Growing up in Lumbatan, a serene town nestled deep within Lanao del Sur, remains one of the most treasured chapters of my life. My childhood was filled with endless moments of happiness, surrounded by my loving parents and a close-knit network of cousins.

Lumbatan, with its natural allure and tranquil pace of life, has left an everlasting imprint on my soul. Returning here after all these years fills me with a profound sense of nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for the place that shaped who I am today.

From the higher regions of the town, a sweeping vista awaits — one that has stayed in my memory for as long as I can remember. From this vantage point, Lake Lanao unfurls in its full grandeur, its placid waters mirroring the wide, open sky. Though the roads leading up to the higher parts of Lumbatan were often rough and challenging, the view from the top made every journey worthwhile.

In those days, the primary mode of transportation was horseback, while boats — locally referred to as “ Awang” — were crucial for connecting the scattered barangays across the lake. I recall with fondness how I eagerly learned to navigate a boat, and how fetching water from the lake became an essential and almost ceremonial task during my younger years.

A cornerstone of pride for our community was the Lanao Agricultural College (LAC), a historic institution that had long been a beacon of education in the province. Founded in 1902 by an American educator named Mr. Smith, in the aftermath of the Battle of Bayang, LAC was more than just a school — it was a symbol of progress and opportunity.

Growing up, I admired the college, for it was the institution where the region’s elite and brightest minds were nurtured. My mother’s roots trace back to [Macadar] Upper Lumbatan, while my father’s family hails from the lower barangays. Every weekend, the area near the municipal hall would come alive with traders from surrounding municipalities, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere filled with commerce, games of chess and endless conversations. It was a simpler time, when electricity was a rarity, and Petromax lamps illuminated our homes, adding to the charm of those days.

During my younger years, traveling between Lumbatan and Marawi was often done by small boats called lansa, which carried us across the waters of Lake Lanao. Life moved at a more leisurely pace back then, and the bonds between families and neighbors were genuine and strong.

Peace brings progress

The time eventually came when we left Lumbatan, marking a pivotal moment in my life. My uncle was the mayor at the time (undivided Lumbatan), and after his term ended, our family relocated to a different “Lumbayanague.” That quiet village, once humble and unassuming, has since grown into the municipality of Lumbayanague, a new home that has ushered in a fresh start for all of us.

Years later, I had the privilege of reconnecting with the current mayor of Lumbatan, Mayor Allan Lao. As he was nearing the completion of his third term, I sat down with him to learn about the changes and progress that had taken place in the town. One significant challenge he mentioned was the long-standing issue of “rido,” or clan feuds, which had plagued the area for generations. However, through consistent dialogue and outreach, Mayor Lao worked tirelessly to bridge the divides and create a more peaceful and stable environment for the people. His dedication to improving Lumbatan is evident, especially in his focus on enhancing public health and government services. Under his leadership, the town has become drug-free, a remarkable achievement in itself. But his major legacy is the government center located at Bo. Pantar. Amazing.

Cultural treasures

During our conversation, I asked about the places that had remained steadfast in their importance to the town. His pride in Lumbatan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage was evident as he mentioned several key locations.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, the Minanga Camping and Trekking Grove in Barangay Minanga offers an ideal setting for both relaxation and adventure. Meanwhile, the Budi Lakeside Wild Animals Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a peaceful setting where animals roam freely and visitors can enjoy the stunning lakeside views.

Another source of pride for Lumbatan is the preservation of the Lanao Agricultural College. As one of the oldest educational institutions in Lanao del Sur, LAC continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region. It stands as a symbol of knowledge and progress, having produced many of the Maranao community’s most influential figures.

Mayor Lao also made efforts to preserve the Old Municipal Town Hall, a historical building dating back to the American colonial period before World War II. Located in Barangay Dagook, by the lakeside, the town hall is regarded as one of the oldest in all of Mindanao. As he shared photographs of the hall with me, memories of my childhood came flooding back — the visits I would make with my father, admiring the building’s colonial architecture and reflecting on its place in the town’s history.

One of the more recent developments in Lumbatan is the establishment of the Lumbatan Shooting Range, located in Barangay Dagook. Opened in 2017 in celebration of the town’s centennial, the shooting range provides a modern recreational outlet for the local community. For someone who has witnessed Lumbatan evolve over the years, this new addition represents the town’s ability to grow and modernize while staying true to its roots.

As I look back on my own journey and the time I spent in Lumbatan, I am reminded of all the town has given me. It nurtured me in my youth and continues to shape who I am today. This town, with its simple beauty and rich history, will forever be a part of my identity. And as I continue my path in life, I carry with me the lessons, memories, and the enduring spirit of Lumbatan.