Every 15th of December, Cotabato City holds a very significant religious event filled with colorful presentations in honor of the arrival of Arab Missionary, Shariff Kabunsuan. It is a week-long celebration where thousands of local and foreign tourist visit during this holiday celebration.
Who is Shariff Kabunsuan?
According to historical records, during the 16th century, the arrival of Arab Missionary Shariff Kabunsuan marks the history of Maguindanao. From Johore, he is credited to spread the Islam among the natives, which led to the establishment of the Sultanates of Maguinadanao, Kabuntalan, and Rajah Buayan (which now includes GenSan, Sarangani and South Cotabato). He was on a guinakit, an active means of transporatation of the locals, which landed along the banks of the Masla Pulangi, now known as Rio Grande de Mindanao.
What are the features of the events?
Tourists from different place gather to witness and to be part of various activities lined up for the week-long festivity. It features different events including cultural presentations, Alimango Festival, Culinary Arts Competition featuring Muslim delicacies, cultural musical showdown, Kulintang Ensemble Competition, Philippine Legend Acrobatic Show, Inaul Fashion Show, and Photo Exhibit Contest. There are also sports for people from all walks of life, like water sports, boat racing, and ethnic sports competition. Cultural dances and a week-long trade fair add color to the Kabunsuan Festival.
It also features the Kanduli (thanksgiving banquent) or “Pagana Maguindanao”, a solemn and traditional Muslim way of dining of Maranaos and Maguindanaos among special visitors where Muslim dishes are served while being entertained by cultural performances. The visitors are served with traditional Muslim cuisine like tinadtag, plil, putrid mandi, and sininang baka. Traditionally, the guests sit barefooted on the floor during dinner. The lavish meal begins with a thanksgiving prayer. At the end of the meal, the host will give a token to the honored guests.
What is the Alimango Festival?
Cotabato’s crab is the tastiest and meatiest among other crustaceans. Since the city is dubbed as the “Crab Capital of the Philippines”, the festival showcases crabs as the main product of the city. There is a crab-cooking contest or “kulinarya,” and crab racing as part of the celebration. Crab is also served during the Kanduli.
What is the main highlight of the festival?
Guinakit or the fluvial parade is the much awaited activity of the event. It is the re-enactment of Shariff Kabunsuan’s arrival along Rio Grande de Mindanao, featuring colorful decorated bancas. It is accompanied by the Kuyog Street dancing Parade and Showdown.
What is the mission of the festival?
Cotabato City has witnessed more history than any other place in Mindanao. To showcase its rich history and well-preserved culture, Sharriff Kabunsuan Festival is celebrating not only to commemorate the heroism of Shariff Kabunsuan but also to display the Muslim religion and culture.
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Happy Shariff Kabunsuan Festival!