansalan, which is the capital city of Lanao Del Sur. It is one of the largest city where you can find the Maranao tribes. Maranao, means “People of the Lake,” they are well known for their artistic talents in woodcarving and brass works. Don’t you know that their culture is advanced and sophisticated enough - they are manufacturing their own brass cannons, called “lantaka.”
Marawi is their cultural center. I had a paradigm shift after experiencing Marawi’s hospitality, my bias perception changes about them. The Maranaos’ were accommodating and friendly towards strangers, in fact they are ever ready to lend a hand, no matter your religious affiliations. In spite of the advisory, that it is unsafe to travel to Marawi City, I might say that it is safe, especially if you had established a good relationship with the locals, they will put you under their care and protection.
Foods and Clothes
The Maranao cuisine is unique, and I might say, quite similar to Malaysia’s food most of which were spicy, with coconut milk or having a dash of turmeric. One of my Maranao friend, introduced me to a kind of condiment which seems to be a staple in all their food preparations, the “palapa,” it consists of scallion bulb, chilis and ginger, either pounded or processed in a food processor. I have really enjoyed the Maranaos local food which challenges your palette and fickle taste buds.
The beautiful, colorful and handwoven garment used by the Maranaos’ is also something you need to have when you visit Marawi. It is called, “malong,” worn traditionally as a dress by women and as a formal wear by men over their trousers. The process of wrapping and folding of the malong is an art, for even the use of headgear or scarf had its hierarchy. The malong clothes is a beautiful piece of cloth that describes in an artistic way the way of life, the culture and unique traditions of the Maranaos’.
I actually have one as a reminder of my beautiful experience in the heart of a Moro land.