21st Century Maranao Literature

Study Notes

21st Century Maranao Literature

Maranao literature is influenced by Islam.
It encompasses oral and written traditions.
This includes folklore, legends, myths, epics, folktales, courtship speeches, proverbs, riddles, poems, songs, and ballads.
The word "Maranao" comes from the Maranao word "ranaw," meaning "lake."
The name refers to the Maranao people's ancestral homeland around Lake Lanao in the Philippines.
Lake Lanao is the second largest lake in the Philippines.
It is locally famous for its various uses and is internationally known for its endemic species.
The DARANGEN is an ancient Lake Lanao epic song.
It has 17 cycles and 72,000 lines.
It commemorates Maranao history and mythical heroes' trials.
It utilizes symbolism, metaphors, irony, and satire to explore life, death, courtship, love, politics, and social ideals.
The AGAMANIYOG folktales are significant among the Maranao people.
These stories detail the lives of sultans, family, and their relationships with their subjects.
KAPANGOBING is a traditional means of expressing love and adoration.
It's an accepted form of courtship in Maranao culture.
The courtship is performed using a bamboo flute-like instrument.
Polygamy is a tradition still followed among Maranao males.
In this practice, a married person can have multiple wives or husbands.
"Parental Marriage" is practiced among Maranao where parents decide on their son or daughter's marriage.
A week-long celebration, "kandialaga," happens before the official wedding.
This practice is done to preserve family pride, especially during financial hardship, in royal or large families.
SINGKIL is a Maranao dance performed by Princess Gandingan.
It showcases her agility and tells the story of her escape from an earthquake caused by Diwatas.
This dance uses bamboo sticks to represent the earthquake.
KAGANAT SA DARANGEN is the most aristocratic Maranao dance.
It is performed only by those with aptitude for theatrical movements of fingers as well as fan-switching and graceful swaying motions.
KAPA MALONG-MALONG is a Maranao dance demonstrating different ways of wearing a malong.
A malong is a functional tubular skirt which is intricately weaved.
It is worn on special occasions.
The SAGAYAN FESTIVAL in Lanao del Norte is a cultural event inspired by the Maranao dance, Darangen.
It involves the enactment of Bantogan, a warrior, showcasing discipline, gallantry, and suppressed emotion to demonstrate victory.
This celebration involves the warriors using ampilan armored with a shield.