The Maranao are famed for their sophisticated weaving and wood and metal craft. Maranao means " People of the Lake ," after their traditional territory in the area surrounding Lake Lanao in the Bukidnon-Lanao Plateau, which is some 2,200 feet above sea level. They are one of the largest Islamic groups in the Philippines.
The Maranao people, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, also present an intriguing avenue for business ventures. With a population of approximately 450,000 spread across Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte provinces, along with significant presence in areas like Cotabato and Zamboanga del Sur, the Maranao community offers a promising market and a source of skilled labor for various industries.
One of the primary beliefs of the Maranao people is the concept of sharing their wealth with others. This practice is rooted in their Islamic beliefs and is known as " pangishara ," which means sharing. The Maranao people believe that sharing their wealth brings blessings to their families and the community.
Polygamy is one of the traditions of Maranao’s that is still practiced upon to this day, especially for Maranao males. Polygamy is when a person marries more than one wife or husband. During the ancestral times, Maranao leaders, those who have royal blood, are usually the people who used to adapt polygamy.
Panga- kap is a Maranao term for Pamamanhikan . In the first stage (before marriage), there are agreements between the parents of both couple and this should be initiated by the man. The man will bring his guardian or parents to the house of the woman to ask permission to marry their daughter.
The Maranao people (Maranao: [' mәranaw ]; Filipino: Maranaw ), also spelled Meranao , Maranaw , and Mëranaw , is a predominantly Muslim Filipino ethnic group native to the region around Lanao Lake in the island of Mindanao.
In marriage, the young Maranao boy and girl are dominated by parental wishes and a very restricted courtship takes place. The boy and girl are not allowed to speak with each other except in groups and when they do, they are closely watched.
Dodol is one of the most popular delicacies of the Maranao’s. It is made. Maranao delicacies or confections is called pagana . I ndigenous sweets developed in the Maritime Southeast Asia.
Dodol is the icon of all Maranao confections. Sticky rice flour, coconut milk & jaggery or traditional raw sugar from sugarcane make up this filling snack. It takes about 8 hours of nonstop stirring to keep it from burning & to maintain its thick & no-stick consistency.
Semantics of Maranao Heritage: Exploring Culture, Cuisine, and Traditions
Darangen : The epic storytelling tradition of the Maranao people, encompassing tales of heroes, mythical creatures, and historical events. Okir : Intricate and elaborate designs found in Maranao art, particularly in woodcarvings, architecture, and decorative arts. Sarimanok : A mythical bird symbolizing good fortune, protection, and prosperity in Maranao culture, often depicted in various artworks and symbolism. Tiyula itum : A traditional Maranao dish known as "black soup," typically made with beef or chicken, flavored with burnt coconut and various spices. Piyaren udang : A Maranao shrimp curry dish featuring fresh shrimp cooked in a flavorful coconut milk-based sauce, often served with rice.
Pagana : A ceremonial feast and celebration in Maranao culture, typically held during significant life events such as weddings or births, featuring elaborate preparations and communal dining. Panunuluyan : A traditional Maranao marriage practice involving the groom's family visiting the bride's home to formally ask for her hand in marriage, accompanied by cultural rituals and negotiations. Lumbayanague : A traditional Maranao wedding song performed during wedding ceremonies, expressing joy, blessings, and well-wishes for the newlywed couple. Torogan : Traditional ancestral houses of the Maranao people, characterized by intricate carvings, elevated floorings, and distinctive architectural features, serving as symbols of social status and cultural heritage. Sin gkil : A traditional Maranao dance performed during festive occasions and cultural events, characterized by graceful movements, intricate footwork, and the use of bamboo poles.
Hi Hello Good Morning Good Afternoon Good Evening Assalamu Alaikum English Maranao
Thank you Welcome Kano Take Care I Love You Handsome/Beautiful Salamat Sulod Kano Pyi Pyi Casan Pekababaya -an ko seka Mataid
Ugly Mother Father Brother Goodbye panget Ume Abi Ari Goodbye