Metro Cagayan de Oro

Passing the torch for Meranaw Heritage & History : New Guardians of the Sagayan

Islamic City of Marawi, Lanao del Sur- The Meranaws of Lanao should consider themselves lucky their cultural heritage would not be lost to the all-pervasive pressure of acculturation thanks to the efforts of the official government body protecting and promoting the rich history, culture, arts, and traditions of the Bangsamoro people in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) consists of five provinces: Basilan (excluding Isabela City), Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Tawi-Tawi, plus the independent Cotabato City and a Special Geographic Area (SGA) consisting of 63 barangays of North Cotabato.

The Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH-BARMM) was established in 2019 as focusing on inclusive representation, preserving identity through documenting history and collaborating with institutions like MSU to safeguard their unique heritage for future generations. It supersedes older regional cultural bodies (like the BCH-ARMM from the 1990s), and functions under the mandate of the Bangsamoro Organic Law to preserve and write Bangsamoro history from a local perspective, and integrate it into the nation’s mainstream culture and historical narrative.

Since its inception, the BCPCH-Lanao del Sur in particular, has conducted nine seminar-workshops and trainings through its School of Living Traditions (SLT) designed to promote, preserve and popularize the Meranaw culture and arts, specifically the music, songs, chants, rituals and dances, and develop the art skills of the learners.
For its latest endeavor, the SLT introduced the fundamentals of the Sagayan war dance to 25 learners from all over Lanao.

“This is our first SLT Skills Training for 2026 and our first venture into the realm of traditional performing arts, in this case the Meranaw Sagayan ‘War Dance,” said Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Commissioner, during the launch of the 3-day program at the Sapadan Garden Resort in Heaven Diversion Road, Upper Lancaf, Brgy. Lomidong, this city.

“The Sagayan is not just a performing art per se. It has a story behind it, which is rendered in animated movements gracefully choreographed and executed that feature traditional martial skills enacted and performed artistically by Moro male performers acting as swordsmen engaged in dramatic swordplay. In the past, it was performed during special occasions like weddings, community celebrations, even spiritual cleansing rituals and the like,” Alonto noted.

Sagayan being performed publicly in a town square during a wedding in Tamparan in early 1920s. This was among the many photos taken by Ifor Ball Powell, the British photo-journalist who visited Ranao in the early 1920s, the American colonial period. From these photo and other such documentary records, it is clear that the Sagayan was essentially a part of community celebrations in the not-too-distant past in Ranao as well as in Maguindanao. (The photo is from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) of the University of London courtesy of Ruh Javier Alonto, enhanced by Ladysoda PH.)

The Sagayan originates from the Meranaw epic poem Darangen, mimicking warriors preparing for battle, featuring vigorous stomping, shield (klung) and sword (kampilan) movements, and representing the epic adventures of Prince Bantugan. It symbolizes strength, spiritual protection against evil, and is performed at celebrations like weddings to bring good fortune, accompanied by gongs and drums, and features colorful, elaborate warrior attire.

The Darangen is an ancient, oral epic poem of the Meranaw known for its 72,000 lines across 17 cycles, narrating heroic tales, societal values, and history, notably featuring Prince Bantugan.

A central episode in the epic known as Kiyaprawa’a ko Arkat Lawanen (The Abduction of Princess Lawanen). Princess Arkat a Lawanen (Lawanen), the beloved princess of Bumbaran, daughter of Queen Lalawanen and sister to the Ayonan (ruler) is bethrothed to Prince Mabaning Ndaw Rogong (Mabaning), the brave and noble prince of Gadongan.

However, Lawanen is abducted by Ayonan Dimasangkay of the kingdom of Sagorongan-a-Ragat, prompting Mabaning and his warriors to sail off to rescue his bethrothed, who is eventually returned to Bumbaran after an intense battle.

Sagayan, the war dance, recalls the battle to rescue Lawanen. Despite the clash, the rift ultimately ends in peace between the two kingdoms, making it a living heritage for protecting communities, reconciliation, and promoting peace among people.

In 2002, the Darangen was declared a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines by the National Museum and a Provincial Treasure by the Lanao del Sur provincial government. The Darangen epic was also proclaimed as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005 by UNESCO (inscribed in 2008). It is the longest surviving epic poetry in the Philippines.

**The Madale Group of SLT Sagayan Learners demonstrate their prowess during the closing program competition.** (RMB)

Having originated from the Darangen, Alonto stressed the Sagayan is part of this ‘living memory’ of ancient history of the Meranaw people of the Bangsamoro that has to be preserved, promoted and popularized as a cultural heritage on which their identity as Meranaw in particular, and as Bangsamoro in general, is anchored.

“To put it in perspective, the Sagayan encapsulates both elements of Ranao history and culture. And one that has history and culture is a civilization,” he added.

Traditionally, the dancers of the sagayan are dressed in atypical costumes based on mythological descriptions of Bantugan’s equipment in the epic Darangen. He was described as wearing the kapasti (a headdress in bright colors, like golden yellow, orange, and red interspersed with earthy tones such as dark green and brown, and adorned with brass bells with embedded mirrors), a long-sleeved top with the colors of the rainbow paired with a three-tiered skirt of red, green, and yellow, a klong (shield) made of the hardwood and with small bells, a kampilan (a large double-tipped war sword) tied to the wrist with five or seven holes decorated with animal hair, and a magerag (a shorter secondary sword).

**The Mabaning Group of Learners in traditional Sagayan attire and colors.** (RMB)

As they dance to the rhythmic beats of the tagunggo (gong ensemble), the pulsing cadence of the music is showcased in the dance steps characterized by fast stomping, jumping, rolling, kicking, and a sweeping of the arms punctuated by the elegant curving movements of the hands. The dance is a vivid and powerful representation of the warriors’ preparation for battle, embodying strength, bravery, and spiritual protection. The movements of the Sagayan are dynamic and vigorous, mimicking the actions of a warrior preparing for battle.

The name “sagayan” is a loanword and comes from the Tausug word sagay, meaning “headhunter.”

Sining Pananadem

To ensure the Sagayan learners were properly mentored not just in the elements of dance, but also in its cultural and historical origins, the SLT tapped Mohammad Ali T. Hadji Usman, Artistic Director of the Sining Pananadem Cultural Troupe, the official and only all-Meranaw cultural dance troupe of Mindanao State University Main Campus, in this city.

**Sagayan Master Mohammad Ali T. Hadji Usman, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Commissioner Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto & Asst. Cultural Master Junaid Manamparan.**

A visual artist, stage performer, choreographer, and theatrical director, Usman been an active member of since his first year in MSU-Marawi and has performed in various local, regional, national, and international stages showcasing Meranaw culture. Few of his remarkable stints were his performances in Lamama, New York and in Malaysia particularly in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Belud and Kota Kinabalu. He is also one of the scriptwriters of Maharadja Lawana– a stage production sponsored by NCCA. In addition, he serves as the Head Pressman of the Office of Information, Press and Publication aside from being designated as the Artistic Director of MSU Sining Pananadem.

Usman demonstrated some moves of the Sagayan during the closing program of the training, starting with the Kaganap sa Sagayan which is a traditional chant performed before the Sagayan calling on the marinaw (spirits) of the warriors’ ancestors for protection, and victory in battle.

Sagayan Master Ali invokes the spirits of his ancestors for protection and victory in battle prior to doing the Sagayan. (RMB)

Since he joined the group in 1994, Usman said he was encouraged by the former Artistic Director Guimbo “Guy” Datu, to delve into the history and heritage of the Sagayan but even before that, he was immersed and influenced by his musically inclined family in Mulondo, Lanao del Sur, where he later found out that his grandfather was a master of the Sagayan.

“I am happy and thankful that the BCPCH and especially the SLT has included the preservation of our cultural treasures like the Sagayan to our younger generations,” Usman said.

Vanishing Art?

Asked if the Sagayan today is a vanishing art, Alonto replied ‘yes’ and ‘no’. “Yes’ because its absence from community-level events and festivities today is a conspicuous reality; and ‘no’ because it is still being performed by professional cultural dance troupes before exclusive audiences in a formal theatrical stage.

He stressed how its absence from the community is the yardstick that indicates the Sagayan has become detached from the community grassroots populace, and has transitioned to theatrical optics for entertaining foreign and local tourists as well as the wealthy classes in exclusive events. It is now very seldom performed in community events nowadays.

**The Bantugan Group of Sagayan Learners were adjuded the best performers during the friendly competition among the graduates**. (RMB)

“The point is, absent its place in the community, the Sagayan is at risk of gradually vanishing from the collective memory of our young generations fixated on computer games, Facebook, TikTok, the latest IPhone, Hollywood Netflix, and the latest hip-hop dance style. I’m not saying we discard modern technology and Western art forms and entertainment altogether; what I mean is that these should not be the reason for forgetting our history, culture and traditions that made us who we are as a people and nation,” Alonto rued.

Despite this, Alonto remains thankful for Moro cultural dance troupes like Sining Pananadem for preserving indigenous Moro performing art forms from disappearing altogether in the face of aggressive Western acculturation.

Culture Bearers

During the closing program of the event, the 25 learners were divided into three groups named Bantugan, Mabaning and Madale (after main characters of the Darangen) and competed in a friendly competition to showcase through a live performance the basic skills they’ve learned in the SLT, impressing the judges with their admirable skills gained after only three days of basic training.

**The graduates proudly display their certificates with BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Robert Maulana M. Alonto, Sagayan Master Ali, and Community Affairs Officer Salahudin M. Alonto.** (RMB)

As cultural workers, this School of Living Tradition is more than a program – it is the heartbeat of our mandate. It reflects our resolve to serve with purpose and persevere through challenges, knowing that our heritage deserves to endure,” said Salahudin M. Alonto, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Community Affairs Officer in closing the event.

“Every step taken in this journey strengthens the Meranaw story. Through this SLT, the BCPCH continues to stand not just as an institution, but as a faithful steward of cultural memory and a gateway for the generations to come.”

A short video featuring highlights of the closing program can be viewed by clicking this link.

-30-

Paying it forward : Childhood memories brings water to Davao de Oro

Childhood memories brings water to Davao de Oro

NABUNTURAN, DAVAO DE ORO- When Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez (2^nd District, Palawan) visited this capital town of this fast rising province, it wasn’t just a mere nostalgia which brought him back to the place where he spent many happy days of his childhood.

January 7, 2026 meeting at Davao de Oro Provincial Capitol at Nabunturan. (Left to right): JE Hydro Chairman & CEO **Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan**, World’s First Water Ventures Pres. **Mary Hazel Abasolo**, **Rep. Maricar Zamora, Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez, Gov. Raul Mabanglo, Rep. Jhong Ceniza, Nabunturan Mayor My-My Balili, Vice Mayor Cyrian Reterba**, and **SB Member Rodel Balili.**

In his meeting last January 7 with top government executives, Rep. Alvarez brought welcome tidings to the Davao de Oro Provincial Capitol at Nabunturan where he was warmly welcomed by Davao de Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo, Rep. Maria Carmen “Maricar” S. Zamora-Mabanglo (1st District), Leonel “Jhong” D. Ceniza (2nd District) and Nabunturan Mayor Mayrocel “My-My” C. Balili. Mabanglo, Zamora, and Ceniza are part of Davao de Oro’s Trifecta leadership, prioritizing public service and transparency.

During the informal meeting, Rep. Alvarez informed the group he has personally requested JE Hydro & Bio-Energy Corporation to set up water treatment plants for the towns of Nabunturan, Monkayo, and Pantukan within the next six months, and eventually to provide ready-to-drink safe and affordable potable water to the entire province of Davao de Oro.

**Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan with Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez.**

Cagayan de Oro-based JE Hydro has already started its pioneering work in the Municipality of Compostela with the development of the JE Hydro Level-3 potable water supply project for 10,000 households in Compostela. Barely six months after it broke ground, the residents of Compostela are now enjoying safe, clean and affordable drinking water to three of its 16 barangays.

“The pioneering Level-3 water supply projects JE Hydro offers all over the country supplies ready-to-drink potable water 24/7 directly delivered to the faucet of every household at a cost of five centavos per liter or one peso (P1.00) per container against the twenty peso (P20.00) per container coming from the water refilling stations prevalent in the market,” stressed Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan, JE Hydro Chairman & CEO. “After our Compostela Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is completed, we shall next undertake pipelaying and continue processing water connection applications to serve the remaining barangays.”

Compostela Mayor Levi S. Ebdao speaks during the commissioning of the water system at Compostela, Davao de Oro.

The water treatment facility under construction, a joint venture with World’s First Water Ventures, Inc., will have a daily production output of 5,000 million liters per day, sufficient to serve 10,000 connections with safe, affordable drinking water that’s been Certified Potable with Certificate of Potability (COP).

**Compostela Mayor Levi S Ebdao** (cemter in white cap) shares happy moments with residents during the commissioning of the Compostela water system.

The Department of Health (DOH), through its local health offices at the City/Municipal level and accredited laboratories, issues COPs for drinking water in the Philippines, certifying it meets the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW).

The Municipality of Nabunturan is the capital of Davao de Oro Province and home to the Mainit Hot Springs Protected Landscape.

Monkayo is the most populous municipality of Davao de Oro, known as the Gold Ore Hub for its rich gold deposits, especially around the famous Diwalwal area, with extensive agriculture and natural landscapes, serving as a key economic and cultural center in Mindanao.

Pantukan, a vibrant municipality in Davao de Oro, is best known for its gold-rich mountains, picturesque coastlines, and thriving fishing industry. Positioned along the Davao Gulf, the town offers a unique combination of mining, agriculture, and marine resources, making it a key economic player in the province.

According to the 2024 census, these three towns have a combined population of 273,666. Added to the 2024 population of Compostela, the four towns together would constitute a combined service area of 362,890 people comprising 87,621 households.

Proven Track Record

“My dream is to bring safe drinking water to millions of households in the Philippines,” said Engr. Hapitan. “ And my mission is to bring down the cost of drinking water from its current price of One Peso per Liter (P1.00) to Five Centavos per Liter (P0.05). I am committed to pursue my mission of providing access to safe drinking water to our countrymen, which I believe is a fundamental human right.”

Gifted with impeccable business acumen, charisma, and boundless knowledge and technical expertise, Hapitan disrupted the landscape of the Philippine water industry in a span of just 13 years, with JE Hydro’s 20 completed water treatment facilities producing a total volume of 206.5 million liters per day.

With the desire to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos as his north star, and believing that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, Hapitan established JE Hydro in 2011 in Cagayan de Oro City to provide a holistic approach to solving the water crisis in the country. These include the design, build, operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, pipe laying, and water distribution operations supported by proprietary home-grown technologies.

**Engr Joffrey E. Hapitan** (center, in black with hard hat) leads the ribbon cutting for the **Lusaran 30MLD Water Treatment Plant.**

In 2022, he completed his P1.2 billion legacy project, the 30 MLD (million liters per day) Water Treatment Facility in Barangay Lusaran in Cebu City, commissioned after just 150 days which supplies much needed bulk water to the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD).

“Our methodology employs the latest state-of-the-art technology in water resources engineering and hydrological studies, pipeline and ortho-mapping surveys, pipe network hydraulic modelling & analyses, detailed engineering design, and proven home-grown water treatment process that meets the standards of the 2017 Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSW),” Hapitan noted.

The JE Hydro facility in Brgy. Lusaran boasts an impressive capacity of 30,000 cubic meters per day, enough to serve 60,000 households. This game-changer brings an end to years of hardship and dependence to the 330 households under the Busay Heights Home Owners Association (BHOA), most of who previously relied on daily water deliveries from the Department of Public Services (DPS).

-30-

JE Hydro makes Dream Come True for Sitio NHA Residents in Bgy. Busay, Cebu City

Residents of Sitio NHA and nearby areas in Barangay Busay, Cebu City, have been celebrating a major milestone – access to reliable potable water, thanks to JE Hydro & Bio- Energy Corporation! After over 30 years of living without a steady water source, the community can now breathe a sigh of relief.

The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) started supplying safe and potable water since December 23, 2025 with the commissioning of the distribution system made possible by JE Hydro’s long-term Bulk Water Supply Agreement signed in March 2021.

**Cebu City Mayor Nestor D. Archival Sr. turns on the water supply for Sitio NHA during its commissioning on December 23, 2025.**
(source: FB page of Mayor Archival)

“My dream is to bring safe drinking water to millions of households in the Philippines,” said Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan, Chairman and CEO of the trail blazing company. “ And my mission is to bring down the cost of drinking water from its current price of One Peso per Liter (P1.00) to Five Centavos per Liter (P0.05). I am committed to pursue my mission of providing access to safe drinking water to our countrymen which I believe is a fundamental human right.”

With the desire to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos as his north star, and believing that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, Hapitan established JE Hydro in 2011 to provide a holistic approach to solving the water crisis in the country. These include the design, build, operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, pipe laying, and water distribution operations supported by proprietary home-grown technologies.

**Engr Joffrey E. Hapitan (center, in black with hard hat) leads the ribbon cutting for the Lusaran 30MLD Water Treatment Plant.** (JEHBEC)

The JE Hydro facility in Brgy. Lusaran boasts an impressive capacity of 30,000 cubic meters per day, enough to serve 60,000 households! This game-changer brings an end to years of hardship and dependence to the 330 households under the Busay Heights Home Owners Association (BHOA), most of who previously relied on daily water deliveries from the Department of Public Services (DPS)

Mayor Nestor Archival highlighted the impact of MCWD – JE Hydro project: “This brings immediate relief to families who’ve long suffered from limited access to water.”

**Mayor Nestor D. Archival Sr, JE Hydro Vice Chairwoman Gina Hapitan and Mira Miscala during the groundbreaking for the Sitio NHA expansion last September.**
(source: FB page of Mayor Archival)

Archival personally inspected the newly installed MCWD stub-out connections which are now serving at least 240 residents in the area.

The inspection highlighted the City Government’s efforts to bring basic services to upland barangays that have long been underserved.

The project officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony last September attended by Archival and MCWD officials led by general manager Edgar Donoso.

**Gina Hapitan, Mira Miscala, Mayor Nestor Archival, MCWD GM Edgar Donoso and Ivy Hapitan during the groundbreaking last September.**
(Source : FB Page of Mayor Archival)

The ceremony signaled the City Government’s commitment to address the long-standing water supply problem of residents living in elevated and hard-to-reach communities such as Sitio NHA.

According to the MCWD, a total of 12 stub-out connections have already been installed in Sitio NHA and its adjacent areas supplying residents with water after decades of relying on limited and unreliable sources. Another six stub-outs are also targeted for installation by this month.

Once completed, these additional connections aim to reach120 more residents, including families residing in a nearby relocation site.

**Mayor Nestor D. Archival chats with a happy resident of Sitio NHA as he waters his plants for the first time with water from MCWD.**
(Source: FB Page of Mayor Archival)

For the residents of Sitio NHA and surrounding areas, the availability of a stable water supply marks the end of years of hardship caused by the absence of dependable access to water.

Donoso said the MCWD will extend water service to surrounding sitios to even the most remote areas, once the initial connections are in place.

Residents expressed relief and gratitude as water finally flowed into their community after decades of waiting, describing the development as a long-overdue improvement that will significantly ease daily life and improve overall living conditions in the upland barangay.

-30-

Cebu Pacific Launches 30th Anniversary Brand Film ‘Si Cebie at Ako’

Cebu Pacific (CEB) opens 2026 with the release of its new brand film, “Si Cebie at Ako,” which follows the journey of an aspiring flight attendant and illustrates a truth that many can relate to: Every dream we hold close, comes with challenges—but it’s our willingness to keep going that turns those dreams into reality.

The release of the film marks the start of CEBs’ 30^th Anniversary celebration this year.

**CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Candice Iyog announces airline’s release of film to mark its 30th anniversary this year.**

“For three decades, Cebu Pacific has lived this truth,” says Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer.

“Through hurdles, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty, what kept us going was the belief that every flight we operate brings someone closer to their dream—closer to family, to opportunities, to new beginnings.”

Over the years, CEB has flown Filipinos wherever they need to be—whether for reunions, cultural experiences, or long-awaited adventures.

Beyond connecting people between destinations, the airline has also been part of journeys that turn personal aspirations into milestones, enabling EveryJuan to move closer to their goals with every flight.

In navigating these journeys, CEB witnesses both obstacles and triumphs among the people it serves every day. Having faced similar experiences itself, the airline highlights the inspiring stories of perseverance, grit, and hope of every Juan it flies.

Watch the full brand film here and be reminded that no matter where the journey leads, dreams are always worth chasing.

Our social media handles:

Facebook: Cebu Pacific Air
X: @CebuPacificAir
Instagram: cebupacificair

Please feel free to share the following video link for Cebu Pacific’s (CEB) latest brand film, “Si Cebie at Ako”.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNqu4DIwups

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1216422637221356/

Mindanao getting to 50/50 Energy Parity, one step at a time

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Slowly but surely, Mindanao is moving towards attaining a just energy transition target of a 50/50 thermal/renewable energy (RE) mix in its power grind.

In just two months, two more establishments in Cagayan de Oro have been converted to 100% Renewable Energy by First Gen Corp (First Gen).

Last Oct 3, Mets Cold Storage Services, Inc (Mets), formerly known as Mets Logistics, Inc, tapped First Gen to power its cold storage facility in Cagayan de Oro City with geothermal power, in line with the company’s thrust towards more sustainable operations.

The supply agreement covers up to 2,050 kilowatts demand to cover the on-going expansion of the facility in Tablon, Cagayan de Oro, with a current capacity of over 7,100 metric tons of cold storage space.

Mets Cold Storage Services located in Tablon, Cagayan de Oro, has a current capacity of over 7,100 metric tons of cold storage space.

More recently, under the agreement signed by Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC) and First Gen last month, the latter would supply 900 kilowatts (kW) of geothermal power to support the electricity needs of the 200-bed hospital, including its Kidney Institute, and other specialty care facilities.0

“CUMC’s shift to geothermal power is more than an energy decision—it is a bold declaration of support to Mindanao’s energy transition and in securing a cleaner, more resilient future for our people. These decisions echo far beyond their boardrooms and clearly shows what is possible when vision meets resolve—bringing us closer to our 50/50 energy mix by 2030,” said Asst. Secretary Romeo Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), which is leading the advocacy to attain energy parity between thermal and RE in the Mindanao Grid by 2030.

**Asst Sec Romeo Montenegro delivers the keynote address during the recent Mindanao Clean Energy Forum held in Butuan City.** (CREAM Project by Gibson Bacas)

Barely two years previously, Nestle’s Cagayan de Oro plant’s 8.5MW requirement was shifted to 100% RE through hydroelectric power sourced from Minergy’s Cabulig mini-hydroelectric plant in Plaridel, Claveria, Misamis Oriental. The transition to RE hydroelectric power will save some 31, 962 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being discharged into the atmosphere every year. (UNFCCC-CDM)

These baby steps towards 100% RE may not be significant by themselves, but they indicate a growing trend with even small and medium establishments willing to take the extra step to help mitigate the effects of global warming by displacing fossil-fuel based electricity with renewable energy, a long-time RE advocate noted, who preferred not to be named.

Future of RE in Mindanao

According to BenCyrus G. Ellorin, Director, Consumers for Renewable Energy Action in Mindanao (CREAM), Mindanao is looking forward to an additional 2,134.8 MW of RE between 2025-2030, with 265.16 MW committed, and 2,455 MW of indicative projects, in addition to the 1,513MW currently installed.

Ellorin said the peak demand of Mindanao has accelerated from 3.3% in 2015 to 10.9% in 2024, with an Annual Average Growth Rate of 5.8% over the last decade.

CREAM Director BenCyrus G. Ellorin reacts during a panel discussion at the recent Mindanao Clean Energy Forum in Butuan City. (RMB)

However, these projections were made with the following caveats:

Installed RE capacity needs to grow by at least 8% until 2030. No new coal fired capacities (greenfield/brownfield) should be allowed, and the early decommissioning of the DOE’s Mindanao Coal plant (SPI Power Inc), either through the Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM) or the BOT Law should push through.

The early decommissioning of 232MW coal-fired power plant, would reduce the 3,101MW fossil installed capacity 2,869MW, very proximate to the projected parity figure of 2,903MW in 2030.

Firm upthe coal moratorium. Rather than relax further the already nebulous, brownfield, greenfield classification of coal-fired power plant projects, there should be a clear policy on “NO MORE NEW COAL PLANTS; NO MORE COAL PLANT EXPANSION IN MINDANAO.”

Renewable ONLY electrification for the balance of Mindanao’s unserved households. For government to make a policy for the exclusive use of renewable energy in the electrification of 1,070,562 unserved households. President PBBM’s SONA was pretty clear on the preference of Solar PVs to power the country’s electrification balance.

NO to LNG. LNG emits as much carbon as other fossil fuels. The process of liquifying and gasification of natural gas consumes a lot of energy, thus contributing to carbon emissions. LNG is imported, and thus its price is volatile, just like coal and diesel.

Aggressive promotion of wind, run-of-hydro and biomass. Shorten the permitting process for small run-of-river hydropower plants;. Develop Mindanao’s geothermal power resources.

Strengthenthe policy on priority dispatch for renewable energy and least cost power acquisition for all Power Supply Agreements. This would ease out inefficient and expensive diesel and coal-fired power plants out of the market. Study the decommissioning of oil-based power plants. As of 2024, the total installed capacity of these diesel plants was 833MW, or 18.1% of the energy mix.

Strictimplementation of RPS and ramp up promotion of net-metering, GEOP and Expanded Solar Rooftop Program.

“We support the proposal to impose still fines of up to P100 million to distribution utilities violating the RPS. If implemented to the letter, by 2030, demand for renewable energy in Mindanao from RPS alone is 23.16% (incremental 1% from 2020 – 2022; 2.52% annual increment from 2023- 2030). At projected peak demand of 5,803MW in 2030, RPS alone would demand 1,344 megawatts of RE from the grid,” Ellorin stressed.

Requirerenewable energy development in Local Energy Planning. Local government are frontliners in the development renewable energy capacities. LGUs should facilitate the development of RE projects, by providing ease-in-doing-business, and providing local tax incentives to RE investments. For DOE and DILG to revisit and strengthen DOE-DILG Joint Memo Circular 2020-01.

To ensure adequate power supply and grid stability during this critical period, the Energy Supply Project (ESP) which entails the rehabilitation, operation and maintenance of the Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Complex (APHC) using floating solar farms in Lake Lanao under a 30-year concession agreement should be operationalized as soon as possible.

Agus-Pulangi ROM Option

To lend further impetus to the drive for 50%RE by 2030, a consortium has submitted an unsolicited proposal to Rehabilitate-Operate-Maintain (ROM) the Agus-Pulangi Hydroelectric Power Complex (APHC) under a 30-years concession period that would further modernize and uprate its capacity to 1,000 MW through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to me owned by Mindanao’s power consumers.

-30-

XU Press awarded 5 Publication Grants 2025 by the NBDB

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan’s boutique sized XU Press has attained another milestone in its publication journey.

In an announcement posted in its social media page, the National Book Development Board (NBDB) announced the recipients of its 2025 Publication Grant.

From 238 applications, the NBDB selected 20 submissions that will be its Publication Grant recipients for 2025. The genres of this year’s awardees range from fiction and poetry to children’s literature and non-fiction.

What is remarkable about the latest selection is no less than 5 of the 20 recipients were submitted by XU Press. XU Press submitted 13 manuscripts for the NBDP’s consideration.

*A Collection of Preliminary Materials on the Lumad Belief System of Mindanao by Rudy Buhay Rodil

*Touching Our Roots: A Convergence of Tri-Peoples of Mindanaw and Sulu In Question and Answer by Rudy Buhay Rodil

*The Churning of the Sea Milk and Other Essays by Elio Garcia

*Marawi in the Heart by Elin Anisha Guro

*Pagsantop han Waray by Voltaire Oyzon and Tom Payne

“Our deep gratitude to NBDB for this recognition and support! This means so much for Xavier University’s small publishing outfit that provides a voice to narratives from the regions, preserves cultural heritage, exploring unexplored themes or research areas, and countering the centralizing influence of the bigger national publishing industry,” said Arlene J. Yandug, XU Press Manager and Editor.

Another grant recipient, AND NOT TO YIELD (World War II Stories from Mindanao) will also be published by XU Press but was submitted individually to the NBDB by author Rene Michael D. Baños.

Previously, XU Press won four of the 22 grants awarded to publishing houses chosen by the NMDB as recipients for its 2023 publication grants, selected from 118 applications from publishers all over the Philippines.

The winning titles from XU Press include Bride Price and Other Stories, a short story collection by Dr. Calbi Asain; Sikwateng Uwan, a multi-genre collection of post-Sendong literary works by Dr. Maria Elena Paulma and Dr. Jeena Rani Marquez-Manaois; Lasang sa mga Pasumbingay: Sixteen Southern Writers, an anthology of works and poetics of Southern writers edited by Merlie Alunan, Aivee Badulid, and Lemuel Zalradarriaga; Lanao Boy: A Life: The Writings of Manuel E. Buenafe (1916-1963), a collection of literary works and memoirs edited by Dr. Maria Corazon Buenafe.

Due to its conservative three-person staff and limited budget, XU Press could only take a maximum of two to three publications a year, inclusive of the Kinaadman Journal.

Former XU Press Manager Elio Garcia, who is one of this year’s grant recipients, acknowledged the constraints posed by its personnel, relative youth, and budget limits, noting how it takes time to cultivate a relationship with the reading public and the wherewithal to publish emerging and established writers. He believes Xavier Ateneo can meet these challenges by investing in human and technical resources “so we can meet the writers exactly where they are, and accelerate the production of vetted knowledge.”

Yandug reiterated the importance of the University’s name in giving the press credibility and power, hence attracting authors who trust the press’s vision, its peer review and editorial mechanism.

She further stated that XU Press is not a commercial publisher, and that its most important role is in its ability to nurture new authors, and amplify local voices that do not easily find their way into the national publishing houses.”

“In this way, regional presses have the power to diversify the national narratives and enrich the literary landscape and knowledge production of the country,” she added.

Tapping grant-giving institutions such as NBDB can help offset publication costs and provide support for writers who want to develop their manuscript.

XU-Press-Director-Arlene-Yandug-lectures-on-the-XU-Press-experience-in-local-publication-of-books-and-journals.

“We hope that XU Press can provide guidance and conversations for writers who need to incubate their work, especially the emerging ones, by organizing workshops, forums, demystifying the publication process, and linking writers to those who can mentor and provide support,” Elio noted.

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is an attached agency of the Department of Education that develops and promotes the Philippine book publishing industry. As the book authority of the Philippines, the NBDB leads the formulation and implementation of policies that support the growth of the book publishing industry in the Philippines.

Among its operational plans include capacity-building initiatives, investment and trade promotion activities, grants and incentives, readership development campaigns, and industry research and data gathering

The NBDB co-organizes the National Book Awards with the Manila Critics Circle, the National Children’s Book Awards (with the Philippine Board on Books for Young People), and the Filipino Readers’ Choice Awards.

A number of grants and subsidies including The National Book Development Trust Fund, Publication Grants, the NBDB Translation Subsidy Program, and the Creative Nation Grant are also available from the organization.

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) Publication Grant is a Philippine program that provides financial assistance to publishers, enterprises, institutions, authors, and editors who intend to publish a Filipino book. Deserving manuscripts are set to receive grants for as much as PHP 200,000.00, covering publication costs such as editing, layout, and printing. Applicants must be registered with the NBDB and submit an application along with the complete manuscript.

Bringing in the written word from the peripheries

In pursuit of the Jesuit mission “to reach out to people beyond their frontiers” in Mindanao, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan’s (Xavier Ateneo) XU PRESS presents itself as an “alternative press” for the Mindanao-focused writings, research and literature, which would otherwise would not have been published by the country’s “Manila-centered” publishing industry.

XU Press was conceptualized in 2007 as a publishing arm of Xavier Ateneo by then University President Fr Jose Ramon Villarin SJ to systematize its academic and scholarly publications.

As a University-based publisher, XU Press plays a role in publishing instructional materials pertinent to the academic curricula and books that address the knowledge gaps in the region. This latter role, in view of the scarcity of publishing outfits in the region, has made XU Press vital in promoting awareness of Mindanao to the bigger world.

Set up by Hilly Ann Quiaoit, PhD, under the Kinaadman Research Center (now Kinaadman: University Research Office) during her term as Director, XU Press was formally established in 2008 with the launching of The Immortal Sea, a collection of lectures, addresses and homilies by the late Fr Miguel Bernad, SJ.

Since then the Press has evolved through time, producing textbooks as a staple product, on top of Kinaadman Journal which is its flagship publication, notes Yandug.

Currently, XU Press publishes literature, literary studies, and social science books that advance Mindanaoan identity, history, and culture (alongside the usual instructional materials used by XU students).

Noting the growth of this mission-driven publishing outfit through the years, Yandug says that XU Press has “slowly, but steadily ventured to publish books that cover a wider range of topics and cultural expressions, including poetry, interviews, and anthologies.”

One of its books, Songs Sprung from Natives Soils (2019) edited by Ricardo M. de Ungria, won the 39th National Book Award for Best Book of Literary History in English this year, a recognition not only of the author, but also of what the Press and the University stand for.

“This is the first time that XU Press won an award such as this, and the timing could not have been more propitious, as the office with its new manager is gearing up for the future with strategic plans,” Yandug stressed.

More recently, Yandug’s Coming Home to the Island: Poems won the 41^st Philippine Literary Arts Council Prize for Best Book of Poetry in English.

**Dr. Arlene J. Yandug**, XU Press Manager

The author expressed her delight with the citation, but likewise some trepidation moving forward to her next book, given her duties as Kinaadman Journal, and concurrently as manager of the XU Press, on top of a teaching load.

**(Image-courtesy-of-the-National-Book-Development-Board-Philippines)**

The 41st National Book Award’s Best Book of Poetry in English is a significant literary award in the Philippines, specifically aimed at recognizing and celebrating outstanding poetry written in the English language. It is organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Manila Critics Circle, and it is one of the most prestigious accolades for poets and writers in the country.

“We are aware that there are a lot of writers in the region, whose works need to be showcased, and by publishing with XU Press, we are balancing the ecosystem of publishing since we are among the few university-based presses outside Manila. In a sense, we participate in the decentering of knowledge production,” Garcia noted.

Alongside local presses, XU Press hopes to gain leverage in drawing attention to the distinctiveness of local cultures through publication of works on Mindanao, and thus contribute to the local publication industry and flourishing of the knowledge ecosystem that is reflective of the country’s diversity.

-INDNJC-

CUMC 1st Normin Hospital powered by 100% Renewable Energy

Taps geothermal power from First Gen

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC), one of the largest private medical facilities in Mindanao, is the first hospital in Northern Mindanao to be fully powered by renewable energy (RE).

Under the agreement signed by CUMC and First Gen Corporation (First Gen) officials last month, the latter would supply 900 kilowatts (kW) of geothermal power to support the electricity needs of the 200-bed hospital, including its Kidney Institute, and other specialty care facilities.

The company will source the renewable energy supply from the Mt Apo Geothermal Plant in Cotabato, owned and operated by First Gen subsidiary Energy Development Corporation.

“We are pleased to be the first medical center in Mindanao to be powered directly by geothermal energy that is also harnessed from Mindanao. We look forward to reaping the benefits of using renewable energy not just for helping the environment, but for doing our part to improve the health and well-being of Kagay-anons,” said Dr Rosalinda Deleste, CUMC President.

CUMC was able to connect directly to geothermal energy, through the government’s Green Energy Option Program (GEOP). GEOP enables eligible power users with average peak demand of at least 100 kilowatts over the past 12 months to source 100% of their electricity requirements from RE suppliers.

**Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC) marks milestone as the first medical facility in Mindanao to be fully powered by renewable energy.** CUMC partnered with First Gen Corporation (First Gen) for direct supply of geothermal energy sourced from the Mt Apo Geothermal Plant in Cotabato, through an agreement signed by First Gen Chief Customer Engagement Officer Carlo Vega and Head of Mindanao Sales Mary Grace Butil (2^nd and 1^st from right, respectively); with (from left) CUMC ENT-HNS Department Head Dr Monique Lucia Jardin-Quing, Capitol University Executive Vice President Dr Fe Juarez, and CUMC President/CEO Rosalinda R. Deleste, DM.

“Geothermal energy is ideal for hospitals, industries and other businesses that need reliable RE supply It’s an honor to support CUMC as they begin their journey towards decarbonization,” said First Gen Chief Customer Engagement Officer Carlo Vega.

Mindanao clean energy champion **Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro,** Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) stresses the urgent need to create more demand for renewable energy (RE) to attain the 50:50 RE to fossil fuel energy mix in Mindanao in 2030.
*Photo handout: CREAM Project/Gibson Bacas*

With over 1,700 megawatts (MW) of RE capacity from over 22 geothermal, wind, solar and hydro facilities, First Gen is the largest RE provider in the Philippines.

Aside from the Mt Apo geothermal facility, First Gen owns and operates a 1.6 MW run-of-river mini-hydro facility in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon that uses water flowing from the Agusan River. The company is also expanding its portfolio in Mindanao with two other planned hydro projects—the 32-MW Bubunawan Hydro project in Libona, Bukidnon; and the 40-MW San Isidro Hydroelectric Power Project, along the Cagayan River. Both proposed projects plan to utilize run-of-river design, which means electricity is generated by using a river’s natural flow without building a large dam or reservoir.

Proven Tech to be used in the Rehab, Operation and Maintenance of Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Complex

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A Mindanao-based consortium unsolicited proposal to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Complex (APHC) will be using proven technology and management systems previously used in the grid by the National Power Corporation (Napocor).

The Greenergy Renewables Group Inc. (GRGI) submitted the unsolicited proposal dubbed Energy Storage Project (ESP) to the Public-Private Partnership Center last September. GRGI proposes establishing a mass-based owned Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) entity to implement the long-sought rehabilitation of the ageing power complex that served as the backbone of the Mindanao power grid.

Lake Lanao offers significant energy storage via its vast water volume (over 1 billion cubic meters usable) and elevation, primarily serving the Agus-Pulangi hydropower system, but its potential is linked to managing water levels for both power and ecological/community needs, allowing integration with solar for grid stability, acting as a large natural battery for Mindanao’s renewables.

**Lake_Lanao_S2Satellite photo of Lake Lanao in Mindanao, Philippines** (ESA Copernicus Sentinel-2)

Lake Lanao acts as a massive natural reservoir for the Agus River system, storing potential energy in its water volume, which is released through dams to generate electricity. It holds a significant “allowable disposable volume” of about 1 billion cubic meters, with water level fluctuations managed between 698.15 to 701.65 meters above sea level (masl) to balance power needs with flood prevention and ecology.

The lake’s hydropower plants (part of the Agus-Pulangi complex) provide baseload and peaking power, crucial for Mindanao’s grid, though sensitive to dry seasons.

Moving forward, most significant perhaps is how its storage capacity is vital for integrating intermittent renewables like solar, as excess daytime solar power can reduce hydro load, conserving water for peak evening demand.

“Lake Lanao is our biggest natural battery storage facility,” said Engr. Cerael C. Donggay, President & CEO of GRGI. “When I was still the Napocor’s Vice President for Mindanao, we used our two 200MW power barges as the battery charger of Lake Lanao. These two operate during the daytime, allowing Lake Lanao to restore its water levels. During peak hours in the evening, the stored energy was released to meet the increased water demand.”

Lake Lanao acts as a vast natural reservoir, but its storage potential translates into the generating capacity (MW) of the hydropower plants it serves, not a fixed GWh figure, though its role is critical for Mindanao’s energy.

In comparison, the largest operational Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the Philippines today are San Miguel Corporation’s (SMC) network, with its various sites contributing to a total of 1,000 MWH, and Citicore’s integrated agrovoltaic/BESS system in Batangas (320 MWh) recently coming online, with SMC’s large scale deployments pioneering the grid.

What GRGI proposes to do is replace the electricity previously provided by the power barges with floating solar farms in Lake Lanao, a system already being used in Thailand, South Korea, and other Asian countries.

Proof of Concept

The state-run Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) 1,000 MW Hydro-Floating Solar Hybrid (Hydro-FSP) plan started with five pilot dams: Sirindhorn (45MW), Srinakarin, Ratchaprapha, Bhumibol, and Ubol Ratana, integrating solar with hydropower for stable, renewable energy, creating the world’s largest hydro-floating solar system at Sirindhorn Dam as the initial success, with more phases planned across other dams like Vajiralongkorn to build out the total capacity.

Floating solar is an emerging technology where solar panels are mounted on floating structures and placed on natural or man-made water bodies. The electricity generated is then transmitted to electrical equipment on shore via underwater cables. Existing transmission systems in hydropower facilities can be utilized to store and distribute the electricity generated from the floating solar arrays. At some large hydropower plants, covering just three to four percent of the reservoir with floating solar could double the capacity of the plant.

**EGAT’s first Floating Solar Project at Sirindhorn Dam combining hydropower and solar power is the largest hybrid power generation in the world** (egat.co.th)

Combining hydropower and solar power outputs can help manage periods of low water availability by using solar capacity first, and drawing on hydropower at night or during peak demand, according to a market report on floating solar produced by the World Bank Group and the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) Titled Where Sun Meets Water: Floating Solar Market Report. The study noted that in reservoirs, floating solar panels can drastically reduce evaporation by limiting air circulation and intercepting sunlight before it hits the water’s surface. The reduction of sunlight also helps prevent algae blooms, which pollute water and raises treatment costs.

**How Floating Solar Panels Work** (The ASEAN Post)

The technology is making inroads in Singapore and archipelagos like Indonesia and the Philippines, which have vast coastlines and numerous inland bodies of water. Apart from Thailand, there is also interest in the technology from other countries which have invested heavily in hydropower such as Lao PDR which operates 46 hydropower stations.

While floating solar panels cost more to install compared to ground-mounted systems, they are a better long-term investment as they are up to 16 percent more efficient as the cooling effect of the water helps reduce thermal losses and extends their lifespan. Apart from saving land for agricultural or other uses, floating solar arrays can also convert underutilized bodies of water such as ponds or lakes into revenue-generating operations.

More recently, South Korea switched on a major 47.2 MW floating solar farm on the Imha Dam, creating a powerful hybrid system with the dam’s hydropower for stable, 24/7 renewable energy, solving land scarcity issues, boosting efficiency via water’s cooling effect, and offering a model for integrating solar and hydro, with profits shared with local residents. This project uses existing infrastructure (dam, transmission lines), providing clean power for thousands and reducing evaporation.

The Ihma Dam solar project is South Korea’s largest floating PV array located alongside a multi-purpose dam. The project features a resident-participation model allowing those living within a one kilometer radius to share profits from its power supply. (Image: Scotra)

Imha Dam already hosts a 50 MW hydropower plant, and the combined setup allows the complex to send floating solar power to the grid during daylight hours and switch to hydropower generation overnight to maintain steady output.

By combining solar and hydro, South Korea has created a flexible system that stabilizes energy supply even during cloudy periods. Hydropower can instantly ramp up when the sun dips, ensuring consistent output and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Vast potential

The installation of floating solar arrays only started in 2007 with just over 100 projects worldwide according to the US’ National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Out of these, 73 of the largest projects are in Japan. Hence, it is a relatively new renewable energy source.

However, the industry has grown more than a hundred-fold in less than four years. From a worldwide installed capacity of 10 MW at the end of 2014, the number had risen to 1.1 gigawatts (GW) by September 2018, according to the Where Sun Meets Water report.

The report estimates the global potential of floating solar, even under conservative assumptions, to be 400 GW – roughly the total capacity of all solar photovoltaic installations worldwide at the end of 2017.

The global cumulative installed floating solar capacity reached an estimated 5.9 GW by the end of 2023, with some sources citing over 7.8 GW operational as of early 2024. Market growth in 2024 and 2025 is expected to push the total capacity to around 8 GW.

The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 27%. The global capacity is projected to reach between 50 GW and 75 GW by 2030.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is the primary driver of growth, with China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand being major markets. China hosts some of the world’s largest floating solar installations, including a 320 MW project in Shandong province.

FORMA aims to elevate Mindanaw Art and Design to the Mainstream

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- A new arts and culture initiative created by three of Mindanao’s Best and Brightest Creatives aims to rocket the island’s rich tradition to the mainstream consciousness.

Dubbed FORMA, Vibrant Mindanao Design Commune, it is the brain child of Jerome de la Fuente with Chris Gomez and Shine J. Casiño.

**Jerome de la Fuente being interviewed by this author at FORMA** (photo by Shine J. Casiño)

Concept

“For centuries, Mindanao has been celebrated for its vibrant tradition of craftmanship rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Skilled artisans from across the island have passionately handcrafted unique products utilizing endemic materials, telling a captivating story of the region’s artistic mastery and its people’s creativity and resourcefulness,” said De La Fuente, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Cagayan de Oro (COHARA) and the General Manager of Limketkai Luxe Hotel where FORMA is located.

“The FORMA Design Commune presents a curated showcase featuring Art, homestyle and fashion pieces from esteemed artists and designers from the island of Mindanao.”

Dela Fuente is recognized for his leadership in promoting the city to the rest of the Philippines and abroad. His previous exposure as Managing Partner at 360 Hospitality & Lifestyle Solutions and Divisional Director of Sales & Marketing for Hilton International allows him to leverage his global perspective in tourism marketing and business promotion and development.

His partners in FORMA are both two-time winners of Habi Kadayawan, a fashion design competition that’s one of the major events of the Kadayawan Festival of Davao City. It celebrates the cultural heritage of Mindanao by highlighting the fusion of tradition with contemporary design.

Chris Gomez (rightmost) and Shine J. Casiño (3rd from right) with FORMA designers Kiko Domo, Topeng Zamora, Kay Fanlo, Mark Christopher Yaranon, Gil Macaibay, & Joshua Guibone. Not in photo is Melvin Lachica. (photo by Jennifer Lim/Limketkai Luxe)

Chris Gomez was adjudged the Habi Kadayawan 2023 Grand Prize winner in the Commercial Fashion Accessories Category with his “Panolong Clutch Bag”, while Shine J. Casiño’s “Higalaay Splendor” finished as Second Runner up in the Luxe Apparel category. Casiño was previously a runner-up in the Luxe Apparel Category, while Gomez was a finalist in the Fashion Accessories Professional Category in the 3^rd Habi Kadayawan Design Competition.

Chris Gomez’s award winning PANULONG clutch bag.

Gomez is an award-winning Filipino artist known for winning the grand prize in the water based media category of the 2012 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) Awards. He is also recognized for his work in product development and as a mentor to designers and artisans all over Mindanao. He is actively involved in the local design community, advocating for creative development and helping designers navigate career challenges.

In addition to his MADE award, he is a recipient of the 2024 ACES (Award for Continuing Excellence in Service) and is known for being featured by Metrobank Foundation for his contributions to art and design.

A self-taught fashion designer, stylist, eventologist and society PR, Shine J. Casiño wants to bring to bring the Mindanao Look to the World following another breakthrough milestone in her journey which includes stops with mentors Melvin Lachica, the late Cesar Gaupo and Avel Bacudio.

Top Row: Shine Casiño’s Filipiniana Moderne Collection bespoke for FORMA. Bottom row: Shine Casiño’s winning Mindanaw Look in Habi Kadayawan 2019 showcased the Maranao Okir and Langkit motifs in the Mindanao Silk of Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental. (Photo courtesy of Alniah A T Decampong-Magoyag)

This entails modernizing the Mindanaw Look focusing on the colorful tapestry of Mindanao’s history and culture; fusing and matching various elements of Mindanao’s various cultures not only for materials, colors, but also fashion accessories.

For instance for her Habi Kadayawan 2019 entry, Casiño drew inspiration from the Maranao Okir and Langkit motifs and made liberal use of the Mindanao Silk being produced in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental.

Vibrant Mindanaw

“This has long been a dream of mine. I met Chris Gomez at a 2016 exhibit uptown and asked if he as interested to do a project together to spotlight creative people from Mindanao and showcase their talent,” De la Fuente revealed. “This is part of a campaign for Vibrant Mindanaw: to showcase the artistic side of the people from Mindanao which has always been sidelined by Luzon and the Visayas in the mainstream, to encourage people to come and visit Mindanao, do business with the people of Mindanao, and establish their companies here.”

**FORMA brings together the best and brightest of Mindanao’s Creatives in one space** . (Photos courtesy of Chris Gomez)

He asked Gomez to invite the artists and designers interested to join the project and he provided the space for the exhibit.

Aside from himself and Casiño, FORMA’s inaugural showcase curated by Gomez features the creations of Kagay-anon Designers Melvin Lachica, Gil Macaibay III, Mark Christopher Yaranon, Joshua Guibone & Kiko Domo; and Davaoeño Designers Christopher Zamora, Kathryn Fanlo, and Edgar Buyan.

The featured Brands includes Neil Rafisura’s Salay Handmade Shapii of Salay, Misamis Oriental; Nicole Cabanlet‘s Indigenous.ph and Catherine Kionisala-Fabello’s Cami Candles of Cagayan de Oro City; Bae Arlyne Desabilla Salazar’s Lubogan Bagobo Tagabawa Women’s Pangulabe Association (BIBATAWA) of Toril, Davao City; Nuraine Ampatuan’s Hilyah, and Pitet Castillo’s Great Gifts PH of Davao City; and Mary Asley Cooper’s String Fairy of Iligan City.

Malong of Mindanaw

One of the initiatives De la Fuente is eyeing is to showcase the Malong because it signifies what Mindanao is all about.

A malong is a traditional, tubular-style wraparound garment from the Philippines, traditionally worn by many ethnic groups in mainland Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, such as the Meranaw, Maguindanao, and T’boli.

It is a versatile piece of cloth that can be worn in many ways, such as a skirt, dress, headscarf, blanket, or for carrying a baby, and is also used in traditional ceremonies from birth to death. The fabric is often handwoven with intricate geometric designs known as okir and langkit, the colorful strip of tapestry commonly used to join pieces of fabric to create a single, broader section of malong landap, the traditional tubular garment of the Meranaw.

The use of wraparound skirts is a common feature across Southeast Asia. Similar garments are worn in other parts of the Philippines (where they may have different names like tapis) and in countries like Malaysia and Thailand.

Hindu-Buddhist cultural influences introduced concepts like the sarong (which malong and similar skirts are related to) to the Philippines, but these were heavily modified after the Spanish arrival in the 16th century.

While machine-made versions inspired by the malong can be found in other regions, the traditional, hand-woven malong with its distinct patterns remains a symbol of the cultures in Mindanao.

“I want to design a collection for men, like a barong tagalog in Malong. To start I am going to Marawi to invite the School of Living Traditions under Princess Alonto Pacasum Lucman to get this going,” De la Fuente said.

The Marawi City School of Living Traditions is a dedicated facility and program aimed at preserving the rich Meranaw cultural identity. It operates as a community-managed learning center where master artisans impart traditional knowledge and skills through non-formal, hands-on workshops in traditional crafts like langkit weaving (a vital part of Meranaw heritage), okir making (intricate designs), tiyatag (native delicacies), and brass making.

The initiative aligns with the national School of Living Traditions program established by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), which is recognized by UNESCO for its efforts in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The Bangsamoro Commission on the Promotion of Culture Heritage (BCPCH-Lanao del Sur) under Commissioner Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto collaborates with local government units to facilitate these activities.

“If this works well, I will expand this in the Limketkai Mall,” De La Fuente disclosed. “We are also planning to do an Art Centre in the Garden in collaboration with the University of Science & Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) in collaboration with their Architecture and Engineering professors and students.”

-30-

CUCINA HIGALA : 9 Years Mindanao Heritage Cuisine

Milestone Stories 2016-2024

As Cucina Higala, the only restaurant in Mindanao celebrating the island’s Heritage Dishes, celebrated its 9^th Year Anniversary, the following greeting was posted on its social media page:

Celebrating 9 Years of Mindanao Heritage Cuisine and Memorable Dining Experiences

Today we celebrate 9 wonderful years of Mindanao Heritage Cuisine — nine years of stories, flavors, culture, and countless shared moments with you, our beloved higala.

Today, we honor the heart of Cucina Higala — our incredible Front of the House, Back of the House, and Support Services Team. Our success is because of them, and made possible by them.

To our dedicated team: thank you for sharing your talent, commitment, and heart every single day.

To our beloved guests: thank you for celebrating this journey with us and for continuing to make every day meaningful. Join us today as we jump for joy for this incredible milestone!

Here’s to more years of culture, heritage, and the warm Cucina Higala experience!

In an earlier series of socmed posts, Cucina Higala also shared its Significant Milestones for its First Nine Years (2016-2025):

November 28, 2016 Cucina Higala opens

2017 Launch of the Mindanao Heritage Dishes : Humba de Oro and Sizzling Binaki in Caramel Sauce

2017- 2018 The Cagayan de Oro City Health Office awarded the “best restaurants” based on food and sanitation standards, with the Best Overall Rating for two consecutive years.

2019 Cucina Receives its very first Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor

2020 Cucina Higala launches Rice Toppings, bringing Mindanao Heritage Dishes within reach of every Kagay-anon household

2021 Cucina Higala opens its Cucina Veranda, with an fresco dining experience

2022 Cucina Higala launches Lamb Kulma, its 11^thHeritage Dish, continuing its advocacy to promote Mindanao Heritage Dishes

2023 Cucina Higala continues to be recognized by its international partner, Tripadvisor as Traveler’s Choice 2023, and local partner Maxim Client’s Choice 2023.

2024 Opening of the Capiz Room, a new venue created to host memorable family moments and private events.

Here’s More Cheers to 9+ More Years for Cagayan de Oro’s iconic Home of Mindanao Heritage Dishes! MABUHAY!