ROSALINDA SAMONG

BEED-II

HISTORY
As with other Indigenous and Mindanao Lumads, during the nominal
occupation of the Philippines by the Spanish, and later the American and the
Japanese, the Maranaos had tribal leaders whom they called Datu. In the
14th century, upon the arrival of Islam, they developed into a kingdom with
a Sultan due to the influence of Muslim missionaries.

LOCATION
The Maranao inhabit Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur in Mindanao. The name Maranao
translates to mean “People of the Lake”, after their traditional territory in the area
surrounding Lake Lanao in the Bukidnon-Lanao Plateau. According to the early written
genealogical documents salsila, this term generally referred to the native people living around
Lake Lanao. The lake area is the home-range of the Maranao which is located in North Central
Mindanao, approximately 135 sq. miles in area and is situated 2,300 feet above sea level. They
are one of the largest Islamic groups in the Philippines, with the core areas being Marawi City,
Lumba-a-bayabao, and Bayang.

ECONOMICS
Several ethnic groups in the country are well known for their weaving
traditions, and the Maranaos are among those recognized for their superior
weaving. Weaving is a cultural tradition mostly practiced by women from
generation to generation. At an early age, girls are trained by their mothers to
learn the craft. When these young girls grow up and marry, they successively
pass this skill to their daughters. Furthermore, Maranao women who have
knowledge in weaving are revered in society. Maranao textiles are also
famous for their ornate designs and colors. Their textile weaving involves
traditional Southeast Asian backstrap loom weaving using native decorative
ornamentation. A versatile garb called malong  is a hand-woven fabric with
beautifully patterned designs. It can be worn by all genders and classes, with
dominant hues of gold and purple. Malong made of high-quality silk or cotton
are intended for special occasions, and a yellow malong  is considered to be royal or high class. The materials, designs, and
colors of a malong usually determine the economic status of the wearer in the society. Landap, andon, and plaids are some of
the different varieties of malong. The process of preparing and weaving the cloth is complicated, and special textiles such as
silk, particularly those worn by the royals, are woven mostly by expert craftswomen. Back in the day, the social and economic
significance of a Maranao can be measured by the number and classes of malong he or she owns. For most wives, weaving is an
alternative source of income for the family. Unfortunately, in the last couple of years, there has been a lack of promotion of the
Maranao weaving industry, not to mention the negative effect of the numerous conflicts that occurred in the region. Then again,
there seems to be a recent trend that hints at the revitalization of indigenous textiles. The popularity of indigenous products are
seeing a resurgence in popularity and demand on the market, exhibits, and trade fairs. With any luck, Maranao weaves will be
fashionable once again.

FOODS