Torogan replica from outoftownblog.com

Lanao del Sur is the epitome of unexplored natural beauty and rich culture. Situated in the upper central region of Mindanao island, it is a mountainous terrain of thirty-nine (39) municipalities and one city. Apart from being mistaken as the idle Levant of the south, this peaceful land mass continues to prove its high potential for both tourism and agro-aqua economic progress. The intrinsically vast natural resources and the hospitable character of its people are among its best features.

It traces its origin in an area near the lake, thus the name “Lanao.” This prefecture practically ensures a splendid travel and visit to its scenic spots. The major inhabitants of the area are the M’ranaos or people by the lake. However, this district, having Marawi City as its capital, remains to be a melting pot of cultures in the south. Marawi City houses a shopper’s paradise called the “Padian,” or literally defined as a market. On this side of the town, you can find the most brilliant quality and beautifully colored satin and silk clothes used for the Muslim wardrobe and apparels.

This is also where a vast array of imported Asian wares competes for attention with local handicrafts such as brass; woodcarving and woven products. It is, as a matter of fact, comparable to Thailand’s prominent bazaar. There are reminders of its exotic past all over the place as a trading port where Malays and other Asian tribes used to barter with the locals. You will likewise get to enjoy the so-called Summer Capital of the South with its cool and comforting breeze. The Mindanao State University is also situated here.

Among the renowned municipalities of Lanao del Sur is Tugaya where inhabitants are mostly craftsmen and artisans of various pursuits. Each household specializes in some form of art or craft that is part of traditional Maranao culture: back-strap loom weaving, tapestry weaving, and other kinds of handmade textile manufacture; foundry casting of various forms of brass or bronze vessels, instruments, and decorative items; wood-carving and mother-of-pearl in-lay work; metalwork and silver- and gold-smithery - all of which utilizes the traditional Maranao form of decoration called “Okir.”

Bask in Lanao’s virgin and significantly uncharted forests, springs, river streams and the impressive spectacle of the lakeside in the municipalities of Tamparan, Taraka, Bayang, Madalum, Balindong, Masiu, Lumbatan, Butig and Bacolod-Kalawi. As you navigate around Lake Lanao, you will see the architectural splendor of the M’ranao Torogan or Royal Houses and other forms of traditional houses especially in the areas of Tuca and Masiu.

With the influence of neighboring Asian cultures, Lanao del Sur highlights a spellbinding culture of music through  its globally acclaimed metal works like the flat metal sheets, sturdy and solid metal M’ranao Kulintang ensemble gong instruments, including the “gandingan” and “agong”.

On top of all the remarkable features of this province is the legendary Sultanate system of the locality that established the royal and noble beginnings of the neighboring municipalities. In addition, Lanao del Sur prides itself in having the largest dome in the country, the Islamic Center of the Philippines and even the tallest minarets.

The province, led by Gov. Mamintal “Bombit”  Alonto Adiong, Jr and his wife Raifa, remains a treasure of unique ethnicity and untouched natural resources.  So, indulge yourself and learn the intricacies of  M’ranao life.