Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
BARMM is located in the southern part of the Philippines, consisting of parts of
Mindanao Island and several islands in the Sulu Archipelago. It is bordered by
the Sulu Sea to the west and the Moro Gulf to the south.
It is bordered by the regions of Zamboanga Peninsula to the west, Northern
Mindanao to the north, and SOCCSKSARGEN to the east.
The region has a tropical climate with a generally wet and dry season. The
western islands are frequently affected by storms during the wet months, while
the mainland experiences a relatively dry and warm climate.
The majority of the population speaks Maguindanaon, Tausug, Maranao, and
Sama, with many also fluent in Chavacano and Tagalog. Arabic is also taught in
Islamic schools and used for religious purposes.
BARMM cuisine is influenced by Islamic traditions and often includes spicy,
coconut-based dishes. Common ingredients are fish, chicken, beef, and coconut
due to the availability of these resources in the region.
The economy of BARMM is largely anchored in agriculture, with coconut, rubber,
rice, and corn being the main crops. The region is also involved in fishing due to
its coastal geography.
The region is rich in traditional weaving and handicrafts, including Inaul (Maranao
weaving), Pis Syabit (Tausug weaving), and brassware crafts from Lanao del
Sur.
Administrative Divisions
Regional center: (The Bangsamoro Government Center) Cotabato City (although not
officially part of BARMM, it serves as the regional administrative center).
NO. OF
PROVINCE CAPITAL NO. OF CITIES
MUNICIPALITIES
Basilan Isabela City 2 11
Lanao del Sur Marawi City 1 39
Maguindanao del
Datu Odin Sinsuat 1 12
Norte
Maguindanao del
Buluan 24
Sur
Sulu Jolo 19
Tawi-Tawi Bongao 11
Culture, Traditions & Beliefs
Marriage customs in BARMM are heavily influenced by Islamic practices. One
common tradition is the giving of a Mahr, or dowry, from the groom to the bride,
which is required in Islamic law. The dowry is usually money or valuable gifts,
and the amount is negotiated between the families.
A Nikah (marriage ceremony) often includes prayers and blessings, and it is
common for families to arrange marriages to strengthen alliances or
relationships. After the ceremony, there is typically a Walima (feast) to celebrate
the union.
For death traditions, the people of BARMM follow Islamic burial rites. The
deceased is washed, wrapped in white cloth (Kafan), and buried as soon as
possible. Prayers for the dead (Janazah) are recited, and the community often
gathers to pray for the soul of the deceased.
There is no concept of placing money in the coffin, as Islamic beliefs discourage
extravagant displays during burials. Instead, family and friends offer du’a
(prayers) for the soul of the departed.
Respect and modesty are highly valued, especially during moments of grief.
Kissing the deceased's hand or forehead before burial is a sign of respect,
though physical contact is minimized after death.
Thriftiness is a common trait, with many Muslim communities in BARMM
practicing Zakat, a form of charity that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. People
aim to spend wisely and share their wealth with those in need.
Food is also seen as a blessing from Allah, and it is customary for meals to be
conducted in silence or with prayer. It is considered disrespectful to waste food,
and sharing food with neighbors or the less fortunate is highly encouraged.
There is a tradition in BARMM to serve food in large communal plates,
symbolizing unity and equality. Guests are often served first, and it is considered
a sign of hospitality to offer more than enough food to everyone.
Religious and cultural beliefs emphasize modesty, especially in the way people
dress and behave in public. Social gatherings, including weddings and festivals,
often feature traditional attire like the Malong for Maranao people and the Pis
Syabit for Tausug.
Food & Delicacies
Pastil
Pastil is a popular street food in BARMM.
It consists of rice topped with shredded chicken, beef, or fish, wrapped in banana
leaves.
The dish is typically eaten on the go and is widely enjoyed due to its affordability
and convenience.
Pastil is often paired with Palapa, a spicy condiment made from grated coconut,
ginger, and chilies, giving the dish a flavorful kick.
Satti
Satti is a specialty from the Tausug people, consisting of skewered chicken or
beef served with a spicy peanut sauce.
The skewers are served alongside rice cakes (Puso) soaked in the same spicy
sauce, making it a filling meal.
It is particularly popular for breakfast and is enjoyed in many areas of BARMM,
especially in Zamboanga and Sulu.
Tiyula Itum
Tiyula Itum is a black beef stew native to the Tausug tribe.
It is made with burnt coconut, giving it its distinct black color, combined with
various spices such as turmeric and ginger.
The dish is often served during special occasions and is known for its deep,
smoky flavor.
Pianggang
Pianggang is another Tausug delicacy, where chicken is cooked in coconut milk
and burnt coconut, similar to Tiyula Itum.
The chicken is marinated in turmeric, lemongrass, and other spices, then grilled
or simmered in coconut milk, giving it a rich and smoky flavor.
Bangbang Sug
Bangbang Sug refers to the various Tausug snacks and desserts.
One popular example is Jualan, which are fried banana or cassava fritters coated
with sugar, often served during the late afternoon.
Another is Pitis, a sweet dessert made from glutinous rice and sugar, often
wrapped in banana leaves.
Piyanggang
A specialty of the Maranao people, Piyanggang is a grilled or stewed chicken
dish marinated with spices and coconut milk.
It is known for its blackened appearance due to the use of charred coconut in the
marinade, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Daral
Daral is a traditional Tausug dessert, similar to a crepe.
It is made from a thin dough stuffed with sweetened coconut and brown sugar
filling.
The roll is soft, sweet, and a perfect snack or dessert served during festive
occasions.
Top Tourist Destinations
Lake Lanao
Location: Lanao del Sur
Lake Lanao is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the Philippines. It is
the source of the Agus River, which powers several hydroelectric plants in the
region.
The lake holds significant cultural and ecological importance to the Maranao
people and is regarded as a sacred site. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of
the lake, as well as traditional Maranao houses along the shore.
Bongao Peak (Bud Bongao)
Location: Tawi-Tawi
Bud Bongao, also known as Bongao Peak, is one of the most iconic natural
landmarks in the region.
It is both a popular hiking destination and a pilgrimage site for locals, who climb
the mountain to leave offerings and prayers.
From the summit, visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Tawi-
Tawi and nearby islands. The peak is also home to a diverse range of wildlife,
including macaques.
Grand Mosque of Cotabato (Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque)
Location: Cotabato City
The Grand Mosque, also known as the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque, is
the largest mosque in the Philippines and one of the most stunning religious
structures in BARMM.
This mosque was funded by the Sultan of Brunei and features a blend of Islamic
architectural styles. It serves as a center for religious worship and tourism,
attracting both locals and visitors for its grandeur and significance.
Royal Fort of Sulu (Astana Darul Jambangan)
Location: Jolo, Sulu
This historical site was once the royal palace of the Sultanate of Sulu. Though
much of the original structure has been destroyed, the site remains a significant
cultural landmark.
Visitors can learn about the rich history of the Sultanate of Sulu, one of the oldest
Muslim sultanates in the Philippines, and its influence in Southeast Asia.
Santa Cruz Island
Location: Zamboanga City (Part of BARMM territory)
Famous for its Pink Sand Beach, Santa Cruz Island is a unique destination
known for its powdery pink sand caused by crushed red organ pipe coral mixed
with white sand.
The island is a protected area, and visitors can also explore the lagoon filled with
mangroves and experience traditional Sama-Banguingui culture through local
crafts and cuisine.
Tawi-Tawi’s Panampangan Island
Location: Tawi-Tawi
Panampangan Island boasts one of the longest sandbars in the Philippines.
The white sand and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for beach
lovers. The island is less commercialized, offering a peaceful and pristine
environment for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Masjid Dimaukom (Pink Mosque)
Location: Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao
The Pink Mosque, or Masjid Dimaukom, is a uniquely colored mosque that has
become a symbol of peace and unity in Maguindanao.
The vibrant pink color represents peace and love, and the mosque was built as
an interfaith gesture to bring together communities of different faiths. It is a
popular spot for both tourists and locals.
