LANAO DEL SUR — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur has opened its monthlong 67th founding anniversary celebration, a festival highlighting cultural heritage, community services and local economic development.

The celebration, titled “Pakaradiyaan” o Sarimanok 2026, launched Saturday at the Capitol Gymnasium.

Opening ceremonies included the unveiling of the Ranaw Heritage Village on the capitol grounds, an exhibition showcasing the distinct agricultural products, traditional crafts, and delicacies of the province’s municipalities.

“This is a celebration for all of us — not just a government program, but a gathering of every Maranao,” Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. said during his keynote address. “It is our chance to take pride in our culture, support local talent, and show the best of what Lanao del Sur has to offer.”

Among the exhibits is a display from the town of Piagapo featuring fresh strawberries and value-added goods from Barangay Gacap.

The agricultural initiative grew from five initial seedlings provided by a Mindanao State University extension program into three functional livelihood farms.

“What began as a small project has transformed lives,” said Nabel “Nul” Guiama, the town’s information officer. “These are families once affected by conflict, including the Marawi Siege. Today, strawberry farming has become a tool to rebuild their community and secure a better future.”

The festival lineup throughout July includes Ranaw Serbisyo Day, a multi-agency caravan offering medical, dental, and optical services alongside cash assistance for senior citizens and single parents.

Other scheduled events include the Ranaw Culinary Festival, street dancing competitions, fashion shows, and a textile exhibit titled “Weaves of the Lake.”

Faith-based youth programs, including Qur’an recitation and Arabic writing contests under the Step Toward Iman initiative, are also scheduled to promote Islamic values.

Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid R. Adiong, who chairs the organizing committee, formally opened the festivities by emphasizing provincial solidarity.

“This is more than a commemoration; it is a demonstration of our unity,” Adiong said. “As we preserve our heritage, we also move forward together toward lasting peace and progress.”