Shariff Kabunsuan Festival kicks off in Cotabato City

Cotabato City on 15 December kicked off a week-long celebration of its Shariff Kabunsuan Festival, which showcases rich cultural heritages and Islamic legacies on values, norms and traditions of the mainland Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

This year's theme, "One heritage, one culture, endless possibilities," highlights inclusivity, solidarity and unique traditions among tri-people communities in the Bangsamoro region including Moro, Christians and Indigenous peoples.

Cotabato City, regarded as BARMM's crown jewel, commemorates the introduction of Islam by Shariff Mommad Kabunsuan in the islands of Mindanao.

Kabunsuan is one of the most revered Muslim missionaries from Johore, Malaysia who brought Islamic cultural legacies, commerce and trade, particularly in Maguindanao and Lanao.

Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao led the reenactment of the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan in the Philippines through the rivers of Rio Grande de Mindanao.

The festival runs from 15 to 19 December with a series of events including an Inawl Fashion Show, Qur'an reading exhibition, and "Guinakit" fluvial parade in the Tamontaka River.

The festival will also promote locally manufactured products of various tribes in Cotabato City and in the Bangsamoro region.