IRANUN

INTRODUCTION OF IRANUN

Iranun was one of the oldest existing nations in the world during the ancient times with
definite integral territory wherein the sovereign power and authority was exercised over it by
the ligimate ruler. Iranun as a nation inhabited mainly the Crab Gulf (Moro Gulf). Its villages
were established and concentrated in the Iranun Bay (Illana Bay). The origin was attributed to
the people of the Uranen Kingdom of the primitive past inhabited in the Tbok (Malabang).
Iranun was the first people who entered into a marriage affinity with Shariff Aulia and Shariff
Kabunsuan. Bai sa Pandan (Princess Pagunguwan, daughter of Rajah Urangguwan) and Bai
Angintabu respectively. Their wedlocks where Sultan Kudarat has directly got his line of
descent. Iranun was a breed nation between the Karibang-Karingke Line of descent and last
wave of Malay migrants. From this marriage affinity sprang the Iranun nation whose first
leader was Rajah Urangguwan. The name of their place (state) was Uranen. During the
advent of the Shariffs, union took its place in the kingdom through uninterrupted inter-
marriages among the royals.

The ancient Muslim civilization started from the coast of the Uranen. Genealogists say that
later in the succeding decades it was spread and extended to the Ranaw areas as far as Upper
Pulangi areas. The Biwang-Kawanan Tinday A Datal O Pagilidan (Two Huge Coastal
Principalities) was established as a political group headed by Rajah Makaapen after the death
of Rajah Urangguwan, simoultaneously with Slangan and Buayan principalities. Later on
sultanate system of government was established patterned from the system of government
introduced by the Shariffs.The political system of the Iranun during Rajah Urangguwan was
patterned from Sri Vishaya and Majapahit Empires.

The society of the Iranun was a muslim. Its social class was classified into: Uripin (slave),
Kadaklan (Dumato) and Pendatu (Ruling class). Iranun is a very hospitable and principled
group of people. It is good and friendly contrary to the description of the western writers as
they described Iranun as pirates. This description is not true. As a matter of fact, Iranun is the
champion of hospitability and good will. The Sultan of Brunei was being reinforced by
Sultan Kudarat. The fleet was composed of Iranun warriors. The Sultan of Brunei was able to
defend his sovereign state against invaders through the assistance of the Iranuns led by Sultan
Kudarat. Tradition says that it inhabited the coastal areas of the Iranun Bay. It was said that
Tbok, a place near the present site of Malabang was the center and seat of government of the
ancient Iranun. It was headed by Rajah Urangguwan, the ruler of the Uranen Kingdom. The
modern authorities in history have cited the fact that the ancient territory of the Uranen was
the areas where Sultan Kudarat exerciced his sovereign authority and influence. It stressed
from Punta de Flechas of Sibugay down to Tagalook (Davaw Gulf). These areas were
recognized by the Spaniards.

In the later decades, the Iranun as a group of people was covered. Most of the writers and
historians did not mention Iranun in their writings. It is interesting to mention and include
here that Iranun was the original tribe where other tribes sprang out, the mother of other
native tribes in the Island. Let me discuss in the following paragraph.

Modern historians made mention of Shariff Aulia. It is right that there was a Shariff Aulia
who sometimes arrived in the Island. Shariff Aulia landed at the coast of Tbok and welcomed
by Rajah Urangguwan, the ruler of the ancient Uranen Kingdom, a Kingdom situated and
located at the Iranun Bay, Layagan Gulf (Moro Gulf). Shariff Aulia married Princess
Pagunguwan, a beloved and adored princess of her time, and a daughter of Rajah
Urangguwan. They begot the four rajas: Rajah Makaapen, Rajah Dungklang, Rajah
Maraguia, and Rajah Budtol. These four rajas explored and adventured the Island
(Mindanaw). The first two (Makaapen and Dungklang) remained in the capital of the
Kingdom. The other two ( Maraguia and Budtol) went south. Maraguia established his own
community at the present Tantawan (PC Hill) in the present site of Cotabato City. Budtol
went east through Pulangi River. He established his community in the present Buayan.

It is interesting to include here and mention that Tantawan was once an island like Bunged
(Bungo) and Timako. The Iranun tarsila has described that Tantawan was a military base
during the ancient Uranen Kingdom. The huge biruar ( tower) was established in Tantawan to
oversee the enemy which may come from south, north east, and west portion of the Kingdom.
It was a military naval base of the ancient Uranen Kingdom. Later as decades passed by and
it becomes a century, it becomes as its present geographical view. According to the oral
tradition, liitle by little a landmarsh was developed. Modern science explains the episode as a
result of residual remains process.
In one of the lyrics of the darangan, it was mentioned that there were three islands which
served as a guard islands of the Turugan (Palace) of the Ayunan Pangadapan O Inayunan O
Kampong Sa Iliyan A Bembaran. Most of the Iranun experts and commentors in
ancient/prehistorical facts are unanimous in findings that the three (3) islands mention in one
of the darangan lyrics were the same and identical with Tantawan, Bunged (Bongo) and
Timako. Therefore, these three islands are historic and considered as tourist spots of the
Island.

The relation between Bembaran and Uranen Kingdom was quite interesting to mention and
discuss here. Some of the Iranun genealogists say that Bembaran and Uranen Kingdom were
identical. Some says that Bembaran and its people was a legendary and it was one of the most
narrated legends during the Uranen Kingdom. Some says that Bembaran which was the
setting of the Darangen constituted the heights of the Uranen Kingdom. Out of these views, it
is safe to say that Bembaran is the place where the setting of the Darangan period occured
during the Uranen Kingdom, and was one of the civilizations of the Kingdom.

Going back to the issue on decendancy, Makaapen and Dungklang were the forefathers of the
Iranun of the coastal areas of the Iranun Bay. Maraguia was the forefather of the Iranun in the
City of Cotabato and near adjacent places. Budtol was the forefather of the Iranun of the
Upper Stream. This stage of civilization was reinforced again when Shariff Kabunsuan
arrived. Shariff Kabunsuan married Princess Angintabu, a daughter of Makaapen, begot
Makaalang. Makaalang married his first cousin, a daughter of Rajah Dungklang named
Princess Pidsarawdan begot Rajah Bangkaya. Rajah Bangkaya married a lady from Lupah
Suog name Pangyan Mampay begot Kapitan Laut Buisan, the father of the strongest among
the sultans of Mindanaw named Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat. Intermarriages among the
offspring of the four rajas in the later decades were observed. Their intermarriage established
a royal line of descent. This was the stage of civilization of the Iranun when whitemen came (
Spaniards in 1521).

Iranun was a great warrior. Iranun were good navigator and sailor. Their skills and
knowledge in navigation and of being a sailor is comparable to the skills of the whitemen
( Spaniards, Portugese and other westerners). During the counter offensive of Sultan Kudarat
against the Spain Royal Armed Forces, mostly of the captains of the different vessels of
Sultan Kudarat were Iranuns. Iranuns are champion of freedom. The Iranun defended the
sovereign territory and authority of the present Moro Nation from aggression and invasion of
the Spaniards. Iranun are jealous people as far as sovereign is concern.

It is a fact that Iranun was the people whom the the Spaniards met during their invasion. The
Spaniards described them as moro (moores in western version) because they portrayed the
same quality in terms of field combat and fighting of the Moores people whom they fought in
Northern Africa. This was the origin and beginning of using the term moro which referred to
and described the Iranun people whom the Spaniards met in this Island particulrly Mactan,
the recorded first bloodiest battle between the Spaniards and the native inhabitants. Thus the
Moro is a colonial term introduced by the Spaniards replacing Iranun ( the original
inhabitants).

It was presented in the preceeding paragraphs that Iranun was the people whom the Spaniards
met during invasion. The Spaniards introduced some strategies and techniques in order to
reinforce and establish their colonial mission. It was their first priority to dismantle the
original tribe for them to implement their mission effectively. The strategy was little by little
leading to creation of other tribe within the Island. There are identified colonial terms which
make Iranun tribe put into ash and ruined by colonialism.

With due respect to other scholars, Iranun had been subdivided into different tribes. These
tribes are: Maguindanawon, Mranaw, and Mragat (Islamized); Tiduray, Subanen, Kalagan,
Manobo, Blaan, Bagobo, and other highlanders (Unislamized). The first three (3) sub Iranun
tribes accepted the Ideology introduced by Shariff Aulia and Shariff Kabunsuan. Tiduray, and
others did not accept the Ideology introduced by the two Shariffs. This is the reason of Moro
(Iranun) has two groups of people in relation to belief: Islamized and Unislamized.

Later on in the succeeding decades, Spaniards more and more intensify their colonial
mission. On the other hand, the Dutch had the same mission with that of the Spaniards. The
Dutch was expanding its sovereign in the Island. A rivalry between the two world super
powers began in the Island. The rivalry between the Spaniards and the Dutch colonialists
were contribute much in the ruinity of the Iranun as a people/nation. Factions were observed.
Colonial concepts came in. With due respect to other scholars in history, the term
Maguindanao although a native term connoting specific place is a colonialism sponsored term
to destroy the original which is Slangan, which is the correct. Slangan was a confederated
state of Tbok and Buayan after the death of Rajah Uranguwan. Slangan was led by Rajah
Maraguia.
Iranun tribe expanded in land of the Island until villages were established in the Unayan area
(Ranaw). Iranun oral tradtion say that the first Iranun datu who explored the Ranaw area was
Penduma. He was a descendant of Rajah Dungklang. He explored going in- land part of the
Uranen Kingdom until finally he discovered Butig. Butig is the seat of the Unayan. The
established village in Butig (Unayan) flourished and developed into a center of trade,
commerce and education of the time. Later on it expanded into other places around the
Ranaw( Masio, Bayabaw, Baloi). Thus the creation and estblishment of the Pat a
Pangampungan Ko Ranaw (Four Lake-Based Principalities).

Iranun nomenclature in relation to names of majors tribes were attributed to its geographical
connotation. The people who remain in the coastal areas of the Uranen Kingdom is called
Mragat, which means people of the seacoast (Ipagilidanen in Iranun version). The people
who established villages around the ranaw (lake) is called Mranaw, which means people of
the lake. The people who established villages in the inner part of the island in relation to its
coastal areas is called Idalemen. The people who established villages beyond the dalem (inner
part) limit is called Isbanganen. The people who established villages and reject the Ideology
introduced by the Shariffs, in the inner part of the Island in relation to Slangan is generally
called Tiduray. The people who established villages in the Upper Stream of the Pulangi River
is called Irayaan (Taw sa Raya in some version). The people who established villages in the
inner part of the Island in relation to the first seat of Uranen Kingdom at Tbok is generally
called Subanen. Tiduray was the mother of all highlander tribes in the Cotabato areas.
Subanen was the mother of all the highlanders tribes in Zamboanga areas. Kalagan was the
mother of all highlander tribes of Davao areas.

There are Iranuns in some kampongs (communities) in Sabah, Malaysia. Their existence in
the Malaysian Archepilago specifically Sabah was attributed to the request of the Sultan of
Brunie from Sultan Kudarat of reinforcement to augment his forces to defend his sovereign
against invaders. The reinforcement was composed of Iranun warriors. After the defeat of the
invaders, the Sultan of Brunie offered them a portion of his sovereign sultanate for them to
live as an expression of friendship and gift for them. The warriors got their their families and
transfer their residence and citizenship to Brunie Darussalam. They lived there. Their
descendants are the identified Iranuns in Sabah.
Uranen Kingdom whose seat of government was in Tbok had foreign contacts with the Sri
Vishaya and Majapahet Empires. According to the oral tradition of the Iranun, their
relationship was focused on education based on the system of their time. The type/system of
education was more on mystical and rituals. Iranun during that civilization was experts in the
languages of the two Malayan Empires. Some of the reading materials of those remote past
are still preserved. Some of the Iranun genealogists stated that the mother of Princess
Pagunguwan, the daughter of Rajah Urangguwan was one of the daughters of the last
Emperor of the Sri Visahya Emperor.

The two Royal Sovereigns shared technical skills especially on warriorship. Out of this
program the Uranen Royal Warriors (armed forces) had been strengthened. Their skill in field
combats and marine skills had improved. It is possible that the skill which was saw and
encountered by the Spaniards attributed to this program.

It is interesting to include in this script the inhabitants of Liusong (Luzon), Aninipay (Panay),
Mactan and other ancient Kingdoms and sovereigns of the primitive past. What is the relation
of Iranun with of the native inhabitants of Liusong, Aninipay, Mactan, and others ancient
sovereigns? With due respect to other authorities in history, oral tradition of the Iranun says
that all existing sovereigns during the ancient period in this country (now Philippines) were
Iranuns. The inhabitants of the Sovereign Maynilad, Tondo, Mactan, Aninipay (Panay) and
the Uranen were all Iranun. Thus Iranun was the original nationality of the people of the
ancient these Islands. They were confederated to each other. Historians only stated that only
the four Sovereigh districts of Aninipay were confederated. The truth was that all existing
Sovereign places during the ancient past were confederated. Their national identity was
Irarun.

The early contacts of the Iranuns with foreign nations (Kingdoms) became the bridge in
improving the way of life of the Uranen Kingdom. Social relationships were established
especially on marriage. The present time tells and shows the existence of the Iranun.

Iranun was the first identified native inhabitants of Mindanaw, which was historians and
scholars failed to mentioned their written works. This perhaps the result of colonization.
Their villages were established along the coastal areas of the present Moro Gulf especifically
Iranun Bay. In some cases, they established their vilages along the river banks (Maynilad and
Tondo as an example; and Katidtuan as in Kutawato area). The present ethnic tribes in
Mindanaw were originated from the Iranun. Iranun as a nationality was destroyed and put
into ruinity because of colonialism. Colonialism dismantled Iranun as a nationality and
introduced words although they were native in implication but they were used as instrument
for colonization.

Iranun like other ancient nations had early contacts with other foreign nation. It had
established a contacts with Sri Vishaya and Madjapahit Empires. It was a sovereign nation.
At present time still considered a major tribe among the ethnic tribes in the Island

Iranun is co-existence of the Aetas (Pygmies) or Negritos of Liusong (Luzon). According to

the oral tradition of the Iranun the size of the typical Iranun was between four (4) feet and
five (5) feet height, an average of 4.5 feet in height. They were originally brown, and
moderately flat nose. Iranun had been intermarriage with the karibang, ( a small size bodied
human bing usually found living near the falls) and karengke ( another small size bodied
human being usually found living in the caves). Other Iranun genealogists say that Iranun
was a cross breed between the migrants from the two big ancient kingdoms (Sri Vishaya and
Majapahit)and the karibang line and karengke line. It was again breed with Arabs during the
advent of the Shariffs.

Iranun had foreign contacts and relations with China (Ming Dynasty). The Uranen Kingdom
sent four (4) of its rajahs, namely; Rajah Batarabuwasan, Rajah Pagarabuwasan,
Maharabuwasan, and Rajah Yuwaharabuwasan. Dr. Sonia Zaide (1985) identified them as
King Prabu, King Mahalchilim, and King Pahala. The four (4) rajahs had been welcomed by
the Emperor Yung Lo of the Ming Dynasty. The civilization of the Chinese was introduced in
the Kingdom through them. Most of the things which were seen by them in the China
beneficial and advantageous to the Kingdom and its people were adopted and it became a part
of the culture of the Iranun. Dresses, ladies style and ornaments (pandara), Brass wares,
costume(loose trouser for women) and other social patterns were adopted from the chinese
people. In warriorship, Iranun had learnt a lot from the chinese. The skill in using bow and
arrow, using kampilan, kris and other ancient weapons were improved. In household likewise
a lot of things had been learnt from the chinese (cooking, embroidery and others) were also
learnt from the chinese.

Iranun had also foreign contacts and relations with India. Iranun learnt more languages in
India including their mystical knowledge. Oral tradition says that many of the medical and
magical knowledges of the Iranun were learnt from the Indian. The ancient formula of
computing the one year days. The ancient Iranun astronomers had computed one year 354
year (leaf year) and 355 days ( common year). They arranged the 12 months by 30 days and
29 days; fifteen days (sbang) and fifteen days (delem). In short astronomical knowledge of
the Iranun were learnt from Indian. This formula was confirmed by the modern science. Thus
the astronomical knowledge of the Iranun during ancient time was accurate because it
survived and rearched the modern era. Medical knowledge ( Katabibtabib) using oration and
medicinal plants were learnt from the Indian people. The civilization of the Iranun had been
improved through foreign contacts and relations (Chinese, Indians, Malays and Arabs)

Rajah Marikudo (Merkat Ado in some version), ruler of Aninipay(Panay) Island wherein the
ten Borneans datus met was an Iranun. Western and Filipino writers (historians) failed to
identify the true identity of the datu. Rajah Merkat Ado was one of the ancient sovereigns
who ruled the island especially Aninipay. As it was described that Iranun was a hospitable
people, Rajah Merkat Ado welcomed them (Borneans) in his sovereign kingdom. Actually a
portion of Aninipay (Panay) probably coastal area was offered by the Rajah for the Bornean
datus to live and establish their villages. Historians said that it was sold to the Bornean datus.
It is contrary to the literature of the Iranun tarsila that the place was not sold but offered as a
sign of friendship and hospitability. To recognize the hospitability of the Iranun in Aninipay
led by Rajah Merkat Ado; Datu Puti, the leader of the Borneans offered marriage with the
daughter of Rajah Merkat Ado. A marriage contract was entered into between the natives and
the Borneans. A dowry was offered and given in terms of one(1) set of golden nicklace and
gold sayap (salakot in some version). After the marriage ceremony, Rajah Merkat Ado asked
an opinion from his Council of Elders the best action in order to reinforce the established
relationship between his realm and the Borneans. The Council of Elders categorically said:
Give the low portion (coastal area) of your territory to your daughter as her part in your
ancestral domain. You transfer and establish your capital and Palace (Turugan) to the inner
part of your territory. Oral tradition says that about one kilometer from sea coast going upper
stream of the Aninipay river the location of the new capital and palace of the Rajah. Datu Puti
and the Princess live harmony with other Borneans(11th century).

The intermarriage between the two Sovereigns (Bornean and Iranun) prospered and expanded
going north direction. Batangas was the first village (community) established. Intermarraige
in the later decades were observed between the native aetas and the breed people. Later on as
decades passed through, the Kingdom of Maynilad and Tondo were established.
The socio-political interactions of the major Asian ancient sovereigns (Majapahit, Sri
Vishaya Empires, Chinese Dysnasties, Indian Kingdom and the Ancient Uranen Kingdom)
sprang out a well breed Iranun which constitutes the Last Uranen Kingdom under Rajah
Urangguwan.

Generally, Iranun was the first identified people who live in the ancient past of the
civilization in this part of the globe. They were the people of the Uranen Kingdom. They
established their villages along the coastal areas of the Iranun Bay and river banks. They were
the people whom the Shariffs met in this Island. The origin of the Iranun people was from
four feet to five feet in height. Their civilization belonged to the primitive civilization.
However they had established contacts and relationship with foreign sovereigns and
kingdoms. The first stage of breed of the Iranun with Shariff Aulia was the breed of Iranun
whom Shariff Kabunsuan was met and later on arranged with them a marriage affinity. This
is the first line of generation among the Iranun where native blood was breed with arab blood.
They called it kia saripan.

Iranun as a People

Iranun was the aborigine and original inhabitants of Mindanaw. They were belonged to the
primitive and prehistory people. They were identified by the Iranun tradition as Karibang and
Karinngki line of descent. These people were analogous with that of the Aetas (Negritoes) of
Luzon and other places. They were breed with the foreign people ( Indonesian, Malays,
Arabs, Indians, and Chinese). Iranun tarsila stated that they were the rapo people (foreigners)
who migrated to the Island thousands of years ago who married the daughters of the different
rajahs in the Island (11th-12th century). These marriage affinal ties sprung the modern
(present) Iranun in the Island.

Government and Succession of Authority

The government of the ancient (prehistory) Iranun was simple but effective. They (rulers) had
one hundred pre cent control over their sovereign. Each engged (community) had its ruler.
They were exercising the Obsolute Monarchial System. Usually, patriarchal line or type
adopted as a procedure of succession. After the father death or resignation, the son
automatically replaces and sits the throne. In some cases, the daughter replaces the father in
the throne. The system was family succession. The ruler was assisted by mantris (cabinets in
the modern times). The legislation was vested in the Council of Elders ( in the mainland the
luwaran or radawan in some version was the example, and Ruma Bitchara in the Lupa Soog).
Thus the government was monarchy and the succession of authority was hereditary.

Relationship With other Villages

The ancient political relations among Iranun villages and principalities was confederation.
Each Iranun village was independent to each other. However they were confederated. There
was no central government. However, their socio-political relationship was very strong. They
had established the so called allied warriors for defense purposes against any foreign attempts
and invasion.

Original Establishment and Location of Iranun Villages

The ancient Iranun erstablished their vilages and communities along the seacoast of the
Iranun Bay in the Moro Gulf (Crab Gulf). In some instances, the ancient Iranun lived along
river banks. These villages expanded in the course of time. Until whitemen came for invasion
and colonization. The villages of the ancient Iranun served at the same time as kuta. The
turugan has a biruar (tower in the modern time) as watch house or guard house. Usually the
biruar was built on the top of a tree or any tall object. The purpose was to oversee the coming
enemy(s). In a hilly places, biruar was built on the top of the hill.

Source of Living and Livelihood

The ancient Iranun were good farmers and fishermen. They were living in the fertile vast land
and sea. They supplement farming and fishing by hunting deers and other wild animals for
their daily needs and consumption. Other source of livelihood was black and gold smith
industry. Ancient Iranun were good blacksmither and gold smither. For women, Iranun were
good waver of mats and malong. The ancient Iranun used barter trading (among themselves
and intervillages). The fishermen exchanged fish to rice/corn/ube and other agriculture
products/crops for their daily consumption. The farmer did the same. Therefore their medium
of exchange in the absence of money was bartering in order to acquire a property or anything
for them to survive.

Costumes and Dresses

Ancent Iranun man were using samping (vernacular for bahag) and sablay (Tsaliko in modern
time), and tubaw. However, ancient Iranun were shoesless. They were not using shoes due to
absence of knowledge on shoemaking. They were footbbeares peeople. For the women,
ancient Iranun were using loose blouses in the primitive style. Later, it was improved when
foreign contacts with the chinese.

Characteristics /Quality(s)/Habits

Ancient Iranun possessed a very hospitable, courteous, respectfull, obedience and other good
qualities. They were brave and good combatant (warrior). They were champion of freedom
and defense. They usually considered their lawfull leaders as second to prophets. All orders
of their leaders were faithfully followed. They were peace-maker and loving people. They
were good friend but magnificient enemy in time of war.

System of Education

The ancient Iranun system of education was very simple. There was no school building and
other materials. They used their individual houses as school building and classrooms. The
father was the teacher of the boy children. The father taught his male children on manhood
responsibilities and obligations such as farming, hunting, carpentry, and other manhood
works. Skill on warriorship was the most important training among boy children. For the girl
children, ancient Iranun taught their girl children on motherhood responsibilities and
obligations such as cooking, waving, sewing, embroidery, washing clothes and kitchen
utensils, rearing of children and motherhood works. Kapaningit sa engged ( Love and jealous
of country was inculcated in the minds and hearts of each Iranun minors) by their teacher
(mother).

Each Iranun minor was trained to love the country. Love of country was the noblest act. They
emphasized that country emanates all aspects of humanity. Iranun people were good nation
makers. Both man and woman were required to study nationalism and patriotism. Thus the
system of education of the ancient Iranun was simple. The emphasis was focus on love of
country and humanity.

Literature
Ancient Iranun was identical with that of the Darangan Period. Some Iranun geneanologists
say that Darangan Period was one of the periods of the ancient Iranun. The hero of the
Darangan was Rajah Bantugen. The seat of the government was in Benbaran (situated in the
north west of Bukidnon) near Wao. It was a name of a civilization of people during ancient
time. The civilization was more on mystic and rituals activities. The Darangan was composed
of decades with different episodes. It described most the characteritics of the Iranun as
people. The true meaning of love and wisdom, leadership, livelihood (economics and
industry) socio-political, humanity and other good quality and characteristics were described
in the episodes of Darangen. Iranun oral tradition say that Darangan as a civilization was
composed of six (6) federal states which Bembaran was the capital. These federal states were:
Da Madiar a Linog, Sawlaya A Salg, Daguwatan sa Oray, Pindulunan sa Ragat, Sadurog ko
Marandang, and Bembran. Their rulers were Batara Mangadka, Batara Mapalala Makaug,
Batara Bakuludan sa Waki, Batara Lumuday sa Barat, Batara Tundugen, Batara Rinawraw
Tubpaan, and Batara Bantugen respectively. The cabinets were: Daranda, Mabaning, and
Lumbatan. The adore and beloved princess was Princess Lawanen.

Iranun has many bayoks. Usually the oldfolks/elders during those times were using bayok in
their communication. Examples of these bayoks are: Biwang Kawanan Tinday o Pagilidan
Pipandaraan, Iranun Pipparasan, Ranaw Gilanggumilang, Maguindanao rawaten, Slangan da
marimbang which connotes nobility and maharlika. Others like: Pidzan pagzir so ganding na
so kapanganonen bo na maliwanag den sa dar which means hospitability and courteousness.
Benar e rinaw so ragat na sisirungen a barat so karante o alongan which means problems and
sorrows.

The principal village ( principality) was Benbaran, the capital of the Darangan civilization,
wherein the Turugan (royal house) was established. Turugan was the official residence and
court of the Ayunan Pangadapen O Inayunan O Kampong sa Ilian a Benbaran ( Official
Royal Court of the Most Respected and Honored Leader of Benbaran), His Majesty Ayunan
Pangadapen Pasandalan A Murog, the great ruler. All important matters either personal or
non personal business transactions were done in the Turugan. Other villages (principalities)
were Bugabong A Kumara, the village of Her Majesty Paramata Gandingan. Bugabong A
Kumara was civilized as Benbaran. Iranun experts in Darangan say that Benbaran and
Bugabong A Kumara were equal and parallell. Sarbaka Kilaten, Gamaniyog were states of
Bugabong a Kumara.
Music, Musical Instrument and Plays

Darangen as a song was the most popular name or title of a song during the Darangan Period.
Darangen as a title of a song described the entire civilization. Man and woman knew very
well to perform/sing darangen. Darangen as a song was usually sang at night. Bayok was
another name of a song which usually performed by two or three performers. The Mranaw
sometimes called Kambayoka. The performers were called Unur. Mamayog was another
name of a song, performed by one gentleman and one lady. The mamayog described the
loyalty and courteousness of a husband to his wife during the ancient Iranun (Darangen
Period). Some Iranun folks identified another song entitled Darangen a Babay (Most Beloved
and Adored Lady) was commonly sang/ performed in the Slangan Principality. Princess
Tinabon was the star who was being described in the song.

The kulintang, agong, gandingan, pamindira, and dibakan were usually and commonly used
as musical instrument. It was called in the Iranun as Lima A mamagenesupa (Lima Ka
Daragia in Ranaw). This musical instruments were usually used during fiest day or durangna
(wedding ceremony). During the ancient time, Lima Ka Mamagenesupa was used also during
rituals. Kutyapi (Kudyapi in some version), palendag, suling, kubing were among the musical
instruments during the ancient time in the Iranun civilization. Generally, all the person who
reach the maturity stage of human development knew to use and play these instruments.
Sagayan was a stage play which usually performed by young man describing the skill and
bravery of the Iranun warriors. The sagayan was usually performed during rituals. Sagayan
was usually performed by two young men. Minors can do it. In some Iranun wedding
fiest/ceremony, sagayan was being performed in the kakuyog sa damak (damak is a cooked
sweet foods deliver to the house of the bride from groom house) and in the procession
( kuyog) of the groom. It was usually put ahead of the parade. Sagayan during wedding
ceremony is accompanied by an unta (it is look like a camel played and manipulated by a
youngman to move). Kulintang (Lima A Mamagenesupa) was being play as a music of the
procession. Sinulog was a kulintang tune usually used as a music in the procession.

Wedding Fiest/Ceremony

During the ancient Iranun, wedding fiest/ceremony was a long process. Parental system was
the usual practice. Iranun usually practice maharlika system. The man who was belonged to
the ruling family of the village marries the daughter of the ruling family of other village
(Prince is for Princess Principle).
Iranun wedding process undergoes four stages. These stages were: panunuriman
(observation), pangingidong (Whispering) from the kakamaman side (groom side),
sarangguni (actual negotiation of the two parties facilitiated by other group, usually the
Council of Elders of the bride family), and gurangna (wedding ceremony). In some cases,
sarangguni and gurangna were fused into one. It depends on the negotiation.

During the ancient Iranun, dowry (sunggodan/btang/btad sa adat) was term of material not
money, for example: land/lot, bulawan (gold), and other valuable materials (animals). In
some cases uripin (slaves were accepted as dowry or even the entire sovereign of the groom
father served as dowry in case of a single child). After signing of contract between the two
parties, the groom was granted to court and talked/'invite the bride to ocassion with one
chaperon. The groom was granted to sleep in the house of the bride. Wedding ceremony
among maharlika (ruling family) was full of decors (pandara). There were activity (siapa sa
manggis, kulintang contest, and other wedding activities were observed) to give honor and
respect to the royal wedding.

The common class (kadakelan) used only sambulayang with no flag and pamanay. The uripin
has no wedding ceremony. The ruling family used the complete set of pandara (pasandalan,
sambulayang with flag at the top of the pole, ubor-ubor, and pamanay). Usually bright colors
were used (red,green and yellow). Among the ancient Iranun red means bravery, green means
sovereign, and yellow means ruling family. These colors were only used and attributed to the
ruling family.

Properties and Inheritance

The whole sovereign (integral territory) of each village (kampong) belonged to the Datu. The
property would be inherited by the legitimate heir(s) including rulership. The
kadakilan(commoner) can possessed properties subject to bues (tax in the modern time). The
uripin (slave) cannot possessed properties because themselves were the property of the datu.
The property(s) of the kadakilan (commoner) would be inherited by their heirs.

Laws
The ancient Iranun used customary laws. Usually the council of elders were the drafter of the
customary laws. The draft was presented in the followers during fiest days. In ancient
Aninipay the Code of Kalantiaw was formulate and odopted. In the ancient Iranun radawan
(Code of Models) was formulated. The Radawan defined and described socio-political,
family relations, religious/spiritual, and others which would be observed and followed. There
were process involved in the implementation of laws especially in court: baina, amad, karina,
matakapala (clarity, justification, suspect and testified respectively).

Religion

The religion of the ancient Iranun was greatly influenced by the state religion of Sri Vishaya
and Madjapahit Empires. The arrival of Shariff Aulia gave a significant effect to the religion.
Sufism as a belief was introduced. Thus they became a Muslim-Sufie.

Supertitious Belief

The ancient Iranun had many supertitious beliefs. The examples were: eclipse, black
butterfly, snakes enters the house and others. There were about hundreds of supertitious
beliefs of the Iranun. Tunung was identified to be a powerful spirit.

Language

The ancient language of the Iranun was originated from the Malayo-Polynesian Language of
the Pacifics. In course of time most of the original language of the Iranun were modified due
influence of other language. The original language used in the Darangan was an Iranun
language. The original language had been modified due to: conquest, intermarriage with
foreign nation, adoption, and duplication. Out these factors the present language evolved. The
present Iranun language is generally accepted as medium of communication in Mindanaw
except Lupah Suog. The present Muslim can understand Iranun. Thus Iranun is the mother
language of the Muslims in Mindanao.

Writing

The ancient alphabets of the Iranun were patterned in India. The system of writing was one of
the good achievements of the Iranun during its foreign contacts with the Indian people.
Although it was primitive, the Iranun have their own system of writing. This system of
writing was influenced and gradually changed to the present system patterned from the arabs.
They called it kirim. The kirim was looked like sometimes a bird, a tree, a roof, and cloud-
shape.

Arts

The ancient Iranun has its own arts. The most popular one until the present time is the ukir
( engraving naga). The ukir is used almost furnitures and fixtures of the Iranun including
houses. The bawor (cabenit or apparador now a days) has an ukir differrent forms and
patterned. Sarimanok is another type of ukir during the ancient Iranun which was passed
generation to generation. Most of the museums and libraries now a days have these arts
displayed.

Science and Math

The ancient Iranun were good scientists of their time. They were astronomers. They name
heavenly bodies as: makabangis, sulo a mangangayaw, manok, madakel, laya. They arranged
the twelve months (12) to 30 days and 29 days. Therefore there are three hundred fifty four
(354) day in one year (common year) and three hundred fifty five (355) leaf year. They
divided one month into two groups: Sbang and delem. They used heavenly bodies as
compass. They can determine west, east, south, north by the used of the heavenly bodies at
night. Their knowledge in astronomy and navigation was older than the knowledge of the
western people (Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and others). There were eight (8) tahons, five (5)
kutika, and eight (8) bintang. All these are instruments of the ancient Iranun in compution.
Even they were in the mid of the forest, they can calculate low or high tide through this
knowledge in science. In Mathematics/arithmetic, gibo (thousand), laksa (one hundred
thousand), pandang (million of thousasands).

They had also a system of counting. They used riray system. Some of the mathematical
terminology were: laksa, salaksa, laksalaksa, yuta, sayuta,sayutayuta. All these were few
among their mathematical terminologies. Arabic numerals and system of counting including
mathematical nomenclature were introduced and adopted during the Shariffs period. Thus a
modification was observed.

Territorial Defense

The ancient Iranun were good defenders of their territory and freedom. They consider any
individual or group who do not signifying its interest to enter the Iranun territory (both sea
and land) as enemy. Coordination (Pagtaw) was very important to them. To them (Iranun)
when you enter the territory of the other sovereign without coordination was considered sin
and unlawful. The invasion and other marine activity of the Spaniards and its allied
forces/group/tribe were considered unlawful. Out of this concept, Iranun warriors were forced
to drive out through drastic action (by force) all groups or individuals who attempt to enter
their territory without prior notice of friendship. Their defense tactics and mechanisms were
misconceptualized and misunderstood by filipino and western authors. Filipino and foreign
writers described Iranun as pirates. They were not pirates. They only defend their territories
against invasion of foreigners.

Iranun in the Shariffs Period

Uranen Kingdom was the first kingdom ever had in the ancient period (prehistory). It was the
mother of all kingdoms established after decades or centuries. Shariff Aulia was the first arab
muslim with missionary works who stepped-foot and landed in the Uranen Kingdom (Tbok
was the seat of government). He married the native princess named Bai Pagunguwan (Iranun
tradition identified her as Bai sa Pandan). Out of their wedlock, they begot the four rajahs
(Makaapen, Dungklang, Maraguia, and Budtol). The introduction of the belief brought into
the Kingdom through Shariff Aulia was the first stage of the Iranun civilization recorded in
history. The old belief was gradually changed to what is present belief of the Muslims in the
world. The system of government, socio-economic, trade and industry and other walks of life
were improved and strengthened. The primitive system of government was changed to more
structurized system. The Caliphate was introduced described as Sultanate System.

Iranun tarsila say that Makaapen married Lingayen, a daughter of the property custodian of
Rajah Urangguwan begot Princess Angintabu. The Princess was married by Shariff
Kabunsuan (1475). Out of their wedlock, they begot Saripada Makaalang. Saripada
Makaalang married his first cousin name Princess Pidsarawdan, a daughter of Rajah
Dungklang, begot Saripada Bankaya. Saripada Bankaya married a lady of Lupah Suog named
Princess Sri Pangyan Mampay Laila begot Saripada Raut (laut in some version) Buisan begot
Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat, the strongest and has a longest term of realm among the Iranun
sultans. It is interesting to note that the term saripada was used as prefix three times before
the given names: Makaalang, Bankaya, and Raut. The term has a Malayan origin probably a
term existing and used during the two big empires (Sri Vishaya and Madjapahit). It connotes
ruler or nobility. Thus it was a royalty title used during the ancient period of political
structure which is equivalent to Sultan (Surutan in Iranun version).

The introduction of sultanate system gradually changed the rajahship (primitive system
patterned from ancient (prehistory system of government) to more advanced political system.
Iranun as a people with distinct nationality entered into a neolistic civilization called Shariff
Period. The Iranun accepted the Ideology introduced by the Shariffs.

Iranun During Sultanate System

It was presented in the preceeding paragraphs that the two identified Shariffs (Aulia and
Kabunsuan) intermarraige with the Iranun Rajah families ( Rajah Urangguwan and Rajah
Makaapen respectively). Out of this social relationship, the new socio-political practices was
merged and developed. The offspring of Shariff Aulia-Princess Pagunguwan was
intermarriage in the later decades with the offspring of Shariff Kabunsuan-Princess
Angintabu. Out of this mixed and interwaved bloodline of descent sprang a royalty lineage of
decendant. Sultan Kudarat, the first native ruler used Sultan as a royal political title and
authority eas of Iranun-Shariff line of descent with a blood sprang from the Karibang-
Karingke line of descen. Out of these facts, it is safe to say that the first Sultan of the native
breed from the Iranun-Shariff line belonged to the Uranen Kingdom which exercised its
sovereign authority and power over the Crab Gulf (Moro Gulf) with concentration in the
Iranun Bay. Thus Rajah Urangguwan of the ancient past (prehistory) and Sultan Kudarat of
the Shariff period (Sultanate System)were the fathers of the royal line of descent among the
native inhabitants. Out of these facts all claimants of royalty line of descent are all descended
from Iranun-Shariff marriage affinal ties

Sultan Kudarat realm was a continuation of the ancient political system spearheaded by Rajah
Urangguwan. The seat of the former government was in Ramitan (Lamitan in the Filipino
authors). It is one of the barangays of the municipality of Sultan Gumander, Lanao del Sur in
the present geographical political division. Ramitan was the first seat of government led by
Sultan Kudarat. The seat of government of the latter was in Tbok. Tbok is one of the
barangays of the municipality of Malabang, Lanao del Sur in the present geographical
political division. It is interesting to note that the two capitals (seat of governments) are
neigbors. Sultan Gumander and Malabang are only separated by Picong River and both
situated and located along the sea coast of the Iranun Bay of the Crab Gulf ( LayaganGulf).

Iranun During Spaniah Invasion

The first recorded Spanish invasion in the Mindanao (Uranen) was on 1596. This was led by
Capt. Figueroa. Figueroa was killed during the fight. The gesture and action of the Spaniards
was considered by the native Iranuns as aggression and and invasion. The Council of Elders
unanimously agreed to adopt a technique for effective defense against the Spaniards. The top
executives namely Rajah Raut Buisan, Rajah, Sirungan, and Rajah Tagal suggested to the
Council to launch a counter offensive. The proposal was approved. They attacked Visayas
islands, Mindoro, Bicolandia, and Southern Tagalog. The counter offensive of the natives
was misconceptualized by the Spanish and Filipino historians. They described it as piratic
activity. This is not true and uncorrect. The natives had just adopt an effective technique for
defense purposes. They only defended their sovereign state and nation against foreign
invasion. he counter attacked were launched in 1599, 1600, and 1602.

Change of System From Kingdomship to Sultanate

Meanwhile, in the year 1617, Kingdomship was officially changed to Sultanate System. The
first ruler of the new system was Kudarat, the son of Rajah Raut Buisan. His renal name was
His Majesty Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan Kabunsuan Urangguwan. He established his seat of
government at Ramitan (now a barangay of Sultan Gumander, Lanao del Sur).

Invasion Continued

On March 13, 1637 (Zaide), Governor Corcuera invaded Ramitan. The native inhabitants
fearlessly defended their territory against the Superpower Spain. The Sultan retreated in the
inner portion of Ramitan. He moved to Dapaw Lake for a week. The Council of Elders
agreed to the proposal of the Sultan to transfer his Court (capital) at Magulaling, Balabagan,
Lanao del Sur. In this seat of government, the Sultan was able to expand his sovereign
powers and authority. The villages and communities within the Crab Gulf (Moro Gulf) and
the inner parts of the Island, except Surigao and Agusan. He established socio-political
alliances with the local (kampong) leaders and foreign nations like Brunie Darussalam, Java,
Makassar, Sumatra, Lahore, Singapore, China, and India. He was able to mobilize all sectors
of the Uranen Sultanate.

Iranun in the Height of the Divide-and-Rule Technique

After the death of Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan Kudarat Kabunsuan Urangguwan, the Divide-
and-Rule Technique was applied by the colonizers (Spaniards and Dutch). Sultan Tahiruddin
Malinog was supported by the Dutch. On the other side, Sultan Manamir was supported by
the Spaniards for supremacy. Rivalry in the succession issue was the gate to divide the native
Iranuns. The whole Sultanate was divided into two groups (Malinog group and Manamir
group). This was the beginning of the subdivisioon of the native inhabitants. This also leads
to some corrupt use words, and colonial terms although native but it implied destructions.
Here are some examples of corrupt use of terms and words: Luzon (Liusong), Panay
(Aninipay), Visayas (Vishaya), Tagalog (Taga- ilog), Illana (Iranun), Zambonga
(Samboangan), Lanao (Ranaw), and many others.

Iranun During American Regime

It was described that more than three centuries, the native Iranun fought for defense. They
were not not conquered until the time of signing of the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898
which ended the Spanish-American War for Supremacy. The Royal Government of Spain
ceded all the controlled territories and exercised its power and authority to United States of
America.The present Mindanaw, Palawan, and Sulu were not included in the Treaty because
they were not conquered.

The Americans amplified and use the same technique (Divide-and-Rule). They only
improved and strengthened the technique used by the Spaniards. hey used words which
connotes places in order to deceive the native. With due respect to some historians,
Maguindanao as a name of a place which connotes a traditional name which is implying
sovereignty is not correct. It is used and amplified by the Americans to destroy the original
place which implies sovereignty the SLANGAN DA MARIMBANG which means Slangan
the original and has no equal.

Cotabato, Lanao, Zamboanga, Davao are all colonial term used, applied and amplified by the
colonizers (Americans) to destroy the tradition of the native. The original was Slangan,
Ranaw, Samboangan, Tagalook respectively.

Effect of Colonization

The most destructive effect of the colonization to the Iranun and Uranen as a nation and state
respectively was deception to the next generation. Spanish writers and historians (Pigafetta)
wrote a wrong information and data. He described the native inhabitants whom Magellan met
as Moores (a nation whom they encountered in war in Africa). This people has the same
quality and ability in combat with the native inhabitants of the Island. Thus Pigaffeta baptized
the Iranuns as Moores. Later the term Moores was corruptly used by other writers- the
present form Moro. The usage of the term Moro to refer the native inhabitants in the Island
was amplified by the American writers. Thus the original nation and state - Iranun and
Uranen respectively were forgotten in the annal of history of the Island.

The colonization has contributed much to the introduction of western culture, belief, customs,
practices, and others aspects of life which were harmful and destructive to the culture,
tradition, belief, practices of the Iranun as a native inhabitants. The political system was
introduced which caused to the gradual modification of the political system of the natives.
The socio-political system of the Iranun was totally destroyed suring the American regime.
The Americans organized the Moro province for the purpose of total elimination of the
residues and remains of the past civilization enjoyed by the native inhabitants from the
ancient Uranen Kingdom down to Uranen Sultanate led by His Majesty Sultan Mohammad
Dipatuan Kudarat Kabunsuan Urangguwan. Thus introduction of Cotabato, Lanao, Davao,
Zamboanga, and Sulu was a strategy of the colonizer to eliminate the truth. Cotabato, Lanao,
Davao, Zamboanga, and Sulu were native in connotation but colonization by intention.

Many terms and words which were corruptly introduced and used for colonization purposes.
The examples of these words are: Dagiangas, later it becomes Dagiangas later on it was
changed to General Santos. Tacudong it was modified to Tacurong, Kutawato, later on it was
modified to Cotabato. Lupah Suog, later on it was modofied to Sulu, Aninipay, later on it was
modified to Panay. Irong-irong, later on it was modified to Iloilo. Antik, later on it was
modofied to Antique. Tukudan, later on it was modified to Tucuran, Pangagian, later on it
was modified to Pagadian. Marges a ig, laterlater on it was modified Margosatubig,
Kumaladang, later on it was modified to Kumalarang. Padampadang, later on it was modified
to Parang and many others. All of these are colonization srategy.

The foremost effect of the colonization to the Iranun natives was the so called colonial
mentality. The mental or intellectual skill of the native becomes dependent and submissive to
the western and americans. The Iranun natives become nothing and mentally slave of the
foreign education. Therefore, conquest and colonization were the root caused of the problem
in the Island (Palawan, Sulu, and Mindanao: Pandawan, Lupah Suog, Uranen of the ancient
past respectively). Therefore the colonization wiped out everything.

What is Iranun?

Iranun as a word/term is composed two words which were joined together to formed a word
with distinct interpretation and description. The word/term IRA means remains, residue, or
silt. These word/term may refer to a place or area which was formed out of a long process
evolved from remains or residual process that caused a formation of a place. NUN means
people with distinct culture, laws, belief, tradition, of residual and remains process. It implies
all places predominantly inhabited by the Iranun was a water millions of years ago which
gradually becomes a land/soil through residual process. Thus, the territory of the Uranen
Kingdom was a water which gradually becomes a soil for the people to estabilsh their
comunity. Out of this concept, it is hereby described that Iranun is a group of people who
were belonged to the ancient or prehistoric period of civilization which lived and occupied a
certain territory (water in origin) which was formed through a residual or remains (silt)
process thousands of years ago with organized socio-political structure with distinct culture,
belief, custom and tradition. Thus Iranun is a nation not a tribe

Iranun is not a tribe of any nation of the world. It is a nation with defined territory and sphere
of influenced, political structure/system, socio-economic, educational system, culture, belief
and tradition, and other aspects. It was one of the ancient civilized nations in the world. Its
existence and civilization is contemporary with Sri Vishaya and Madjapahit Empires. It was a
nation sprang from a Karingke-Karibang line of descent. Karibang and Kareingke were
analogous with aetas of Luzon. During the Fall of Sri Vishaya Empire many of the people
either family or political group migrated going north until such time that they reached and
landed in the present Iranun Bay (Illana Bay), the center of the primitive people/ native
inhabitants. This group of migrants was identified in the tarsila as Taw sa Guiwa (English
version people of Java). They entered into a social relationship with the Karingke-Karibang
people. Intermerriages were established between the natives and the Javans. Out of this social
process Iranun as a nation sprang. They established their political system KINGDOMSHIP
patterned from Sri Vishaya Political System. The first ruler was Rajah Urannguwan. This
system of government (Kingdomship) last until reign of Rajah Raut Buisan, the father of
Sultan Kudarat.

This nation was destroyed and ruined by colonization. The colonizers like Spain and United
States made a conquest and invasion to expand their territory and sovereignty and introduced
their respective system and way of life. They used force and political strategies to destroy and
dominate the natives. The colonization of the western nations fragmented and divide the
Iranun nation into tribe. Unlike other foreign nations like China, India, and Arabs. They came
not for conquest and invasion but for trade, commerce, education, and religion(spiritual)
aspects. They helped the natives. The civilization of the natives was improved and
strengthened due to the socio-political relationships with China,India and Arab.

The name of the state was Uranen Kingdom, its people was Iranun. The ancient Uranen state
is the Mindanao of the present time. The terrotiry of the Kingdom stretched from Sibugay
Peninsula to Tagalook Gulf with all in-lands areas, except Agusan and Surigao provinces. Its
sphere of influenced reached as far as the present areas of Zamboanga and Misamis
Provinces. The seat of government and center of civilization was in Tbok now a barangay of
Malabang, Lanao sel Sur. Therefore the civilization in the Island started from the coastal area
of the Iranun Bay (Illana Bay). Iranun tarsila named, called, and identified it as Biwang-
Kawanan Tinday A Batal O Pagilidan (literarily translated as Left and Right Huge Coastal
Principalities), in political interpretation say traditional name is translated as Kingdom of the
Sea Coast, which refer to Uranen Kingdom, the official name.

The Iranun Kuntao (Martial Arts)

Ron Kosakowski-head instructor of Practical Self-Defense Training Center at 847 Hamilton

Ave. Waterbury ,Connecticut 06706, school Address had made a strong effort to be in the
Philippines to joint the Blademaster Camp along with the leadership of Mandala Tim WAid
and members of the PTGO from other starts including the delegation from Argentina-Buenos
Aires, Latin America. for ten days of tedious training at Puerto Galera, Island of Mindoro the
fun and the thrill of training along the green beaches of Puerto Galera was so tempting that
for a days training , every one is looking for the next day of more training. The sea water that
soaks into a chilled bodies who were used to absorb icy cold weather turned to red color like
a cooked shrimp. While the day was hot , the evening was lively hearing the dancing music
that goes with the dancing lights along the long line of restaurants and drinking night
clubs.But the end was not the last thing to do for Ron. His desire to seek the authencity of his
Kuntao was keep firing into his nerves that since his teacher in Kuntao Master Joe Rossi was
not able to identify his teacher of kuntao while he was in his military mission in the
Philippines, Ron's was not satisfied what he learn but wants to know the real contents of
Rossi's Kuntao. He found an opportunity to be in the Philipines to check his Kuntao. So I
arrange that he can meet the original kuntaos in the Island of Mindanao, particularly in the
Province of Maguindanao. This is the Province where the MILF_MNLF, Bansang Moro and
the Abu Sayaf operates as their heaven for training and take off point for special missions. At
the center of the Province is the sitio called Pekit-maybe related to Pekiti. This is a
community of combine Muslim and Ilongo Christian co-exist but in between was a
demarcation line where the muslim cannot cross and for the Christian not to cross. On top of
the valley was the Military and other portion is the Police Special Action Force Commando
Fortress surrounded with cemented wall and a observatory tower. Down below we can use
telecopes to view the Muslim renegades cleaning their barong and M-16. From Davao city
where we landed a two hour flight from Metro Manila together with Rommel, Denis, Ron
and myself, at the airport the Air Marshalls stationed in DAvao airport ,our first graduate of
the 54 strong air marshall that graduated in the Covert Escort Security Service for National
Air Carrrier ( CESSNA)FINAL qualification training conducted at Camp Castaneda, Silang
Cavite from November 14 to December 2005.extended a special courtesy with providing us a
WElcome reception , a good taste of Davao food.In the afternoon at 3:00PM the special
action force commandos arrived , joined us for a coffee break . We exchange pleasantries and
we moved to ride on a big Toyata truck with police sign . eight SAC team fully armed to the
teeth with m-203 grenade rockets plus four of us depart Davao Province bound for Cotabato (
Maguindanao). As the sun bound to sunset , the darkeness was teachery because according to
the Major of the SAC , told us just in case of assault and firing starts just duck . We are
expecting ambushes along this highway about 120 kilometers to the point of destiny. Along
the highway were several military check points and once in awhile the MILF or MNLF
( Bansang Moro) put up their own check points on a very remote parts of the highway and
that is where the rock and roll starts. So the Major said , in case of ambush just take cover and
lay flat on the floor of the truck while we take care of the rest. One of our guys said , if I
know this I won't come with you guys. So I asked the Major, do you have extra rifles and he
said I have a 9mm Jericho pistol but during the exchange of fire, if one of the guys is hit just
pick up the M-16 and use it and keep firing. Ron sitting in front seat together with Dennis and
the Driver, while me and Rommel joined the SAC team on the top of the truck.Luckily we
arrived at Pekit fortress at about 1:00pm after midnight. We rested on a improvished housing
by the Police, of course the normal military beds and mosquito nets. We were together in one
place while the other team member were scathered outside as guards. The morning came and
we had a good view of the wide tract of land. The Major explained to us that any piece of
land that you see without rice plantation or the land is empty that is muslim property. But a
piece of small land with rice and some trees that is owned by the Christians. So we asked
why, because the tribes here just wants to fight but not to work for their lands. But once the
christian is about to harvest his rice field they will ask a part because they said it is their land
owned by their forefathers.

Comes in the afternoon, the Major had arranged ahead of time that the highest man of Kuntao
can come to the Police camp and can show the Kuntao. According to the messenger this old
man a grandmaster of kuntao Iranon can crash a stone with hands, an 80 year old man. Before
sunset two messengers came to the camp on a friendly manner talked to the major and other
SAC officers and I spoke to the messenger for the arrangement of the coming to the camp ,
short ceremony about kuntao and possibly for Ron to be recognized. But when the messenger
saw Ron, they changed their mind instead that they are willing to have the ceremony at the
village where the Muslim community and the muslim family can hold the presentation. So we
didn't accept because Ron's head will be very costly maybe a good price on his head. So at
2:00 AM early in the morning we moved out with additional team members of the SAC
bound for Malaybalay Bukidnon. Leaving Maguindanao was removing a fish bone in ones
throat. So we travelled until we reached the town of Valencia where we had our breakfast and
met the relatives of the Major, we were given a tour of the land owned by one of the ancestral
DAtu of another friendly tribe of Bukidnon who owned 70,000 hectares of land in his own
family title. He showed us his mountains, valleys and plateaus . An excellent place to live in
peace.

We continued to travel the whole day until we reached Cagayan De Oro where we can take
our flgiht to Manila via Philippine Airlines. At the airport every woman with a face covered
with Muslim traditions were staring at Ron since I think they saw a white man inside the
Muslim airport. But the flight was comfortable and we had a good time landed in domestic
airport in good laughing style.
WikiAnswers

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_traditions_of_the_iranun_tribes

The Muslim IRANUN Nation (Uranen Kingdom): The Iranun Nation in the Philippines

Source; http://mnlf.net/History/The%20Maguindanao%20Sultanate.htm
IRANUN
Submitted By:

Malinao, Reynan

Esmar, Edlyn

Submitted to:

Prof. Thor Domato

Date: December 19, 2022