The Bangsamoro people, a community, in the Philippines have a cultural heritage that combines Islamic beliefs with traditional practices called adat. In the article “The History of Muslims in the Philippines ” Hannbal Bara explains how the Moros cultural identity is a mix of age old customs and Islamic teachings. Bara stresses the importance of recognizing how adat culture and Islamic faith intersect to appreciate the Bangsamoros legacy. This fusion of tradition and religion fueled their resistance against colonialism and continues to shape their enduring cultural traditions.

The spread of Islam among indigenous groups in the Philippines was greatly influenced by preachers and traders. According to Thohir (2015) in the “Historical Overview and Beginning Historiography of Islam in the Philippines ” published in the International Journal of Nusantara Islam influence first arrived in Sulu through a sheikh who married the daughter of the King of Sulu in that century. Key figures, like Shaykh Abu Bakr, who ruled as Sultanate from 1450 1480 played a role in expanding Islam to Mindanao and establishing an Islamic realm. The significant influence of Islam on indigenous communities in the Philippines is also emphasized by Majul (1976) in his work “Some Social and Cultural Challenges of the Muslims in the Philippines.” Islam brought forth moral perspectives and replaced ancient deities and idols and incorporated divine directives into everyday life. The introduction of Arabic writing enhanced languages while novel art forms and political systems inspired by Islamic nations emerged. The concept of a community began to take hold strengthening the cultural and religious identity of the Bangsamoro people.

Mindanao, which serves as the homeland for the Bangsamoro people is a region teeming with cultures. As per the ARMM Regional Physical Framework Plan 2000 2030 Bangsamoro culture is manifested through twelve groups; each possessing its unique tribal traditions and traditional artistic expressions. The article titled “Exploring Cultural Diversity Among the Bangsamoro in Mindanao; A Study of Their Indigenous Arts” examines the vibrancy of these communities the Maguindanaoan and Maranao groups.

The Maguindanaoan people, being the ethnic group, in the area are esteemed for their agricultural prowess and craftsmanship. Their artistic expressions encompass activities like brass making, mat weaving, basketry and loom weaving featuring designs and symbolic representations influenced by their Islamic faith. Similarly the Maranao community is renowned for their expertise in architecture weaving techniques, woodwork, metal carving skills and epic literary works. They have cultivated art forms such as the Okir carving method and the legendary Sarimanok bird motif.

Acknowledging the contributions of the Bangsamoro people to cultural heritage preservation is exemplified through initiatives like the National Living Treasures Award or “Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan” (GAMABA) which honors individuals who have made impacts on preserving the nations cultural legacy. Noteworthy Maranao awardees include textile weaver Darhata Sawabi, musician Uwang Ahadas and B’laan mat weaver Estelita Tumandan Bantilan. This recognition not affirms their legacy but also guarantees that traditional knowledge and skills are passed down to forthcoming generations.

The diverse cultural history of the Bangsamoro region stands as a testament to its history and enduring customs. Scholars such as: Bara, Thohir and Majul offer perspectives while the acknowledgment of artisans by GAMABA underscores the significance of preserving and comprehending the cultural heritage of the Bangsamoro community. With research efforts to fill in knowledge gaps, the enduring and lively culture of the Bangsamoro people continues to play a role in shaping the heritage of the Philippines.